A little something (both unfinished and long)

[Pav]

Well, here's the new one so far


The Dark Winter
A few months had passed since the battle with Magnus and his crusading army, in the mainland the lives of those affected began to return to normal. Packs of werewolves began to breed freely, nests of vampires started to thrive again, and many human towns and villages rebuilt their damaged homes and lives. However, life in the northern wastes would only grow darker. For the few people that survived on the island the time known as the “dark winter” was a time they had all grown to fear. None were able to explain it, the land grew darker, even more than it was during normal times, and the beasts of the island became crazed, filled with blood lust and attacked in a frenzy. So now, the people spent every moment strengthening their defences and preparing themselves for the terror to come.
Roth sat back and relaxed in his throne, for the first time ever he and his people could spend some time to relax at this dark time. The wooden walls of the city were adequate at protecting them from the elements, but they failed easily against the rage of the beasts, and many lives would be lost in the defence of the people and trying to repair the breaches. But now he had a new tool, a new weapon to use in his favour. He had watched Kirra hunt before, she left many times to look for fresh meat out in the snow fields, she was an excellent hunter and easily matched the other beasts in ferocity. Nihil too was proving to be a useful asset to him and his people, the man’s strange powers and strong connection the land allowed him to draw forth the black rock of the island itself and with it, they strengthened the walls. He had watched the two of them become very close over the past months, often they had gone out to fight off attacking animals with him and his men, and he had watched them, they complemented each other perfectly, her with her passion and animal aggression and him, with his inhuman skill and strength. Even outside of battle, they remained close, never had he seen one of them without the other close by. His relationship with the two had also strengthened; he almost looked on them as his own children. And now they were nowhere to be seen, they never were at times of merriment, whether it bothered them or whether they simply saw it as a chance to be alone he did not know. Roth stood from his throne and went to join his men in drinking the night away.
“I still don’t understand why it happened old friend, last time it went on for so long and now it ended after only a short time” Arcanis’ voice spoke full of fear and confusion.
“I do not know what happened either” replied Nihil, “The feeling was the same as before, everything was the same as before”
“Maybe you’re learning how to control it or maybe the powers the Gods used to stop your rage has had some odd effect on it”
“Maybe...but it troubles me Arcanis, that power is too unpredictable, too dangerous” They were silent for a time and Nihil stood on top of the gatehouse listening to the wind, every night it grew more and more alive with the sound of monstrous creatures. He thought about some he had seen, great dog like creatures that looked as though they had dragged their corpse like bodies from the depths of the underworld. Creatures the size of bears that walked on two legs like men great curved claws hung from their unusually long arms and poisonous tendrils that dripped with a foul ooze hung from their mouths. Even larger were the almost troll like beasts that lumbered from the northern mountains. It was not all the large beasts that were the most dangerous, many times he had seen small serpents moving with ease through the snow, they came in hissing streams, with flesh like ice and a bite so deadly a grown man would die in moments. Night had come, and Nihil saw nothing beyond what the light that glowed from his eyes showed. After a while, something brushed against his arm. It was Kirra, she was looking out into the darkness, Nihil wondered just how far she could see.
“It isn’t safe to be outside now” she said.
“Nothing can get through these walls very easily” he replied distantly. She turned looking at him now.
“It’s not the ones that go through you need to worry about, it’s the ones that fly over, you fight well but I think even you can’t kill what you can’t see” Nihil gave a short laugh then gave her a nod and jumped to the ground, she followed and they vanished into the darkness of the city streets.
“So he has awoken?”
“Yes I am afraid so. I believe...that it may be our fault”
“None could tell how he would wake, or for what reason, we only knew that he would return”
“What do we do?”
“The champion should destroy him”
“But what if that doesn’t work?”
“Then we must do what we can. He cannot be allowed to live, he will destroy everything”
“We must wait for now...wait and hope”
The night was full of howling, and other noises that kept everyone awake. Creatures that no one could see darted high in the sky screeching, things moved around the walls scraping it with claws and fangs hoping to find an opening. Men wrapped tightly in fur patrolled the inner sides of the walls, carrying spears and torches hoping they wouldn’t need them. From the hall, a warm light shone and the sound of singing and merry drinking began to fill the air, as if frightened by the sounds the creatures lurking in the darkness seemed to leave the city, sneaking away to their nests, dens and lairs. Roth knew all the noise would scare away the smaller beasts, though it might enrage the larger ones, but at least you knew what they were doing, unlike trying to guess what the little ones were up to. He felt a pang of anxiousness, tomorrow would be a big day, he planned to strike at the very heart of some of the most feared of the islands monsters, monsters he had known as corpse wolves. They were a large pack of vile seemingly undead and deformed wolf like animals, the leader of which long ago killed his father.
They had their own house now, away from all the others built at the far left corner of the cities walls. It was a simple house, there was a small corridor leading from the door with one room on either side, a bedroom and a general all-purpose room. Nihil liked the latter room; it had very little in it only a table, a few chairs and small fireplace. Although in a corner of the room Kirra had planted something, he remembered their trip to the north of the island, where the forests were and there she had dashed away among the trees and came back after some time with a seed. She tended to the plant very lovingly, he wondered if she missed her home. Kirra lay curled up in the bedroom, wide awake, she was happy to have a safe place of her own to rest, and happier still with her relationship with Nihil, it was nice to have someone to trust, someone who helped her feel safe. Even so, she was restless, and she wanted to go back to forests and fields of grass. She smiled to herself, something in her heart knew she would go home before too long, she closed her eyes and fell to sleep. Nihil stood outside, he always preferred it outside despite being able to see or not, he listened to the music coming from the hall and the scratching of some small animal away to his right outside the wall. He was too troubled to care what manner of creature it was, once again his thoughts returned to his own inner monster. He knew these dark times were born from that power, as if it had infected the island. He feared what attention it would have drawn, the Gods learned long ago to fear it and they would not be happy now it returned. And yet it was not the same as before, it had stopped without being forced. He wondered if it was Kirra’s presence that affected it.
When morning came the king, Nihil and Kirra set out for the hunt. Kirra dashed away ahead of them in her wolf form, using her superior senses to find the lair of the strange corpse wolves. After what felt like three hours of searching, a strong scent of rot and filth filled the air. She looked back, Nihil and Roth were still some distance away, she looked around to see if anything could be hiding, but there was only a plain of snow. Carefully now she moved forward, nose close to the ground following the smell as it grew stronger until finally it became so strong she almost wretched. They were close, very close, but she could see nothing. Just as her two companions began to catch up, the snow in front of her erupted into the air. A wolf much larger than she was, with decaying flesh and exposed bone. Before she could react, it moved with surprising speed, instantly it tried to close its jaws around her throat. It missed, as she was able to move at the last moment. Instead, the beasts’ fangs closed around her waist. It lifted her into the air and bit again, trying to break her in half, though it failed she howled in pain. As the monsters jaws opened again, she quickly jumped from its mouth. She dug her claws into the bone of its shoulder and climbed onto its back; the beast thrashed and snarled with rage but could not shake her. She climbed to its neck and bit into the exposed spine, it cracked as she bit into it a second time, as her third bite struck the monsters head fell loose and it collapsed into the snow. Before she could even relax, another of the wolves burst from beneath snow, it charged her but soon stopped in its tracks as its head exploded in flames, it crashed lifelessly into the snow. Nihil stood with his left arm raised out in front of him; his hand was surrounded with thick black smoke. A further two wolves attacked them, one was brought down as the king pulled on its leg and snapped the bone, he jumped onto its head and thrust his sword into its eye. Kirra and Nihil attacked the other; she bit at its neck while he struck its back legs, forcing it to the ground. When it was dead, the three of them relaxed. Until with a deafening howl, another leapt from the snow. It was far larger than the others were, and so deformed it looked much less like a decaying animal and more a true monster. Four grey eyes looked out from its skull, within its mouth a tongue made of several tentacles writhed, its two tales were long and whip-like, where the others had paws this one had hands, each finger ending in large claws. It surveyed them for a time until its gaze focused solely on Nihil; slowly it lowered his head to his height, it sniffed him curiously, and then surprisingly stepped away from him, a flash of fear or doubt entered its eyes for a moment. Then it looked at the king and lifted itself onto its back legs. Roth saw what it meant for him to see, the hilt of a blade stuck out of its chest.
Roth had seen that sword once before. His mother carried it wherever she went. Even when she was relaxed and he sat on her knee as a child he remembered looking at the marvellous hilt; it was made of two gold strips entwined around each other and always seemed to shine. The blade itself was beautiful, as white as a pearl, shaped like a tooth or spearhead, wide at the base and much smaller at the tip, and across its length on either side of the blade was strange runes scribed in black. He never knew where she found, or what magic it held, only that it was powerful indeed. He had last seen it the day he lost both his parents, the three of them had gone to hunt the great wolf, his father sought glory and the chance to show his son the way of a hero, and his mother would never let her child go to danger without her, she was famous for being protective. However, things had gone bad when they met the wolf. Though his father fought with all his might, the wolf proved too much and wounded him fatally, in his last moments his father had given him his sword. His mother wanting only for her son to be safe dragged him away as he struck at the beasts’ hand. It attacked them and as its claw stuck her, she drove the sword up into its chest, causing it to retreat. Though she was able to take him home, she succumbed to her wound and died shortly after.
