A little something (both unfinished and long)

[Pav]

This is a little something i've been working on, It's no where near finished yet but I thought I'd see what other people thought about it. Any feed back would be helpful Oh and a special thanks to Sobek who's already read this and privided many helpful and supportive words

Return From Exile
The northern wastes are a dark and foreboding land, standing at the top of the world the land of ice and darkness is known, feared and avoided by all men. Only trade ships dare risk nearing the island, choosing to traverse stormy seas rather than risk attack from pirates and raiders. Although, they never land, their men look over the sides of their ships, a cold chill running across their spines as they face the thick icy shroud of mist that surrounds the island. Beyond the shroud lies plain after plain of thick snow, pierced only by massive jagged mountains of black rock. Deep into the island at its centre stood the greatest mountain, one that reached the skies themselves, a mountain made not of rock, but of thick ice. Hidden deep within it lay something old, a power long forgotten, but ever dreaded.
The dark seas writhed and churned in gales that blew relentlessly, throwing walls of water high into the air, and pillars lightning stabbed endlessly into the waters. Thrown from wave to wave, battered by wind and rain was a lone ship. So small it could be nothing more than a one man fishing boat, helplessly tossed over on the sea it came ever closer to the islands coast.
Within the mountain of ice, the old power stirred. What was it that came with such trouble? So small, how had it survived this far? Why had it not broken on the waters? Such a little pulse, so stubborn. The power knew all that happened on the island, and in the water. Feeling every raindrop, every snowfall, and every beat of an animal’s heart. Even the sad slow voice of mountains and the free fast song of winds. Now something came, a new heartbeat, sadness and anger surrounded it. It almost felt familiar.
Finally, the little boat crashed against the rough coast. Wood splintered and broke, its cargo thrown violently. Some small bags were ripped and strewn across the sharp rocks, others fell into the ocean and one, a body, fell limply onto the snow. There it lay, as still as death if not for the slightest of breaths. The fall of that body sent ripples, like the drop of a stone in a pond, ripples that echoed and surrounded the creature in the mountain. The land trembled as it woke, confused, troubled and angered it gathered its power. It seemed the time had come for it to return to the world, overwhelmed with desire to see what had roused it; it began to scratch at the ice.
Another ship drifted out at sea, beyond the storms and hammering waves, it waited on calm waters. At its bow, looking towards the looming darkness stood a lone figure. A tall young man with long golden hair and pale blue eyes, a large grey cloak hung from his shoulders and covered his whole body. Behind him, a crew sat and muttered to themselves, all of them looking impatient, fearful and angry. Finally, a man stepped forward; he too was young and bore a striking resemblance to the golden haired man.
“Brother” He said as he approached, his voice was soft and no more than a whisper, “the men are troubled. Do you mean to go into those waters?”
“That is where our prey is, so yes” Replied the other man strictly. He turned suddenly on the crew, “row!” with that crew scrambled to their places, and the large ship began to move faster and faster into the waiting doom.

Ice cracked. All across the great mountain a web of cracks had formed, shards of ice fell to the ground throwing up large clouds of snow. Suddenly a huge chunk fell from the centre of the mountain leaving a wide opening that lead to a dark hollow chamber. Two dark blood red lights appeared. They soon rose and began towards the opening. Nihil stood now in the pale light, standing about six feet tall it was the figure of a man. His body was entirely encased within black jagged armour with red veins that spread out from the chest. A scarlet cloak hung from his shoulders, flowing like liquid in the wind. Slowly he surveyed the surroundings, then looked sternly in the direction of the crashed boat, and leapt from the mountain.

The large ship ploughed quickly through the ocean despite the turbulent waters. Men swarmed across the deck bailing as much water as they could. From below the decks large oars struck at the water, pushing the boat forward. It was not long before the islands coast came into view, and some of the wreckage from the small boat became visible. The man at the bow smiled quietly to himself, his prey was so close now he could hardly contain his excitement. The only thing to have escaped him, and he would enjoy squeezing the life from it.

