Event Cutscenes--Please don't post!

[kiel]

Deserts of Darak'i


-Extra Images-
Oasis
Yasimi and Cally [Caladaer]
Fenrir and Yasimi

INTRODUCTION CUTSCENE:

You have traveled far from your welcoming home in Silverport. Memories of the time spent with your two mentors, Sorren and Willy, as well as the banished elvian prince Caladaer, who has joined your odd little birdfamily group, fill you with happier times of warm seasonal pancakes and chilly winter weather by the ocean shore. You never thought you’d long for the sight of water this much...
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You and Caladaer have traveled together to a distant desert territory far to the east. An exotic land of endless sand, shape-shifting wolfkin clans in constant dissention, and old magic that whispers within the depths of broken, ancient ruins, rising and falling among the waves of golden dunes as they become lost to time.
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Your mentor, Sorren, requested that you seek out and aid a close friend of his whom he believes may be in trouble. Your only guide, the pale dire wolf Delilah, leads you steadily on as you search for her alpha, not knowing what you may happen across in the vast, untamed deserts of Darak’i.
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THE OASIS
The searing sun beats down harshly upon your burning skin. Sweat beads endlessly across your entire body, offering you little comfort. You keep your head low and out of the harsh light above in an effort to ignore the heat which surrounds you in waves, as you unceasingly trudge onward across the endless sea of sand and open sky with no end in sight.
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It has taken you and your elvian companion, Caladaer, a few weeks to reach the eastern territory of Darak’i, a land which belongs to the fabled beast race known as wolfkin, and whose deserts are as vast and untamed as the people and creatures who call this place home.
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You follow Delilah, a large, white dire wolf you met back in Silverport, as she guides you without rest throughout the curving dunes. Your small group was sent here to find her alpha known only as Fenrir, a personal friend to your mentor, Sorren, whom he requested you to seek out in hopes that no ill-will has befallen him, since his wolf companion was alone without her master.
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Sealer - Ugh, I don’t know if I can stand this heat any longer... how much further do you think we have to travel, Cally?
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Caladaer - As far as Delilah takes us.
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You pause for a moment at the elvian’s abrupt answer. The banished prince had said little these past few days, a stark contrast to his usual kind and open demeanor. He seemed distracted and distant to your attempted conversation, as if something were bothering him or perhaps making him uneasy...
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You decide to let it go for the moment. Anyone was bound to get irritable after trudging through the desert for over a week, but now water was beginning to run low as well. However, you couldn’t stop yourself from attempting to break the silence once again.
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Sealer - I hope Sorren’s friend is alright. I feel like we are taking forever to find him. Actually... I haven’t seen anything besides a few gemstone runes mulling about in the sand here and there.
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Sealer - I thought for sure we would have at least seen one wolfkin or dire wolf by now, but this place seems like an empty wasteland. Hey Cally, do you think—
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Caladaer - Shh!
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The elvian prince cuts your words short, startling you into an abrupt silence. His gaze is intense, searching as his cervine-like ears swivel to and fro urgently, as if to capture a sound that only he could hear.
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You notice his elkirn mount, Vipen, seemingly do the same. The large, pale stag paws the loose sand in anticipation. Lowering his antlers threatingly, as he breaths a deep, challenging snort.
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Sealer - ...Caladaer? Is something wrong?
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You whisper with hesitation to your elvian companion as you begin to realize how silent the area around you has become. The desert has never been this quiet before... it is unsettling, and you feel yourself begin to gradually tense as you wait for an answer.
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Sealer - Cally?
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Caladaer - ...We are being hunted.
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Sealer - Hunted? By what?!
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You blurt out that last part as Caladaer urges for you to be quiet once more.
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Delilah begins to growl low by your side in contrast, her ears pinned flat against her scarred head as she bares those unusually long saber fangs at the unseen threat.
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Caladaer - They have been tracking us for the past four days now, keeping their distance. Their methods are confusing, it’s not like a typical predator... perhaps they are confused about us. Whatever the case, their intentions just changed from observing to hunting.
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Sealer - Okay, that’s greatly alarming to hear, that we’ve been stalked this whole time—who’s they!? I don’t see or hear anything...
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Immediately, Delilah bolts from your side, rushing forward with a sharp snarl. Out of nowhere, six other large dire wolves appear over a nearby dune to follow after the she-wolf in an attempt to outflank the large white canine, only to be outmaneuvered at the last second as she dodges to the side with ease and leads the baying pack away from you, Caladaer, and Vipen.
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Sealer - Delilah! Cally, we’ve got to help her!
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Caladaer - I’m afraid we have our own problems.
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??? - You never can sneak up on an elvian or their mount... they always hear you before any scent or sight can be had. The hardest prey to catch...
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You turn sharply around at the new voice, only to see a group of people with more dires walking up to you both.
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At the lead was a rather short and stoutly built, feminine figure with frizzled locks and brown canine-like ears in her fro. Her companions clearly followed her command as they kept respectfully to the woman’s side, her dark features stern and full of authority that bore down with a fiery green gaze.
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??? - Imagine my surprise when our scouts reported that an elvian of all things was in our territory. Not only that, but he was following a white saber dire that we know all too well in these parts, and alongside a human no less. You both are not what we expected to see wondering about the dunes aimlessly...
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You find yourself staring hesitantly at the woman and her group. You had never seen a wolfkin up close before, certainly not a native to Darak’i. The ears and tail of these people were captivating your attention as they swayed to their moods. It was then that you realize they must be the ones who were “hunting” you as Caladaer mentioned before.
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Caladaer - We do not mean you or your people any disrespect, milady. My companions and I are only passing through. Nothing more.
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You glance nervously at Caladaer as he responds to the woman with a polite yet guarded answer.
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??? - Polite and respectful, just like the rest of your kind. Typical. I prefer we be straightforward and honest if you don’t mind. You elvians exasperate me with all your formalities that take forever to get through.
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Caladaer - ...As you wish. My companion and I are searching for one of your kind who is a friend of ours. We fear for his wellbeing and only wish to know he is alright. That is why we have come here.
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??? - Oh? An elvian that actually gets to the point? How incredibly rare. Then again, rarer still to see one out of their protective forests...
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Caladaer - ...
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??? - Shouldn’t you be frolicking among your own kind in a glade somewhere? Our deserts are sure to singe that fragile skin of yours.
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Caladaer - I appreciate your concern, but your deserts are quite tame compared to some of the places I’ve seen. My fragile skin is sure to be just fine out here. A bit of sun will do it some good, I’m sure.
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??? - Hmph. It is not often we get kal’roth, outsiders, out here. What are your names, strangers? Give me yours and I shall give you mine. I will at least grant you that courtesy despite your blatant trespassing and disrespect for my clan’s territory.
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Caladaer - Of course, forgive us for our trespassing. It was done so only in ignorance. I am Caladaer Isilidilinsyr, my elkrin mount is called Vipen, and this...
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Caladaer - Is the Sealer.
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??? - The Sealer? It seems like you are all just full of surprises. I didn’t expect the ba’tho, a human, to be the so called Sealer. We have heard quite a bit about you, young ban’on.
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Yasimi - I am Yasimi Roth’tai, alpha to the Roth’tai clan and second largest pack known throughout our deserts. As a native wolfkin and ves’en, clan leader, I welcome you to Darak’i.
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Yasimi - I suppose I should apologize somewhat for our abrasive behavior. You’ve come at a tense time for my people, it isn’t easy to trust anyone these days...
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Yasimi - Now, since you don’t appear to be our enemy, perhaps we can help you find this friend of yours that you seek. What is this wolfkin’s name?
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Sealer - Thanks for the help! His name is Fenrir. Do you know him? He’s a close friend to my mentor, Sorren. We’ve been following his dire wolf for a while now, the one that your dires just chased after. Can you call them off? She’s been through a lot lately...
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A moment of heavy silence follows as you watch the shocked features of these wolfkin change from curiosity to flat out aggression before looking to Yasimi.
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Yasimi - You are allied with that a’taihin? That traitor, Fenrir?
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The female wolfkin’s tone becomes strained as she glares at you in question. Immediately their once inquisitive body language changes to that of distrust, as the rest of her group and their dires begin to slowly fan out around you in a predatory circle.
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Sealer - I-I he’s my mentor’s friend... we just—
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Caladaer - We are simply seeking him out. This has nothing to do with the followers of Hubris or your Ancient of Wild’s clan disputes.
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Immediately, Caladaer intervenes as you falter under the wolfkin leader’s hardening gaze. Yasimi’s eyes seem to flash with rage as she steps boldly up to the elvian prince in challenge.
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Yasimi - Liars!
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Yasimi - You think I did not notice that charm you dangle so brazenly from your ivory crown, elvian? There is only one other with a matching, blasphemous trinket. Only one who travels with a white saber dire that he calls his own. Only one called Fenrir.
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There was such hate and accusation behind her words, which only seemed to confuse you. You could not help but feel as if there was a deeper reason for this unbridled emotion. You watched as Caladaer did not balk under the wolfkin’s sudden rage.
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Neither seemed to blink as they stood fast against the other’s stance in silent challenge. For the first time, you thought you saw a flicker of anger spark across the elvian’s fair features, as he quietly refused to back down, keeping himself between you and the alpha, Yasimi.
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Yasimi - You have no idea how much pain he has caused us. What he has done to all of those who follow our Ancient deity...
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Sealer - Yasimi... has something happened here?
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You don’t know why you reached out to her just then after her threats, but her voice... it was filled with such a broken sadness. Your words simply came out as she seemed so distant from everyone just then.
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Yasimi - Your ‘friend’ killed our Ancient. He hunted him. He murdered him. He took on a form of pride and became a large beast like all those who follow Hubris. He harbors a monster within him, one that has always hated our Ancient lord. He is Hin’skel, Ancient Slayer, and I will see his throat slit for what he has done!
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Sealer - What? He killed an Ancient!?
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Caladaer - Impossible.
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You could feel yourself grow numb at the unexpected news. You had no idea... but then, you had witnessed an Ancient’s death before. You could not help but feel yourself begin to recoil at the horrific memories as you tried to ignore and forget them. Not again. Ancients were not meant to die. Sorren said Fenrir was a friend... wasn’t he?
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Yasimi - That is why you can’t be trusted.
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The ferocity from before replaced the fear in Yasimi’s voice. She now looks to you both with a gaze that could only mean one thing.
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Yasimi - Kill them.
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Sealer - No, wait!
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Caladaer - Let the Sealer go, Yasimi! They are just a child. I am the only one allied with Fenrir. I’m the one who wears the mark of Hubris willingly, not them. Do not let your anger and hurt consume you to harm an innocent.
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Yasimi glares in silence to you both as she makes an unseen gesture to the rest of her clanmates. The dires snarl as they snap their jaws in anticipation next to their masters, all while the rest of the wolfkin draw out their weapons with fangs bared and tails bristling at the chance for some small vengeance.
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Caladaer - Sealer, get on Vipen, now. I’ll distract them while he takes you both to safety.
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Sealer - No! There’s no reason to fight—
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You stopped suddenly in your protests as a low, deep, and unearthly howl echoes hauntingly all across the desert around you.
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The sound itself sends an unexpected chill down your spine as you feel its power rattle your very bones. With that, everything goes deathly silent within the area, and you notice that the wolfkin surrounding you look about in fear with ears pinned back and eyes wide, searching for the source.
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Yasimi - So Fenrir comes for you. I knew you two were no better than a’taihin yourselves.
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Yasimi - Everyone, be alert! Keep the kal’roth close... they are what he’s after, no doubt.
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Dire wolves begin to whine softly in fear as they follow their masters reluctantly. Even the wolfkin seem uneasy as the silence is broken by a sharper howl close by that you recognize immediately.
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Sealer - Look, it’s Delilah! She’s alright!
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Your heart soars for a brief moment as you see the silhouette of the white saber dire stand alone atop a nearby dune, only to then balk somewhat at the enormous form that slowly pads up beside her, dwarfing the dire by comparison as this new beast casts its shadow across you all.
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It was a giant wolf, one far taller than any man, and who rivaled even a drake in height. It loomed on top of the dune before marching down slowly to meet your group.
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You felt everyone seemingly tense around you as the dark beast drew near, an ever-present wolfish grin upon its scarred muzzle. Its golden-hued eyes settled upon both you and Caladaer with what could only be described as hidden amusement.
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??? - Quite the rare catch you got here, Yasimi! But I’m afraid this one belongs to me... so why don’t you back off for once so I don’t have to chase your hunters back to you with their tails between their legs... again.
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You watch as the giant wolf approaches with a smirk and speaks in a light tone. You can only look on in disbelief as the creature’s form slowly changes to that of a male wolfkin in a flash of blinding, white magic.
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Yasimi - Bite me, Fenrir!
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Fenrir - No thanks! You’re not really my type.
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Fenrir - I will take that elvian off your hands, though. He’s already a part of my pack. Got the mark to prove it on his antler right there, so by Darak’i law you have to hand over all pack members to their alpha if they become separated from their clan.
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Caladaer - Excuse me? I don’t recall—
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Fenrir - Taking the pup there, too. Ban’ons don’t get dragged into clan disputes. You know that.
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Yasimi - You expect me to believe these two belong to your pack? Packs are made up of wolfkin, not humans, and especially not elvians of all things.
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Fenrir - Well, my pack is.
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Fenrir - I’ve also got a halfborn and a pirate as part of my group. Sad they couldn’t be here, but you know how long distance relationships can be sometimes.
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You can’t help but smile at Fenrir’s last comment. He made it sound like his pack was the birdfamily in a nutshell, and you couldn’t help but be proud at how he defended them so despite you just meeting him.
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Yasimi - This isn’t a game! You’re a murderer and I will not tolerate your insults any longer. You’ll pay for what you did to our Ancient, filthy a’taihin!
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Fenrir - You still think it was me that killed that guy? Are you serious? How many times do I have to tell you Wild followers that I didn’t do it? And they say I’m the prideful one.
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Yasimi - You dare make a mockery of his death?!
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Fenrir - No, but I’m not afraid to call out shortsighted wolfkin like yourself who point fingers first and ask questions later. A real ves’en leader doesn’t go around killing strangers and pups that have nothing to do with this. I thought you at least were better than that.
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Yasimi - !!!
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Tensions were rising to a boiling point as you noticed that both Yasimi and Fenrir looked ready to tear the other’s throat out in all-out war. Clearly whatever was said next would spark a battle between them and Yasimi’s clan, and without thinking you jump to try and put a stop to it before anyone becomes severely hurt and regrets it.
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Sealer - Stop, please!
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Sealer - Yasimi, I don’t know what happened, but clearly you and your clan have been through a lot recently.
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Sealer - An Ancient has died... it doesn’t matter who or what killed him. Fenrir claims he didn’t do it and I believe him. We should show more respect and try to figure out what happened to your deity instead of fighting over something we don’t fully understand.
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Sealer - Surely the Ancient of Wilds deserves that at least...
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There is a moment of drawn out silence as you watch the heated anger slowly ebb from the alpha leader’s features. Fenrir merely looked on with a blank, unreadable gaze before taking a step back, a show that, for now, he wasn’t going to press the issue.
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You couldn’t help but release a small sigh as things became a bit calmer among the group, for the moment, at least.
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Yasimi - Very well, Sealer. You speak the truth, albeit a rather naive one, and I am not a ves’en who won’t listen to reason.
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Yasimi - However, I know where you’ve been hiding, Fenrir. You can’t protect what’s in that cave forever, and we both know that you won’t dare leave it either.
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Fenrir - ...
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Yasimi - We will make camp at this oasis. However, you and your elvian companion are not allowed to leave, Sealer. Prove to me that this a’taihin, this traitor, is innocent and my clan and I shall let you all go. But, if you can’t, then we cast you all into The Pits to be feasted upon by sand wyrms. You have one week.
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You look on in heavy silence as you simply nod in agreement. Even if the stakes were high, at least for the moment you had a chance to make things right, and to figure out what the heck happened out here to result in another Ancient’s death.
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Yasimi - I’ll leave you with one warning, Sealer. Be careful who you call a friend out here. You will, after all, be literally sleeping in the wolf’s den...
Remember to bold all the sections (ex. "Stealing from Azara" for Yuletide Events)

[kiel]

Fenrir & Caladaer Q&A

Hey there, pup. Got something on your mind?

You notice Fenrir pacing back and forth, and approach him to introduce yourself.


Fenrir - Greeeeat, can’t believe I’m stuck here with that bossy she-wolf lurking about outside. That’s not going to make things difficult for me at all, as if they weren’t already...

Sealer - Um, Fenrir, right?

Fenrir - Oh, hey there pup. Need something?

Sealer - I uh, just wanted to apologize. I kind of feel like this is my fault. I didn’t mean to get us all trapped here.

Fenrir - Don’t see any reason why you should be apologizing. If anything, you just saved that she-wolf’s life along with her clan. Her stubbornness would have forced me to attack them in the end, she was really leaving me with little choice.

Fenrir - Good thing you reminded her to respect their Ancient’s death. Wild Followers are always a bunch of hard-headed zealots, even at the best of times.

Sealer - I’m guessing the followers of Hubris and the followers of the Ancient of Wilds still don’t really get along? I know I’ve read about the two factions of Darak’i that have been at odds for centuries, but to hear that their Ancient was killed... what has happened out here?

Fenrir - Afraid too much has gone on recently to really explain it all right now, ban’on. How about instead you get your mind off of things for a bit and help me with something else.

Sealer - You need help? With what?

Fenrir - I need you to collect a bunch of rocks.

Sealer - Rocks...

Fenrir - They’re shiny rocks.

Fenrir - You’re a ban’on, a pup, right? Pups like shiny things.

Fenrir - Bring me the shiny rocks lying about here and you get whatever I can catch when I go hunting for us. Delilah and I will have to hunt every night now that there are more mouths to feed. Plus I think Sorren mentioned you had an obsession for hoarding things that move?

Sealer - You mean pets!? Deal! I’ll go get the shiny rocks right now!

Fenrir - That’s the spirit! Now go be a good pup and fetch the shiny rocks, Sealer. Delilah should be out there to keep an eye on you in case that bossy she-wolf tries anything.

You rush out the cave entrance with renewed enthusiasm, before it finally dawns on you that you were completely brushed off just then and treated like some eager puppy that could be easily placated with the mere mention of treats and toys.

Darn you and your incessant need for collecting rare and magical creatures! You made sure to remind yourself that next time you wouldn’t allow Fenrir to avoid answering your questions again like that... after you get some pets first of course.


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Wow, this cave is massive! It almost looks like it was once a city. And look at that giant wolf statue! Is that Hubris? Can I touch him?!


Fenrir - You sure do go from zero to ten on the excitement scale pretty quick, Sealer. You do remember we are all pretty much stuck here like cornered prey, right?

Caladaer - I agree with the Sealer, this place is not what I imagined when Yasimi said this was but a cave. It actually looks like it was perhaps a shrine or temple in the past.

Caladaer - The magic here... it is old, but I can’t help but feel calm in its presence. It is comforting.

Fenrir - That’s... not what I expected to hear.

Fenrir - Not many would share your opinion, elvian. Most want this place destroyed.

Sealer - Destroyed? But it’s so pretty in here, and cool! No searing heat for once and the oasis outside gives you plenty of water. Why do they want to get rid of it?

Fenrir - There are lots of reasons that the Followers of Wilds would give for wanting to tear apart this place. The main one is that this is perhaps the last remaining temple of Hubris still standing... and was once a home to many wolfkin long ago.

Fenrir - Too bad there’s not much left of it now, though...

Caladaer - ...I’m sorry to hear that, Fenrir. It feels like this place echoes with a past sadness I can’t explain. Something great was lost here, but its old magic still remains.

Fenrir - ...

Fenrir - Anyways, I can’t allow Yasimi and her clan to destroy this place. But at the moment I can’t really leave either. Her clan has been hunting me down for months ever since Wild’s death, that’s why I sent Delilah to go and get Sorren to maybe help me out since he’s with the Watch Crows.

Fenrir - Hah, but imagine my surprise to see the pretty deer prince and the Sealer pup arrive instead! Not complaining, though. Should make things interesting with you two around. Hopefully you at least sort of understand my predicament now.