The wolf lowered itself again. Roth seized upon his chance for revenge and attacked. His blade missed and the wolf knocked him away, it opened its jaws wide and tried to devour the king. However, dropping his sword and shield he gripped a tooth in each hand and held it at bay. From the corner of his eye, he saw Nihil charge the beast, throwing his body at it Nihil knocked down on its side. It began to thrash and gripped Nihil in one of its hands. It kicked the king away again and slammed Nihil to the ground as it stood. It tightened its grip on him and began to pound him against the ground. Nihil managed to get a grip on his sword and drove into the wolfs hand, it released him but prepared to slash him with its other hand. As it struck however, Kirra suddenly grabbed Nihil and threw him aside, the beast struck still, sending her tumbling through the snow. It turned on her now, but stopped and looked on her with confusion, the shock had knocked her back into her human form, and the sudden change troubled the wolf. She wasted no time and got to her feet, clutching at the hilt sticking out of the wolfs chest she wrenched it free. It collapsed in pain and she pressed her attack, slashing at its head, she blinded two of its eyes. She tried to slash again but the pain in her side caused her to flinch, it grabbed her and threw her as far as it could. The wolf fell down again as the king drove his sword through one of its back legs, it turned to attack him just as Nihil attacked its other back leg. They both leapt up onto its back and began to stab and hack at it. Soon it swung a claw over its shoulder and struck the king, it struck again, but the claw stopped before it hit him again. Kirra clung to the wolfs chest and had jammed the sword into its joint locking the arm in place. With some effort she began to twist the sword and used it to push the arm away from the body, it grasped at her with its free hand and tried to pull her away, but her grip was firmer. Finally, with a shout, she pushed the sword with all her strength, and the monsters arm burst from its body. It tried to attack her but she had already jumped down from its body. The wolf threw its head back and opened its mouth as wide as possible to devour her. However, it could not bring its head down. Nihil gripped the edge of its top jaw and planted his feet firmly at the base of its head; it slashed at him but met only the king’s blade. He cut the hand from its arm and finally swung the blade at its neck as if he were chopping down a tree. With one final roar, the beast fell to the floor, dead.
Going Home
Roth sat in the snow, he felt exhausted but at last, his parents had been avenged and the dark winter was passing, as if the great wolf itself controlled the darkness. He gave a thankful nod to Kirra who stood nursing the wound in her side. Something odd seemed to have come over Nihil, he stood over the wolfs body seeming almost sad at its death. He was only shaken back to his normal self when Kirra approached him, Roth was sure she had noticed it too. They left and went back to the city. For the first time in both Kirra and Nihil sat in the hall, in the warm light. The three of them feasted happily, as they sat around the fire.
“I think” said the king, “that you both have repaid you debt. I helped you many months ago, and you have helped me today. Kirra, you may keep that sword, to replace the one you broke, besides I could never hope to wield a thing of such elegance”
“Thank you” she replied.
“Your leaving aren’t you?” asked the king as turning to Nihil. Nihil simply nodded, “I admit, a part of me wishes you would stay, but I know there are things for you two to do, I’ll have a boat ready” They all stood, said their final farewells and parted for the last time. As soon as morning came Nihil and Kirra left in the boat, they had been given. It had been laden with food, water and blankets for the trip. Kirra grew fearful as she looked out at the storms, remembering her last trip on these waters. Nihil placed his hand in the water, Kirra noticed a slight blue light where he touched and away in the distance, the storms began to calm and part.
“How did you do that?” asked Kirra.
“Who do you think made those storms in the first place, you may as well relax, it’ll be some time before we reach the mainland” Nihil sat back and fell into his half sleep, Kirra yawned and sat with him, just as before he extended a wing around her.
“He comes back! Don’t you feel it?”
“Yes, I do...We are all in danger”
“Danger? Danger! We are all doomed if he gets back. Fill the seas with storms! The winds with gals! Whatever you can!”
“Calm down you fool! The champion will still kill him”
“Do not be so sure”
“Where did you come from!?”
“I have been doing something unlike you two. I have been watching the enemy. And I know the champion is useless to you now”
“We will think of something”
“You had better. Or we are in for dark times”
It was night when Kirra woke, the light from the moon and stars were mostly hidden behind thick clouds. Everything was still but for the gentle sound of the waves beneath them. She got up, carefully moving Nihils’ wing so has not to wake him anymore than he already was. She wrapped a blanket around her, took some meat, and sat at the side of the boat with her hand brushing against the water. She was happy to be away from the snow and ice, and looked forward to sitting under a tree. She wondered how long it had been since Nihil walked on the mainland, or if ever had at all. She looked over to him, and suddenly for a moment felt slightly afraid, not of him, but for him. She walked back over to him and lay next to him, she did not sleep, the odd feeling of fear for his life still hung on her mind, but she would fight anything that tried to make her fears reality.
Nihil woke as the sun began to rise over the horizon, flooding everything with warmth and light. The water glistened and dark silhouettes of land were just visible away in the distance.
“You know that they will know your back don’t you?” said Arcanis, destroying the relaxing quietness.
“Yes, they will already have their plans ready I’m sure”
“You will stand against whatever they have planned. Remember, they fear you, fear is useful”
Kirra sat up next to him yawning. Nihil wondered why she looked so tired.
“Why were you on that island Nihil?” she asked turning to him, “I heard Roth say you come from inside a mountain”
“Yes, I was...sleeping there. Why? Because a very long time ago I almost destroyed the world”
“How?”
“There is a rage in my heart, something that’s been there since I took my first breath, I don’t know why it’s there, but its power is so strong I cannot control it, and long ago it broke loose”
“So why only almost? What stopped you?”
“The Gods. Many of them tried to fight me, but fled when they realised they could not win; only one wounded me, but he died. In the end, it was not the Gods of light and their power or those of darkness. It was the Gods who govern nature. They forced the pain I inflicted upon the world on me” Kirra tried to imagine that, the pain of the entire world.
“What happened to you?”
“With anger and rage replaced with sadness and pain I became my usual self again. However, that pain stayed, and the world remained so wounded. I fled to the north and created the northern wastes to contain my own power and to forget the world’s pain. While I was there, the world was healed and I became only a bad memory to the Gods” It pained him to remember the old days, many things had changed, even him but old scars remained. Suddenly Kirra put her hand on his shoulder and rested her head against his, beneath his helmet he smiled.
“Do you know where we’re going?” she asked.
“I think we’re heading toward Darkwood” Kirra did not know whether to be happy or not, it was her home, but on the other hand bad memories dwelled there. She decided to worry about that when the time came, but for now, she was tired, and there was still some way to go before they reached land. So she lay down and fell asleep almost instantly.
The day seemed to pass quickly, the sun now began to set, and the coastal cliffs grew larger as they began to loom before the small boat. It was only a short way from the coast to the forest of Darkwood. Nihil knew it well, although he had only been there once, it was, like the great monstrous wolf in the wastes connected to him, it was a symptom of his power. Corrupted with hatred the forests trees rejected almost all light, standing tall and ominous with trunks of dark brown or black and leaves of the same colour. Marshes covered much of the forest floor, the thick sticky mud threatened to consume any who dared tread on its surface. Plants too had been affected, most carried potent poisons to bring down prey to feed their roots as the body decayed. Others even fed on blood, ensnaring prey and draining the life from them with needle like barbs. Animals stalked among the forests shadows, or at least things that may have been animals once, but such time in the forest had twisted their bodies. They were as terrifying as they were deadly. At the forests centre there was a dark lake, with waters so foul nothing could live there, and all that touched it fell ill. In the middle of the lake sat a small island, and on top of that stood a great and hideous tree, the oldest tree in the world, the one that birthed the forest spreading the corruption of Nihils rage to all its offspring. If it were not the only place in the mainland he knew of, he would not wish to go there, but it was a place to start, and Kirra had some kind of business there.
Kirra woke to the sound of breaking wood and Nihil’s voice shouting.
“Argh, bastard!” She quickly got up, then relaxed and laughed. Nihil lay uncomfortably among the rocks of the coast with the remains of most of their boat.
“You fell asleep didn’t you” she said trying not to laugh again. Nihil sat up after some struggling with rocks and growled.
Together they climbed the cliff and stood looking out on a land of meadows and grassy hills, sheep and goats grazed across the land. Behind some hills, some lines of smoke rose into the pale morning sky showing the homes of people who tended to the land. Some way away to their west, the cliffs fell to sandy beaches. Ahead of them, a little way in the distance drifted the black mists of Darkwood.
Darkwood
Kirra looked up at the black trees in wonder, it felt as like a life time since she had last seen them, as she looked into the forests gloom anger rose in her as she remembered all that had happened. Quickly she stepped away and turned her back on it.
“What’s wrong?” asked Nihil turning around to see her. She was breathing more heavily now and even seemed to tremble slightly from time to time.
“Do you remember when I struck you after you first touched me?” she said with an unusually weak voice.
“My ribs still hurt”
“It’s because of something that happened to me in there. Because of my own parents” Nihil knew it would be risky to approach now, with memories of pain reawakening in her mind, but despite a sense of fear, he stepped over to her and held her as gently as he could manage.
“What happened to you?”
“My birth was unnatural, I was told. Apparently, my mother was not even pregnant when I was born. Everyone said it was impossible, but it happened nonetheless. The sudden shock of it all...disturbed her. As time passed, she only got worse, until, finally when I was only a few years old, she tried to kill me. I remember all the blood. My father saved me, and in doing so killed her. He went mad with grief; he never chose another woman as his mate, but eventually decided that I would be good enough to use as a replacement, as if he couldn’t have her, he could at least have the next best thing” She said nothing more, she didn’t need to. Nihil understood what she meant when she said used; he folded his wings around her as if to shelter her. Was that what “business” he thought she had here? To face her past. Suddenly his vision went dark, and the tree on the lake in Darkwood appeared before him, a vision as clear as if he stood before it. He felt a pull, as if the tree was calling to him, trying to bring him closer. Something shone within the tree, a white light, dim at first but slowly it grew until became almost blinding. He reached out for it, but his hand stopped before he could touch it, no matter how hard he tried, he couldn not reach it. From the corner of his eye, he thought he saw a white animal dart into the trees. He suddenly thought of Kirra and wondered if whatever made the odd light was hers, or for her. Either way, it made him curious, and he did not like to ignore curiosity.
They slept behind a hill some way away from the forests’ shadow. Any of Darkwoods’ creatures stalking around the forests’ edge would not go so far from the trees, as if they feared the light of both day and night. Kirra wasn’t feeling tired so she lay awake looking up at the sky, she had not seen the nights sky until she was forced to leave Darkwood, while she was on the run it was the only thing that made her feel any better. She found the bright lights of the stars and the moon to be beautiful. Hours passed and she began to feel hungry, some way in the distance she heard the bleating of a sheep, quietly she snuck away into the night. Nihil could not forget the strange vision, that light was certainly new, he would of felt the oddity before now if it wasn’t. He tried to focus on the strange white animal, it certainly was not from Darkwood, and it most likely placed the light in the tree, but why?
“Well, I can tell you one thing old friend. It wasn’t a mortal creature”
“What do you mean Arcanis?”
“I mean, I think it was a God”
“A God...how do you know that?”
“Because you do. You may have forgotten, but you have seen that creature before a long time ago”
“Do you think it’s a trap?”
“Most likely, but I still think it should be investigated” Nihil was suddenly aware of the smell of blood. He woke to see a white animal vanishing behind a hill. Quickly he got to his feet and ran as fast as he could after it. He saw the animal moving so fast it was a white blur, darting behind hills and across meadows with a speed, he could not hope to match. It was not long before he lost all sight of it. Kirra ran into his view, she was in her wolf form and seemed to be chasing something, catching his breath Nihil started running after her. He struggled to keep her in sight.