Anger rose as Nihil strode across the snow. Hatred and violence burned in his heart, someone dared to invade his island? He could not allow it, speeding up to a run he moved with ease through the snow now, as if it feared to attract his wrath. Suddenly he stopped. He had come to where the body lay in the snow, though he was closer now the heartbeat was much fainter. He looked down at the body of a young woman, she was tall and slim with skin almost as pale as the snow and long jet black hair that reached down to the middle of her back. Dressed in only a simple and battered black outfit he wondered how she had survived the unforgiving cold for even this long. Shouting and cheering soon erupted from the distance, and the outlines of marching figures drew closer. Nihil’s anger suddenly rose again, all but forgetting the woman he focused on the coming invaders. It was not long before a force of no less than one hundred stood before him. The man who appeared to be their leader stepped forward and pointed at the body at Nihil’s feet.
“Stand away monster. She is my prey, not you. Stand away and there will be no trouble...for now” He spoke with a voice of command that would of worked on any human, but Nihil stood as still as rock.

Kirra opened her eyes slowly, fighting through exhaustion and cold. She slowly looked about seeing only the white of snow, until she saw. The enemies she had fled from had followed her even here, and now stood only a matter of feet away from her. However, there was another presence, a shadow loomed behind her. She did not move, hoping to be mistaken for dead. Whatever it was it seemed to be holding off her would be killers, seemed friendly at least for the time being. Suddenly she heard a voice she knew too well, Magnus, the angel that lead a force of humans and a select few others of his kind. The angel that had taken everything from her. A new strength coursed through her, he was so close and she wanted revenge so much. She readied herself, tensed every muscle to make one last attempt for vengeance. Just as she was about throw herself at her enemy, a large black metallic boot crashed down in front of her face. Whatever had stood behind her now stood over her, and confusion replaced all else in her mind. What was this creature? This great black shadow in a land of blinding white, but what troubled her more was why it would stand against such odds, against what would seem to most to be certain death.
The Enemy Of My Enemy
Magnus stood facing this new enemy. One final barrier before his mission was over, but there was something strange about this new enemy; it faced him and those who followed him with no fear. Unsheathing his sword the angel advanced. Hoping to finish his enemy with one mighty blow, he raised the blade high above his head and swung it with all his strength. Metal rang on metal, and Magnus’ eyes widened in shock as his enemy’s clawed metal fingers slowly closed around his blade. With a sudden pull, he dragged the angel into himself bashing head to head, then with a shout, he thrust a fist into Magnus’ gut. Blood fell from the angels’ mouth as he gasped for breath, even before he could recover, the Nihil swung Magnus’ own blade back at him hilt first, hammering the angels face and throwing him back. For a moment, all was silent and still, then all at once the force of humans and angels charged.

Kirra suppressed a smile as she watched Magnus being humiliated, but now both her and this strange ally faced the entire strength of their attackers, a sense of doom and dread fell on her at the sight of the advancing force. However, she had had enough; she was tired of running from them.

Nihil braced himself, ready for when this tide of enemies crashed against him. Suddenly the men at the front line looked nervous. Something crashed into Nihil’s back, and leapt off him to come down on top the attackers. He spun round only to see the woman gone. So, he thought to himself, she’s a werewolf, interesting. Already she was ripping her way through her enemies, he wondered how long she could keep this up. For a time he stood back, watching her kill, he was impressed. She was taller than before by at least a foot, but maintained her slim figure; it belied her strength and savagery. However, the tables were beginning to turn; weariness and the numbers of her foes were starting to take their toll. So what? He had no reason to care, no reason to get involved. Yet something stirred in him, and he felt drawn, compelled even, to join the fight.