Fenrir - But we can get more acquainted later, I’m sure you could use some rest after traveling through the desert. For now you can make yourselves feel at home here. I’ll be around if you want to chat more later on.


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You look up in shock as the entrance to the cave is blacked out by a large creature, only to realize that Fenrir has returned late at night in his giant wolf form.


Fenrir - Sorry for being out so late, took a bit longer to hunt tonight. Yasimi’s clan is taking most of the prey in this area, so I had to travel farther out to find anything.

Sealer - Whoa! Can you change into a giant wolf whenever you want?

Fenrir - Pfft, of course I can.

Fenrir - Any wolfkin who follows Hubris is able to take on a form that resembles him, such is his blessing. Unlike those who follow the Ancient of Wilds and suppress their true natures.

Fenrir - So many of my people have forgotten what we really are. I wouldn’t be surprised if some can no longer transform at all.

Fenrir - To lose a part of yourself like that, to willingly suppress and reject everything you were meant to be... it’s probably one of the few things that frightens me most.

Fenrir - The Ancient of Wilds preached restraint of one’s nature a lot though, but then, that’s a common thing that all Ancients do.

Caladaer - You sound as if you’re against Ancients in general.

Fenrir - ...Hm, maybe I am. There’s more to this realm than just Ancients after all.

Fenrir - What about you, elvian? Your people are known for their undying loyalty to Mythandian, the Ancient of Life, what do you think about them?

Caladaer - I think they are more mortal than they have us believe...

Caladaer - ...and more cruel than most know.

Fenrir - ...

Sealer - Cally...

Caladaer - Forgive me, I did not mean for my words to be so bold. It is just my personal opinion on the matter. All this talk of Ancients here lately brings back some... unwanted memories.

Fenrir - No need to apologize, elvian. It’s refreshing to see such a bold nature coming from your kind.

Fenrir - Haha, in fact, you sure you don’t have a set of fangs with those antlers of yours? I wouldn’t be surprised seeing as how you stood up to an alpha of all things yesterday.

Caladaer - It’s Caladaer, actually. Not elvian...

Caladaer - But my friends call me Cally, if you’d prefer.

Fenrir - Of course. Nice to finally meet you again in person, Cally.

Caladaer - Likewise, Fenrir.

Caladaer - Though, I don’t recall us ever meeting before?

Fenrir - Like I said, in person.

Fenrir - But look at that, it’s getting late and I need to tend to some things. Talk to you later, Cally, Sealer.

Caladaer - Wait, you can’t just—

Sealer - Wow, he’s almost as good at disappearing during conversations as you are, Cally!

Caladaer - I don’t think that’s really a compliment, Sealer.

Caladaer - He’s avoiding us... painfully so.

Caladaer - It’s just so frustrating!

Sealer - Woah, didn’t think you could get flustered, Cally! But I agree, maybe if you give him a treat he’ll stay put for once? You know, because he’s pretty much a really big dog when it comes down to it.

Caladaer - Perhaps that’s not a bad idea. I hope he will open up to us soon, because I have more than one question to ask that wolfkin.


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Fenrir approaches, "Hey Sealer, got a moment real quick?"


Sealer - Of course! What is it?

Fenrir - I wanted to know how Sorren was doing. I was a bit absent for a while there when I sent Delilah to go fetch help. How is he? With the whole curse thing, I mean…

Sealer - Sorren’s doing tons better! Well, both Muzu and he were pretty bad off when I was there at first, but Cally fixed him right up with his Spirit Healing magic. We were really fortunate he came along when he did, I hate to think what might have happened if he wasn’t there.

Fenrir - So, Cally was successful then? Heh, knew he could do it.

Sealer - You knew?

Fenrir - Of course.
Hey, how about Willy then? How’s that big lug of an ex-pirate turned glass smith, doing? He still owes me another wrestling match. Last time was a total fluke when we fell into the ocean off the docks... I’m calling bull on that.

Sealer - You wrestled, Willy... off the docks? Giant wolf and pirate battles sound pretty cool actually... but why?

Fenrir - Uh, because he’s my rival of course! If I’m going to be alpha of the birdfamily pack I’ve got to beat him first. So far it’s been a draw... in everything.

Fenrir - I’ll at least give the pirate credit, he’s somewhat worthy to be my rival for the alpha position—but we’ll see how long that lasts. Whoever’s alpha gets Sorren’s food!

Sealer - Okay, I agree with you there. Sorren’s food is the best! Especially his pancakes!

Fenrir - Man, don’t get me started on the pancakes. I feel bad for missing out on those so much lately, but it’s good to hear that things are somewhat peaceful for them at the moment.

Fenrir - Which is exactly why I can’t wait to get back and stir things up again!


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You notice Fenrir returning from one of his late-night hunts, this time carrying a bundle of prey with a proud grin upon his scarred features.


Fenrir - Hey Cally, I noticed you haven’t been eating anything Delilah or I catch for you. So... I got you this!

Caladaer - Oh it’s… it’s a dead jackalope…

Fenrir - Its six dead jackalopes! Stayed out all night last night tracking them down. These hares aren’t easy to catch, even found a rare triple horned buck in there for you. Here!

Caladaer - Ah... no, it’s quite alright. I don’t—

Fenrir - Oh right, you guys don’t eat your meat raw. I’ll skin and roast them up for you then. You can use the fur to line whatever you like. The antlers are also great for making handles or clasps, never let anything go to waste as they say.

Caladaer - No that’s not it…

Fenrir - You actually want it raw then?

Caladaer - No, I don’t want it at all!

Fenrir - !!!

Caladaer - I’m sorry, I did not mean to snap like that. Perhaps the Sealer would enjoy the meal instead. I’ll be fine without it.

Fenrir - ...

Sealer - Psst, Fenrir—over here!

Fenrir - I’ve insulted him.

Sealer - What? Noooo... okay maybe a little.

Fenrir - Well maybe he insulted me. I stayed out forever trying to hunt those things. It’s my responsibility to take care of my pack, but how am I supposed to feed someone that doesn’t want to be fed? Force it down their throats?!

Fenrir - Ugh, it’s just... been forever since I’ve last had any packmates like this... and already I seem to be failing miserably at it again.

Sealer - Hey, don’t beat yourself up over it! It’s just the antler buddy system is all.

Fenrir - “Antler buddy system?” What the hell is that?

Sealer - You know! Caladaer has antlers, the jackalopes have antlers, elkrin have antlers... just don’t give him anything with antlers. *whispers* It’s an elvian thing.

Fenrir - Nothing with antlers? But that’s pretty much half of what I eat!

Sealer - Hey, I’m just saying, you want him to eat, right?

Fenrir - Argh!
.....Fine. I’ll cut everything with antlers out of my diet and see if I can catch something else that our deer prince will actually appreciate.

Sealer - Don’t worry, you’ll do good next time!
*Yessss! I am so good at this~*

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

Um, hey Fenrir. Can I ask you a personal question?


Fenrir - That depends, how personal is it?

Sealer - You mentioned before that you had clanmates once, but you’re alone now. What happened to them?

Fenrir - …

Sealer - If it’s too much to talk about I understand.

Fenrir - No, It’s fine. I guess I have to talk about myself sooner or later... my old clanmates are gone. They have been for a very long time now.

Sealer - Oh... what happened to make them disappear?

Fenrir - It’s a bit hard to remember. I was just a pup back then, but there was a dispute among the other clans. They wanted us gone, to purge us from the deserts of Darak’i. We fought back, they got angry, then... well, they killed us all-- pups, hunters, alphas, didn’t matter, just so long as no one was left. It’s as simple as that.

Sealer - What?! Fenrir, that’s awful! There has to be way more to it than just that. What on earth would force all the other clans to completely destroy yours?

Fenrir - The Ancient of Wilds commanded it. He was searching for something that frightened him as much as it made him furious... he scoured every temple of Hubris dotted across the desert, destroying each one as his followers did the same. Eventually they came to our clan, here, at this temple. Wilds himself was at the forefront leading them.

Fenrir - Heh, he even looked like a wolfkin himself in his humanoid form. Just another insult to add to the chaos he caused.

Fenrir - However, I’ll admit, he was certainly a force to reckon with. An Ancient’s power is terrifying to witness, but there is a reason they are revered and considered as deities across the realm I suppose. What you see here is what is left from that battle. A broken, empty temple, its stone walls stained with the blood of my people that fought to protect it.

Fenrir - He never did find what he was looking for.

Sealer - ...What was he looking for?

Fenrir - Hubris.

Sealer - The Hubris? Like the statue there?

Fenrir - Did you think that was just there for decoration? Hubris is as real as you and me, Sealer. Wilds feared the dread wolf of wolfkin lore. Hubris is Hin’skel, Slayer of Ancients, a spirit that is as old as Eldemore itself. I’ve already told you and Cally this, but I meant what I said, there is more to this realm than you know.

Sealer - But then, how did you escape that massacre when everyone else perished?

Fenrir - …

Fenrir - Sorry, Sealer... maybe we can continue this conversation another time... I’ve got some things I have to do.


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

You look up from your shiny rock counting as you notice what sounds like a hundred claws scratching the cave walls all around you.


Sealer - Uh Cally, do you hear that?

Caladaer - Something big is coming, Sealer. Be alert!

Sealer - What? Big? Like how big!? It sounds like someone is dragging knives all over the cave walls, but I don’t see anything!

You begin to panic a bit as you frantically cast your gaze all around in a fruitless attempt to identify the source of the terror. Whatever it was, it kept drawing closer by the minute till the sound itself was almost deafening.

Caladaer - Sealer! Above you!

Caladaer immediately draws his bow and quiver with inhuman speed and releases a shot that whistles just over your head. Instinctively, you fall to the side out of harm’s way, hitting the stone floor hard as a piercing screech echoes just overhead.

A terrible mass crashes down where you were standing just moments before, its large girth sending a small rumble throughout the cave. The giant insect-like creature unwinds its serpentine body, continuing to scream madly as it writhes in pain.

A single, ivory arrow was now lodged deep within one of the creature’s many piercing eyes. However, it now seemed more enraged than it ever was before, as it rushes forward with terrifying speeds towards its attacker.

Sealer - Cally! Look out!

Caladaer - !!!

Fenrir - Don’t you dare!

Out of nowhere, the massive wolf form of Fenrir erupts from the shadows, golden-hued eyes alive with a searing rage. He slams into the giant creature’s side with a threatening snarl, catching the monstrosity off-guard as they both tumble over the stone floor in a writhing mass of fur, fangs and coils.

You stand awestricken and frozen in horror at the sight before you. The giant wolf form of Fenrir was matched in size to the terrible behemoth he was fighting. However, the insect-like creature was recovering from the surprise attack and was now beginning to wrap itself around the wolf in a death grip as its many claw-like legs mercilessly tear at his sides.

Howls of agony and growls of terrible rage fill the cave, forcing you to clasp your hands over your ears in pain to drown it all out.

Sealer - Cally, we have to do something to help him!

You can see the strain of the giant wolf as the insect-like beast constricts and hinders Fenrir’s movement, forcing him to the ground. The great wolf’s jaws snap desperately to get a hold over his assailant, but to no avail.

It’s almost too much for you to bear when Fenrir cries out with a terrible howl of immense pain when the creature sinks its mandibles into his shoulder. The scent of burning flesh immediately filling the area as acidic venom pours from the attacker’s mouth, seeming to seal its victory.

Sealer - No!!!

You cry out at the sight with anger, only to stop as the creature suddenly shrieks in pain, recoiling from its grasp over the wolf, another ivory arrow logged deep within the back of its skull.

You look sharply over to see the elvian prince, Caladaer, stepping forward with purpose, his features hardened, his green eyes locked threateningly onto his target. His hands flicked to his bow and quiver with unnerving speeds, grasping for arrow after arrow, whispering words of magic to their edges, before releasing them into the giant beast. Each arrow hit with a sickening thud, splattering flesh and husk all about.

Each eye was pierced with precision despite there being little room left for another bolt. Its face, now littered with ivory shafts that glowed with a faint silver hue of magic, looked barely recognizable as the banished prince continued to empty every arrow he had into the monster’s skull, even after the creature fell to the floor within a writhing mass of pitiful screeches, some of its legs still clawing.

The scene was... unsettling to watch, as no mercy was given.

Sealer - Caladaer, I think you got it. It... it can’t even see.

Caladaer - A sandwyrm... It is fortunate I ran out of arrows, otherwise it would suffer much more.

Sealer - ...

You are unsure how to respond to his unusually harsh reply.

You look to the giant wolf with worry as he begins to stir again – he is covered in blood and breathing heavily, but just as you move to try and help, you stop...

There was something wrong about his gaze that made you freeze in a prey-like fear.

Sealer - F-Fenrir... are you... alright?

Fenrir - .... Grrrrr.....

You take a step back. That was not the Fenrir you both knew. That was a wild beast... a predator. One that wanted to hunt. That needed to kill.

Immediately he lunges forward past you and Caladaer, attacking the blinded sandwyrm that was already slowly dying from the elvian’s barrage of arrows. He tore into it savagely, slinging the massive serpent body back and forth like a rag doll till it was limp and broken, and even then proceeded to tear it apart piece by piece.

The sight is disturbing, his snarls become frantic and mad. Even after the sandwyrm was no more than a torn mass of flesh, the wolf continued to rip it apart till there was nothing left...

Then, his golden, empty gaze turned to you two.

Caladaer - Fenrir…

Fenrir - *Snarls*

Caladaer - Is this the side of you that you’ve been trying to hide? One that you did not wish the outside world to see…

Fenrir - *Growls lowly*

Caladaer - I understand that all too well. I’m sorry...

Sealer - Cally, I don’t think he can hear us right now...

Caladaer - There is a magic here that is far older than anything I’ve felt, but still the same one that lies in that charm of hubris I was given before. Even though he is consumed by this beast, still he holds it back…

Caladaer - I will not leave, Sealer.

Sealer - Cally?

You watch with concern as the elvian steps determinedly forward, hand outstretched and palm open, a gentle smile on his fair features, as he walks towards the raging wolf that snaps threateningly like a mad beast.

Caladaer - Let me help you, Fenrir.

Fenrir - *Growls*

Caladaer - This time you are not alone. This time you have a packmate to help you.

Fenrir - ...

Caladaer finally stops to stand right in front of the wolf’s giant head, even as it looms over him. Tentatively he stretches his open palm forward, only pausing once as Fenrir snaps purposefully near his head, an act that would have killed the prince instantly if not for the fact that the wolf blatantly missed, as the elvian remained unfazed and gently laid his hand on the wolf’s scarred muzzle.

You watch as emotion begins to return to the wolf’s golden gaze, ones mixed with shame, anger, and sadness, before his eyes close and he collapses stiffly to the side.

Sealer - Cally, is he okay?

Caladaer - He is poisoned by the sandwyrm’s venom... and drained from everything else.

Sealer - Can you heal him?

Caladaer - I’m a spirit healer, am I not?

Caladaer - Try to get some rest if you can, I will need to focus all that I have on healing Fenrir’s broken spirit.

Sealer - ...


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

Hey Cally... um, so, how's Fenrir doing?


Caladaer - Ah, Sealer— I... did not hear you approach.

Caladaer - Fenrir is doing better, I believe. I was able to dress his wounds and purify the body of most of the toxins. It is fortunate that he has built up a decent immunity to sandwyrm venom prior, no doubt he has hunted them before, otherwise... well had this been someone else they would have lost a limb and perhaps much more.

Sealer - That’s a huge relief to hear. Guess we know what sandwyrms look like now and what they’ll do to us if we don’t prove Fenrir’s innocence, right? Haha, no pressure — right!?

Caladaer - Actually, that is something I wished to talk to you about.
When I was tending to his injuries I noticed that his tattoos don’t just stop at his right arm. If anything, it looks more like that of a very old seal than simple body art.

Caladaer - They are all over him, and all lead to a center design on his back. When I touched them I could feel an old, slumbering magic etched into each mark. There was pain within each one...
The process and time it must have took to apply such an intricate seal must have brought much suffering.

Sealer - Really? That... certainly sounds painful when you say it like that. What was the design?

Caladaer - The design at the center of his back between the blades was a wolf’s face with the mark of Hubris upon its forehead, and surrounding that were ancient runic letters from a language I’ve never seen before. At first I had no idea... it took quite a bit of effort to connect my spirit to his own. But then, when I finally was able to connect my spirit with his last night…

Caladaer - …

Sealer - Did something happen? I remember how well that went when you connected your spirit with mine back at Silverport. You didn’t get hurt spiritually, did you?

Caladaer - No... nothing like that.

You look to Caladaer in confusion as he seems to hesitate just then, when you notice Fenrir begins to stir nearby.

Caladaer - Ah, he’s finally coming around it seems.

Sealer - Fenrir! Oh man, I’m so glad you’re awake. Are you alright?

Fenrir - Ugh...

Caladaer - You shouldn’t try to get up so quickly just yet. Your body still needs time to—

Fenrir - You!

Caladaer - !!!

You jump suddenly as the wolfkin grabs Caladaer’s wrist immediately with a fierce growl as he comes to a slow stand.

The elvian looks just as shocked as you when he is abruptly pulled forward before the other male who now looms over him, his grip tightening with fangs bared and eyes locked on to his catch. Caladaer winced slightly at the force which was being applied and beginning to draw blood as the claws subconsciously pierced his fair skin.

Sealer - What are you doing? You’re hurting him!

Fenrir - How dare you invade my spirit like that! You had no right!

Caladaer - I...I had no idea. I wasn’t trying to hurt you. I didn’t know about the seal till after—

Fenrir - What did you see? How much did you see?!

Caladaer - Fenrir, I… I’m sorry.

Fenrir - ...

Caladaer - Please, trust me when I say I understand--

Fenrir - Argh!

You jump back as Fenrir turns into the massive, great wolf from before, leaping over you both with a frustrated snarl, before disappearing out of the cave’s entrance within the blink of an eye.

Sealer - What the heck just happened?!

Caladaer - ...

Caladaer - Vipen, come!

Sealer - Wait, where are you going?

Caladaer - I’m going after him. Fenrir shouldn’t be running off like this into the desert in his condition. He’s still weak from the sandwyrm’s venom.

Caladaer - That, and...

Sealer - ???

Caladaer - Stay with Delilah, Sealer. Vipen and I should be back soon.

Sealer - Fine. But you owe me a free pet trip to the bazaar back at Silverport for this! Just be safe out there.

Caladaer - Heh, of course. Thank you for understanding, Sealer.


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

You look up from petting Deliah as the dire wolf jumps to her feet in excitement at Caladaer, Vipen, and Fenrir's return


Sealer - Hey, you guys are finally back! Where the heck did you go? You were gone all night last night and most of the day today... was starting to get a little worried there.

Fenrir - I was just going for a nice relaxing stroll under the desert moonlight when our deer prince here and his crazy elkrin tackled me for no reason whatsoever.

Caladaer - You were barreling through the desert at ridiculous speeds as a giant wolf despite me asking you to stop multiple times. I gave you fair warning.

Fenrir - What kind of elvian chases after and jumps atop a beast three times their size? Not only that, but his mount does the same.

Fenrir - Pretty sure that’s supposed to be the other way around…

Caladaer - You still weren’t stopping, you left Vipen with little choice. He was simply lending a helping hand, or antler, if you will.

Fenrir - You know for an elvian you’ve got a whole lot of sass there, habi’b.

Caladaer - And you are just simply overflowing with that infuriating, stubborn cockiness of yours. I suppose that makes us even then.

Sealer - I’m glad to see that you two have made up! You both had me really worried there for a while.

Fenrir - Yeah... I’m, uh, sorry about all that pup. After I got tackled into the sand by Cally he forced me to promise to be more honest about everything with you guys.

Fenrir - We’re packmates after all—or as he called it, the “Birdfamily Pack” heh. I guess I forgot that for a moment.

Caladaer - You’re making that first part sound a lot worse than it actually was.

Fenrir - Hey, just being honest like you asked.

Sealer - *gasps* The Birdfamily Pack sounds perfect! The best of both worlds-- wait till I tell Sorren and Willy! They’re going to love it~

Fenrir - Oh yeah, yeah... Willy’s sure to love that one.