“Fly you bloody fool!” shouted Arcanis. Running to the top of a hill Nihil leapt and unfolded his wings, Unfortunalty he was not high enough and the wind was not in his favour. He swore as he hit the ground tumbling. He stood up and folded one wing, the other lay limply down his back. Kirra was walking towards him now still in her wolf form.
“Did you catch it?” he asked, she simply shook her head and walked around behind him. She started prodding at his wing with her nose, after a few painful moments she stood and placed one hand on his back, the other gripped his wing and she pulled. After a strange popping sound and some pain, Nihil was able to fold his wing.
Neither Nihil nor Kirra had seen exactly what they were chasing.
“I don’t think it meant to harm us” said Kirra, “I didn’t sense any hostility, maybe it was just watching”
“Watching her I think” interjected Arcanis, “I think we caught it as it was catching up with her and in that case...”
“It left something for you I think, in Darkwood” said Nihil.
“I was hoping I wouldn’t have to go back there, but I guess it could be something important” she sighed and headed towards the forest.
It was as she remembered it, the sounds and smells she knew very well. She and Nihil walked carefully through the trees and around the marshes. From time to time, something would move in the shadows, their presence was known already, but for now, at least the beasts were keeping their distance. After what seemed to be a day’s worth of travel they reached a place Kirra knew very well. It had changed from how she remembered it. Her home was nothing but a clearing of ash and broken trees, bones lay strewn about the area, most were burnt and blackened. Kirra walked around almost dreamily, she often stopped and looked through debris or remains. It was not far now, Nihil could feel the presence of the tree. After some time Kirra walked back over to him, she seemed odd, a strange mix of both happy and yet somehow sad. Suddenly she drew the sword she had been given and thrust it at him. Nihil had to admit he felt a pang of fear as the blade glided across his side with a scrape. Something behind him fell with a wet thump. They were basically human in shape. However, their flesh seemed almost scaly, their eyes were small and bloodshot, their hands and feet long and clawed and their mouths filled with needle-like teeth leading to a large circular maw filled with yet more teeth. At least ten of the odd creatures had snuck out from among the trees and attacked. They darted around Nihil and Kirra forming a circle. Quickly she impaled another on the blade, and releasing her grip on the sword, she changed to her wolf form and leapt at another taking them both out of the circle. Nihil drew his own sword and hacked the arm off the first creature he could reach. However, these creatures were tricky; they seemed to blend to their environment, making them hard to see, and they struck with surprising force and the speed of snakes. It was a matter of seconds before they tried to slash at his throat, trying to get their claws through the gaps in his armour. Kirra tore at the creature she had tackled until it stopped struggling and died. She wasted no time and brought another down by biting its leg. Nihil was forced to fight defensively; already his blood began to fall to the ground. One of them lunged at him only to lose its head. He kicked the severed head at another and charged trying to punch one the creatures. Its mouth opened, its bottom jaw split into two mandibles. It bit hard on his hand and pulled almost wrenching it loose. Others began to follow the example and spread open their jaws. Kirra ran a short way away from the commotion, she knew the creatures, and had fought them when she lived here, she knew it was dangerous to be near them when they got hungry. She saw Nihil escaping from them as well, and watched them closely as they regrouped. After a few moments, all the creatures ran at Nihil, clawing and biting at him. She started to run to help him but was brought down; one of the creatures had snuck up on her. Quickly it bit into her shoulder. Her sight started to become dark; she remembered the stories of these creatures, draining the life out of their prey, already she could not muster the strength to shake off the creature. Just as she closed her eyes and lost consciousness, she thought she heard a great and terrible roar.
Nihil fell to his knees gasping for breath; he quickly looked around but saw no other creatures, only bloody remains. He struggled to his feet and limped over to Kirra. He suddenly felt the presence of something watching him, something angry and powerful. He ignored it for now, and focused on Kirra, though the wound seemed small and unthreatening it had weakened her greatly. He knew he did not have the powers of a healer; his abilities lay with harming things, but he could still do something. He raised both his hands, placed his fingertips on his chest, and pushed. Metal and bone broke and he felt the cold of his own armour within him. With a shout, he pulled to his sides, splitting his own chest open. A thick black light flowed from the wound and covered the both Kirra and the ground in front of him. After a few moments, he fell backwards and saw nothing more. He had no idea how much time had passed when he woke. The first thing he saw was Kirra sitting next to him; she had one hand on his chest and was looking around into the trees. She helped him up and said.
“What did you do?” she pointed over to where they had fought the creatures, “I don’t think even I could of made more of a mess out of them then what you managed” She smiled, “I’m impressed” Nihil tried to stand but almost fell back down. Kirra quickly forced him to his feet, “This isn’t a place for you to rest, we’ve already been attacked while you were out, come on. The lake will be safe enough” They reached the lake within a few minutes; she eased Nihil to the floor and relaxed. She knew it was safe here, other creatures feared the lake, she never understood why, when she was younger it was the only place she felt she could find respite. She left Nihil to rest and started to wander around, soon something caught her eye, an odd light over at the tree in the middle of the lake, she’d never noticed it before now. She gathered up wood and whatever she could find to try to make a raft.
She watched her through the trees, keeping close by but hidden, she had seen the present left for her at the tree, a clever girl so quickly building the means to travel the waters. She felt great pride watching her. Then she saw him, quietly moving closer to see him better, he lay sleeping it seems, her greatest enemy. Perhaps she could have killed him there and then, if he had not done something altogether confusing. She had watched as he risked his own life to heal the girl, she had never expected to see him do that. Because of it, everything had changed, and she realised they were wrong. They planned to kill him with their champion, but he had changed, he had gone against his old nature now. Maybe if she was fast enough, she could prevent the pain to come.
Kirra finally reached the tree, being careful not to touch the foul waters. The strange light shone brightly now. She saw four large scars across the trees surface, something had slashed it long ago, in one of the marks shone a small white stone, it was rounded perfectly into a small ball. She picked it up between thumb and finger and looked it, it seemed almost like a star to her eyes. As she looked at it, it began to brighten, more and more until at least it became blinding, and she yelled it pain. Some time passed before she could open her eyes again. The white ball had gone, and everything seemed normal again. Confused she headed back across the lake. Nihil woke up as she approached and stood looking at her. When she reached land, he asked.
“Did you see a white light?”
“Yes, it blinded me for a while. I’m ok now”
“Then we should go, you look a little hungry”
“I wouldn’t mind getting hold of another sheep” They quickly headed back the way they came and, in time looked upon green hills again.
An Act Of Gods
“There they are!”
“Then let’s finish this”
“The champion is there to. It has been tainted”
“Provoke him. Blind him and make him release his rage. The champion will have no choice but to kill him”
Kirra stopped; she looked at the eight figures on one of hilltops. She grasped Nihil’s shoulder stopping him. Soon the figures approached. There were two young twin sisters, one had orange eyes, the other had blue. There was a large brown bear and a black wolf with bright white eyes. A middle-aged woman in a flowing green dress walked with a man of the same age with wild hair and a strong body. There was also an old man, who leaned on a staff and held wisdom in his eyes. Finally, there walked a large dog. They looked to Kirra, then at Nihil. He remembered them.
“The time has come” spoke the bear, “You will die Nihil, and this world will not burn again under your wrath” Kirra stepped between them, growling at the bear, it advanced but stopped before reaching her, it looked at the others then shoved past her and struck Nihil. Both he and Kirra attacked. The black wolf and the dog and forced Kirra away and tried to hold her on the ground. She turned to her wolf form and began biting at them, but they held fast. Nihil stabbed at the bear, until the young girl with orange eyes leapt up onto its back. She raised her hands up to Nihil’s eyes and released a blast of red flame. Nihil shouted out in pain and fell to the floor; the bear reached down and threw him. The girl with blue eyes jumped high into the air and blasted him with eyes, Nihil crashed into the floor hard. He stood clutching at his eyes with one hand and lashed out all around him with the other. Kirra finally managed to break away from her attackers and rushed over to him. She stood between him and the others to defend him. However, something was wrong, they smiled now and sprang forward, shoving her aside, they attacked Nihil at all sides until he could no longer contain himself, and he rage broke loose. The attackers fled now making sure they were further away from Nihil than Kirra was. That had been their plan, now blinded Nihil in his rage would strike the closest thing to him, Arcanis tried to scream into Nihil’s mind, trying to make him see reason, but it was too late. He charged and attacked Kirra.
They all stood well back watching Nihil and Kirra fight. Excitement grew in them, their great enemy would die at the hands of their champion, and the world would be safe. It took all of Kirra’s strength and skill to fight him. However, she knew she could not keep this up for very long. The Gods of nature continued to look on.
“She isn’t holding up very well is she?” said the dog, no others spoke; their hopes were beginning to fade. Already Kirra was struggling to stand, let alone stand against such ferocity. The black wolf stepped forward, as if ready to help her when suddenly a white light shone from her eyes. The light seemed to pain Nihil and prevent him from striking her. She took the chance and lunged at him, she swiped at his head. Then, seeing the wound in his chest had not yet fully healed stuck her claws into him. Now helpless to stop her Nihil simply roared and growled as she tore him open and slashed at his heart. He collapsed against a hill, gasping for breath, the light from his eyes now barely visible. Kirra, now safe returned to her normal form. Blood ran from her wounds.
“Good!” shouted the old man, walking towards her, “I knew you would manage it” he smiled broadly at her. The others stepped up to her.
“We are the Gods who manage this world” said the dog, “My name is Dahl, I manage beasts that hunt”
“I am Deme” said the woman, I tend to the growth of fields and forests.
“I’m Suna” said the man, “It’s my duty to tend to the herds”
“We...haven’t actually got names” said the twins in unison, “We are simply Fire and Ice”
“I am Nemus” the bear growled, “I am simply strength. That is my father” he continued indicating the old man, “Remus” Finally the black wolf stepped forward.
“My name is Azreal. I govern the night, and those that hunt under the moon. It is good to see you Kirra”
“Enough formalities!” growled Dahl, “You girl, finish it! Kill him while now” Kirra’s mind writhed with confusion.
“What’s going on?” she asked.
“You were made by us as a weapon to destroy him” explained Azreal, “You were made for that sole purpose. It is the only reason you stand here now. Fulfil your duty, and finish him” Kirra turned to Nihil. She could hear his heart still beating, but only just, his breath was strained and his blood stained the grass. So this was it, she thought, all her life had simply been leading to this moment, she only lived to make him die, did he know? No of course not, would he have stayed with her if he had? She could not deny the urge to end his life was strong, in the same way a moth urges towards light. She thought about all that had happened since they met. They had helped each other so much, she had learnt trust, and even forgot the horrors of her past when they lay and sat with each other. Now strange gods she had never known demanded that she kill him, but he had been there for her, when no one, not even the ones who “made” her were.