She knew it was only a matter of time; it wouldn’t be long now for one on them to get a lucky hit and bring her down, but she would give them a beating they wouldn’t soon forget. Her claws cut through armour, flesh and bone with each swipe. Her jaws tore away weapons and limbs, and a black sword with red veins cut through bodies with disturbing ease. Whoever it was that had helped her before now stood by her again. In time, survivors began to retreat, some clutching lost limbs or grievous wounds, others dragging and carrying their fallen allies. Finally, only the angels still stood fast, most beaten and bloodied. No one had the strength to continue the fight, but no one wanted to back down. After some time one angel sheathed his sword, and stepped forward between the two sides
“Brother!” growled Magnus, “come back, now!” but the angel simply raised his hand to silence Magnus’ protests. To Nihil’s eyes, he looked almost exactly like his apparent brother, although younger. After a time the angel stepped towards his enemies. Kirra tensed ready to attack, but Nihil simply stood. The angel retrieved Magnus’ sword, gave a slight nod to his enemies, and then walked away following the humans. The others followed with him, some more reluctantly than others, until only Magnus remained before finally with sneer followed his comrades.

Nihil kept his eyes fixed on the angel until he had vanished into the distant mists. For a moment he stood, the world had changed since he left it. Its pain had all but gone, and the pulse of life now beat as strong as ever before. He suppressed the memories that began to surface in his mind and shook his head. After a moment, he heard the sounds of flesh being torn and bones broken. The woman had moved some way away from him and, still in her more primal form, had begun to feed on one of the bodies; she may have looked completely occupied but he could see her emerald green eyes fixed on him. She troubled him, and he didn’t know why, which, unfortunately only served to trouble him more. He scowled as he tried to find the answer to why he had helped her, why he had gotten involved in her problems, and why he didn’t just walk away.
“It is very strange isn’t it?” a voice echoed from deep within his mind, one he knew though it was not his own, “it’s been a long time. Old friend”
“Arcanis...I wondered when you would wake up” replied Nihil, “What do you know about all this?”
“I could only guess. Though I do get the feeling there’s something important to her. Maybe whatever that is includes you” It was the closest thing to a sensible answer. He noticed the woman had finished feeding, and returned to her human form. Now he decided, would be a good enough time to approach her. Instantly she noticed him and was ready for a fight. He only stopped at an arm’s length from her.

He may have helped her, but that didn’t mean that Kirra trusted him even slightly. All she knew was that he was dangerous, and a potential threat.
“Who are you?” she demanded. He hesitated for a moment, as if she had surprised him. At last, he replied.
“Nihil. Who are you and why have you come here?” There was something about his voice that disturbed her. It sounded as if two voices were speaking at once, one was dark and ominous, and the other was violent and frightening, but she did not let it shake her.
“My name is Kirra and I was forced to come here. I’ve been running from those...bastards for over a year”
“Why are they hunting you?”
“Those angels were sent to gather as many humans as they could and to hunt down and kill the things they consider to be evil. That includes my people”
“Have they succeeded yet?”
“I’m standing here aren’t I? I don’t know how man they’ve killed. I do know they slaughtered all of my pack but me, and they won’t move on until I’m dead” The memories of the attack on her home, and the death of all she knew filled her mind. And with them came the pain and hate that had consumed her life ever since that day, “Why did you help me?” she said after a while, with the utmost suspicion.
“I...don’t know why. It’s something I don’t understand” he replied sounding slightly embarrassed. She looked at him puzzled, and then said finally.
“Thank you” he simply gave a small nod then reached for both his shoulders and something clicked. His cloak fell into his hand. He then wrapped it around her. The next thing he knew was the tasted of blood, a loud worrying cracking sound and crippling pain.

A Way With Women And Brotherly Love
Nihil stumbled back in pain clutching at his chest. He began to wheeze and cough while blood began to fill his mouth. He didn’t understand much about why it had happened, as he looked down at his chest he only marvelled at the fist-sized dent in his armour and the cracks that spread from it. After a few moments, he could feel the uncomfortable and in some way, disturbing feeling of cracked and shattered bones pulling themselves back together. Kirra stood a little further away now than before, rubbing her slightly bruised hand. She looked both angry and slightly apologetic.
“Wow!” Arcanis’ voice returned with genuine shock, “want my advice? Don’t flirt with this one, she’d probably kill you” Nihil growled silencing the voice. He stood up at last, still struggling for breath.
“I don’t like being touched” said Kirra in a tone that sounded more of a warning than excuse. Nihil didn’t know whether to be angry or impressed. After a few moments he approached her again, before she could step away he had grabbed the cloak at the two corners that hung at her shoulders. Acting out of what almost seemed like reflex she struck him again, this time her fist hammering the side of his head. Looking almost unaffected, he clasped the two corners of the cloak together at her neck.
“Keep this for now, it’ll stop you from freezing to death” To the surprise of both himself and Kirra, Nihil’s words seemed unusual calm and compassionate. Nihil felt blood trickle down the side of his head, but tried to ignore both it and the feeling of bone yet again fixing itself.