Sealer - I’m holding you to that honesty promise too, Fenrir! No more shiny rocks for pet distractions... well, mostly. I still demand the pet part.


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

Hey, Fenrir? I know you just got back recently, but I wanted to be sure that you were alright after...you know...


Fenrir - I’m sorry you had to see that, pup... I don’t usually lose control over myself when I’m in my wolf form. It takes a lot to have a Hubris wolfkin go feral, and even then it’s only usually due to some traumatic experience or constant pressure and emotional stress... haven’t done that in a really long time.

Sealer - I guess you’ve been a lot of those things lately then?

Fenrir - Just a bit, yeah.

Sealer - Hey, no worries! Getting to see you and Cally take down a giant sandwyrm together was pretty epic. I mean, well, you totally shredded it to teeny tiny pieces at the end, but still—you get what I mean.

Fenrir - Ugh, can’t believe I screwed up that hunt so badly. Made a whole mess out of everything in the end.

Sealer - Wait, you were trying to hunt that thing? Why?!

Fenrir - To give to our deer prince. You said he wouldn’t eat anything with antlers, so I wanted to get the best and the best is a sandwyrm.

Fenrir - I don’t usually hunt those things unless I’m left with little else to eat... but wolfkin who take one down are praised for their strength and prowess. I wanted to make a good first impression.

Sealer - Fenrir, we almost all died. When I said don’t get things with antlers I didn’t mean giant bug-dragon-thingies that spit venom and go ’scree-scree’ at anything that moves!

Fenrir - Well what else am I supposed to get that shows how great of a potential alpha I can be?

Sealer - Okay, okay, plan B: Have you ever tried flowers? Those don’t try to kill you... mostly.

Fenrir - Why the hell would you give someone flowers to eat?

Sealer - You don’t eat them you—never mind. How about salads? I’ve seen Cally eat lots of salads before, so maybe try something like that instead of meat!

Fenrir - ...
What’s a... s-a-l-a-d?

Sealer - ... This is going to be a lot harder than I thought it would be.


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

Can I speak with you for a second, Cally?


Caladaer - Of course, Sealer. Did you need me for something?

Sealer - I was just a bit concerned is all, especially after that dispute you had with Fenrir when he woke up. But mainly, I’m worried about the way you killed that sandwyrm without any mercy... you acted as if you wanted it to really suffer.

Sealer - That... didn’t seem like you at all.

Caladaer - I was... just trying to defend you and Fenrir from the creature.

Sealer - Cally, you put every arrow you had into its face. Even after it had fallen and wasn’t fighting back you continued to do that, the only thing that stopped you was the fact that you ran out of arrows. It was really sad to watch, but I don’t think I’ve ever seen such anger come from you.

Sealer - I’m not trying to condemn you are anything, I’m just worried about you is all. It hasn’t been that long since you were banished from your home... are you sure you’re doing alright?

Caladaer - ...
I—it feels like I am constantly changing. My spirit was once pure and naïve when I was protected within Mythandian’s woods, like that of an innocent child shielded from the horrors of reality by their parent.

Caladaer - But now, it slowly hardens as I become exposed to this new world around me.

Caladaer - I feel hate. I experience anger that wishes to consume and devour my spirit if I do not tread carefully. Desperation was something I’ve only ever heard whispers about among the Riders of my people. There’s just, so many new emotions that I never fully understood actually existed.

Caladaer - Something in me snapped when I saw that sandwyrm trying to kill Fenrir. To hear those cries of pain...

Caladaer - This time I had the power to stop it. This time I had the ability to forcefully make that creature feel the anguish that it was causing.

Sealer - Cally... don’t you think that maybe this is stemming from—

Caladaer - I have already come to terms with my brother’s death, Sealer. My issues with Mythandian will one day be resolved I’m sure. But I refuse to be a feeble, sheltered elvian prince any longer.

Sealer - ...

Caladaer - I did not mean to snap at you like that. Forgive me, but I’ve come to realize that it is true what they say—elvians truly cannot live outside their forest kingdoms. That is, unless you finally let go of trying to be a forest child.

Caladaer - I wish to be more than just a child of the forest, Sealer. I want to finally live and experience this realm for what it is. Mythandian has always protected us from the outside world, but now I am free from the gilded cage he so carefully keeps, and slowly my eyes seem to be opening to everything that was hidden from my gaze before.

Caladaer - Heh, I suppose if my people saw me now they’d say I’m more wolf than deer... but, perhaps that is a good thing.

Sealer - It sounds like you have a lot you’re trying to learn and understand about your new life, Cally. I can only imagine how it must be for elvians, to live in a safe forest haven for all eternity, never seeing the outside world or realizing it even exists. I think I would go mad after just a few weeks, myself.

Sealer - Hm, you know, you’ve come pretty far since then and are still going strong despite all that. I’ve got mad respect for you Cally, my man! Just, you know, try to not to take all your anger out by shooting things to death with your arrows? Chatting is way healthier!

Caladaer - Ah, yes, of course. I shall certainly try not to do that too often, haha.
But thank you for your concern and understanding, Sealer. It helps a great deal to talk this out a bit with another.

Caladaer - I shall try to do so instead of filling sandwyrms with arrows in their faces.

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

[kiel]

Fenrir & Caladaer Q&A Continued Part 1

Hey there, pup. Got something on your mind?

Fenrir, is it true that you were once part of the Sabr'e clan that wolfkin lore speaks of?


Fenrir - ...And who told you that?

Sealer - Yasimi mentioned it. She seems dead certain that you are due to your appearance and Delilah’s existence.

Fenrir - Guess it is pretty obvious if you’re a wolfkin and know what to look for...
Yes. I am... or was, a pack member to the Sabr’e clan.

Sealer - If that’s true then the massacre you spoke of, the clan being wiped out centuries ago by Wilds and his followers, were you actually alive back then?

Fenrir - ...Yes. I was.

Sealer - How!? Yasimi said that was over four hundred years ago, how have you and Delilah lived for so long? How did you survive when everyone else in your clan perished? There’s something I’m missing here and none of this makes any sense!

Caladaer - Sealer, you shouldn’t press so hard about that--

Fenrir - Because I’m a coward, alright!

Sealer - !!!

Caladaer - ...Fenrir, you don’t—

Fenrir - No, you already saw that part of my spirit, elvian. That disgustingly weak and frightened little pup that wouldn’t stand and fight with the rest of his clan. That child who was isolated from birth to become the next vessel because he harbored a powerful, old spirit.

Fenrir - They locked him away, day and night, while he screamed and begged for them to stop as they added another mark to his skin. The ‘Seal of Hubris’ as they said...

Fenrir - I was supposed to be proud, honored even... but instead I was confused and bitter. I was almost glad when Wilds came to destroy the temple.

Fenrir - But then... they all died to protect me in the end! They told me to run as they bought me time to escape by throwing away their lives for me.

Fenrir - And I did as I was told, like a foolish obedient pup, even though I could have killed Wilds and all his followers if I chose to do so... I could have saved everyone, but I didn’t. I just ran.

Fenrir - Now I’m just alone, shamed, and more confused than ever before. I deserve to be called a’taihin and so much more.

Caladaer - You are no traitor, Fenrir.

Fenrir - Then what would you call it, elvian? You saw and invaded every part of my life after that night. You witnessed memories that show you what I really am.
I’m a wolf. Nothing more... nothing less.

Fenrir - You won’t be able to prove my innocence, Sealer. Because the truth is...

Fenrir - I am guilty...



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

'You lie in your sleeping bag near the cave wall with your back turned to the others as you hear gentle footsteps approach.'


Caladaer - You’ve been laying there all day since last night, Sealer. I thought you might be hungry. Here, leftovers from Fenrir’s last hunt. Don’t worry, it’s been roasted for normal human consumption twice over. I made certain.

Sealer - No thanks, Cally. I’m not really that hungry right now...

Caladaer - You have not spoken much since our conversation last night with Fenrir.

Sealer - ...

Caladaer - I hope you know that I am here to listen to your worries, Sealer. Though I understand that is usually your area of expertise, perhaps you could do with some council every once in a while yourself?

Caladaer - Or we could find another sandwyrm and I could let you use my bow to shoot a bunch of arrows into its face—that helps relieve stress too.

Sealer - Heh, no thank you! I think I’ve had enough sandwyrms for a while, well, until I try adding them to my pet hoard at least.

Caladaer - Ah, and there is the Sealer I know. Will you perhaps tell me what is troubling you so now?
It is sad to see your usually bright spirit so quiet and broken like this...

Sealer - I’m sorry, Cally. I don’t mean to be so depressing all of the sudden, I just... feel like I’m such a miserable failure is all. Sorren trusted me enough to help him with all this, my first task from my mentor as a Watch Crow apprentice, but so far, I think I just made things worse for everyone.

Sealer - I just got so frustrated last night. It feels like I’m walking in circles and getting nowhere with all this mess. Fenrir literally admitted he was guilty, and I think I might have made Yasimi really mad at me yesterday too after I snapped at her...

Caladaer - You snapped at Yasimi as well?

Sealer - Yeeeaah, um, I pretty much said she was no better than a murderer herself—but that’s only because she was saying so many awful things about Fenrir... though, I probably could have been a lot more tactful about it.

Caladaer - Oh, I suppose that would complicate things a bit with her.

Sealer - So now you know. Pretty sure Fenrir hates me after I pushed too hard for answers last night, and Yasimi is going to probably tear off my face the next time she sees me, and this desert just hates everyone anyways so add that to the mix— maybe if I just lay here and continue to stare at this wall I can become one with the rock. A boring, non-threatening rock that doesn’t keep screwing things up for everyone.

Caladaer - You should not be so hard on yourself, Sealer. Many would have never stood up for Fenrir like you did. If not for you, we may very well have been cast to the sandwyrms long ago.

Caladaer - That, and I know Fenrir does not hate you. He may have admitted he was guilty, but it seems to me that he blames himself for his past mistakes, even the ones that were not wholly his alone. Much like you blame yourself now.

Sealer - So... you think he didn’t kill the Ancient of Wilds then? Despite what he said last night?

Caladaer - What matters most is whether or not you believe he is guilty, Sealer. Everyone is placing their faith and trust in you. They believe in you, even when they have already given up on themselves.

Caladaer - You helped me believe in myself again when I first came to Silverport after my banishment, remember?

Sealer - ...

Caladaer - Your spirit shines brighter than any I have seen before, Sealer. It is like a warm and welcoming beacon of hope to those who have lost their way to sorrows and self-doubt.

Caladaer - Its light doesn’t judge, nor does it condemn or cast senseless hate over disagreements. You accept those you meet regardless of who they are or what their past may have been with a welcoming smile and an outstretched hand in friendship.

Caladaer - Such a kind spirit is rare to catch a glimpse of these days. I and many others can sense this, it is why you draw so many around you that you then no doubt feel the need to bear the weight of their troubles as your burden alone.

Caladaer - But I hope that you know that you are not alone in all this. Sorren and Willy, Fenrir and myself, Rue and lady Seraphina-- your friends are here to help you bear those troubles as well, all you need do is but ask and the birdfamily is sure to rush to your aid with fire in their eyes and a plate of pancakes at the ready.

Sealer - Cally... Thank you.

Sealer - It... it’s really nice to hear all that. Thank you for helping me to remember why I’m doing all this. You’re right, I shouldn’t give up on myself so easily after what we’ve all been through.

Sealer - I’m going to prove to everyone that Fenrir’s innocent even if it kills me! Which it probably will, it’s like a fifty-fifty chance at this point, but hey, fifty percent is better than forty as they say!

Caladaer - Haha, I have never heard of such a saying before, but perhaps it is a common human phrase of yours.

Caladaer - I am glad that you are not giving up just yet. If you ever gave up, Sealer, than there is truly no hope for the rest of us. Luckily I know that will never be the case.
Never stop being you, Sealer, and know that you’ll always have a loyal friend in me.


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

'Later that night, you pretend to lay quietly asleep as you hear the distant muffled noises of Fenrir and Caladaer near the cave entrance.'


Caladaer - Mind if I join you?

Fenrir - Do what you want, elvian. I’m just keeping watch for the night anyways.

Caladaer - It’s a calm night tonight. The desert truly shows its inner beauty best under the silver rays of the twin moons.

Fenrir - ...

Caladaer - You have not changed back into yourself since yesterday. Do you usually stay as a wolf for this long?

Fenrir - All the better to scare away those who would dare approach me, wouldn’t you say?

Caladaer - It doesn’t frighten me away.

Fenrir - Hahaha—well it should. Do you know how easy it would be for me to crush your pretty little skull between my fangs right now? You probably wouldn’t even try to fight back.

Fenrir - I would be more wary if I were you, fair prince. You never know when I might just snap and turn on you. You’d be nothing more than just another bit of prey to be consumed by a hungry, savage wolf.

Caladaer - Your empty threats do not scare me, Fenrir. You may say such cruel things but your words are hollow, I know you would never do that.

Caladaer - Why are you trying so hard to push me away all of the sudden?

Fenrir - ...

Caladaer - I had thought... we were starting to understand one another, so...

Fenrir - ...

Caladaer - I see. I shall leave you alone then, Fenrir.

Fenrir - Why do you still wear that Hubris charm? It’s just going to bring you grief from most wolfkin you come across.

Caladaer - A dear friend gave me this charm. One that cares about my wellbeing and who watched over me when I was banished from my home. I never take it off, not even when I sleep, for it brings me a great deal of comfort and peace.

Caladaer - You were right about what you said before, we’ve never met in person, but I have met you, as a wolf. It confused me for the longest time how I survived those months alone with Vipen as just a broken, banished prince who was thrust into the outside world after what had transpired in Mirthwood.

Caladaer - Many nights, I would hear a single, haunting howl that no doubt chased away those who would have done me harm. Large, unusual paw prints which circled the area would always lead me to the safest spots to slumber, or to a brook or stream when Vipen and I were weary and parched from our long travels.

Caladaer - You no doubt played a part in having Sorren find me as well. After all, he is a master at keeping secrets.

Caladaer - I never did think much of it at the time, but you were there when I first arrived at Silverport after Sorren offered me a place to stay. Within the shadows I could hear those same familiar footsteps keeping watch over the greenhouse and seaside abode.

Caladaer - But soon after, you were forced to leave, no doubt the troubles of Darak’i required your attention, and so you asked Delilah to remain in your stead. But not before asking her to give the ‘pretty deer prince’ a gift. The matching earring to your own, the protective charm of Hubris.

Caladaer - So no matter what you say, or how much you bare your fangs at me, I know that you have a kind and gentle heart behind that so-called vicious façade of yours.

Fenrir - Are you always this scarily perceptive or is that an elvian thing?

Caladaer - Haha, I’ll admit I had a little help from Delilah, and the flashes of memories from when our sprits connected gave a bit away.

Fenrir - Dang it Delilah—I asked her not to say anything about all that.

Fenrir - *sigh* I’m sorry for what I said before, Cally. I really did not mean any of it...
But that charm does look good on you!

Caladaer - Why thank you. I think so myself, too. In fact I actually brought you something as a gift in return. Here--

Fenrir - It’s a... human toy?

Caladaer - I have a bit of a hobby in collecting adorable plushies, I can’t seem to break myself of the habit, but I saw this at the bazaar one day in Silverport. I thought it looked a bit like Delilah, besides the green button eyes of course.

Caladaer - And look! It’s even got a little heart patch, isn’t it adorable? I’ve been keeping it on my person just in case I ever finally met Delilah’s alpha in person.

Fenrir - ...

Caladaer - You don’t like it, do you? I was afraid it might be too childish... I knew I should have gotten something else. Here, I’ll take it back and—

Fenrir - What? No way! You gave it to me so this is mine now.

Fenrir - I’ve... actually never been given a gift before. Wolfkin don’t usually keep such personal possessions. Heh, good thing I’m not like most wolfkin though.

Fenrir - I love it. Thank you, habi’b.

Caladaer - That’s the second time you’ve called me that. What does the word habi’b mean?

Fenrir - What? Second time? Did I actually say it before...

Caladaer - Yes, you did. I’ve been keeping track of it with my scary elvian perceptive powers.

Fenrir - It... just means ‘dear friend’ is all. That’s it.

Caladaer - ... Alright, if you’re certain. You know your language better than I. Do you mind if I keep watch with you for the rest of the night, habi’b?

Fenrir - Alright, now you’re just teasing me on purpose.

Caladaer - Haha—

You smile to yourself as their muffled voices help lull you to sleep. For the first time since you came to this desert, you finally slumber peacefully with renewed determination for the days ahead.


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

Hey Fenrir, I'm glad to see you looking a bit happier today! I'm...sorry about pressing you so hard for questions earlier.


Fenrir - Heh, don’t worry about me pup. If anything I should be apologizing to you. I guess I’m still not the best at talking about the past. Makes my fur stand on end if you know what I mean.

Sealer - I understand, though, if I’m going to be of any help to you in fixing all this I do kind of have to keep asking you those kinds of questions... if you’re up to it of course. I won’t push like I did last time. It’s totally up to you what you wish to say in all this.

Fenrir - Haha, you know you sound a lot like Sorren when you put it that way. Guess since he’s your Watch Crow birdy mentor it makes sense he’d start rubbing off on you.

Fenrir - Before you know it you’ll be telling everyone to ‘FOCUS’ and making even Rune Drakes listen to you with just your gaze alone. That glare of his is way too intimidating, I swear...

Sealer - Oh jeez, don’t remind me. I bet I’ve got a pile of homework and a bazillion lessons that are just waiting for me back at Silverport!

Sealer - Actually, if you’re up to it, I do have another question I’d like to ask you about this place.

Fenrir - Sure thing. What about?

Sealer - These temples of Hubris, I know that they were all destroyed besides the one we are standing in... but why were they built all across the desert in the first place? Cally mentioned an old magic here like none he’s felt before, were all the others like that as well?

Fenrir - Besides for simply revering Hubris for those that followed him?

Fenrir - They are wards, Sealer. Each one was erected across Darak’i purposefully and with exact locations. I bet if you looked at it from a bird’s eye view you would see it creates the mark of Hubris once you connected them like dots.

Sealer - Wards? Like those that repel evil or something like that?

Fenrir - Somewhat like that, yeah. I don’t know if you’ve noticed yet, but the curse that is affecting the outside world—

Fenrir - The same one that threatened to kill Sorren...

Fenrir - It has not reached Darak’i, not yet. This temple is the last thing that is keeping it at bay and protecting all of my people. Half of them probably don’t even know of the curse’s existence yet. That, or they won’t believe you unless they leave the desert, and few wolfkin do that who are native here.

Sealer - Seriously? I can’t believe it... this is great news then! We can just duplicate Hubris’ wards with magic and save everyone across the realm!

Fenrir - I’m afraid it’s not that easy, pup. Only those from the Sabr’e clan knew how to create those wards... but since they are gone, all I can do is protect what is left, and that’s this crumbling cave that you see now.

Sealer - But you’re a member of the Sabr’e clan. Can’t you recreate the wards or at least share whatever knowledge you have on the subject?

Fenrir - That was centuries ago and I was just a pup back then when my clan was wiped out. The only thing I had to my name that carried even an ounce of that old magic were a pair of earrings shaped in the mark of Hubris.

Fenrir - I wear one now... and I gave the other to Cally to offer him protection while he healed Sorren’s spirit of the curse. It was the best I could do before I came back here to defend this place from Wild’s clans. But you know how all that went down in the end.

Fenrir - I’m sorry I can’t be more help than that, Sealer.

Sealer - No, no... you did everything you could, Fenrir. More than that, you gave Sorren a second chance and made sure Cally was protected from suffering the same fate. I could never ask for more than that. Thank you... you really are an alpha who looks after his pack no matter what.

Fenrir - Yeah... well, now you understand why I have to protect this place and also why I can’t leave. The followers of Wilds would never believe it. Especially since the curse is not prominent here...

Fenrir - But I’d rather they see me as just an a’taihin than have that sickness spread to Darak’i. No doubt they, nor Wilds really, had any idea about what those really stood for during their crusade. However, the damage they’ve done is certain to doom them now if they continue to reenact the mistakes of the past.

Fenrir - I know they think of Hubris as some savage spirit bent on turning them into feral beasts... but that’s far from the truth. Most wolfkin may have forgotten him, or simply despise him, but just like the Ancients, he is a spirit that remains from a time long forgotten to this realm.