“Well girl” urged Remus, “Do it now!” she turned and said simply.
“No” A mix of confusion and rage came upon the gods.
“What!?” roared Remus, “You dare reject your own reason for living!”
“I will not hurt him anymore than I have to. He’s too weak to harm anyone now” said Kirra. Remus bellowed in rage.
“We made you, and anyone of us can unmake you, you’re a failure girl. We will have to protect this world” Pain suddenly surged through Kirra’s body. Quickly she took her sword and stabbed Remus through the chest. He roared and fell over, releasing her from his power. Within moments, arguments broke out among the others. They soon split, debating her fate, some saw it wrong to unmake her very life, these consisted of Azreal, Nemus, Deme and Ice. Dahl, Remus, Fire and Suna opposed them. It was not long before fighting broke out, those who tried to defend Kirra and those who wanted to kill her fought ferociously. Kirra herself joined in if anyone got too close, she refused to go far from Nihil while he remained wounded. Dahl ran at her and bit her arm trying to drag her to the floor. As they struggled Remus attacked, gripping her throat in his jaws and squeezing. She gripped the sort from his body and jammed it down Dahl’s’ throat, he fell back trying to get the sword out of himself. Remus began tightening his grip until he suddenly released her. His fur blazed with thick flames. Kirra looked around and saw Nihil’s hand raised, thick smoke swirling into the air. The fighting only began to escalate until at last a piercing howl filled the air, forcing everyone to stop.
“Away!” it was the voice of a woman who spoke. Everyone who heard began to move against their will away from each other. On the top of the hill above Nihil a large white fox stood. It was from her the command came, she slowly and calmly walked down the hillside. She glanced at Nihil as she passed him then looked long at Kirra. For a moment, Kirra thought the fox smiled at her. She turned to the other gods.
“This must stop” her voice was smooth and calm, “It is over”
“over! The enemy still lives!” shout Dahl.
“I have followed these two for some time” said the fox indicating Nihil and Kirra, “and things have changed, he is different now”
“Different?” asked Nemus.
“Yes. In a way Kirra did what we intended. He developed feelings for her; something I never thought would be possible. But his care for her as affected that which we feared, and I do not think we need to fear him any longer” There were grumblings amongst the gods before they left. Only Azreal and the white fox remained.
Family and old friends
When she was confident the gods who left were in fact completely gone, Kirra walked over to Nihil. She knelt down next to him. Something was wrong, the lights of his eyes had gone entirely, and she could no longer hear the beating of his heart. Grief filled her, she had fulfilled her purpose after all, he was dead. She lay her head on his shoulder and wept. She was alone again, just as before. Azreal and the fox approached her. She growled, as they got too close, as if she wanted to protect him even now.
“You’re gods. Can’t you do something?” she asked. They both shook their heads.
“He is too strange a being” said Azreal, “We would not know where to start”
“Perhaps I would” the voice spoke clear and loudly into both Azreal’ and the foxes minds, “Azreal, my old friend did you miss me? Oh and is that Radia there with you. My my you’ve become quite the powerful little fox haven’t you?”
“Arcanis!” gasped Azreal, “But you died, Nihil killed you all those years ago”
“Killed me? Ha! My dear friend, I am not so easy to destroy. Once he tore my body apart I, being clever, fused my spirit to his”
“You can give him life?” asked Radia.
“I have lived off his powers all this time. If I had enough power I could”
“You’re suggesting that we feed your power with our own aren’t you” said Azreal.
“Not give...lend it to me. I will bring back tall dark and mysterious here, and your powers will return” They thought for a moment, and then began to feed Arcanis’ powers with their own. His strength grew and grew, a great shadow spread out from Nihil’s corpse, it became so thick it was impossible to see throw, the darkness swirled and came together.
“YES!” Arcanis shouted, the darkness became solid, forming a body. A tall proud figure stood before them, as the shadows fell away only covering his legs Arcanis revealed a strong and highly fit body, though his hair was grey, his face and eyes seemed aged and showed countless years of wisdom and experience. He lifted his hand high above his head, summoned all the power he could muster and thrust it into Nihil’s open chest. A great shockwave spread forth throwing Kirra, Radia and Azreal some way away.
She found everything quite confusing, Kirra wondered if Nihil would have any answers when he woke, he lived again now and seemed to be healed though for now he was in a deep sleep. For now, though she was left with the two gods. The fox always seemed to be smiling at her, while the wolf Azreal lay looking around, as if he expected her attackers would come back. After a long silence, Kirra turned to the fox.
“Who are you? And why did you help us?” She asked.
“My name is Radia. I helped you because, things changed. It is true you were made to kill Nihil, and I helped you accomplish that. Do you remember that white stone you found? However, I placed that for you to find some time before I realised he was no longer the man I thought he was. With him changed we have no reason to want him dead”
“If that’s true, what happens to me?” asked Kirra, “If my reason for living was to kill him, now I have no reason to live”
“Don’t you? We left you with mortal parents so you would learn to think and look out for yourself. Azreal and I wanted you to have a life after you fulfilled your duty”
“Why only you two?” Azreal now turned to look at Kirra.
“To make you, we had to gather our power. However having that power alone would not make what we wanted, we could not just make you pop into existence. Instead, we divided the power between two volunteers, Radia and me. We then mated, uniting the power and creating life. You. Kirra, we are your true parents” The shock left Kirra speechless. All along her parents had been gods, and not the two that made her life hell. She suddenly felt angry, they could have done something, they could have helped her, protect her from them. Instead, they abandoned her, left her to make sure she grew up strong enough to do what they wanted. She sighed; she was too tired to start thinking about her past again. Instead, she lay down in the grass and fell asleep.
Like Mother Like Daughter
Nihil remembered Radia very well. Long ago, it was she who focused her fellow gods’ powers and used them to force the world’s pain on him. However, he held no grudge, she did what was necessary. She looked at him now with an odd smile. There was a small flash of light as she changed form. She stood now as a tall woman with long black hair that covered half her face, she maintained her deep black eyes. She had pale skin and wore long elegant white robes. He saw instantly how strong the resemblance was between mother and daughter. If Kirra had looked a few years older and did not have her vivid green eyes, they might have been mistaken for twins, except Radia seemed to be smiling constantly. She moved over to Kirra, walking with utter silence, her feet seemed to not disturb the grass even slightly. She knelt down next to her daughter and gently stroked her hair.
“Normally, to a god time means little, but it feels like so long since I could be so close to my daughter. We needed her to be like you Nihil, she needed to know hate and not love, and she needed to be a killer and nothing more. So her life has been hard”
“And do you blame me” asked Nihil. Radia looked at him, smiled and shook her head.
“If anything, I thank you. It’s ironic, you who are feared and hated by all as a monster, a creature of uncontrollable rage, a being who all thought would bring only death, and yet you have been the only one to show her compassion, maybe even love” The word didn’t sit easily in Nihil’s ears, love was not something he ever expected to face.
He would have liked to think on it for a time. However, there was trouble brewing. He was not the only one that felt it, Radia returned to her fox body, Azreal stood by her growling and Kirra was already moving next to Nihil. From the direction of Darkwood came a multitude of piercing screams. Dahl stepped out of the shadows snarling, behind him things moved. As he stepped forward, the things that followed him became clear. It was a mass of the creatures Nihil and Kirra had previously fought in Darkwood.
“He always was stubborn” said Azreal, “I doubt he’ll give up anytime soon” Dahl charged far ahead of the creatures he lead. Just as Nihil gripped the hilt of his sword, and Kirra even before Kirra could turn to her wolf form Radia sped off. As she approached Dahl a great flash of white light surrounded her, Dahl was forced to stop and turn away. Radia leapt onto his back and bit at him. Soon the creatures began to get closer and closer; Radia raised her head to the sky and let out a long clear wail. A star in the night’s sky seemed to out shine the rest in answer to her call. Suddenly the sky filled with a brilliant light, as if the star itself had come down, something pounded the earth at the centre of the horde. Utterly destroying those it hit and sending the rest flying through the air.
“Well” said Nihil, “I can see where you get your aggression” he turned to Kirra and chuckled, then drawing his blade, he and Kirra ran to attack the creatures that still lived. Fighting side by side the pair seemed all but unstoppable, neither of them would allow the other to come to harm. Kirra in her wolf form leapt across and from Nihil’s back tearing down creatures that tried to sneak up on him. Nihil parried and countered blows that Kirra would not otherwise see coming. When they fought like this, their bond became stronger, so much, so it was as if they were in perfect unison. Meanwhile Radia and Azreal battled against their fellow god. Despite how they tried to make him see reason, Dahl would not listen to simple words; he would only listen to action. When he had the chance, as gaps in the fighting began to become more frequent, Nihil would notice how similar Kirra and Radia fought, it was obvious she took after her mother more than her father, though it was true that it was thanks to Azreal that she was a werewolf. However, she was not a god and when faced with one that had the power to unmake her very life, Kirra’s strength meant little. Just as Remus had done, now Dahl attempted the same attack to remove his share of power, it was like pulling on a loose thread of clothing, causing the rest to unravel. Kirra began to feel the familiar sense of pain start to fill her body. However, soon it stopped and she felt normal again. Confusion flashed in Dahl’s eyes.
“Why wont it work!” barked Dahl. Again, he tried and again, the pain would fade in moments. Radia laughed quietly to herself and nudged Azreal. He saw that she had been looking at Nihil, a jet-black mist or glow seemed to be radiating from his body.
“Have you forgotten old friend?” said Azreal approaching Dahl, “Nihil was made to kill us gods remember? His powers can counter yours”
“Why would he use his powers to protect her, she killed him”
“Only because we forced her” said Radia.
“That would not matter; he has no mercy or forgiveness. I saw that when he murdered my brother. You are not the sort to be overprotective of a woman” he said turning on Nihil, they stood looking at each other for a time until finally Dahl spoke again, “However, I have been wrong before” Dahl walked away, without his leadership the remaining creatures scattered and ran.
The four of them walked to the coast and sat looking out at the waves. The night was fading away and pale sunlight began to shine over the horizon.
“It may take a little time” said Radia as she lay almost sleeping on Azreal’s back, “but we should be able to get it to the others that you’re not a danger to us anymore. You’re off the hook Nihil” she turned to him with her usual smile then widened it. She looked over to Kirra who ran over the hills chasing sheep, “Nihil. I can accept that you and my daughter have a bond, and that you will no doubt end up getting her into all kinds of dangers, and I am happy that you have shown her care. But know this” her smile faded now, “If you ever hurt or abandon her. I will hunt you down and your rage will be nothing compared to mine” she gave him another smile then fell asleep.