Kirra looked down and away from Nihil, she felt both slightly embarrassed and sorry. She had not expected him to have shown even this slight kindness. In truth, she hadn’t even imagined him as anything but a threat, but now she couldn’t help but think better of him. She pulled the cloak closer around her, enjoying its strange warmth and comforting softness.

Magnus brought his knee up hard into his brother Malek’s stomach. The angel fell back into the snow with a grunt. Magnus could not contain his anger and frustration, Malek had been a failure, he had been the first of the angels to leave and had disheartened the others. Now he made his brother pay for the mistake with a brutal display of power Malek was all but beaten to death.
“Damn you brother!” Shouted Magnus, “you are a traitor! A failure! That fight was ours we had them outnumbered!”
“Outnumbered, yes. But you underestimated them both! When they fought together they beat back the humans”
“Humans are weak! And they are cowards! We are angels brother, far superior to any human, and the twenty of us can easily defeat one mongrel bitch and that...whatever foul creature he is!”
“That “foul creature” almost beat you senseless” To this Magnus brought his foot down hard on his brothers head spilling more blood onto the snow. The other angels remind silent, they knew better than to get involved. Magnus walked away from his wounded brother and sought to check on the humans. Those who had lived now sat nursing their wounds and or the wounds of their comrades. Many people had lost hands, arms, legs, eyes. Magnus looked in disgust at the pitiful force of mostly crippled incompetents. He turned to the closest angel.
“Simon, have those who can fight rest and fed, that means the men who still have at least one good arm and eye. Have the rest tend to the boat and supplies” he commanded. Simon quickly nodded and went to work. Magnus sat down with the other angels, most were checking bandages, while others sharpened their blades. Malek now stood looking out into the distance, even though he had been badly beaten he still stood tall and proud. He had always been the more revered of the two brothers, it was he who was both strong and fair, both noble and humble. Magnus though physically stronger, shared none of his brothers better attributes. The one thing he did excel at however was command of others. He had been chosen by his masters to lead the small number of angels on this new mission, and though he loathed siding with humans, he needed their numbers. It had all gone well; no enemy had escaped him...until now. He could barely contain his frustration that one simple woman had gotten away from him, and just when he was so close, victory was torn from him by some bastard newcomer. He was more impatient than he had ever been, but he could feel victory was still nearby if he could just wait a little longer, just until the others were rested. He had underestimated his prey once; he would not do so again.