Fenrir - He cares, Sealer. I at least know that.

Sealer - I believe you, Fenrir. And hey, Cally and I will do what we can to help you protect this place! Maybe I can even convince Yasimi of that as well. You know, once you get to know her she’s really not that bad at all.

Fenrir - Yeah... maybe.


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

It looks like we are out of time. I spoke with Yasimi yesterday...we have today to leave before she and the other clans destroy this place and come after Fenrir.


Caladaer - I thought she said they would let him go if we proved his innocence?

Sealer - I think at this point it doesn’t matter if they believe he is guilty or not. They keep calling Fenrir this great evil that must be destroyed... and are dead set on getting rid of him and this temple.

Fenrir - They want Hubris.

Caladaer - ...

Fenrir - And that’s what they’ll get. Fear is a powerful thing, and what they fear most is him. Just like Wilds.

Sealer - But why kill you then? Do you know where Hubris is? Is that why they are after you?

Fenrir - No it’s not exactly that I know...

Caladaer - Fenrir...

Sealer - What’s wrong?

Fenrir - They want to kill me because...

Fenrir - I am Hubris.

Sealer - W-what...

Fenrir - I am hin’skel, Ancient Slayer... I harbor the old spirit of Hubris, reborn and forever intertwined with my own spirit.

Fenrir - I have never told another living soul this besides Sorren and Cally... and now you.

Sealer - I don’t understand... how?

Fenrir - There was once a time when Hubris roamed free within his own form across this realm. He would hunt any Ancient that threatened his territory or kin. Most respected his borders and left Darak’i alone.

Fenrir - But then the Ancient of Wilds came and invaded this land. A worthy foe Hubris might say, with similar qualities to his own. Back then Ancients were far more prominent than they are now — it was an age known as the Primal Era, and it was a much different place than the Eldemore you know these days.

Fenrir - Apparently, there was a great battle between the two as they fought to protect their territory and the people they called kin.

Fenrir - Wilds offered his knowledge and magic to those wolfkin who were unable to control their nature. Hubris simply watched from a distance, silent on the Ancient’s influence over his people. Many began to fear that their innate abilities were more like a dangerous and savage plague from the the great wolf’s bloodline.

Fenrir - The battles were many, and they left Hubris greatly weakened to the point where his spirit threatened to disappear. Wilds pressed on, relentlessly seeking Hubris’ demise, turning his own people against him till almost all cried for his blood to be spilled.

Fenrir - Hubris was fighting a losing battle with those he once called packmates.

Fenrir - However, one clan remained loyal to him during that time. His own original pack, the Sabr’e clan, took in their dying alpha and preformed a blood bonding ritual to forcibly fuse his spirit with another living soul. It was a last ditch effort to keep Hubris’ spirit tied to this world as he continued to defend what was left of his clan to the brink of death.

Fenrir - So... they chose a wolfkin from their own who was recently born and who would be a pure vessel that was not yet bonded to anything magically. One that wouldn’t fight back and freely accept such an old spirit with little resistance.

Sealer - They used blood bonding... on an infant? On you?

Fenrir - Yes.

Fenrir - It always made me so confused and bitter towards them. Did anyone in my clan ever truly care about me? Did they ever see me for who I was? Did they know that before I was Hubris, I was me? My own person?

Fenrir - Did they just protect me because I was a living vessel for a spirit they refused to let die? I was isolated and kept hidden away for most of my pup years, my questions were never fully answered, no matter how many times I asked. All they would ever refer to me as was Hubris...

Fenrir - I guess the moment my spirit was entangled with Hubris I was no longer Fenrir. Just a broken mess of... whatever I am now.

Caladaer - That isn’t true. I’ve seen your spirt, Fenrir. It may be tangled, scarred and battered...

Caladaer - But it isn’t broken.
I have never felt a spirit such as yours before, but I can tell that it is strong and resilient despite what was done to it. You are still you. In my eyes, you will always be Fenrir. Not Hubris.

Caladaer - When I saw your memories, I felt the slumbering presence of a very old spirit. It stirred and took note of my being there, but I did not feel threatened. I saw its eyes, its mark which glowed like a golden crescent moon...

Caladaer - You were not the only prisoner, Fenrir. I believe Hubris also did not wish for this to happen, especially not to one of his own. You both may not be what you once were before, but you became something new.

Fenrir - ... Cally.

Fenrir - *Sigh*

Fenrir - Sealer... the day of Wild’s death... They all believe I murdered him, and maybe I did, but-

Fenrir - Wilds was also attacked by something else.

Sealer - Something else was able to kill an Ancient? What was it?

Fenrir - I... don’t fully remember. It made Hubris awaken in rage, though.

Fenrir - I think, whatever it was, it did not expect Hubris to be there at all. Its intent was on killing Wilds, but when Hubris took over to fight back against the threat alongside his once most hated foe- I only recall blurs and bits of memories from the battle.

Sealer - So then, that means you didn’t kill Wilds! Hubris fought with him as an ally.

Sealer - Fenrir, you are innocent!

Fenrir - I don’t know... maybe? All I recall is a massive black form, the taste of blood, and the dying roar of an Ancient before I finally came back to my senses within my own wolf form.

Fenrir - That’s about when Yasimi’s clan came from nearby to investigate.

Sealer - Why didn’t you just tell her this to begin with?

Fenrir - You really think anyone is going to believe that story? Hell, I don’t even hardly believe it, let alone fully remember.

Fenrir - It’s rare that Hubris ever wakes up... but when he does, we both can’t be conscious at the same time, which means little to no chance of learning the truth about what happened with Wilds directly from him.

Sealer - But... we are so close. Are you sure there’s no way to speak with him?

Fenrir - That’s something I’ve literally tried to figure out for centuries, believe me.

Fenrir - Look, pup, you and Cally should take the she-wolf’s offer and leave. Go back to Silverport where it’s safe and look after Sorren and Willy. I have to stay here and defend this temple no matter what, but — I don’t want you both getting hurt.

Caladaer - You seriously think I’m going to just leave you like that? I refuse.

Fenrir - Come on Habi’b, don’t be stubborn.

Caladaer - Look who’s talking? I’ve already said this once, but we are packmates now. You are no longer alone in this, Fenrir.

Sealer - Yep, the way I see it you’re totally stuck with us! I still believe that there is a way to fix all this, no matter how slim that chance may be. Till then, birdfamily pack to the end!

Fenrir - Cally...Sealer...

Fenrir - I won’t run away from my home this time. This time I’m going to protect what is most important to me. No matter the cost.


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

(Final event cutscene occurs here.)

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

So, uh... Hubris is still here. That’s a thing.


Caladaer - So it seems... Fenrir has yet to awake.

Sealer - What’s he doing? He just keeps circling the temple and examining everything.

Hubris - I am looking at what is left of my home, bright one.

Sealer - Ah! Jeez, don’t sneak up behind me like that.

Hubris - Your spirit is too bright to “sneak up” on. You will draw more than just moths to your flame if you are not careful. Why are you not with the rest of your kind, child of seals?

Sealer - What? Rest of my kind? I don’t know... *whispers* Do you know what he’s talking about?

Caladaer - Great spirit of the hunt, may I ask why you have not allowed Fenrir to return?

Hubris - Ahhh, the crimson deer spirit who walked so boldly within my territory. The forest child whose ivory antlers are stained red with dried blood. Usually your kind is so pristine. So white... but not you. You were quite the interesting sight to see that day.

Caladaer - ...

Hubris - You thought only you could touch the spirit of another so tenderly?
Hahaha— do not worry so little red deer, I will return your wolf habi’b to you soon enough.

Caladaer - Thank you great spirit.

Hubris - I have a request for you first, little deer. Your ability is a rare one even during my time. When you unknowingly touched my spirit, you broke the seal which kept me slumbering for so long. To share my spirit with Fenrir, he and I also share one body, and as you know, a vessel is only meant to house one spirit.

Hubris - For quite some time I’ve noticed that our two spirits have slowly been merging into one. It is a... new experience for me. I do not know what the final outcome will be.

Hubris - A Spirit was never meant to be bounded to another like he and I. Eventually Fenrir will become Hubris, and I will become Fenrir.

Hubris - The wolf child that has burdened all my troubles has no doubt begun to notice this, but the process is a painful and confusing one. He will soon share my form more often now that the seal is broken, until we both can be awake at the same time as one individual.

Caladaer - Will that... change who he is? What can I do to help?

Hubris - You worry if he will not be the same, cocky, hardheaded, stubborn, rambunctious wolf? Haha that is something that neither Spirit nor Ancient can change.

Hubris - Heal his spirit as it changes, little deer. Do not let it break under the weight of my own. This is what I ask of you.

Hubris - I have wanted nothing more than to speak with Fenrir. His subconscious has always touched my own, yet still we have never spoken. Through him I have felt mortal emotions that no immortal Spirit like me has ever felt before. We were never meant to... but I am glad I have.

Hubris - To see through the eyes and understand the worries of what just one of my kin goes through. I wonder if he feels the same. Or if perhaps he resents me like so many before.

Caladaer - Great Spirit, Fenrir would never resent you. He has spoken so fondly of you since we came here. I believe he feels closer to you than you think. You and his dire wolf are all he has left of his clan and home.

Hubris - Perhaps you are right little deer. I know I take solace in that fact as well.

Hubris - When Fenrir awakes he will not fully know what has happened since the battle. Tend to his wounds, but you must all leave the desert as soon as possible. This is no longer his home, Darak’i has no more protectors.

Hubris - The time of Wilds and Hubris is no more. Fenrir is not like other wolfkin now, his spirit is immortal like your own... and I am no longer like other Spirits. We do not belong here. Will you tell him this?

Caladaer - I will certainly try, though, he may not like to hear such news...

Hubris - Yes, I... understand. He will feel regret, anger, and sadness. I’ve begun to realize how much those hurt. However, I also know of this birdfamily pack that he feels the need to protect so.

Hubris - Love, acceptance, family... those emotions make one happy, perhaps that is where he needs to be.
Where we need to be.


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

Hey, Fenrir! Welcome back to the world of being awake and not a huge Spirit Wolf!


Fenrir - Ugh, thanks pup. I barely remember any of that, but I sure do feel the after-effects of it.

Caladaer - Hopefully your spirit healing sessions will continue to help ease that pain. If you ever feel it become too heavy for you at any time, let me know and I will help carry your burden.

Caladaer - I did the same for Sorren when he was suffering from the effects of the curse. Though I must admit that this is a first for me as well, but we shall work on it together.

Fenrir - Yeah, still not really used to those just yet... but thanks, habi’b.
Kind of weird finally starting to feel Hubris’ conscious meld with my own all of the sudden after so long.

Fenrir - That, and he is a very opinionated Spirit—can you believe he scolded me on my hunting skills this morning? He said I was sloppy and too brazen. I told him he had too many teeth and that I was the one currently in charge.

Sealer - So how did that go for you?

Fenrir - ...

Fenrir - I woke up with a bunch of dead sandwyrms at my paws without a scratch on me and Hubris chuckling in the back of my mind saying, ‘That’s how you hunt.’

Sealer - Pffft!

Caladaer - Hahaha! You should be more respectful of the Great Wolf Spirit, Fenrir. No doubt you two will have many, ah, civil disagreements as you work as one.

Fenrir - Yeah, well, just so long as he remembers we are sharing my body. My life has been confusing enough as it is without adding the fact that I’m not much of a wolfkin anymore.

Fenrir - Don’t really know what I am, honestly... I don’t think Hubris knows either...

Fenrir - I’ll miss Darak’i and this place. I hate that I have to leave it all... in the end, it’s no different from being exiled, but I guess I was already living that life anyways. Just hurts to actually, finally leave everything.

Caladaer - ... I know what it is like to be banished from your home, Fenrir. I could never tell you that it will get any easier. If anything, the pain only worsens over time.

Caladaer - But... my time with Sorren, Willy and the Sealer has truly helped. I would have perished from my grief if not for their support.

Caladaer - If you’d like, you are welcome to share the garden out back with me. Delilah certainly seems to like the shade, and she and Vipen often lay together to groom each other—they get along great despite being a wolf and a deer.

Caladaer - It is nothing near as close to your Darak’i or my home within Mirthwood I’m afraid... but it’s at least something to call your own.

Sealer - Wait, does this mean I get to finally see giant wolf/pirate wrestling battles? Yes, so much yes to this. You’d fit right in, Fenrir!

Fenrir - Never stayed longer than a few weeks at a time in that place. I’d always stop by to lay a dead animal at their door as a gift, though, when I dropped by to check up on them.

Fenrir - But I guess the Sealer does need to learn how to hunt properly without keeping everything they catch, and I know Willy has just been dying to see me again.

Fenrir - Heh, maybe I’ll consider it. The birdfamily pack still has a nice ring to it after all.

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

[Benathorn]

Fenrir & Caladaer Q&A Continued Part 2

Hey there, pup. Got something on your mind?

Hey Fenrir, I’ve been wondering about this for a while now, but how did you and Delilah meet?


Fenrir - That’s a rather out of the blue question.

Sealer - Well, I’m assuming she’s lived as long as you, due to your bonding to Hubris’ spirit. But did you both meet when you were in the Sabr’e pack all those centuries ago?

Fenrir - We did, yeah. Though not in the traditional wolfkin and dire wolf bonding ceremony way.

Remember when I said I was often kept isolated from everyone since they wanted to keep me hidden away?

I did not know my parents, siblings, or have any friends, or much contact with the others of my clan besides, those who brought me food and blankets. Often I would just sit in the corner of my tent, tail tucked around myself with my head upon my knees, as I strained my ears to listen to the others’ distant voices outside.

Sometimes I liked to imagine myself out there with them, playing with the other pups and getting to go through the ceremonial bond with my own dire wolf one day… but of course I wasn’t permitted to.

Sealer - I’m sorry… I didn’t know. That sounds like such a lonely existence.

Fenrir - It was a lonely existence for the longest time, but then, something happened.

! would hear sniffing at the back of the tent for weeks on end. One day a small tear was made with the longest fangs I had ever seen, and a pink nose poked through.

I was a bit weary at first, but every day the nose would come back with a bit of prey or some sweets that mothers often gave their pups as treats. It would drop them, lick my hand tenderly, and then disappear.

Soon I waited eagerly for 'Pink Nose' to visit me every day, and every day 'Pink Nose' would come. Haha, eventually she told me that her name was not Pink Nose, but Delilah… however, I still find myself calling her that sometimes even now.

Delilah would always stop by to listen and keep me company when no one was looking. She’d let me pet her fur for comfort, and would lick away my tears after another painful session of adding more of those marks to my skin.
At night she would sing me songs to lull me to sleep… and on the rare occasion, when someone left their guarding post for a few brief moments, she would sneak in to come to lay by my side as I slept.

Sealer - Awww, Fenrir, I think I’ve got some sand in my eye… she’s like your momma wolfy!

Fenrir - Delilah is indeed my mal'rayi— my mother wolf. I call only her this since she adopted me as her pup back then after she… unfortunately lost her own to a complicated birth shortly before meeting me.

She said she could never have pups again after that, but told me that Hubris granted her wish with another pup instead. She has looked after me as her ban’on ever since.

Without her I would not be alive today, I don’t think. She was the one who helped me flee the massacre of our clan when Wilds came. She carried me on her back into the night, never stopping as the cries of our people disappeared into the distance, far away from danger till she could run no more.

Ever since then, she and I have pretty much been living on our own. Delilah taught me how to hunt. How to fight. She raised me to one day be an alpha, and would only recognize me as such once I was able to finally best her in battle.
I don’t know when it happened, but at some point she and I created a magical bond. She has been with me ever since, my mal’rayi.

She is the last Saber Dire in existence, and I will never leave her side.



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

'As you pack up the last remaining things to prepare for your journey back to Silverport, you notice Caladaer pacing nearby the cave entrance with a worried expression'


Sealer: Hey Cally, something wrong?

Caladaer: Ah, Sealer, you haven’t perhaps seen Fenrir at any point today have you?

Sealer: No, I don’t think so? Last time I saw him was last night just before I got some shut eye. I haven’t seen him since then now that I think about it.

Caladaer: I was afraid of that.

I have not seen him since last night either, and it is already far beyond midday which worries me.

I had forced him to rest for once as I took the night watch. His wounds are still fresh and we have a long journey back… but the moment I closed my eyes for just a few minutes, he was gone.

Sealer: Maybe he just went out on a late night hunt and hasn’t come back yet? You know how often he disappears doing that. It’s nothing out of the ordinary, so I’m sure he will be back soon before we leave.

Caladaer: But I did not hear him leave. Which means he went to great lengths to avoid making a sound that not even an elvian’s ears could detect.

He snuck away on purpose without telling anyone. I wonder why...

Sealer: Maybe Delilah would know where he went?

Caladaer: She was the first I tried to find when I noticed his absence. However, she is nowhere to be found as well.

Sealer: What? Okay, now I’m starting to get a bit worried. It’s odd they both just up and left without a word.

Caladaer: I’m going to take Vipen and scout the area. Maybe I’ll find—

*Caladaer stops mid sentence as you both hear the sounds of heavy paw steps approach.*

-Fenrir appears in wolf form-

Sealer: Hey, look at that! Fenrir and Delilah’s back!

And… completely wet?

Caladaer: Where have you been all night? You’re soaked to the bone…

And you’ve pulled the stitches on your side again. Blood is dripping from the wound.

Why did you sneak away like that! You shouldn’t even be hardly moving in your condition.

Fenrir: Ouch-- hello to you too, habi’b.

Just went out for another little midnight stroll was all. The twin moons were full, no need to bare your fangs at me.

Caladaer: Just a midnight stroll? You’re completely drenched, Fenrir. Did that stroll just happen to lead you to jumping into a random oasis and ignoring the fact that you have wounds that are still trying to heal?

-Turns back into wolfkin form-

Fenrir: Heh, something like that yeah.

I was actually getting one last thing before we left. One last hunt.

Caladaer: I hope this last hunt of yours was worth having to go through the process of stitching you up again and cleaning the wound you so carelessly reopened. It’s a long journey back to Silverport.

Fenrir: Trust me. It was worth it.

Here, a gift for you.

Caladaer: It’s… a golden rose?

Fenrir: The golden desert rose of Darak’i. Hubris showed it to me in one of his memories, that beneath the waterfall here at this oasis is a cavern that leads deep below the sands above.

I had to swim pretty far to reach the place. With no end in sight, I thought I was going to run out of air for sure. Swimming is not exactly my forte after all…

Thankfully it opened up, and led into an ancient city filled with catacombs as far as the eye could see. I never knew such a thing existed. It looked like it could expand across the whole desert from what I witnessed.

Sealer: Wow, there is a whole network of catacombs beneath Darak’i! That’s so cool… who made it?

Fenrir: I don’t know. Hubris only gave me the single memory that helped lead me there to find the rose I was after.

It seems they once grew all across this desert many centuries ago, even before my time. I had only heard about them in wolfkin legends, but they were greatly coveted for their golden petals and healing properties, grounding them into powders and salves, to the point they were no more.

To find just a single golden rose growing after all this time…

Anyways, they call it the immortal flower you know? Even when it is plucked, it never dies. Plant it and it will regrow, stronger and more beautiful than before.

It reminded me a lot of you, actually.

I thought… since you didn’t like the jackalopes I brought you, or the sandwyrm that ended up being torn to pieces, that maybe… you’d, uh, like the flower at least.

Sealer mentioned it was a human custom… don’t know if it’s an elvian custom, though. I still don’t really get what a 'salad' is either, and I’ve scratched everything with antlers off my diet because of that antler buddy system of yours, and—I’m just rambling now.

Look, just take the darn thing already, would you!

Caladaer: Fenrir…

I have never been given such a beautiful and rare gift like this from another. You went to such great lengths… thank you, habi’b. I will treasure it forever and hold it near and dear to my heart.

Fenrir: Yeah, well… you know. Flowers and stuff. It was really no trouble at all.

Caladaer: Heh, of course. No trouble at all, says the bleeding and sodden wolf.

Here, take this.

Fenrir: What is that?

Caladaer: It is called a muffin!