[Eretik]

I'll enjoy this later, when I have time.

[Pav]

Oh one little note for anyone who reads. The names of the gods mentioned, all except Azreal and Radia, aren't final, I'm not sure about them and if anyone thinks they can come up with more suitable names I'll happily consider replacements

[Eretik]

I reiterate, wonderfully evocative writing Pav.On names, you are the best one to decide, mull it over.Take some time and maybe the final names will come,I have various research materials that may have names of Northern Spirits/Deities in them that you would like,appropriate for the shapeshift forms and such,I'll check around tomorrow.

[Pav]

I don't mind keeping the names that are there. I just know I'm not the best at naming lol So I thought welcoming people to bring up any names they thought might be better could be useful

[Eretik]

I didn't think there was anything wrong with them,Pav.I like the work of authors like Harry Harrison,his book The Hammer and the Cross, is fiction, but it's real history based and I know it sings louder because of that.His character names are drawn from historical records.I Just thought you might find it useful,if you were undecided.

[Pav]

Hey I'd find most things useful but if theres nothing wrong with the names then i'm happy with them

[Eretik]

At the risk of sounding like a 'suck up' Pav, I don't read many books, I'm hard to impress.I'm impressed by your writing.Very much so.Names are fine.I'll stop now.lol.

[Pav]

lol thanks Eretik that means a lot

[Pav]

Heres another one lol its obvious what i do all day


Just As I Was Getting Comfortable
Kirra could not deny that she missed her parents; she had hoped they could have spent more time together, thought she knew they would not be around all the time. She and Nihil had been travelling for some time since they spent the day with Radia and Azreal at the coast near Darkwood. They were now far away from her old home, and closer to civilisation. Often they had gone into human villages or towns for food and rest, though she did not mind, no one ever noticed her with Nihil walking around, but she still preferred to be out in the wild. This was one such night. They were on the edge of a small patch of woodland, a short way away the glow of a towns’ light shone in the night. Life had been easy and calm for some time, and this time, she was content. There was something nice about it all, not having to worry about anyone wanting to attack them. She began to enjoy the days she spent with Nihil. She looked over at Nihil, he remained as he always had, never removing his armour, or even fully sleeping. She wondered if one day he, like she had, would learn to relax.
Although all seemed to be good, something still troubled her. Lately her dreams had been invaded with images of a being that seemed to be Magnus. All she could see was half of his face, the other half was covered with a plain golden mask, his body shone in golden armour. It was as if what was left of his body had been put back together in metal. Behind him stood a taller figure, its face hidden behind a white hood, its body hidden within pale mists. It was always all she saw before waking. Even in death, the angel bothered her. She sat up now, trying to shake the image of the dream from her mind. It was morning, a gentle pale light covered the land and a soft chilled rain was falling.
“What’s wrong? It’s not like you to wake with a start like that” Nihil stood up behind her and put a hand on her shoulder.
“Nothing, it was just a dream” she leaned back against him, “Wait” she sniffed, “I can smell blood” She rushed off towards the town, by the time Nihil caught up with her she was standing outside a building looking very impatient. Nihil had to purchase several pieces of meat from the towns butcher to get Kirra to calm down.
“You’re starting to act more like an animal than normal” Nihil remarked as Kirra tore into the meat.
“Hunter’s moon is almost here” replied Kirra.
“Hunter’s moon?”
“Adult werewolves as I’m sure you’ve notice can control their changes, apart from when it’s hunter’s moon. It won’t be long now, I’ll be stuck in my wolf form for a couple of days, over these next few days I’ll start acting more and more like an animal until I change”
“If she were in a pack Nihil she’d have others to look out for her, the pack sticks together more than usual. Keep an eye her old friend, but be careful” said Arcanis.
“We should get away from places like this. It’ll be safer if we’re not near any people” Kirra continued, “It might be better if you stay away from me as well Nihil. I wont know what I’m doing”
“No I’m not going anywhere” replied Nihil, “come on, we’ll find somewhere without humans” They set off immediately heading east. The eastern lands were wild and untamed, great sprawling forests and lakes covered most of the land the rest was filled with enormous mountain ranges. Humans had not settled here. Many powerful beasts roamed the forests including packs of werewolves. The lakes were rumoured to be home to great serpents. Even dragons were said to look down on the land from the mountains. After several days, the wild lands were beginning to show in the distance, Nihil and Kirra could see the black outlines of mountain.
“Something is bothering me Nihil” said Arcanis as Nihil and Kirra walked on, “I’ve felt something...odd lately. A god is plotting something I think, one of the “light” ones this time. Keep your eyes peeled for anything” Finally Nihil and Kirra reached the edge of the great woods.

The Wild lands
Kirra looked in wonder at the trees, they were huge, and all of them were thick with leaves of all shades of green. They seemed to glisten as if the dew of morning remained on them, their trunks were thick and strong and of a dark brown. Thick soft grass spread out among them as far as she could see. It all seemed so beautiful. She ran off deep into the forest, Nihil walked after her. He found her lying in a small grassy area with her eye to the floor.
“I love it here” she said as he approached, “Everything’s so fresh and alive, listen, you can hear animals scurrying about” She lay there for some time listening to the forest and feeling the soft damp grass against her skin.
That night the hunter’s moon came. Its strong pale light shone through the roof of trees. Within moments, Kirra was in her wolf form and wandering around restlessly.
“Nihil you might want to know, werewolves act primarily as animals during this time, this will pose one main problem for you, and that is Kirra isn’t the only werewolf in these lands. That means it is likely there will be a few young males sniffing around. Oh don’t get like that”
“Like what?”
“Don’t be an ass I know that bothers you, but don’t worry, emotions they feel are strengthened. That means, a small annoyance becomes hate. Now Kirra’s feelings of love for you means she wont be interested in other males, that could cause fights. It also means, her dislike of being touched will probably be strengthened, do not touch her unless she shows you a sign that you can”
“How do you know so much?”
“Werewolves are an old race, I’ve studied them in my youth” There was a splash, Kirra was swiping at the water in a small pool a short way away, eventually she threw a fish up into the air and caught it in her mouth. Howling began to fill the air; Kirra’s ears pricked up and she ran over to Nihil and stood defensively next to him.
“Careful Nihil, she’s protecting you but you still must not touch her, or she may just attack you herself” Kirra walked around him for a while, looking out into the woods. Nihil decided to sit with his back against one of the trees. Kirra remained restless constantly walking around but remaining nearby. A twig snapped and Nihil quickly turned and stood up. Pair of werewolves stalked out of the trees, both were large with dark eyes and thick brown fur. They both growled at Nihil, and then Kirra started growling at them.
“This is going to get messy” said Arcanis, “Those two wont like you being near a female, you’re in for a rough fight, I wouldn’t bother using a weapon, it’d slow you down” One of the males charged and leapt at Nihil, he braced himself but the wolf was caught in the air by Kirra who bit into one of its legs and threw it at a tree. The other male tackled Nihil before he could ready himself; it instantly clamped its jaws around his head trying to crush it. Quickly Nihil brought his fist up and struck at the side of the werewolf’s head. Stunned for a moment it released him, it recovered quickly and swiped at his leg, the claw cut through both armour and flesh and forced him once more the floor. It leapt at him again and gripped his throat, Nihil again punched with all his strength at the wolfs temple, and once again it released him. Nihil stood before the wolf recovered this time and hammered at its temple a third time.
The other male bit into Kirra’s ear, tearing it. As it continued to attack, she managed to get on her back and swiped at its throat. The male fell back and Kirra charged, it tried to bite but she leapt onto its back and jumped off behind it. The male yelped as she bit into its legs, her powerful jaws threatening to break the bone. In a desperate attempt to repel her, the male spun and slashed at shoulder. Trying to regain the upper hand the male pressed the attack and bit into her neck, Kirra grabbed its jaws in her hands and forced them apart. The male struggled to get free but couldn’t, she tilted its head back and pulled its mouth open, finally she struck at its lower jaw breaking it loose, once again she swiped at its throat. This time it fell back and ran through the trees.
Blood fell from the wolfs eye, Nihil was relentless in his attacks, striking its temple at every opportunity. It continued to swipe at him cutting deep gashes in his armour and flesh. It ran at him again, this time however, Nihil crouched; the werewolf struck his shoulder with its body. He stood lifting the wolf; again, it bit at his throat. He lifted the wolf more, forcing it to stand full height and expose it’s chest. He punched once, cracking a number of ribs, he struck a second blow, causing more cracks. His third blow burst the werewolf’s chest, it yelped and tried to pull away, but Nihil’s grip was firm, he twisted his hand tore its heart from its body.
Nihil staggered and was forced to lean on a tree to stay upright. Kirra approached him after she’d finished sniffing the dead male, when she reached him she stood, pressed her snout against him and shoved. He stumbled and fell; before he could stand, she stood on him and lay on top of him, resting her head on his chest. She kept her eyes open, small green lights in the dark of night; she at times moved her head, looking this way and that.
“My, she is a protective one” remarked Arcanis, “I think this is that sign I meant. You’ll be ok, just stick close to her, I doubt any animals will attack with her around” Nihil relaxed, allowing his body to begin healing, within moments flesh began to knit back together. He reached out and carefully touched the stump of Kirra’s torn ear, it twitched slightly. Before he had not been able to heal without releasing the raw power of his heart, but now he wondered, he had thrown fire before, that was a simple matter of harnessing a fraction of his raw power and releasing it as something else. Perhaps it was possible to do the same for healing purposes. He focused, tapped into the raw power of his heart and gripped a part of it. He focused on the fraction of power and sent it down the length of his arm being careful not to lose control of it. Now he focused on his emotions, focused on his feelings for Kirra. Mixing the two together, he allowed some of the power to release from his finger. The black power spread slowly outwards closing around Kirra’s ear; it remained for a few moments, and then faded away. Nihil released his grip on the power and allowed it to flow back to his heart; he smiled and brushed his finger gently against Kirra’s mended ear.
No other dangers came to them that night, and when day came Kirra released Nihil from the ground and went away sniffing into the woods. Nihil instead of following her followed the sound of running water a short way off from where Kirra had gone. The woods were full of the sounds of birds that darted among the leaves above him. Most were small and brightly coloured, moving as blurs. The grass beneath him glistened as the in the light of the sun that came through the trees in thick beams. After a few minutes he came out of the trees next to a large shining lake, a great waterfall fell from the cliffs that towered above to his left. He began removing parts of his armour and washed his skin with the cold clear water. Away to his right there was a splash, Kirra had jumped into the waters and swam about occasionally disappearing beneath the surface. They spent some time there, when Nihil finished bathing he re-attached his armour. Kirra resurfaced nearby on the grassy bank, two fish hung by the tail from her mouth, she dropped them, pushed one with her nose towards Nihil and ate the other. Nihil gripped the fish and looked at it for a moment; he brought fire to his hand and cooked it.

Welcome Back
Kirra had been worried about what she might do while trapped in her wolf form. However, Nihil suffered few problems, often she would simply wander off, returning sometime later, other times she would simply chase after birds or mice. In fact, thought Nihil as he focused on closing several scratches and bites, the only problem was when she play fought. From time to time he could see other werewolves stalking between trees some way away, he didn’t know if they were male or female, but either way if they got too close Kirra would ward them away. He watched as she stood crouched, her fur bristled and her teeth showing, she was a frightening sight. However, as soon as they were gone she returned to her, unusual gentle nature. She seemed more like her mother than she normally did. Another day passed, it wouldn’t’ be long now before Kirra was able to return to her human body. However, now things were not well. Kirra was impatient, often growling and pacing, even the forest seemed uneasy, the bird no longer chirped and darted playfully among the trees.
“Something has upset this place” remarked Arcanis.
“You think it’s what was bothering you earlier?”
“Yes I do, Nihil. I think trouble’s coming” A few moments later a figure stepped out from the trees. At first Nihil didn’t recognise the golden glad figure, then he saw its face, or rather half its face.
“Ah Magnus, they say you can’t keep a good dog down, I hadn’t expected to see you again” said Nihil with a mocking voice.
“Alive? You call this alive!? What few remains I have sealed away in this metal coffin! No this isn’t life, this is a nightmare!” shouted Magnus
“One you brought on yourself!” growled Nihil
“One I will rid myself of. Once you and the girl are dead!”
“Kill us by yourself? That’s quite a boast for the newest member of the undead”
“By myself? No not at all, your actions have attracted he how made me, and...”
“And, if you want something done right you’ve got to do it yourself” a taller figure stepped out from the trees behind Magnus. Its face was hidden behind a white hood and it surrounded its body in a pale mist
“So Magnus” said Nihil, “You’ve brought your god with you this time” The god attacked, throwing a blue flame at Nihil, he raised his hand and released normal fire. The two flames struck in the air and faded away. Magnus drew a sword and attacked, Nihil drew his own blade and blocked, another blue flame shot through the air, with his free hand Nihil plunged his claws into Magnus’ body and threw him. Magnus collided with the flame and crashed into a tree some way behind Nihil. A third blue flame struck Nihil’s shoulder; he was knocked back but shrugged away the attack. The god charged, a golden light formed to the shape of a sword shone from what seemed to be his right arm. The light blade struck Nihil’s own blade, and the two struggled to gain the upper hand. Magnus moved behind Nihil, his sword ready to thrust, Nihil suddenly kicked hard behind him knocking Magnus back. He then spun away from the god and lunged. His blade burned into the gods’ body, searing both his body and spirit. The god fell back to recover, Nihil tried to press the attack but Magnus had recovered. Nihil turned and struck him across the chest with his sword. Magnus fell back with a grunt, before he could stand Nihil plunged his sword down into Magnus’ body pinning him to the ground. Something burned across Nihil’s back, the golden sword slashed into his flesh. The god then thrust it through Nihil’s shoulder causing him to yell. Magnus pulled the sword out of his own body and charged, just before he reached Nihil however, something crashed into his side. Kirra bit at Magnus’ face tearing the flesh. Magnus screamed in pain and rage as the last of his skin was torn, he staggered away clutching his bloodied face and screaming madly. Kirra charged at Nihil and crashed into him, he in turn struck against the god, as the god staggered back Kirra gripped Nihil and pulled him away. She threw him to the side and attacked the god. She slashed and bit at him to little effect, he threw her at a tree. Nihil once again stabbed his sword into the god forcing him further back. Magnus charged at Kirra attacking wildly.
A number of werewolves, both male and female had gathered to watch the fighting with quiet interest. Soon a large old looking wolf stepped among them, the others moved aside, those that were not quick enough received a sharp bite. The old werewolf stood at the head of the group and watched with them.
Nihil hurled the god at Magnus causing them both to tumble to the ground. The god stood, and Kirra quickly pounced on Magnus biting at him. She gripped his arm and pulled on it, the metal cracked and broke. Blue fire poured from the wound, she slashed at his stomach spilling more fire and this time some of his remaining innards. He raised his sword in his remaining hand and tried to strike, but Kirra gripped his hand and twisted it until it broke off. Magnus fled a short way from her. Instead of attacking, however Kirra staggered for a few moments then fell to her hands and knees. Within moments she was in here human form again. Hunter’s moon had passed. Not wanting to let her moment of weakness pass Magnus charged and bought his elbow down into her back. He tried to stamp his foot down onto her but she rolled and stood up. She tackled him with her shoulder, knocking him back; she then punched at his chest cracking the metal. She grabbed his sword and plunged it into his eye; kicking his legs out from under him she forced the sword in deeper and until it pierced the ground beneath him. Standing above him, she tore at his chest and pulled out all that remained of his original body. The god saw what had happened to his servant and made the error of hesitating. Nihils blade swept up the gods right arm, cutting it off. He wailed and grabbed at the wound and fled.

Rightful places
Before Nihil and Kirra could even relax, the werewolves approached them. Some remained in the wolf forms, others stood in their human forms, and all wore very little clothing. Kirra and Nihil quickly regrouped. At the head of the group of werewolves stood a tall grey haired but strong man. He looked shortly at Nihil then turned to Kirra.
“Your impressive” he said smiling, “It’s unusual to see one like you without a pack. Young, strong and fertile” Kirra simply growled at him.
“I think she is more of the lone wolf type” said Nihil. The elder werewolf looked at Nihil then walked towards him, before he got close however; Kirra pushed Nihil back and stood threateningly in front of the werewolf. Several others behind the old male growled and took a step forward.
“You don’t trust your own kind?” asked the elder.
“I only trust two people” said Kirra with a sense of anger, “myself and him” she indicated at Nihil, who put a hand on to her shoulder and whispered.
“Wouldn’t you be happier in a pack? You’d have a normal life, safe, with others of your kind” Kirra thought for a time, it was true if she joined a pack, her life would become safe and easy. Perhaps in time she could even find a mate and raise pups of her own.
“No” she said at last, she turned to Nihil and said, “Nothing a pack could offer me can replace what I already have” They embraced each other.
“Well” sighed the elder, “It is a shame, but should you ever change your mind, we are here” he turned and led the others away.
That night, Nihil and Kirra lay with each other next to the waterfall they had been at before.
“It disgusts me, it really does!” remarked Arcanis.
“What are you complaining about?”
“The way you two are all...cuddly, urgh, it doesn’t suit you at all” Nihil ignored him, happy with the night, there was no sense of impending danger. The air was sweet and clear, the sounds of the waters were soothing. Everything seemed calm. After some time Kirra stood up and walked over to a small group of vines that crept up the rocks. She bit into one thin vine and pulled it free; she took some of her hair and braided it with the vine.
“Looks nice. What’s it for?” asked Nihil.
“It’s a werewolf thing. When a female becomes paired with a male she braids some of her hair, it shows others she’s not available” she smiled at him.
“Paired?” asked Nihil. She took hold of his helmet and pulled it off. Nihil’s skin was a dark grey like ash. It was obvious that he had been made rather than born naturally all his facial features were similar to a well-made statue. His hair was long, straight and an odd coloured mix of auburn and black, he had a short trimmed beard of the same colour.
“It means” said Kirra leaning forward to kiss him, “that I love you”

“Does the male have to do anything like that?” Nihil asked Kirra as they watched the sunrise; she took another vine and braided some of his hair in the same fashion as hers. She looked at him and thought for a moment.
“You wear your armour too much, anyone will be lucky to see that” She undid some of the armour she still wore and loosened the cloak she had kept from Nihil to reveal her black clothing, she tore some of her sleeve and tired it around his upper right arm, “that should do” Nihil looked at it as Kirra redid all her clothing. It had been tied very tightly; two strips beyond the knot blew in the wind. Nihil had always believed his place was on some battlefield bringing death to all those that faced him. Never had he thought that he would feel so happy where he was now. Radia had been right, he truly had changed, and so to had his place in the world.
Onwards And Upwards
Later that day they set off deeper into the wild lands. They crossed through thick dark parts of the forest, and great open grass lands populated by large white horses that Kirra attempted to hunt, however their speed outmatched even hers. Large black birds flew over head, swooping high into the clouds and diving to take food from the ground. One landed near Kirra and pecked at the ground. She marveled at its size, as it stood at full height its beak was level with her waist. They continued walking long into the night; Kirra went ahead using her superior sight and hearing to see through the darkness, until they came upon another body of water. Much smaller than the last lake they had visited; fish swam in thick numbers just beneath the surface and on the far side of the lake sat coiled was a large serpent, the tip of its tail swished from side to side in the water, its large yellow eyes focused on them as they rested. The next morning Kirra woke to see Radia curled up on her lap. She turned looking up into Kirra’s eyes and smiled.
“It’s nice to see you again” said Radia softly. Kirra hugged her.
“Hello mother” she said. Radia raised herself up, placed her front paws on Kirra’s shoulders and looked at her braided hair. Her smile broadened and she looked over at Nihil who stood face to face staring at the snake, noticing the band on his arm she turned back to Kirra and nuzzled her.
“I had started to hope you two would pair up” she jumped off Kirra and walked over at Nihil, she gave a short sharp bark at the snake who fled beneath the waters, free from his staring contest with the snake Nihil looked down at her. Radia leapt at him jumping onto his shoulder she nuzzled him.
“You’re in a fine mood” he said.
“How could I not be” She smiled, “My daughter has the chance of a life thanks to you, besides, you two are perfect for each other” she jumped down from him and curled up next to Kirra. She knelt down and stroked Radia.
“Why have you come mother?” she asked.
“Does a mother need a reason to see her daughter? I have only come to check up on you two, where are you going?”
“We don’t really know” replied Kirra, “I love this place so much, so I guess were back to just traveling”
“Well there is something happening here” said Radia, “Dragons seem restless”
“Dragons?” Kirra asked.
“Yes large, ancient and mostly bad tempered, something’s got them troubled, perhaps you two can sort it out”
“A god doesn’t suggest something like that without wanting us to find something” said Nihil with suspicion.
“Maybe there is something” said Radia with a mischievous grin, “At least something you may find useful” she licked Kirra’s hand and ran off across the lake.
They would need to go to the mountains. The wild lands were full of mountains; some reaching so high their peaks became lost in the clouds. A short way ahead of them loomed a large range of such mountains. As they headed towards them Kirra would sometimes stop for a moment and simply listen. Far away, carried along the breeze came the sounds of the dragons. At times it was nothing more than a dull rumbling, or soft cooing. Others were great howls or deafening roars. She couldn’t deny feeling a slight sense of fear at the idea of being near such creatures. Nihil on the other hand seemed not to be affected by the idea. Kirra wondered what it was that had been causing trouble, and what it was they were going to find up at those dizzying heights. After two days of travel with little rest they reached the foot of the mountain range. A chilled wind blew from the heights above. Nihil gathered wood at nightfall and lit a fire. They sat together close to the warmth.
“Have you ever seen one them before Nihil, a dragon I mean” asked Kirra.
“Only one, and only once. Back during the old wars I met up with one, a very old one at that. It was a few days before my rage caused so much trouble, as I remember he almost killed me until an army of the light gods turned up. We were forced to fight side by side. Afterwards out of mutual respect for each other we just parted ways”
“I remember hearing about them when I was a pup, well, a heard a number of things. Do they talk?”
“The one I met did, he spoke like the gods, speaking directly into the mind” They fell silent. The winds from above grew stronger as the night progressed, soon the fire began to flicker and die. Nihil released a blast of flame at the wood but to no avail, the fire roared for a moment before fading again. Giving up Nihil unfolded one of his wings and spread it around Kirra; she smiled and lay back against the soft warm feathers.