They are amazing, sweet, fluffy bread treats that can be filled with anything and everything. Would you like to share one with me?

After what you went through, I think you deserve a treat.


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

[kiel]

Yasimi Q&A

What do you want, Sealer?

Um, h-hello? Am I allowed to speak with, Yasimi?


Yasimi - Let the ban’on through.

Sealer - Alpha, Yasimi—I don’t mean to intrude, but some of your clanmates directed me to your tent. I know we aren’t exactly guests or anything, but I was hoping I could still speak with you freely.

Yasimi - You think of us as uncivilized? We may be distrustful with you kal’roth that trickle blindly into our deserts searching for riches or trade routes, but we are not unreasonable.

Yasimi - I have no issue speaking with you freely if you wish, after all, you are the one who vouched for that a’taihin.

Yasimi - I look forward to seeing if you can actually prove that traitor’s innocence. Or finally have you realize that we were right all along.

Sealer - May I ask why you call him an a’taihin and hunt him so? I’m not wholly versed in your people’s language, but everyone seems so superstitious and hateful of Fenrir and his dire wolf, Delilah.

Yasimi - A’taihin simply means traitor or outcast in our tongue. Those who are cast out from their clans are labeled as such for various reasons, however, Fenrir and Delilah are beyond even that.

Yasimi - Did you not notice his dire’s unusually long fangs? Or his for that matter? Both sport pure white fur and hair, traits that label them as descendants of the dread wolf, Hubris’, very first clan.

Sealer - Hubris’ first clan?

Yasimi - Hm, you outsiders really don’t know anything about wolfkin, do you?

Yasimi - One of the oldest clans to first touch the sands of Darak’i was the Sabr’e clan, descendants of Hubris, and the first of our race, or so they say.

Yasimi - At first, I thought that fabled pack died out long ago during the last purge of their kind, but one still remains it seems, along with his pale dire.

Yasimi - Fenrir should not exist, and because he does, our Ancient is no more. I will not rest till every last Sabr’e is purged from Darak’i, just like the days of old, no matter how long it takes.


Sealer - I don’t understand, that just sounds like the followers of Wilds want to start another senseless slaughter? Why would you do that?!

Yasimi - You have no idea what Hubris is! What the Sabr’e clan has done! They keep that monster alive and practice the old primal magic... it is forbidden, and for good reason.

Sealer - Wait... did you just say primal magic? What do you mean?

Yasimi - I’ve had enough of our conversation for now, ban’on. You’ve insulted us more than once today.

Yasimi - Leave.

------------------------------------------------
You walk up to Yasimi’s tent. Today, you are determined not to allow her to intimidate. However, you stop suddenly as a rush of wolfkin children poor out of the fabric entrance and jump about you with eager squeals of joy and incessant questioning.


Wolfkin Pup 1: Is this the Sealer? They’re not much bigger than me! I thought they’d be way taller.

Wolfkin Pup 2: How come you gots those funny short ears and no tail?

Wolfkin Pup 3: Maybe their tail got snapped off because they got too close to a sand wyrm! That happens you know. I saw it.

Wolfkin Pup 4: I wanna touch their hair!!!

Yasimi - Enough, all of you! What did I tell you ban’on about talking to outsiders? Back to your fathers or I’ll bite your tails off myself.

The group of excited wolfkin pups barely even balk under Yasimi’s stern threat, instead giggling madly and rushing off with little howls of mock fear as they dart just out of reach of the alpha’s fiery gaze.

Yasimi - Hmph, pups. Always foolishly bold even to their mother. They will make fine hunters one day, but right now... they are a handful.

Sealer - Aww, those were your kids? They’re adorable!

Yasimi - That was just four of my pups. I have another ten wondering around here causing mischief no doubt. Their fathers are supposed to be keeping an eye on them, but looks like they got away again.

Yasimi - Yes. Is that a problem?

Sealer - Uh, no... I’m just—you know, most just have a few kids with one partner...

Sealer - Hey, lookin’ good there with having fourteen pups! Haha...ha... I’ll be quiet now.

Yasimi - You kal’roth are always so shocked by our customs. Judging and treating our race like simple beasts for our traditions without even trying to understand our way of life.

Yasimi - Wolfkin from Darak’i have multiple mates, this has been our way for centuries. I myself have four strong and loyal males of my clan whose children I am honored to bear, as they are with me. Our love and companionship is never bound to just one individual. A clan cannot afford such a single-minded nature, not out here where danger lies in wait beyond every dune.

Yasimi - We value our pups as the greatest treasures of our clans. They are our future, and as such, we all work together to socialize and raise them as strong members of our pack. It matters not if you are male, female, alpha or hunter. All pups are valued the same. As are all potential mates. We work as one through many, such are our ways.

Sealer - I’m sorry, I really didn’t mean to insult you or your people Yasimi. If anything, your culture truly fascinates me, and I’d love to learn more about how your clan works... if you’d let me.

Yasimi - Hmph. I suppose I can’t fault you entirely for your ignorance and lack of respect, after all, you are only just a ban’on yourself.

Yasimi - It is rare to hear you kal’roth actually wanting to learn about our culture instead of scrutinizing it blindly.

Yasimi - Very well, I will allow you to walk among our camp as long as you have a hunter escort you, Sealer.

Yasimi - Maybe then you will see that we followers of Wilds are far more civilized than that a’taihin you call a friend.

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

Yasimi, may I ask you a question about the Ancient of Wilds?


Yasimi: What is your question, ban’on?

Sealer: Fenrir mentioned that those who follow Wilds cannot change into their wolf forms anymore. He said that you suppress your true natures. Is that true?

Yasimi: Of course the a’taihin would spout such lies…

We can still change just fine, though it is not fully a bestial form like his own. Ours is more like that of our deceased Ancient’s image: part wolf, part human, we can draw on the strength of the beast without having to succumb to its savage nature like your friend.

It takes effort to achieve such control over our primal natures, but with time and practice, even a pup can learn to subdue their inner beast before it gets the best of them.

Sealer: But are there any who can no longer change into even that? Aren’t all wolfkin born with the ability to transform into a full-fledged beast?

Yasimi: Yes, it is true we are all born with the magic of Hubris in our veins when we are brought into this world. It is an issue we have been trying to rectify for centuries, and one that Wilds has helped us to control with his magic and guidance.

Pups suffer the worst from their constant transformations since they have such wild spirits to begin with. However, I worry for the future now that our Ancient deity is no longer with us.

Without his magic… who will help to cleanse our pups of such a curse?

Sealer: I’m sorry for the loss of your Ancient, Yasimi… but you haven’t answered one of my questions yet. Are there any that can no longer transform at all?

Yasimi: …

Sealer: Yasimi…

If wolfkin are born with such an ability, why would you try to get rid of it till it disappeared completely? I know I’m not one of your people, but… something about that doesn’t seem right.

Yasimi: You think Fenrir is the image of stability and control, then? You believe that his words ring with truth alone?
Ha! He has done well to fool you, Sealer. Tell me, have you even asked about his origins yet? How about why he has no true wolfkin pack and travels alone? Or better yet, inquire about that cave he so desperately tries to keep out of our reach by any means necessary.

I can see by your eyes that you know none of those things. So far it seems you are doing a poor job of proving his innocence, ban’on. If anything, you are only more in the dark than you were before.

Sealer: …

Yasimi: As I thought. You may leave now, Sealer.


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

May I ask more questions about your culture, Yasimi? I was curious about Darak'i itself in particular.


Yasimi: What about?

Sealer: I’ve read that Darak’i is a fabled golden city within the sands of your deserts, but you all roam in nomadic clans with no cities in sight. In fact, this oasis is the only landmark that I’ve seen since I first came here that has any signs of life or architecture. Do the history books have it wrong?

Yasimi: That is because we only have one city that was built long ago and still stands to this day. There are no multiple cities. However, the city itself is not called Darak’i, you kal’roth always confuse that part.

Sealer: Really? What is it called then?

Yasimi: It doesn’t have a name like your Alabaster City or many confusing ports and settlements. How you keep up with such things is beyond us. We simply refer to it as what it is, a city within Darak’i.

Everything within Darak’i is Darak’i. Our home is wherever we wish it to be in the vast deserts you see around you. No one clan lays claim to it all, just like this oasis is simply an oasis. Though we may camp here, any clan is welcome to its waters and bounty.

Even if we stake territory around our camp, we never stay in one area for too long. To do so would drain the limited resources in the area. Taking what one needs, not depleting the land’s bounty, and knowing when to move on is a very delicate balance, but one that we try to respect regardless.

Sealer: So Darak’i is everything around you? What does the word itself mean?

Yasimi: Home. Darak’i in the wolfkin tongue simply means, home.

Sealer: Wow, I always thought it just meant the name of the city or something… but hearing what it really means to you and your people, and how you regard it with so much respect, I think most outsiders don’t really understand wolfkin until they get to know them.

Yasimi: Hmph, don’t try to flatter us, Sealer.

We’ve always been treated like common beasts by the outside world. It is rare to find a kal’roth who takes the time to enlighten themselves about our culture and ways instead of simply demonizing our race as a whole.
But I’ll admit, it is… nice, I suppose, to have someone like yourself try to understand us for a change.

…… thanks.

Sealer: Oh my gosh, did you just thank me?! Yasimi just thanked me! I’ve got to tell everyone that you just said the ‘T’ word!

Yasimi: Ugh, I did not! You ban’on are all the same. Getting overly excited over the smallest of things—

Sealer: Aaaah! You totally did! Don’t move, I’ve got to go tell Fenrir and Cally. They won’t believe this!

Yasimi: *glares at you as you rush out of her tint with a look that could kill*


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

"Quite the frown today, Sealer. Usually you are all questions with no end in sight."


Sealer: I’m sorry, Yasimi. Long night is all.

Yasimi: Hmm. We heard quite a commotion coming from up there in your little cave last night. I half wondered if that a’taihin had finally gone feral and decided to eat you both. It is quite the common occurrence with those Hubris Followers after all.

Sealer: …

Yasimi: But it appears that you are safe and sound at least. I suppose that’s a good thing.

Sealer: Actually, I do have a question that I’d like to ask you while I’m here. I did what you mentioned before and asked Fenrir about his pack and why he is alone now.

He stated that he did not remember much since he was a pup back then, but… he said that Wilds and his followers massacred his clan and destroyed almost all the temples of Hubris. He said that the Ancient of Wilds ordered it… were you a part of all that?

Yasimi: What? That’s impossible! Of course I was not a part of the Sabr’e clan’s purging, I wasn’t even alive back then. That was over four-hundred years ago!

Sealer: The Sabr’e clan? Four hundred years? Do wolfkin even live that long? I thought you guys had the same lifespan as humans pretty much.

Yasimi: Of course we don’t live that long! That a’taihin must be lying. There is no possible way he was alive all those years ago, even—

…

Sealer: Yasimi?

Yasimi: No, I thought that perhaps that he was simply a decedent of those that somehow got away. That perhaps there was still more of them hiding out there… but he is the last. The one that got away.

Sealer: Is there something wrong? I’m afraid I don’t really follow…

Yasimi: Sealer, you need to continue to find out more about this wolfkin’s past. Perhaps he is lying, but if not, then we need to be prepared.

I will not make any hasty assumptions just yet… but be careful. There is a reason why we greatly fear those who follow Hubris.


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

I've been curious about this ever since you mentioned yesterday, but why exactly do you fear and despise the Followers of Hubris so much?


Yasimi: Oh? You mean your friend has not told you yet himself? I would have thought by now you would have seen that a’taihin go feral since they have no self-control whatsoever.

Sealer: …

Yasimi: Hmph. You’re loyalty is commendable, Sealer. But your silence says all. You cannot deny that it won’t happen with him again.

But I’ll let that go for now, and instead enlighten you about why it is you should be more concerned about that wolf you and that elvian protect so foolishly.

All wolfkin are born with the ability to transform into a beast of power as you already know, a giant wolf that is a reflection of Hubris’ image, and one that can easily overpower anyone who stands in our way.

However, to embrace such an untamed nature also places us at great risk of becoming just that, a simple-minded beast who’s only instinct is to hunt, devour, and slaughter anything that it lays its eyes upon.

… Whether it be friend or foe.

To combat this terrible bloodlust, we who follow the Ancient of Wilds have suppressed and denied these transformations. We control the urge to become a beast with the help of his magic, but with him gone many are at risk of becoming feral once more. It is a time of great uncertainty for our people with such a terrible loss…

Sealer: But Fenrir has never once harmed us in his wolf form, even when he went into a feral state!

Yasimi: That blind trust you have in him will get you and your elvian companion killed, Sealer! Do yourself both a favor and hand that a’taihin over already.

Or be left to forever bear the loss of the countless lives <em>you</em> put at risk because of your naivety…
Sealer: Yasimi…

Yasimi: I once did the same. I foolishly trusted a Hubris wolfkin. It was just a young pup, I thought, what harm could they do? I did not want to leave them alone in the desert, they looked so much like my own ban’ons… their Hubris clan no doubt wiped out by Wilds Followers who feared them to the point of murder.

I did not want my clan to senselessly slaughter like some did. We may be at odds with those of Hubris, but we should not stoop to their level… at least, that is what I once thought.

I took the pup in, only to quickly find out that I had made the biggest mistake in my entire life.

Do you recall when I said that the Roth’tai clan was only the second largest within Darak’i? We were once the largest, over one-hundred strong… and within a single night one feral Hubris pup decimated our clan to a mere forty.
I… had no choice but to put them down myself. They had taken so much and were already lost to the madness… one of my mates, two of my eldest children, so many families were torn apart that night… both physically and mentally.

Sealer: Yasimi, I had no idea. I’m so sorry that happened to you… and for your loss.

Yasimi: Do not pity me, Sealer. I have learned my lesson and will continue to bare my mistakes as mine alone, but I will never allow that to happen to my clan again.

It does not matter if they are pup, hunter, or alpha – any who follow Hubris are dangerous. It only takes one to destroy an entire clan, and in the end they will never fully have control over their savage natures.

It is simply best to kill them before they eventually are forced to kill you… such is the cold hard truth of the matter.


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

Yasimi, I need to ask you something important.


Yasimi: What is it, Sealer?

Sealer: The Ancient of Wilds death, where he was murdered, were you there to witness it taking place?

Yasimi: Of course I was. A few of my clanmates and I were on a hunt that day when that horror took place.
I saw that wretched a’taihin standing over the body in his wolf form, our Ancient’s blood still staining those terrible saber fangs of his…

Sealer: So then… Fenrir actually did do it? Why are you giving us a chance to prove his innocence then if you know he killed your Ancient?

Yasimi: Hmph. Because, Sealer, I, nor anyone else it seems actually saw the killing blow. I may be strict with my ways, but even I know that there is more to this than meets the eye.

I refuse to believe that one single Hubris wolfkin can take down an Ancient deity of all things. They are strong in their wolf forms, but not <em>that</em> strong. Only Fenrir truly knows what may have happened prior to that, but he and I will never be able to last five minutes trying to talk things through before it turns into a fight to the death.

That is where you and the elvian come in. I’ll admit, I thought simply tossing you both into the sandwyrm pits would be the best course of action, but we are learning a great deal from you that may possibly reveal Fenrir for the monster he truly is.

You should be proud of that fact.

Sealer: But Fenrir’s not a monster! It feels like you’re just starting to use me to get to him. I’m not going to continue to help you if your end goal is just to harm him no matter what the outcome in this is.

I know you might seem bitter and cold on the surface, Yasimi, but I honestly thought that you were someone I could respect and trust for trying to give Fenrir a chance.

Instead, you’re no better than a murderer yourself since all you seem to care about is revenge!

Yasimi: !!!

Sealer: Sorry, I’ll leave now.

Yasimi: …


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

Yasimi? Um, so you have a second to talk?


Yasimi: Well if it isn’t our rather rude, ban’on. Are you done venting today? Or do you still have more you wish to say to me?

Sealer: Okay, okay, before you rip off my face and throw me into a sandwyrm pit to be feasted upon in a horrific end, which I probably deserve, I just wanted to apologize! I should have never snapped at you like that. It was out of line and purely done out of my own frustration with everything this situation… I hope you can forgive me.

Yasimi: A ba’tho apologizing? Now that’s something you don’t see every day. Relax, Sealer, I’ve never once tore off anyone’s face in my entire life.

Sealer: …

Sealer: …Are you sure?

Yasimi: Yes I’m sure!

Ugh. Look, Sealer, I have been called much worse during my lifetime, and have withstood far greater insults than you can imagine.

Having fourteen young pups ranging from infants, to moody teens, to young adults—haha, you’d have to try a lot harder to get under my thick skin.

I could very easily see that you needed to vent, so like any of my own ban’on, I gave you some space to work things out for yourself.

However, I am no murderer. Nor do I wish for you to view me as such. Perhaps I have been a bit more harsh than usual lately, but like you, my frustrations stem from this great tragedy that has befallen us. Hopefully we can both put our worries to rest sooner rather than later, no matter what the final outcome.

Sealer: Okay, well, that’s not exactly the most encouraging choice of words there at the end… but I understand, Yasimi. I plan to prove Fenrir’s innocence to you and your clan no matter what, so be ready!

Yasimi: For once, I do hope you are right ban’on.

Oh, and before I forget, I suppose I do have a little good news for you. You seem the type to be excited for this sort of thing, but it looks like I shall be having another pup to add to our growing clan.

Sealer: *gasp*What? Are you sure?! That’s fifteen altogether, and totally a lucky number Yasimi!

Yasimi: Hmph, I’ll call it lucky once all are grown and out of my hair.

It has been my dream to help rebuild our clan to what it once was. My only wish is to protect my people and repent for my past mistakes. Perhaps one day I will be an alpha my ban’on and their own pups can look up to, but until then, I will continue to do what I believe is best for my clan and its future.

Sealer: I hope you are able to achieve your dream, Yasimi. For what it’s worth, from a simple outsider like myself, I believe you’ve already accomplished that and much more.

Yasimi: Hmm… we shall see, Sealer. We shall see.


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

Wow, things are getting pretty lively here in your camp. Is something happening?


Yasimi: More fellow Wild clans have come to join us. We are all preparing for what is to inevitably transpire here.

Sealer: What? You mean with Fenrir? I thought you were giving us time to prove his innocence!

Yasimi: You had one week and that time has already come and gone. If you haven’t noticed, I actually gave you even more time than that.

However, things have changed ever since you mentioned the a’taihin’s age and how he escaped his clan’s demise. I am not taking any chances like I did with the last Hubris follower I came across. That, and I am certain Fenrir is no mere follower.

Sealer: So you need all the nearby clans of Wilds to take one individual down, is that it? Seems pretty unfair to me.

Yasimi: We are going to finally be able to rid this desert of an old evil that you will never fully understand. It will no doubt take far more than what we have gathered to destroy that temple once and for all, but we have too much at stake to allow that beast to walk away freely.

Sealer: But Yasimi, you can’t destroy that temple! It’s the only thing left protecting Darak’i, your <em>home</em>, from the chaos that is taking place beyond your desert borders.

Yasimi: Oh? And what terrible chaos is that which outweighs what stands before us now?

Sealer: There is a sickness spreading across the realm. Oblivion’s curse… it’s killing all those who aren’t human. Elvians, avians, wolfkin, halfborn—that shrine is warding all that off. If you destroy it, you’ll doom all of Darak’i.

Yasimi: You mean the Ancient of Oblivion? He was sealed away ages ago. What you speak of is impossible, nor have I heard of any such sickness.

That, and to say Hubris’ Temple is protecting us is blasphemy. The Sabr’e clan practiced the old ways of forbidden magic, primal magic, or as you kal’roth like to call it, blood bonds.

They would never create wards that protect, only destroy.

Sealer: Blood bonding originated from primal magic?

Yasimi: My people have kept records and stories that have warned us of the old ways. The forgotten race of Primals, beings as old as the Ancients themselves…

They would control the creatures and force the world around them to submit to their will through the use of such perverted magic.

They taught their ways to many, and the Sabr’e clan was one of them. That is why you cannot trust that the temple before you is actually of any good. That Hubris himself is any good.

Sealer: The Primals… were a race…

Yasimi: I will give you one warning, Sealer. Leave that temple along with your elvian friend. I do not wish to see any harm befall you.

Sealer: Caladaer would never leave Fenrir behind like that… and neither would I.

Yasimi: Then I will not hesitate to put you down if you get in my way. I have a clan to protect, my family, and you should know by now that I will do what is necessary to keep them safe from harm.

Sealer: We aren’t your enemies, Yasimi. I’m close to finding out what actually killed your Ancient deity, I know it, but there is no reason to repeat the past like this. Just give me more time.

Yasimi: You are out of time, Sealer.

Sealer: …

Yasimi: You have one day. That is how long it will take for us to prepare our liquid fire to burn and melt that rock you call a temple. I am telling you this so that you have time to pack up and leave.

…It is all I can do.


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

"Hello, Yasimi. I wanted to come by before you left to check up on you."


Sealer: How’s the arm?

Yasimi: Fine. Only a few fractures. Our shaman has said it will heal fully within a few months’ time. I am fortunate to still have an arm… and more when all is said and done.

Sealer: I’m really glad to hear that. The camp seems pretty joyful all around.

Yasimi: Hmph. So it would seem.

They have been celebrating all night ever since I came back from the temple with the broken statue head of Hubris. They… call me a hero to our people. An alpha of the ages.

I am anything but.

Sealer: So then, you did what Hubris asked? You’re not going to tell them about Fenrir?

Yasimi: I did. It is sad that I must lie to all those around me… but, I know it is for the greater good.

When they look at me it is with pride and adoration. They will never know that I am to blame for their imminent destruction.

Sealer: For what it is worth… I understand that all too well. This all would have never happened if I had not released Oblivion from those gates. Your Ancient and home would still be safe if not for me.

Yasimi: …

No. This would have still happened one way or another, Sealer. It seems, though, that we both have much we must fix. My sins will forever haunt me on this day… but I will not let that stop me from correcting my mistake. One cannot grow without overcoming such hard trials. I hope you continue to do the same as well.

I plan to gather everyone I can to Darak’I, to warn them of what is to come and who truly murdered Wilds. We must prepare for this curse and to deal with what it will inevitably bring. But at least we had some warning ahead of time. I cannot imagine what it must be like outside our borders for the others that face this.

Sealer: I hope you stay safe, Yasimi.

Yasimi: You too, Sealer.

This will be the last time we speak with one another. By tomorrow morning I will move my clan far away from here to allow Fenrir and the rest of your group to leave this place undetected.

Even if we never meet again, I at least wish for you to know that it was an honor getting to know you, young ban’on.

Sealer: Thank you, Yasimi. For everything.


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

[kiel]

END OF EVENT; FENRIR'S CAVERN

------------------------------------------------
You awake early the next morning. You were barely able to sleep anyways due to everything that was to happen soon. Thoughts of the coming battle had been plaguing you all night as they weighed heavily upon your mind.
------------------------------------------------
It was clear that neither Fenrir nor Caladaer were able to rest either. The elvian and the wolfkin had been talking all night, planning out defense strategies for the temple with serious expressions. You felt your stomach clench at the thought of seeing them fight where they were greatly outnumbered.
------------------------------------------------
Caladaer - The Sealer mentioned that they would be using a substance called liquid fire to melt and burn what remains of this place. Do you know of any way to combat it?
------------------------------------------------
Fenrir - Pey’lye - liquid fire. Nasty stuff that you don’t want to go putting out with water since it will only make it spread and add fuel to its flames. They place them in small sphere-like capsules and throw them at their targets. Given enough time and it will even melt through city walls, an effective siege weapon of Darak’i.
------------------------------------------------
Fenrir - It’s some sort of solution made with sandwyrm venom that they infuse with magic. They also used it back during the burning of the other temples centuries ago. Not really any way to combat it unless you run from it or get a lot of sand to dump on top of it. What you and I gathered last night won’t be enough, but... it should at least put out a few of the flames they start.
------------------------------------------------
Fenrir - The temple will barely be recognizable if they use that, though.
------------------------------------------------
Caladaer - ...
------------------------------------------------
It seemed hopeless as they continued to try and find any possible way to stave off the attack with what little they had, but you refused to let yourself give into despair just yet, that is, until your heart tightened at the sound of hundreds of howls echoing in the distance.
------------------------------------------------
The sound itself sends an instinctual chill down your spin as it grows louder.
------------------------------------------------
Sealer - Is that them?
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Just as you ask you notice the white form of Delilah come rushing into the cave. She stops by Fenrir’s side before turning to growl low at the entrance of the cave with long fangs bared and ears pinned back threateningly.
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Fenrir - It’s their dires. They’ll be sending them in first to try and surround and antagonize us till their masters arrive. Delilah and I will teach them what it means to submit.
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Sealer - You’re both going to meet them head on? But there’s only two of you against that many!
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Fenrir - I can take down a whole pack on my own. That, and never underestimate Delilah. I mean, who do you think taught me? A couple of dire wolves is no match for she and I when we are fighting together.
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Sealer - Fenrir... does it really have to be this way...
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Fenrir - This is no time for regrets, pup! Here they come!
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Caladaer - Be ready for those that break away, Sealer. They will not hesitate to attack you now that their masters have commanded it.
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You watch with a tensed gaze as the large dark wolf of Fenrir and the white form of Delilah rush past you and Caladaer towards the cave entrance. Within moments they are set upon by a massive group of dire wolves, their snarls and vicious growls echoing harshly all about as the two slam into the group in a chaotic mess of fur and fangs.
------------------------------------------------
You wanted to scream for it all to stop. You even notice some of the dire wolves of Yasimi’s clan, creatures you once pet and got to know days prior, being thrown to the side like ragdolls before getting back up to fight. Despite their wounds, they loyally lunged forth to tear at the sides of Fenrir and Delilah’s already blood-soaked coats untill their masters would arrive.
------------------------------------------------
This was senseless... this was madness.
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Suddenly, you hear a far off whistle as the dire wolves immediately scatter and limp away from Fenrir and Delilah. Your heart nearly breaks at the sight of them. Both were already breathing heavily from the attack, blood dripping from numerous bite wounds, as they stood watching their aggressors leave with silent defiance.
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Sealer - Where are they going?
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Caladaer - I hear footsteps approaching... but only one.
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Yasimi - I gave you a chance to leave. You should have fled when you had the opportunity, Sealer.
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Sealer - Yasimi... I don’t want to fight you. Please—
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Fenrir - Stay back she-wolf! Your fight is with me. Leave the pup out of this.
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Yasimi - I want nothing to do with the kal’roth anymore. My only quarrel is with you... Hubris.
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Fenrir snarls and glares at Yasimi with deadly intent.
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Yasimi - I have told the other clans to wait just below. It is just you and me here, Hubris. We can easily destroy you now if we wish, but... I have had enough bloodshed and have come to make you an offer.
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Fenrir - And what offer is that? I doubt it is anything good coming from you.
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Yasimi - Come peacefully with us. Give up this senseless fight and we will take you back to the city of Darak’i... where you will stand judgement and be given an honorable death.
------------------------------------------------
Fenrir - ...
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Yasimi - No blood would have to be spilled here this day. No deaths of loved ones or packmates would be suffered. If you come back with me, they will finally remove your a’taihin name and address you as Fenrir of clan Sabr’e.
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Yasimi - Don’t you see? You would die as a true wolfkin in everyone’s eyes. You would die with honor instead of disgrace.
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Fenrir - And you would let these two go?
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Yasimi - Of course.
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Fenrir - And Delilah. She must be freed as well...
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Yasimi - The others would want your wolf’s death... but I can lie and say she perished in the attack with our dires. All we want is Hubris in the end.
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Caladaer - You can’t seriously be considering this!
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Sealer - Fenrir, what are you saying!
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Fenrir - ...
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Fenrir - And what about this temple?
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Yasimi - ...
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Fenrir - Do you plan to destroy it?
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Yasimi - ... That is something I cannot stop. Even if you fought to protect it with your dying breath, or come with us to die with honor, this temple will be destroyed no matter what.
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Fenrir - Then I refuse.
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Yasimi - I am giving you a chance to have this all finally end with peace! I offered to lie for you! I convinced the others that if you came with us we would give you back your clan name and let you be recognized as a true wolfkin again! Your death would have been swift and painless, but you would throw that all away for this dying relic?!
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Fenrir - If this temple is destroyed all of Darak’i would perish as well. I won’t let that happen to our people, including you.
------------------------------------------------
Yasimi - Is this about that curse? You expect me to believe that this rock is protecting all of Darak’i from that? That Hubris is protecting us?!
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Yasimi - Hubris is a monster! A murderer!
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Yasimi - You killed Wilds. I saw you standing over his broken body with your fangs dyed red from the terrible sin you committed.
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Yasimi - You are hin’skel! Ancient Slayer! And I will see you and this temple destroyed for all the pain and misery you have caused my people!
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Sealer - Yasimi! NO!
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You cry out for the female wolfkin to stop and to warn Fenrir as she lunges forward, a wicked dagger drawn from her belt. She swings swiftly to try and slit the throat of the one she hates most.
------------------------------------------------
Fenrir dodges out of the way just in time, fangs bared as he instantly transforms back into a giant wolf. He leaps to the side, jaws snapping just out of Yasimi’s reach, as they each danced expertly around the other in a battle to the death.
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Fenrir - I did not kill your Ancient!
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Yasimi - Liar!
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Sealer - Cally, we’ve got to do something! They’re going to kill each other!
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Caladaer - No! Don’t go near them.
------------------------------------------------
Sealer - But if we don’t step in they’ll die!
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Caladaer - Can’t you feel it? The air is so thick. It’s crackling with the old magic that I felt when we first came here.
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You force yourself to stop and listen as Yasimi and Fenrir continued to fight. It was then that you noticed the hairs upon your neck and skin begin to stand all over your body. A pressure gathers all around you and presses uncomfortably against your skull.
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Delilah’s whimpers catch your attention just then, and you watch with increasing concern as she backs away slowly, tail tucked between her legs and pink eyes wide with concern for her alpha.
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Sealer - Delilah? I-is something wrong, girl?
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She doesn’t answer you, but instead hides behind Caladaer, who places a gentle hand upon her head as he looks to the fighting wolfkin with a stern gaze.
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Caladaer - He is going to wake up soon...
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The elvian barely whispers just then as you jerk your head back to the ensuing battle between Fenrir and Yasimi. The great wolf howls suddenly in terrible pain as the female wolfkin’s dagger plunges deep into his side.
------------------------------------------------
He immediately clasps his jaws upon her exposed arm, drawing a yell from the woman as her arm breaks under the pressure, before throwing her to the side and ripping the blade from his flesh.
------------------------------------------------
Blood poured from the wound, and the great wolf’s body trembled from the exertion.
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Fenrir - Next time I’ll rip your arm off...
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Yasimi - Quit holding back! You’re only insulting me!
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Fenrir - I don’t wish to kill you, Yasimi.
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Yasimi - Then I’ll continue to gut you like the animal you are till you fight me like a real wolfkin! Broken arm or not, I can still drive my blade into your heart with one hand alone.
------------------------------------------------
Fenrir - You have a clan and a family, she-wolf. Don’t throw all that away.
------------------------------------------------
Yasimi - ...
------------------------------------------------
Yasimi - If you won’t fight me... then I’ll make you fight!
------------------------------------------------
Caladaer - Fenrir, look out!
------------------------------------------------
The item she threw shatters against the crystal statue of Hubris behind them, setting the beautiful blue stone aflame in a bellow of burning red flames.
------------------------------------------------
Immediately the statue begins to melt as the magic liquid fire spreads and slowly eats away at the serine face which watched over this forgotten place for centuries. The head crumbles and falls, the sound of it shattering makes you cringe, as you feel a sudden intense sadness fill you at the sight.
------------------------------------------------
Sealer - No...
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Fenrir - No!
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Fenrir - Gah....arghhhh—
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You unconsciously take a step back as Fenrir suddenly writhes in intense pain. Something was wrong...
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Fenrir - You’ve doomed everyone! You took the last thing I had of my home and destroyed it!
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Caladaer - Sealer, back away with Delilah. Now!
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Fenrir - Arghaaa!
------------------------------------------------
You close your eyes instinctively as a great magic fills the cave. Fenrir’s cries of agony and pain suddenly grow into a tremendous howl that shakes the very rock upon which you stand. Slowly you open your eyes, only to have them widen at the sight before you.
------------------------------------------------
Hubris - How dare you...
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Yasimi - !!!
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Hubris - How dare you stoop so low, wolf child. You are supposed to be a kin of wolves. A proud she-wolf full of strength and protector of your pack.
------------------------------------------------
Hubris - But look at you, nearly hollow yourself to the point you have lost the ability to even change into the great beast you were born to be.
------------------------------------------------
Hubris - No longer kin. No longer wolf. What are you now, I wonder? How many times have you asked yourself that question? So confused and uncertain.
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Yasimi - H-how did you know—
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Hubris - I can smell your fear... I can sense your shame and emptiness. I know.
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Yasimi - You... you’re just a murderer, though! You killed our Ancient! How dare you say such things when you yourself-
------------------------------------------------
Hubris - Ahahahaha...
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Hubris - Silence, wolf child!
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Hubris - For centuries my kin has hunted me. For centuries I have watched you all drift away, but still I allowed you to make your own choices. Now I am no longer what I was, no longer the same as before, trapped with another tormented soul and forced to linger as Darak’i continues to crumble around me...
------------------------------------------------
Hubris - I did not kill your Ancient. Your Ancients are killing each other.
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Sealer - No, no no no—it can’t be...
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Caladaer - Ancients killing each other... has it truly come to this?
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Yasimi - !!!
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Hubris - Wilds and I have always had our differences. We both fought to kill the other countless times, but I watched as your Ancient of Oblivion plummeted from the skies with his own followers marching below. An army of Necromancers at his heels, while they rode upon the undead.
------------------------------------------------
Hubris - They shackled your Wilds like a mere caged beast. Tortured him. Oblivion tore into him countless times while he was bounded, collecting his blood for terrible rituals... no mighty hunter, be they Ancient or Spirit, should die in such a disgraceful way.
------------------------------------------------
Hubris - So I came to his aid. I fought by his side as an alley. Oblivion did not expect a hin’skel to be there. I drove my fangs into his scales, I broke his hide and made the so-called deity bleed!
------------------------------------------------
Hubris - I showed him his mortality. Then I tore apart his army and devoured his followers...
------------------------------------------------
Hubris - We were able to drive him back, but Wilds was greatly wounded. After the battle, I carried him towards the city, looking for any clans along the way, but he was dying. After a few hours of traveling, he could go no farther. With his last breaths, he asked me to end him with honor, rather than to die from such a disgraceful attack.
------------------------------------------------
Hubris - So I honored his wish.
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Yasimi - You... showed him honor? Wilds...
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Yasimi - The Ancient of Oblivion... he is freed? Then this temple...
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Hubris - You have doomed all of Darak’i to suffer his curse. He knew there was something keeping him from influencing this place. No doubt he first thought it was Wilds... but now it doesn’t matter. His work may continue without hindrance.
------------------------------------------------
Yasimi - ...
------------------------------------------------
Hubris - Go back to your pack, poor child. Take the burnt remains of that statue’s head. Tell them you have slain their evil, but take them far away from here. You must prepare for what is to come and fix your mistake... I can do nothing more for my kin of wolves now...
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[kiel]

Keeper Monastery



-Extra Images-
[url=URL HERE]Any extra event images here[/url]

INTRODUCTION CUTSCENE:

You had originally been on your way back to Silverport with your companions, Fenrir and Caladaer, after your long ordeal in the deserts of Darak’i. However, after receiving a private letter from the Watch Crows requesting your aid elsewhere, you had to part ways with the wolfkin and elvian as they headed back to Silverport without you.

Instead, your journey has lead you to the serene, misty peaks of Mt. Bastion, where the monastery of the Keeper monks sits quietly away from the outside world and its many troubles. It seems something is amiss within this peaceful sanctuary and only you are able to unlock its secrets.
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Monastery Bridge
It had taken you many weeks to journey to Mt. Bastion on your own, the sacred mountain which held the fabled Keeper’s Monastery near its peaks. The monastery was known across the realm for the order of monks that resided there, individuals that bonded solely with ligers and traveled the land on their many pilgrimages to gather Eldemore’s history and secrets to record within their grand library for safe keeping.
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You never expected your travels to lead you here of all places. However, you could not ignore the note in your hand that had urged you to make the journey.
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Looking down at the worn parchment, you began to read the letter that you had received from an ornery, green-eyed crow.
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Dear Sealer...
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You and I have never met as of yet, but I have heard much about you and your deeds across our realm.
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I am one of the three heads of the Watch Crow order to which you have been initiated by my own apprentice, Sorren. He would not have mentioned me since I requested his silence on the matter, but due to recent events, I must now reach out to you.
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Our world is slowly beginning to turn on itself before our very eyes. No doubt you have witnessed this first hand through your travels. Ancients are dying, the trueborn races are slowly succumbing to Oblivion’s curse, the very creatures with which we bond are turning berserk before having to be put down by the ones who once relied upon them most.
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And yet, the only ones left unaffected by all this are humans.
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The other races are beginning to look at humanity with an accusing glare, Sealer. War is upon everyone’s lips and I fear that is exactly what Oblivion and his faction wishes to incite. That is why I need your help on a very delicate matter...
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The Keepers collect and record all knowledge, history and secrets within their monastery’s Great Library on Mt. Bastion. Where once the monks were welcoming and traveled freely across the realm, now they have become reclusive and distant to the outside world. They have locked themselves away within their temple halls, a troubling turn of events since they may hold the answers to combat this curse which plagues our realm.
------------------------------------------------
They will let no one inside. No one... but you, it seems
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I would have sent one of my own personal agents to gather the information we need, but I highly respect the Keepers and do not believe they would shut themselves away without reason. However, they specifically requested you to come to their temple, which honestly causes me alarm.
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Sealer, as an apprentice of our order, I give this task to you and you alone. Travel to Mt. Bastion till you reach the Keeper’s Monastery, and try to find out why they have locked themselves away in such dire times when we need them the most, and gather any information you can find within their library that may help us fix this mess before it gets worse.
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But most of all, Sealer, stay vigilant. We are not the only ones who are at work here. The Watch Crows are on full alert, but so too are our enemies. I will do what I can to keep in contact with you, but till then, may the shadows watch and protect you on your journey.
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Sincerely, Master Thanatos
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The letter within your palm seems heavier now as you carefully tuck it away with a sigh. You had been given small tasks and loads of homework by your mentor, Sorren, before, but never had a master of the Watch Crows personally contacted you to complete such a weighty assignment, which you now feared was way over your head. Heck, you didn’t even know there were masters!
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If anything, it seemed like they only did so because they were left with no other option. You were pretty sure simple apprentices like yourself with hardly any experience would normally be given assignments meant for actual agents of the order. But then, there was still much you did not know about the secret order of the Watch Crows.
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Regardless, here you stood at the Monastery’s gates, alone and without any guidance, save for that same green-eyed crow which had delivered the letter from before, now glaring at you silently from its perch nearby.
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The letter had instructed you to gather information from the monastery’s library and to learn what you could from their archives and monks. You were the only one they would allow in by name, a fact that still puzzled you. You stand poised to knock at the gates, only to hesitate suddenly as you hear a sound behind you...
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You turn sharply to look over your shoulder. Everything is strangely silent for a moment, as if time itself had stopped all around you.
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A ringing amasses in your ears, steadily growing and growing to a deafening tone, threatening to drown you under its pressure, as you find yourself unable to move. You are only abruptly snapped out of it at the sound of the crow’s harsh, loud call.
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You blink out of the strange trance. The green-eyed crow from before narrows its sharp gaze at you with what could only be described as irritation, before giving you another hearty, chastising caw—as if to say hurry up and knock already.
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Surely you were tired from your travels. You shake your head slightly before finally turning to the monastery’s large doors and knocking loudly three times. The gate responds only with silence.
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You patiently stand around for a minute, considering whether anyone heard your first knock.
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Finally the soft clink of a lock announces the presence of someone within.
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??? - I’m sorry, but our doors are closed to travelers. I’m afraid you must seek shelter elsewhere, child.
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The door had barely cracked as a soft voice echoed to you from the shadows, before slowly closing the entrance once more.
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Sealer - Ah, w-wait! Don’t close the doors! I’m the Sealer! Um, you guys—er, monks, were expecting me? Right?
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??? - The Sealer? Oh dear, yes. I’m so sorry.
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You stood there a bit dumbfounded at the abrupt change as the doors finally opened to reveal a female monk who smiled at you softly.
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??? - Please come in, come in, child. Welcome to our humble monastery. You must have traveled far to reach this place, we are on a mountain after all.
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Sealer - Er, yes I suppose...
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You allow yourself to be gently welcomed in as you take one last look over your shoulder at the outside world before the doors close. You hear a loud caw from your green-eyed crow companion echo behind you, before being ushered deeper into the temple by the female monk.
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You were now in the fabled Keeper Monastery of Mt. Bastion. The soft clink of locks sounded behind you once more, signaling that you were here for an extended stay... whether it was for better or worse, you would have to wait and see. All that mattered was that you succeeded in your mission for the Watch Crows.
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Mt. Bastion Monastery
Despite feeling somewhat confined here, you can’t help but admire the temple’s humble yet beautiful interior. The distant chant of monks echoes all around, instilling a sense of calmness and rejuvenating your weary spirit. The liger, Balinu, slumbers lightly near a corner as he gets in his tenth cat nap that hour.
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You are relieved to finally see your green-eyed crow friend back, despite his many attempts to peck your face. You feel that it is just his way of saying hello... in a very violent way of course, but at least bird-senpai acknowledges you now! You're certain you'll be best buds in no time.