Rock climbing
The morning was pale and cold, above them hidden in the mists of clouds. Nihil stretched his wings, making sure they were ready for flying. Carrying both himself and Kirra he wouldn’t be able to go very far for long, however they both had claws, and they could climb what he couldn’t fly. Kirra had left into a nearby piece of the forest at sunrise, she soon returned in her wolf form chewing on the remains of a couple of rabbits. Changing back to her human form she stood next to him. Nihil put his arms around her waist; she wrapped her arms around his neck. He crouched, spreading his wings out and tensing them, moved them with all his strength. They were lifted some way off the ground, and Nihil had to struggle to keep them from dropping back down. After a few minutes, they slowly but surely began to gain height, after someway Nihil put his feet on the rocks and pushed. Turning in mid air he swooped down and using the winds flew upwards.
They flew some way before Nihil’s breathing became heavy and the movement of his wings became more and more labored. Eventually Kirra told him to stop; he did one last turn away from the mountain and swooped in, ramming his claws into the rocks. Still holding onto him Kirra noticed his wings trembled slightly. He waited until he was able to get safe footing before folding them. Changing to her wolf form, Kirra turned, stuck her claws into the rock and began climbing. Nihil simply clung to the mountain for a few moments catching his breath before setting off after her. Before long the climb became more difficult, the cold winds that blew down on them grew stronger. Often rocks they clung to would come loose and fall, almost causing them to slip. As the day passed they both became exhausted. Kirra noticed a cave a little way to her left, she climbed down to Nihil and pointed it out to him. By the time they reached the cave it was getting dark.
The cave was small, almost too small for them to move. They crawled in and lay close together for warmth against the cold night air, neither of them had the strength to remain awake for long. When Kirra woke Nihil still slept and it was still night. She lay awake for a time feeling restless. Instead of doing nothing she decided to crawl to the entrance of the cave and look outside. The moon and the stars shone brightly, it made her fell like her parents were nearby. She looked up towards the hidden mountain peaks, the sounds of the dragons were much louder now, and they all sounded awake, she wondered if they ever slept. She saw them sometimes, moving among the clouds like fish in water. Suddenly a number of rocks fell near her, there were a number of loud pounding sounds a sharp hissing, she growled in response. She could see its silhouette moving only a few feet from her. A small dragon studied her. After a few moments it crept closer, sniffing loudly. A sense of fear gripped her as it moved closer; she could smell blood on its hot breath. It was still for a time, but finally turned and headed back up the mountain side.
Kirra wondered why the dragon hadn’t attacked her, perhaps it was just curious, or maybe she wasn’t worth it. Whatever the reason she felt much safer back in the cave. A dim light now shone from Nihil’s eyes, he was half awake. When day came Nihil woke, Kirra was sitting in the entrance of the cave, and bright sunlight surrounded her. He didn’t move for a moment, she looked to his eyes beautiful in the glowing light. She turned to him noticing he was awake.
“I’ve been waiting for you” she said, “Come one I’ve found a safe path up” Nihil crawled out of the cave and they soon began climbing again. He was envious of her; in her wolf form she could use both the claws on her hands and her feet, whereas he was forced to find rocks for footing. After several tiring hours Kirra stopped. Nihil climbed up to her level, to see she was looking out over a flat shelf of rock in the mountain. On either side of them the grey rocks continued up into the clouds. It seemed to him that this odd shelter of sorts was not a natural part of the mountain. In the centre of the flat rock was a small pool. Large black birds jumped and darted around it sometimes snatching small fish from the waters. Kirra was growling quietly and bearing her teeth. Her grip tightened on the ledge and she flung her self over and ran at the birds. They were quick, very quick but she was faster. Snatching a bird out of mid air she threw it down to the floor and pounced on it, gripping it in her jaws again she shook at it, then chewed it. Nihil climbed up onto the ledge just as Kirra caught another bird who’d foolishly returned. Nihil knelt down next to the pool and was just about to drink before suddenly he was thrown onto his back. A large claw slammed down onto his chest, another struck the ground next to him. A large dragon bent its long neck bringing its snout down to his face; it snorted blowing thick black smoke on him and snarled showing its huge white fangs. It suddenly howled as Kirra leapt onto its wing. It reared onto its back legs and flapped its wings trying to shake her off. Eventually she let go and fell, landing on her feet next to Nihil. The dragon stepped back looking at them with large golden eyes, its grey scales rustled slightly. It spread its jaws and charged; bounding forward it swung its head at Kirra and knocked her into the rocks. Again it threw Nihil to the floor and pinned him down.
“You!” she roared, the dragons voice though feminine was deafeningly strong, she tightened her grip on Nihil’s torso and lifted him, “You, who took my fathers eye!” she struck him against the floor, then, still clutching him she took flight.
Kirra struggled to her feet and looked around. Neither the dragon nor Nihil were anywhere to be seen. The sun was beginning to set and the air grew cold. Not knowing where to go to find the dragon she closed her eyes and focused. She heard sounds all around her, wind, birds in the distance, dragons above her. However she didn’t need to hear any of that. She concentrated harder, singling out sounds, after some time she heard it. It was distant but the sound of Nihil’s odd heart beat was familiar to her, she had often fallen asleep to the sound of it. It was high above her, very high above her. She ran across the shelter and began climbing the far wall.
The dragon was not gentle with him, often tightening her grip on him or flying too low near smaller mountain peaks. Eventually they reached another shelf of flat rock, much, much larger than the one they’d previously been on. There was another pool in the centre. On the far side lay an extremely large dragon. Its golden brown scales clinked like metal as it stood. It spread its enormous partially tattered wings. Its one eye shone a vivid gold; the other was nothing more than an empty hole, terrible scars surrounded it. The great dragon let out a loud rumble as the younger female dropped Nihil.
“I thought it was you, I remember your smell” though to other dragons his voice would have been quiet, Nihil’s ears it sounded like a great rock slide, “My daughter has not been too rough I hope” The grey dragon looked down and Nihil and snarled.
“No rougher than what I’m used to” replied Nihil, “I admit I had not expected you to still live being so old”
“My kind can outlive time little man” rumbled the dragon bringing its eye level with his. “Odd that you would come here”
“I heard there was trouble”
“Trouble there is. Humans have come to our mountains, they hunt our young and damage our homes” the dragon was growling now, his fangs showing in anger.
“There was a female with him” said the dragons’ daughter not releasing Nihil from her gaze.
“Bring her” replied her father. As she turned and spread her wings Nihil gripped her tale. She spun closing her jaws around him and snarling. With his free hand Nihil gripped one of the horns above her ear, then with her fangs scraping against his armour he pulled her closer until he stood next to her ear.
“Treat her better than you did me” he said threateningly. He released her and she flew away into the mists. Nihil turned back to the old dragon who seemed to be chuckling quietly to himself. Without saying anything he stood and approached Nihil, he brought one large claw up and gripped him by the shoulders. Nihil was turned to face the west, some way in the distance large pillars of smoke rose from the mountains.
“That is where they are” snarled the old dragon, “They come digging and mining” he snorted, “Typical humans, destroying and killing everything they touch”
“Do you know what they’re looking for?” asked Nihil.
“Not a clue. So, you’re helping us now are you?”
“So it would seem” They were silent for a time. They had fought a long time ago, but even now they did not fully trust each other. Later, as the sun began to flood the land bellow the dragon’s daughter returned. Trying to clutch Kirra (who was in her wolf form) in her claws, she shouted in pain as Kirra struggled, biting and clawing at her. She hurriedly dropped Kirra who barked at her then ran at the old dragon. Seeing Nihil she stopped in the middle of her charge, changed to her human form and grabbed him. She stood facing the old dragon and growled.
“Easy” Nihil whispered to her, “We’re not enemies”
“Though we are neither friends” said the dragon sharply.