As for your other new acquaintance, you can't count how many times you've jumped from the canine agent, Niles, popping out of nowhere without making a sound. In fact, none of the other monks seem to notice his presence either. A strange magic seems to surround that dog and crow... but at least now you don't feel so alone.
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Monastery Bridge
You stop to look around since you were not allowed to stray far from the monastery’s walls. However, that same sensation from before suddenly hits you once more.
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A dull ringing that grows louder and louder within your ears, threatening to drown out the world around you, as you notice that time has seemingly stopped...
------------------------------------------------
...Scratch that, time was stopped!
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Sealer - W-what’s going on?!
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Your voice sounds muffled and distant as you look frantically about. Leaves have seemingly stopped mid fall in their decent. A few passing rune dragons are frozen in flight just above you. Even a few monks who were coming up the monastery steps were now frozen in place on their morning walk.
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You turn sharply around as you hear that same rustle of movement which had caught your attention before. Your eyes widen with fear and confusion as you brace for whatever was causing this strange magic to take hold of your surroundings...
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??? - Grrrr!
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Sealer - Ahhh!!!
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Sealer - Wait... WHAT?!
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??? - Wuf.
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Sealer - Oh my gosh-- dog with a knife! Don’t mug me! I don’t have any baubles, I swear!
------------------------------------------------
??? - *Rolls eyes before handing you a small note card*
------------------------------------------------\
Sealer - Huh? What’s this?
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??? - Hello, my name is Niles.
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Sealer - Oh my gosh...
------------------------------------------------
Sealer - You can write?!
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Niles - *Gives you a deadpan look. He is not amused.*
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Niles - *Hands you another note instead.*
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Sealer - A letter? Oh! It’s from Master Thanatos!
------------------------------------------------
You looked like you could use a friend. Niles has always had my back and is one of my best agents. He will keep an eye on you in case anything unexpected happens. I have also sent my own crow, Abaddon, to keep watch over you both as well. Mind your fingers around him, though. He has a nasty habit of biting those off if you aren’t careful.
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Be safe, Sealer. May the shadows watch and protect you on your journey.
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Sealer - A dog is his best agent?
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Sealer - That’s. So. Awesome!
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Sealer - Hi Niles, aren’t you just an adorable puppy. You want some pets?
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Niles - *Pulls out his knife as you try to pat his head. No pets for you*
------------------------------------------------
Sealer - Okay, okay, no petting-- jeez. Wait, are you the ones using this strange magic? How did Master Thanatos know I was alone here?
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Just as you began to question the extreme oddity of all this you hear the footsteps of monks approach as they urge you back inside. It seemed whatever magic was holding them had swiftly vanished... along with the canine, Niles, as well. All that remained was the green-eyed crow, Abaddon, glaring at you with a scrutinizing gaze.
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So much weirdness was going on here. But despite the many questions, you could not help but smile for the first time since you arrived.
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At least you were no longer alone in all this
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END OF EVENT:

Keeper Min - Sealer, you must wake up!
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Sealer - Huh? Wha... what’s going on?
------------------------------------------------
Keeper Min - There isn’t time to explain. We must escape to one of the secret passages quickly. The Necromancers are on their way to retrieve you at this very moment. Swiftly now, child. Follow me and keep close.
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You jump out of bed and quickly dart after the female monk as she urges you to the wall. Immediately, a magical seem appears in the wall, parting way to expose a doorway. As soon as you both walk through, it closes behind you, just muffling the sound of Necromancers barging in.
------------------------------------------------
It looks like you had both escaped just in time, for the moment.
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Sealer - Keeper Min, what’s going on? Have the Necromancer found Ceridwen and the library? Why were they coming after me just then?
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Keeper Min - They have not found Ceridwen yet, no. However, it is only a matter of time now. I overheard one of them say that Oblivion himself was on his way here. He is searching for you, Sealer. Why, I do not know, but it cannot be for any good.
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Keeper Min - These passages are only made passable through Ceridwen’s magic. They lead to the monastery’s hidden library. The Ancient of Knowledge wishes to speak with you there, Sealer. Before Oblivion arrives... there isn’t much time.
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Sealer - Oblivion... he’s coming here? But, I can’t leave the monastery yet! I need to find out if there is a cure to the curse which is killing everything that harbors magic!
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Keeper Min - We know, Sealer, but what matters is that you speak with Ceridwen now before it is too late.
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You pause as the passageway opens up to reveal a grand library like no other. Thousands upon thousands of books stacked neatly upon their shelves stretch far into the distance. Tomes and scrolls flitter and float all about, organizing themselves as floating candlelight illuminates their way.
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The presence of a strong magic sparks all around you at the history which was kept here. It was as if the very library itself were a living entity of knowledge manifest in physical form, each page holding a spark of life or a hidden secret as it worked to record and archive every moment that passed.
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Keeper Min - Keeper Ceridwen, I have brought the Sealer as you requested.
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A pulse of magic reverberates all around you as you notice a large form emerge from behind one of the many bookcases. A great dragon, with deep blue scales and many arms, approaches you with terrifying speed before coming to hover gently before you both.
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Ceridwen - So this is the Sealer I’ve heard so much about?
------------------------------------------------
You freeze as the Ancient draws its head close to your own. The deity of knowledge examined you with interest, the unexpected third eye upon its forehead capturing your gaze with intensity, as it seemed to search you in both mind and spirit.
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Ceridwen - Min has told me much about you, child of seals.
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Ceridwen - Your spirit is very bright, but that is to be expected from your kind. I only know of two others with a similar light to your own, perhaps there is hope yet?
------------------------------------------------
Ceridwen - Or perhaps you will be our doom.
------------------------------------------------
Ceridwen - Yes. Both are very likely it seems. I wonder which you will choose. Either way, it looks like history will be repeating itself once more.
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Sealer - Um... it’s nice to meet you too?
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Keeper Min - Ceridwen, you are speaking in riddles again. The child cannot see what you see with your third eye.
------------------------------------------------
Ceridwen - Ah, yes, of course. Time is of the essence it seems. The Sealer seeks answers to a cure, correct? Well, there is none.
------------------------------------------------
Sealer - What?! But you’re the Ancient of Knowledge, surely you must know of some way to get rid of Oblivion’s curse! Please...
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Ceridwen - The only way to rid this realm of its curse is to strike it at its core. Kill Oblivion, slay the dark Ancient of humanity, and Eldemore will be saved. It’s as simple as that.
------------------------------------------------
Sealer - You want me to kill Oblivion?! How is that simple!
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Ceridwen - The Crows are the one who sent you here for this information, correct? They will know what to do, they were there at the beginning after all.
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Ceridwen - Founded by those who rebelled. Bonded by the old blood. They see all. Know all. Hear all. Tell them that their time of watching is over. Now is the time to act.
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Sealer - I don’t understand...
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Ceridwen - The Crows will understand. That is all they need to hear to know what must be done, and that is all you must know. Now, it is time for you to escape this place. I will hold off Oblivion and the Necromancers to buy you time. They have desecrated my temple and followers long enough. I shall make sure that they do so no more.
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Ceridwen - Keeper Min, show the Sealer the way to escape through the mountains. I will confront Oblivion and keep him busy for you to escape.
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Keeper Min - This way, Sealer. We must hurry if you are to flee without being seen. The path I am about to show you will lead you out behind the mountains. Follow the markers of Ceridwen’s seal and you should find one of the Watch Crows waiting for you there.
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Sealer - Keeper Min, everything is happening so fast! What about you? What about Ceridwen and this temple? I don’t want anything bad to happen to you!
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Keeper Min - You have a very big heart, Sealer. But I must stay to defend my home and help Ceridwen buy you as much time as possible. Whatever happens to us is inconsequential. What matters most is that you get to the Watch Crows and deliver Ceridwen’s message.
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Sealer - Keeper Min...
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You feel tears begin to blur your vision before you are encompassed in a warm embrace as Min hugs you close.
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Keeper Min - Be safe dear child. Perhaps we will meet again someday. Either here or in the afterlife, may we both share our stories soon...
------------------------------------------------
You are ushered swiftly to the mountain passageway that is to lead you to your escape from the monastery. You look back once to the female monk. She smiles warmly to you, her features full of both sadness and encouragement, before the passageway closes and you are left alone in subtle darkness...
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??? - Woof.
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Sealer - Niles?! How did you get here?
------------------------------------------------
The soft glow of the strange canine’s eyes and obsidian blade illuminates the overwhelming darkness somewhat. The dog simply blinks before turning away.
------------------------------------------------
He stops to look back at you momentarily, urging you to follow. For the first time you were actually glad to see that sassy canine. At least now you weren’t completely alone in this.
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Sealer - Are you the Watch Crow agent that’s supposed to lead me out of here?
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The dog says nothing, simply continuing to walk ahead, forcing you to follow as you both make your way through the narrow tunnel. In just moments the canine stops abruptly, nearly making you trip as you look to see what had caused him to pause.
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Sealer - What’s that ahead?
------------------------------------------------
A large rift, like a tear in the fabric of time, flickers before you both. Niles looks to you once with a grin, barks, then jumps through it, disappearing to whatever lies beyond.
------------------------------------------------
Sealer - What kind of crazy magic are you leading me into this time?
------------------------------------------------
You hesitate as you try to reassure yourself. Did that crazy canine really expect you to jump through a dark magical portal without a single thought? However, it seemed that Niles wasn’t coming back, leaving you with only one option...
------------------------------------------------
Sealer - I just know I’m going to regret this!
------------------------------------------------
You steel yourself before walking forward through the portal, its magic enveloping you eagerly, before everything went dark....
------------------------------------------------
To be continued...

ITEM/CREATURE ADOPTION TEXT:

Flower (Free)
Keeper Min: Sealer, I brought you some freshly cut flowers from the garden as a small gift. I have personally tended to these myself. Some say that the flora here brings peace of mind to those who wear them. I hope they are able to ease your troubled thoughts as well.
by KittyCatKita

Stacks of Books (Free)
Keeper Min: Since you did so well with your penmanship homework last night I thought I'd give you some books from my personal collection as a reward! Books are the best gift to give after all, I even added in one of my favorite joke books as well~
by KittyCatKita

Scroll (Free)
Keeper Min: I brought you some blank parchment for you to practice your penmanship, Sealer! One must never forget to do their homework, and having good writing skills is always a plus...what's wrong? You don't like homework?
by KittyCatKita

Henna Tattoos for Right Arm (Free)
Henna Tattoos for Left Arm (Free)
Keeper Min: Sealer, would you like for me to paint some henna tattoos on your arms? Don't worry, they are not permanent like my own, I'll only be using a brush and ink. It is an art we like to share with travelers that pass by for good luck and fortune! You look like you are in need of both~
by KittyCatKita

Reading Glasses (Free)
Keeper Min: Sealer, I have an extra pair of glasses if you'd like to use them. I know I always keep a pair on my person for whenever I need to write or read one of our many scrolls in the library. I think they make an individual look all the more dignified! That, and I like to sometimes sneak them on Balinu when he's sleeping. Oh, maybe we can try that now? Quick, quick, before he wakes! I must show you how adorable he looks with them when he's snoring~
by KittyCatKita

Monk Sea Servals (Jade Bead x 2, Tiger Eye Bead x 2)
Keeper Min: Many of these felines like to mimic our everyday life here. They are quite the sight to see - the monks were always happy to have their company. Perhaps you'll enjoy having them by your side as well.
by Mira

Prayer Flag Rune Drakes (Wooden Bead x 1, Jade Bead x 2)
Keeper Min: "These drakes visit us once every year here. As a tradition we often hang prayer flags upon their wings so that they may carry them across Eldemore in their flight. Perhaps you'd like to place a flag on them as well?"
by Startedraining

Jungle Warden Foo Dogs (6 of Any Token)
Keeper Min: "These Foos have guarded this mountain for centuries, or so the story is told. We have records of their ancestors within our library detailing the first encounter with these rarely seen magical beasts. Though they are canines and as big as our own ligers, I can't help but respect and love them all the same. Their manes are just soooo fluffy!
by KittyCatKita

Tibetan Sand Serval (Free)
Keeper Min: "I found this 'Mr. Serious Fluffy Face' sea serval taking a cat nap on top of Balinu. They are quite a common sight around the temple, but even though they look grumpy, they crave attention like any feline. I'm sure they'd be more than happy in your company!"
by Silverhart


Snow Otterlion (6 of Any Token)
Niles brings you a frisky otterling by the scruff as it flails angrily beneath his grasp. The dog seems utterly unamused by it's struggle and simply hands it off to you with a huff. Apparently the dogs of the sea don't get along with those on land! All the more pets for you~
by KittyCatKita

Guardian Foo Dogs (5 of Any Token)
Niles is surrounded by a group of foo dogs who seem unsure about the fellow canine. They tower over him as they cautiously inspect this outsider with tempered curiosity. However, Niles does not seem too keen on getting to know them as he growls for the large foos to back off or else. Perhaps you should step in and calm the tension before a dog fight ensues...
by LunaHydreigon

Frost Peak Dire Wolves (Rudraksha Bead x 3)
Niles seems to have gathered quite the interest from a pack of dire wolves that circle him with intense curiosity. They seem terribly confused by this strange canine, but invite him to play with their pack nonetheless. However, Niles doesn't seem to be into the whole bum sniffing meet and greet, and instead tries to chase them away with a brandished blade and an irritated growl. Better try to keep these dires away from him before he hurts someone!
by Grifforik

Tibetan Dog Rune Dragons (Wooden Bead x 2, Tiger Eye Bead x 2)
It looks like Niles has made some new friends! Although, he doesn't seem to think so. The fluffy rune dragons are positively ecstatic to follow their newly appointed alpha as they bark and chirp all around him incessantly. Niles pushes them away for you to take with an irritated growl. Anything to stop the chirping-barks!
by Grifforik

Hidden Places Sleipnir (Free)
You don't know when or even how, but it seems Niles has tamed a few wild Sleipnir native to this region. He seems a bit annoyed by their presence, though. The equines crowd the canine and nuzzle him with curiosity as he tries to keep them at bay. Perhaps you could take them off his hands-- er, paws?

[kiel]

Keeper Min* Q&A


Greetings, Sealer.

Um, excuse me, miss monk? I understand you guys were expecting me, but I’m afraid I don’t know why or who or what and where? I’m just a bit confused is all...


??? - Oh dear, that’s right, I never introduced myself! I’m so sorry, Sealer. No wonder you’re confused.

??? - I am called Keeper Minerva by my fellow monks... but you can just call me Min if you’d like. It’s easier to say without the whole ‘Keeper’ title business I’m sure.

Sealer - It’s nice to meet you then, Min. I’m the Sealer, but... heh, it looks like you already know that.

Keeper Min - Yes, I’ve heard so much about you Sealer. For someone so young you’ve accomplished quite a bit in your lifetime!

Keeper Min - I’d love to hear about your many journeys once you have settled in. I have been tasked by our Head Keeper, Ceridwen, to personally chronicle your adventures within our archives. It is a great honor to be allowed to write your story... if you would permit me of course.

Sealer - Um, sure. I don’t see why not, but—

Keeper Min - Thank you so much for the opportunity, Sealer! It will be lovely to speak with a traveler again and to share in their stories over some warm tea.

Keeper Min - I apologize for my rudeness before. I am not used to turning so many away, I was ashamed to show my face...

Keeper Min - But now that you are here I am happy to fulfill my duties once more.

Sealer - About that, why has the monastery closed its doors to everyone?

Keeper Min - You don’t have to trouble yourself with any of that, Sealer.

Keeper Min - Now, wait right here and I’ll prepare your room for you with some fresh blankets and a bit of hearty oatmeal. Perhaps we even have a dash of our famous rainbow cinnamon somewhere in our stores to spruce it up a bit and make you feel right at home. I’ll find you some extra pillows too since our rooms are a bit bare.

Keeper Min - Now, where did I last see that cinnamon...

Sealer - W-wait! Keeper Min—

Sealer - Darn, she’s already gone. That monk sure can book it...



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

Keeper Min, I didn’t get the chance to ask yet, but is that your liger over there?


Keeper Min - Oh, you mean Balinu? Yes, old sir Balinu has been with me for over forty years now. He and I used to travel the realm together on our pilgrimages when we were younger.

Keeper Min - But don’t be intimidated by his size, he’s just a big ol’ lug of a rug he is! Or at least I like to call him that since all he does these days is just lay there like one.

Sealer - Aww, that’s so sweet! I’ll have you know I’m holding back my Sealer urges to collect him. All the ligers here are just simply gorgeous. I’ve never seen anything like them on my travels!

Keeper Min - Bastion Ligers are unique to this area alone. You won’t see them anywhere else. We regard them as one of our greatest treasures here.

Keeper Min - Oh, but if you have a moment perhaps you can help me and Balinu with something.

Sealer - Sure thing, what did you need help with?

Keeper Min - One of my prayer necklaces accidently broke and scattered the beads all across the temple. I’ve asked Balinu for his help in finding them, but perhaps you could help him as well? The necklace means a great deal to me and I’d be happy to give you some gifts in return since you mentioned you liked to collect things.

Keeper Min - Do you think you could help me in your spare time, Sealer?

Sealer - Of course! I’d love to help out if it means I get to marvel at your liger some more. Leave it to us and we’ll find those beads for you in no time!

Keeper Min - Thank you so much, Sealer! I truly appreciate the help and it will do Balinu some good to get a bit of exercise from being the lovable, lazy rug he is!



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

Min: Good morning, Sealer. Did you sleep well last night?


Sealer - Good morning Keeper Min. I slept pretty well, thanks! First time I got a full night’s sleep in an actual bed for what feels like ages.

Keeper Min - I am glad to hear it! I made sure to shoo away the other monks who wanted to wake you at the crack of dawn. I thought you could do with a bit of sleeping in, especially with how tired you looked yesterday.

Keeper Min - Oh, I also laid out some fresh clothes for you in your room and brought you some extra blankets. It was a tad chilly last night so I didn’t want you to catch a cold or anything.

Sealer - I saw, that was very kind of you Min. But, um, will I get my old clothes back soon? I guess they do need a wash and all, but all my belongings were taken as well it seems...

Keeper Min - Oh, I’m sure one of the other monks are keeping your belongings safe for the time being. You don’t need to worry about that. They will return them after everything has been cleaned for you.

Sealer - Okay... um, can I ask you something else, Keeper Min?

Keeper Min - Yes, of course child.

Sealer - I tried going out this morning for some fresh air, but every time I walk just a few feet from the monastery’s entrance, a monk from out of nowhere ushers me back in.

Keeper Min - I’m sure they were just worried about your safety, Sealer. The mountain can be dangerous to those who aren’t careful and you are our guest here after all.