Uneasy Alliance
Kirra wasn’t happy about being near the dragons, she kept at least one eye always on the young female, who also seemed to take an interest in her. Nihil and the old dragon stood at the ledge facing west, quietly talking to each other. The female stood and walked to the pool, dipping her head into the waters she brought out and number of fish and devoured them. She looked over at Kirra then gestured at the pool; Kirra shook just shook her head. The Female dragon walked back, laying near Kirra and keeping her golden eyes on her. They were both tense, both ready to attack the other if they so much as twitched suspiciously they’d brake out into a fight in moments.
They would have a leader, thought Nihil. Humans were stupid little things they couldn’t muster an attack on dragons without a great leader, get rid of the leader and the rest would scatter like insects. More troubling than who lead them, more troubling even than their numbers was the question of what were they digging up? Surely it was what Radia had referred to. They would strike soon, they decided. For now however, Nihil was tired and needed rest.
Kirra smiled when Nihil returned, for the first time she took her eyes off the dragon. She leaned back resting her head on Nihil’s shoulder; she was exhausted after climbing through the night. The old dragon let out a loud yawn that shook loose rocks. His daughter however lay wide awake looking out at the distant sunset.
Ehrick watched his people; they had already dug massive chunks out of the mountain. He had had enough of monsters terrorizing his people. Ehrick would take the fabled artifact from the mountain back to his city of Cloudfire the most magnificent human city in the world. All was not well though; the dragons in the area had already killed at least one hundred of his workers. All great things required sacrifice; his mentor had always told him that when he was a child, he would stick to it now. Soon he could make sure his city, his people, his king would all be safe forever. He had a bad feeling; he had always had bad feelings before something bad, even when he was a child. He looked away across the mountains, away to the east a shadow loomed. There was something that sought to stop them, he could feel it, and it was dangerous.
The next morning was pale and cold. The old dragon decided to show Nihil and Kirra what they faced. Before the two of them woke the old dragon grabbed Nihil in his jaws and flung him onto his back. His daughter approached Kirra; she spread and lowered her wing. Trying to be careful Kirra climbed across the bone and sat at the base of the dragons’ neck. They took off, leaping off the cliff and spreading their wings, took flight. Air rushed past them as they soared across clouds. Kirra noticed countless other dragons, some clung to the cliffs, others played with their young and some flew through the sky like them. They soon came near to the mountains that sprouted the pillars of smoke; circling it they saw the mass of humans that covered the mountain like ants. Nihil suddenly dropped from the old dragons back, jumping into the air. As the ground became clear and clear Nihil spread his wings and began to glide. Once he was confident the fall wouldn’t be harmful he folded is wings and fell with into the midst of the humans. Many of them, startled jumped back clutching the tools like weapons. Some took a step forward, until Nihil drew his blade. One man, stood taller and prouder than the others, a man of obvious leadership. He had short brown hair and neat beard; he wore what would seem to be the finest armour humans could make and a decorative sword hung from his waist. He held up his hand, causing the rest to stand down and relax slightly.
“Who are you?” demanded Nihil.
“I am Ehrick, general of the army of Cloudfire” replied Ehrick as much pride as he could muster.
“Why have you come here, killing the rightful inhabitants of these mountains?”
“We kill only what we must. I will not let anything stand in the way of the defense of my people”
“Digging into mountains is a defence?”
“I will not tell you why we dig, I am not that stupid” Nihil’s eyes narrowed, orange light spread through the veins in his armour down his right arm. With a shout he threw fire at the Ehrick, he moved before it hit, instead the flame burst into the crowd behind him.
“You dare keep things from me you filthy parasite!” roared Nihil.
“Wow” remarked Arcanis shocked. The man stood up and instantly tried to help those burning.
“I’m warning you” Nihil growled, “Leave! Or next time I wont be so friendly” He crouched and took flight. The sounds of screaming and shouting slowly died away behind him as he flew into the air. It took sometime before the he found the dragons again.
“I didn’t know you had such a short temper with humans,” said Arcanis with a sense of admiration.
The old one clamped his jaw around his foot and dragged him through the air. They were soon back at the large flat shelf. As soon as Kirra got to the ground, she ran over to Nihil, and thrust her fist into his stomach.
“Don’t ever do something like that again without warning me!” she shouted. Between his own groans of pain Nihil was sure, he heard the old dragon laughing quietly. Over the course of the day more dragons began landing on the shelf, they ranged in colour, from sky blue to blood red. However, all shared vivid golden eyes. They all eyed Nihil and Kirra with a mix of suspicion and interest. There were fifty of them in all. With so many of them around Kirra found the air that night to be warm and dry, she felt uneasy being around so many giant powerful creatures. After a time the old dragons daughter walked up next to her.
“Don’t worry so much” she said soothingly, “No one here will harm you”
“It just feels a little overwhelming” the dragon lay down next to her.
“You really should get some rest, we’ll be fighting tomorrow. Your mate told us their numbers and where they are, we know where to hit them now. I thought they would carry on and finish it, Nihil and my father. I’m glad they didn’t, you two will be a big help to us” hours passed before Kirra finally fell asleep. She woke to a chorus of deafening roars. The dragons raised them self up onto their hind legs and bellowed into the air. From distant mountains, more dragons roared in response. Before Kirra could even stand, the young female dragon lowered her wing again and she climbed onto her back. There were so many of them, Kirra wondered why such numbers had not won them the battle before. As they approached, Kirra saw the old dragon hovering above the ground bellowing flame onto the ground beneath him. Soon they flew down to ground level and jumped to the floor. Changing to her wolf form, she ran towards the humans. Fire rained from the sky, striking the ground all around as she ran cutting down humans as she went. Soon she saw their full force and they seemed endless. Countless humans spread out along the mountain and other mountains surrounding it. She spotted Nihil; he was already busy cutting through humans. Most were only armed with their tools, with few actual weapons. She ran over to him and began cutting down and biting humans that seemed to be all around them.

Humans tried to hack and slash at her with pickaxes and other tools, but Kirra was careful to make sure they never got the chance. Keeping her back towards Nihil her enemies were forced to face her head on, a dangerous way to face a werewolf. Behind her Nihil spun, his blade twirling. He danced between humans with reactions faster than they could believe, cutting them down with such skill and little effort, he made death look like art. Kirra slashed at a man’s knee causing him to fall to the floor separated from his limb. As she bit at his throat, someone moved behind her, she threw herself back sliding between the man’s legs causing his attack to strike his own ally. Kirra rolled onto her back and slashed between the man’s legs, he screamed in pain before she stood and swiped at his head. More and more people began to mass around her, and then fire filled the skies. The dragons had moved silently through the clouds, allowing Nihil and Kirra to draw the attention of the humans, throwing them into chaos and disarray. They forgot their bows and spears, instead taking up hatchets and pickaxes; they piled around the two all struggling to get into the fray. With no organization, they stood no change against the dragons and their rain of fire and flame. People ran and scattered, some tumbled away over the cliffs, and others ran blindly into the waiting hungry mouths of dragons. Kirra ran after the largest group of humans she could see jumping on them and biting at their throats and faces.

Nihil stood facing Ehrick alone now, anger and damaged pride burned in the man’s eyes as he charged. Nihil was surprised at the humans speed, strength and even skill. Several times a dragon would break away from its brethren and ready an attack on the human. Nihil however sent them away. It did not matter to him who or what his enemy was, if they engaged in single combat, it would be fair. The air became thick with ash and the smell of burnt flesh. There was no sign of any other life, Nihil and Ehrick continued to fight, soon they both began to feel the effects. Sweating and bleeding they struggled on. Ehrick’s blade, though mostly seeming decorative, would cut as if Nihil’s armour were not even there. Similarly Ehrick’s armour proved all but useless against Nihil’s crushing blows. Finally they broke away from each other, they stood again some way away from each other, both of them were tired and worn out. Finally Ehrick mustered his strength and charged again. Nihil gripped the hilt of his sword tighter and swung his arm in an upward cleave. The tip of the blade slashed into the man’s face from his cheek up past his eye and ending at his forehead. Ehrick staggered back; as Nihil moved in to finish him, he spun, thrusting his blade behind him. The sword impaled Nihil through the chest, but it was not enough to stop him, with his free hand Nihil punched Ehrick in the chest, then swinging his sword with all his might he struck the man and threw him from the mountain.

All This For That?
Nihil sheathed his sword, tensed and with a grunt tore Ehrick’s sword from his body. He climbed to the mountains peak, above the ash and smoke.
“It is good to be rid of them,” rumbled the old dragon. He clung to the rocks a short way from Nihil and lowered his wing. Nihil climbed onto his back and they flew back to the shelf. The rest of the dragons had left again, from distant mountains came bellowing and roaring as they celebrated. The old dragon lowered Nihil to the ground and flew off again. Kirra, in her human form, sat near the pool cleaning herself with the cold water. Nihil removed his helmet as he approached and embraced her.
“That all got a little too hot,” she said as she splashed more cold water onto her face. She turned, kissed him and jumped into the pool. Nihil removed more pieces of his armour and allowed the mountain air to cool him. After a while, the old dragons’ daughter approached him, from between her teeth. It was a blue jewel about the length of an index finger and shaped like a tooth. It hung on a small chain. She opened her mouth and Nihil took it from her and held it up to the light.
“It’s what they were looking for,” she explained as he examined it, “I’m not sure what it does, but it is powerful”
“They meant to use it as a defense, or something along those lines at least,” said Nihil. From time to time, a light from within the jewel would flash, “It seems like such a little thing to fight over” he remarked.
“Don’t be deceived by the way it looks. We don’t know what it’s capable of,” said the dragon, “Take it from here, we don’t want the trouble it seems to bring” Nihil undid the clasp on the chain and attached it to his belt.

Nihil and Kirra planned to travel from the mountains and back to the waterfall the next day. All that night she fondled the jewel and examined it, the blue jewel reflected the green of her eyes, creating most interesting colours. When sunrise came, the dragons carried them back to the ground bellow and they headed back to the lake and the waterfall. Suddenly blue fire crackled through the air and struck Nihil in the chest throwing him back. The one armed god who had fought beside Magnus charged. He stopped when Kirra’s sword punctured his side; he shouted and threw her at the waterfall. The god turn and collided with Nihil’s fist, he staggered back under a number of Nihil’s blows. The god shouted again and a wave of blue fire spread from him, as it stuck Nihil he was thrown into the lake. Kirra jumped on the gods back and pulled the blade that still protruded from his side up. With effort it began to cut upwards, the god tried to throw Kirra off him, to no avail. Gripping her sword she leapt off and pulled it free, she swung it cutting into the back of the god’s knees. Nihil jumped from the waters and landed punching the god’s head. More blue flame struck Nihil’s stomach, causing him to stagger back, as he did so Kirra snatched his black sword from it and lunged, stabbing it into the god’s throat. Nihil recovered and snatching up Kirra’s blade stabbed it through the gods back. With his body destroyed, the god was forced to retreat again.

“We always seem to have enemies where ever go,” remarked Kirra as they relaxed, Nihil laughed slightly.
“Well” he said, “I wouldn’t complain, when they’re all dead we’ll miss the fun” Nihil undid the jewel from his belt and placed it around Kirra’s neck, “It looks better on you than it would on me” The sun was setting, spreading its orange light through the trees and glistening across the surface of the lake. Kirra relaxed and closed her eyes.
“I hope we never have to leave here”

[[EarthWitch]]

You are awesome! I have got to print this off for my son to read. He loves this stuff!

Keep on writing!

[Pav]

Thank you If you have an msn or email address I could send you the word document, might be easier to print etc

[Eretik]

I'll read later,too busy here right now.lol.Love the new 'grrwwly' avatar.

[Pav]

Thanks lol I got the picture becuase it reminded me of how I imagined Nihil...Oh no. I'm obssesed lol *scuttles away in shame*

[Sobek]

I am in support of obsession, we'll fix you after the stories are done

To which, I will bring the petrol and 2 bottles of jack