Sealer - But guests are meant to feel welcomed. I feel more like I’m not allowed to leave...

Keeper Min - ...

Keeper Min - We only wish to keep you safe, Sealer.

Sealer - Safe from what?

Keeper Min - You look hungry. How about I fix you some breakfast? We can even eat it outside together if you’d like? The other monks will not bother you if I am with you, and I can show you the lovely garden and shrines around the monastery! What do you say?

Sealer - Yeah... yeah alright. That sounds nice I suppose.

Keeper Min - I can’t wait to show you my favorite spot to meditate! Oh, and perhaps you can help me a bit in the garden as well when we prepare lunch this afternoon, and in the evening I can take you down by the lake with Balinu and we can see who can skip rocks across the water the farthest. It’ll be so much fun, I’m certain you will love it here, Sealer!

Sealer - ...



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

Keeper Min, may I please speak with you for a moment?


Keeper Min - Of course, Sealer. Is there something I can help you with? More pillows? Blankets? Or maybe some hot tea to calm the mind instead?

Sealer - Well, for starters, I’d really appreciate some straight answers for once.

- I... don’t understand.

Sealer - No, I think you do. You just won’t say... or maybe can’t?

Keeper Min - ...

Sealer - Min, something isn’t right here. This monastery is meant to be a welcoming place that offers peace and sanctuary. Instead it feels like anything but.

Sealer - You all specifically requested my presence but now won’t let me leave. Every time I try to inquire about anything remotely suspicious, I’m either brushed off or abruptly interrupted.

Sealer - Please, the world outside is suffering right now and this monastery might hold the answers to help fix it. You’re the only one who can help me, and maybe I can help you too... but first I need you to be honest with me. What’s going on here?

Keeper Min - Sealer...

Keeper Min - I cannot speak here right now. They are watching us... speak softly but do so with a smile. Don’t let them suspect.

Keeper Min - Do you remember all the locations I showed you yesterday?

Sealer - Well, yes I suppose. You showed me a lot of odd places yesterday.

Keeper Min - There is a hidden crawl space in your room beneath your bed. The temple is filled with many secret paths. The one in your room should lead you to this side of the temple.

Keeper Min - Remember what I showed you and do not stray from that path. It should lead you safely back here. Hide if you see any of the other monks, the shadows will keep you safe. I will meet you here then.

Keeper Min - Do you understand?

Sealer - Y-yes.

Keeper Min - Good, now, how about some tea? I have many more favorite spots I’d like to show you today as well...


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

Keeper Minerva... are you here?


Keeper Min - I’m here, Sealer. Come. Quickly, behind the curtains

Sealer - I did as you asked and made sure to come without being seen. I had no idea the temple had so many hidden winding paths within its structure. What’s going on here? Why all the secrecy?

Keeper Min - Because the temple has been taken over by a terrible evil, dear child. Great betrayals and acts of deceit have wrought this once sacred place.

Keeper Min - There are so few of us left now...

Sealer - A great evil? What do you mean? What’s happened here?

Keeper Min - Necromancers... those loyal to Oblivion and who practice the taboo art of resurrecting the dead and manipulating spirits to do their bidding. These individuals have slowly been taking over the temple.

Keeper Min - At first we had no idea who these strangers were. We welcomed all travelers who were weary and sought respite, but then I noticed that some of my fellow monks had gone missing.

Keeper Min - At first it was just one or two. We assumed they had perhaps left early on their pilgrimages... but the numbers kept rising until we became suspicious.

Keeper Min - That is, until all those who disappeared returned to us, just before you came.

Sealer - Necromancers... I can’t believe it. Not again... I dealt with them once before.

Sealer - A-are you sure necromancy is at work here? You said all the monks returned, so everything is fine now... right?

Keeper Min - Sealer, have you not noticed that there are very few ligers left around? The monks that returned did not return with their bonded companions.

Keeper Min - Their skin is pale and their eyes are glassed over. They are empty, Sealer. Hollow. Mere shells controlled by a dark magic.

Keeper Min - They are dead... they may walk and talk like you and I, but their spirits are no more.

Sealer - No...

Keeper Min - They took my brothers and sisters and sent back monsters that wear their faces. There are only a handful of us left now that are still alive, but we will do everything in our power to protect you, Sealer. I swear this.

Sealer - But... but I don’t understand. Why would they do this? What do they want?

Keeper Min - They seek Ceridwen. They seek the grand library which is sealed away by Ceridwen’s magic.

Sealer - Ceridwen? You mentioned them before when I first came here. Who is that?

Keeper Min - Ceridwen. The Ancient of Knowledge and Head Keeper of this temple.

Keeper Min - We have been protecting Keeper Ceridwen since we first caught on to the Necromancers who invaded our sacred home. They must not gain access to the library, the knowledge kept there could devastate all of Eldemore if it fell into the wrong hands.

Keeper Min - For a time I thought no matter what they did to us, at least Ceridwen and the library would be safe. But now they have brought you here... but why?

Sealer - Wait, it was the Necromancers that brought me here then? I should have known something was up sooner. What do they want with me?

Keeper Min - It is not fully clear, child. However, I have spoken with Keeper Ceridwen and they believe it is imperative that you learn about the knowledge of the Ancients in order to be prepared for what is to come.

Keeper Min - It is all we can do now I suppose. You and I must continue to play along for now and bide our time, but we shall meet here every night so that I may divulge the secrets kept within this monastery to you.

Keeper Min - I will do everything in my power to keep you safe, but we must be discreet for the time being. Now, get some rest for tonight child. There is much to learn...


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

Keeper Min, are you sure it’s safe for us to be sneaking around like this? I don’t want them to hurt you or Balinu because of me...


Keeper Min - Dear Sealer, you need not worry about Balinu and I. Though we may be a bit older these days, a monk and their liger are quite the force to be reckoned with if pressed.

Keeper Min - What is important now is that you learn the knowledge that Ceridwen wishes for you to understand, that is why we are meeting here.

Keeper Min - Tell me Sealer, what do you know about Ancients?

Sealer - Well, I know that they are powerful beings that control some aspect of magic, such as Fate or Memories. Many look at them as deities or protectors... I have to agree with them to an extent, since I’ve met quite a few.

Sealer - Actually, I don’t think you’ve told me anything about Ceridwen yet, beyond just being the Ancient of Knowledge. Are they male or female? Are they walking around in human form? I think it’d be pretty hard to hide a giant dragon so I just assumed...

Keeper Min - Ceridwen is both and neither.

Keeper Min - You see, Sealer, Ancients are not like you and I. They are beings of pure magic, and thus, are born from magic alone, but they usually choose to take on a form that is easier for us mortals to understand so that they may more easily interact with us. Their human form can take on either male or female gender, or they could simply remain in their Ancient form, whichever fits their purposes best at the time. However, Ancients as a whole have no need for such physical distinctions as gender.

Sealer - I don’t understand... born from magic? No gender? Both?

Keeper Min - Think of a flame on a candle. The fire which you see burning has a physical form, a simple word that describes what it does. It has the power to destroy and the power to give warmth and light. But that flame has no body like we do, no name that gives it an individuality, it simply is what it is.

Keeper Min - But what if that flame had a voice? What if it wanted to move around and live like we do? What if it had a soul that gave it consciousness?

Keeper Min - Knowledge, Fate, Memories... Oblivion.

Keeper Min - Ancients are the pure embodiment of these aspects. They are quite literally the living manifestation of what they represent, born from the very elements and principles of this universe. A living magic, beings with great power that give voice and consciousness to what they represent. Most in Eldemore consider them like gods, and perhaps that is true in a sense.

Keeper Min - However, there was another race which arose alongside them long ago. One that they coveted dearly and could not live without. Beings who acted as their vessels for channeling magic, and who nearly led to their downfall...

Sealer - A race that the Ancients coveted? That sounds an awful lot like a human summoner. Who were they?

Keeper Min - The Primals...

Sealer - The Primals?!

Keeper Min - Shh!

Keeper Min - ...I hear someone down the hallway. We’d better continue this later. You should go back to your room for now, we don’t want to raise suspicion.


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

Last time we spoke you mentioned Primals...


Sealer - I’ve heard mention of them a lot lately since I first came across the Necromancers, and even in the Darak’i Deserts. Who were they?

Keeper Min - Ah yes, the lost race of the Primals...

Keeper Min - Our archives mention very little of them, but I’ve read that, like the Ancients who were born from pure magic, Primals were born from the absence of such purity, the remnants left behind in the void.

Keeper Min - The passage I read stated that they were a race far more prosperous than many of our own. That they erected massive, black kingdoms that pierced the very skies, and wielded obsidian blades that could kill even the Ancients.

Keeper Min - It even mentioned a ‘Primal Era’, no doubt suggesting that the Primal’s influence stretched far across the realm during that time, which could explain why the other races mention them in their history as well.

Keeper Min - The Primals were also quite the scholars. After all, they were the ones who first discovered and perfected blood bonds, knowledge that many still use to this day...for better or for worse.

Sealer - They were the founders of blood bonding then? Wait... did you say obsidian blades?

Keeper Min - Yes, the transcript was quite old and faded when last I read it mind you, probably thousands of years old, but it mentioned blades molded from obsidian which could pierce through any magic.

Keeper Min - Only Primals, beings without magic themselves, could wield such weapons, although it seems the race as a whole had an affinity for obsidian since they used it in much of their architecture and tools.

Sealer - ...

Keeper Min - Is something the matter, Sealer?

Sealer - No, it’s nothing.

Sealer - Is there anything else you read about them? Any mention of what happened to them or why they nearly brought about the Ancients’ downfall?

Keeper Min - The passages that detail those facts were not present, I’m afraid. It only mentions that there was a great battle and a feud between the Primals and Ancients, one that nearly wiped out the Ancients entirely, but I’m assuming they must have won somehow, since it is the Primals who are no longer with us.

Sealer - There’s nothing else about them? Nothing at all?

Keeper Min - I’m sorry Sealer, the Primals have always been a mystery.

Keeper Min - Very little was recorded about them in our archives since this history reaches back several millenia, but perhaps I can seek counsel with Ceridwen once more about the matter. This may be why the Necromancers are here after all...

Keeper Min - Till then, you best get back to your room before someone notices you are missing.


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

Have you learned anything about the Primals from Ceridwen yet?


Keeper Min - Sealer...

Keeper Min - I tried asking Keeper Ceridwen about the Primals, yes. However... Ceridwen was hesitant to divulge more insight about their history with the Ancients.

Sealer - Hesitant? But why?

Keeper Min - I do not know, Sealer. Keeper Ceridwen has never withheld knowledge from us monks before, and to do so when our temple is in such a dire situation... it’s as if the truth is far worse than the Necromancers themselves.

Sealer - ...

Keeper Min - Ceridwen did mention something odd, however.

Sealer - What about?

Keeper Min - Ceridwen said that the children of ash must not return to the black kingdom. No matter the cost.

Sealer - The children of ash? The black kingdom? I don’t understand... what are the Ancients so afraid of? What are they trying to hide?

Keeper Min - I do not know, Sealer... I really don’t know.

Keeper Min - I-I’ll continue to do some more research on the matter. Why don’t you get some rest? A heavy heart and mind is the last thing either of us need right now.


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

[Benathorn]

Niles Q&A

woof.

INTRO SCENE FOR NILES

*You notice movement just beyond in the bushes*

You stop to look around since you were not allowed to stray far from the monastery’s walls. However, that same sensation from before suddenly hits you once more. A dull ringing that grows louder and louder within your ears, threatening to drown out the world around you, as you notice that time has seemingly stopped…

…Scratch that, time was stopped!

Sealer: W-what’s going on?!

Your voice sounds muffled and distant as you look frantically about. Leaves have seemingly stopped mid fall in their decent. A few passing rune dragons are frozen in flight just above you. Even a few monks who were coming up the monastery steps were now frozen in place on their morning walk.

You turn sharply around as you hear that same rustle of movement which had caught your attention before. Your eyes widen with fear and confusion as you brace for whatever was causing this strange magic to take hold of your surroundings…

???: Grrrr!

Sealer: Ahhh!!!

Wait… WHAT?!

???: Wuf.

Sealer: Oh my gosh-- dog with a knife! Don’t mug me! I don’t have any baubles, I swear!

???: *Rolls eyes before handing you a small note card*

Sealer: Huh? What’s this?

'Hello, my name is Niles.'

Oh my gosh…

You can write?!

Niles: *Gives you a deadpan look. He is not amused.*

*Hands you another note instead.*

Sealer: A letter? Oh! It’s from Master Thanatos!

You looked like you could use a friend. Niles has always had my back and is one of my best agents. He will keep an eye on you in case anything unexpected happens. I have also sent my own crow, Abaddon, to keep watch over you both as well. Mind your fingers around him, though. He has a nasty habit of biting those off if you aren’t careful.

Be safe, Sealer. May the shadows watch and protect you on your journey.

Sealer: A dog is his best agent?

That’s. So. Awesome!

Hi Niles, aren’t you just an adorable puppy. You want some pets?

Niles: *Pulls out his knife as you try to pat his head. No pets for you*

Sealer: Okay, okay, no petting-- jeez. Wait, are you the ones using this strange magic? How did Master Thanatos know I was alone here?

Just as you began to question the extreme oddity of all this you hear the footsteps of monks approach as they urge you back inside. It seemed whatever magic was holding them had swiftly vanished… along with the canine, Niles, as well. All that remained was the green-eyed crow, Abaddon, glaring at you with a scrutinizing gaze.

So much weirdness was going on here. But despite the many questions, you could not help but smile for the first time since you arrived.

At least you were no longer alone in all this.

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

Hey Niles, are you out there? I’ve got some lunch to share.


Niles - *Approaches you from the shadows as time momentarily stops all around you*

Sealer - So cool. Are you like, some time traveling dog? Because I feel like you’re some time traveling dog.

Niles - *Simply shakes his head at you before handing you a small note*

'I am not a time traveling dog. That’s just dumb, Sealer.'

Sealer - Hey, it’s not dumb at all! What am I supposed to assume—wait. How are you writing these???

Niles - *Hands you another note with his mouth*

'With a pen and paper. What else?'

Sealer - Oh come on, you know what I mean!

Niles - *Gives you a cheeky grin*

Sealer - Great, just what I need, a sassy dog and a murderous crow as my only allies out here. Can things get any better?

Niles - *Suddenly jumps at you and steals your entire lunch*

Sealer - Hey, you can’t just take the whole thing! We’re supposed to share!

Niles stops to look at you once before sticking his tongue out with another cheeky smile. He then promptly disappears into the bush with your lunch as time returns to normal.

Sealer - Bad dog! Didn’t anyone teach you how to share—

You stop abruptly as you notice the other monks looking at you with a strange glance as you cha


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

*You snuck out tonight through one of the secret passages to look for your lunch stealing canine with determination*


You had not seen Niles for a whole day now, and despite him stealing your lunch before, you worried if perhaps he had not eat

Sealer - Hey Niles, where are you?

You call softly for the canine that is usually so prompt, only to be answered with silence.

Sealer - Oh come on, I brought two lunches this time! No sharing required, I even took a big risk sneaking out here tonight to find you so show some gratitude.

You noticed movement just up ahead as the bushes rustle.

Sealer - There you are you cheeky devil. Quit hiding now and—

You freeze suddenly as the large form of a liger slowly draws itself out of the shadows with a rumbling growl.

Sealer - H-hey there big guy... I-I didn’t expect to see a liger out here. Um, do you belong to one of the monks or—

The liger lets loose a threatening hiss, baring its broken fangs as dark eyes bleed an inky blackness. Something wasn’t right with this creature, you knew that immediately as you tried to back away, only to release a sharp gasp when you suddenly trip over a stray root.

You frantically try to pick yourself back up only to feel the immense weight of the large feline’s paw shove you back down into the dirt with a terrible growl.

Now you could see the liger’s features more clearly. You notice its eyes are glazed over with death. Marks of torture mar its once beautiful form with scars and festering wounds. That same inky blackness oozes from its jaws as they widen to bite down. You can only brace for the worst.

Niles - Grrr!

Suddenly, the weight of the liger is no more, but is replaced with roars of fury and pain. You look up to see Niles atop the creature’s back, his dark blade lodged deep within the creature’s shoulder. He pulls the dagger out with his mouth before leaping away with practiced ease, blade glinting wet with black blood in the moonlight as he now stands between you and the cursed creature.

Niles - Bark!

He barks once for you to move as you struggle to get up. The liger’s gaze is still locked on you. It lets loose a wicked hiss before leaping once more at its chosen prey...

Niles - Grrr!

You stood frozen as Niles barreled into the liger with incredible speed. This time sinking his blade into the creature’s skull, halting it instantly as it drops to the ground just inches before your feet. You can’t bring yourself to move as you simply stare at the horrific scene in shock.

The canine’s eyes glow with an unnatural golden light as he briefly glances at you with a steely gaze. He seems completely undeterred by the whole situation, a fact that makes you feel a bit unsettled in his presence. You watch as Niles nonchalantly removes his weapon from the liger’s skull.

Sealer - Y-you killed it...

Niles didn’t even bother to glance your way as he cleaned his blade, which now shimmered oddly with an unnatural magic. The white rune marks upon the obsidian steel slowly absorb the darkness that had afflicted the liger, leaving its empty husk to reveal the pitiful battered form of the once-suffering creature.

The sight nearly made you weep. At least now you knew what had happened to one of the lost monk’s ligers which had disappeared before you came. But how long it must have suffered... you turned to look at the canine that had brought it down so easily, not wanting to think about it anymore.

Sealer - ...What are you?

Niles - ...

Niles walks over to you slowly and bends down to pick up both of the lunches you had brought. The canine then slowly turns away and disappears back into the shadows without looking back.


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You! You’ve got a lot of explaining to do, you... you lunch thief!


Niles - *Yawns at your presence and lazily basks in the sunlight*

Sealer - Where did you get that blade? How are you able to control time? Why did your eyes glow like that when you fought that liger last night? How were you able to take down a liger in the first place!?

Niles - ...

Sealer - You may look like an innocent dog but you certainly don’t act like one. If anything you act more human than some simple beast!

Niles - *Gives you a small grin before handing you another one of his hand written notes*

[i]Woof woof. Is that better?

Sealer - Why you smug little—

Niles - *Sticks his tongue out at you in blatant mockery*

Sealer - That’s it! I’m on to your game, buddy. No more lunches for you till you start talking—er writing... whatever!

Niles - *Proceeds to roll in the grass leisurely with a cocky smile as you storm back to the monastery*

You were going to get that dog to talk if it was the last thing you did!

[/i]
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That blade of yours... it’s of Primal make, isn’t it?


Niles - ...

Sealer - I learned from one of the Keepers here that an ancient race called the Primals were known for making obsidian blades that devour any magic they touch. That’s what happened to that liger you killed, right?

Niles hands you a written note.

[i]‘The creature was suffering from the curse and forced to obey the Necromancers that controlled it. I ended its torment swiftly. The kill was clean and precise, that’s all there is to it.’

Sealer - That doesn’t answer my question about the blade’s origin at all. Where did you get it? How do you have something from a race that vanished so long ago?

Niles - ...

Niles - *Hands you another note after a long pause*

‘My father gave it to me.’

Sealer - Your father? You mean there’s another back sassing dog around here?

Niles - *Rolls his eyes and hands you another note with slight agitation*

‘Wow. You’re not a very bright human, are you?’

Sealer - Well excuse me Mr. Sassypants. What else am I supposed to think? Who is your father then?

Niles gives you a grin.

‘You already know of him.’

Sealer - What? I do? Why don’t you just tell me then since I already apparently know?

Niles gives you a cheeky smile.

‘Because that would be an excellent question.’

Sealer - Oh my gosh... riddles now? Seriously?!

Niles looks amused.

‘It’s not a riddle. That’s your answer.’

Niles promptly dashes away before you can say anything else, leaving you more flustered with that grinning than before.



[/i]
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[kiel]

Tea Time



-Extra Images-
[url=URL HERE]Any extra event images here[/url]

[list]INTRODUCTION CUTSCENE:

Start of the intro scene
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Remember to bold all the sections (ex. "Stealing from Azara" for Yuletide Events)