Kirra felt as though they’d been walking for hours, it must have been about midnight when she saw the lights. Nihil had told her to follow him, though reluctant and still somewhat untrusting she followed him. She had no idea where they’d been heading; they didn’t speak during the entire trip. Even so, she felt unusually safe. Now there was a multitude of orange lights. As they approached the mists began to clear and she saw a large almost fortress like city. It had high thickly built wooden walls, all patrolled by dark figures.
“People actually live here?” Asked Kirra.
“Yes. Sometime ago a boat full of humans crashed on the shore, oddly enough they survived long enough to build shelter from the elements and the beasts”
“Beasts? I haven’t seen anything but snow since I’ve been here”
“Then you’re lucky. The creatures that manage to adapt to this place are...very unpleasant”
“And all the wood? It must have taken a forests worth to build that place, and I’ve seen no trees”
“There are still some, though they’re only on the north of the island now. Anyway, that settlement is the only place there is to rest” They continued on towards the great wooden wall and soon the sentries began to notice them. More and more people began to appear on the wall, most armed with bows. As the two of them drew closer, a large wooden gate reinforced with iron loomed out of the mists and began to creak slowly open. Four men stepped through the doorway and began to walk towards them; each one gripped a sword in his right hand and wore a shield on his left.
“If I were you” said Nihil quietly, “I wouldn’t look so hostile, these people wont trust easily, and they’re all armed” he had noticed Kirra’s stance, the same stance she’d used when facing the angels, and the fact she was bearing her teeth that were already starting to change to fangs. She relaxed slightly, but took several steps back. Soon the men stood in front of them. Each one of them wore a mixture of fur, leather and chainmail that looked as if each one had put the outfit together personally. They had long unkempt blonde or light brown hair and pale blue eyes. One man stepped forward; he was taller than the others and bigger of build. He looked from Nihil to Kirra, then back to Nihil. He gave a short grunt and sheathed his sword.
The Children Of Asha And The Benefits Of Storms
Life in the northern wastes was not impossible. Indeed humans had been living there for centuries, cut off from the rest of the world and forced to adapt quickly to the harsh environment and local animals. Originally, from the main lands the men and women who now called themselves “the children of Asha” crashed onto shores of the wastes. They prayed to the goddess Asha, who was known for her love, and compassion. They believed it was her care that allowed them to live and survive. Over time, after almost constant attacks from predators those that lived became hardened and strong. Both men and women learned to hunt and kill, and soon were able to fend off their attackers. They began to build, more and more and as time passed, humble shacks became a village and a village grew and grew into what was now a city built like a fortress. Stout wooden homes sheltered behind the walls, all built by families or groups in whatever space was available, resulting in crooked and unpredictable streets. At the rear end of the of the city stood a great hall, built out of both wood and rock and standing upon a small hill it was an impressive sight.

Now Nihil and Kirra walked towards this great hall, following the man who had greeted them outside the gates. No one spoke but many quiet eyes followed them. Hands rested on sword hilts and axe shafts all of them ready to attack at a moment’s notice. They eventually reached what seemed to be the cities centre. A large statue stood carved out of the lands own black rock. It portrayed a woman both young and pretty in a long flowing dress, one hand was raised, and what seemed to be water fell from her palm. From the statues bass three other roads spread out and wound their way into the rest of the city. After a few moments, their guide stepped forward in front of the statue, knelt down and bowed his head. Kirra began to fidget uncomfortably and started to look around. At the many people who had gathered nearby. Nihil looked at her, and then at the crowd then took a step forward.
“Stop wasting our time” he growled looming over the man. Everyone within earshot drew their weapons. With surprising speed, the man at Nihil’s feet spun round and stood up sword raised above his head. But stopped before hitting his target. He gasped in surprise and pain, Nihil stood back, reaching over his right shoulder, he unsheathed his own blade. Kirra forced her claws deeper into the man’s side before kicking him into his own beloved statue. Just as the rest of the mob began to advance a loud laugh erupted from somewhere behind the statue. A man, who seemed of great strength, stepped around it. He wore the same style clothing as the rest of the cities inhabitants, apart from a crown styled from black rock that sat on top of his wild dark brown hair. He had a face full of pride and honour with a thick dark scruffy beard. His laugh continued until he reached Nihil, then he waved his hand, and the mob stood down

Kirra moved back beside Nihil, her eyes not leaving the crowd who now gathered around the newcomer. Something about him bothered her. But at least he wasn’t trying to kill them.
“What’s the matter here?” he spoke with a loud clear voice, “Why have your drawn weapons against these strangers?”
“My lord, they insult us” said the man who had knelt before the statue.
“They are not one of us, and so do not know our ways, come do not be so hasty” he turned on Nihil and Kirra, “You two could probably use some rest. Come, follow me to my hall, there I shall think of a place you can sleep” he began to walk off towards the great hall; Nihil shrugged and followed him, leering at those he past. Reluctantly Kirra followed after him. The hall was filled with a warming orange light, a large fire burned in the centre of the floor, scattered around it were tables and chairs, most with tankards and recently used plates and bowls. A throne sat at the other end of the hall, the man settled into it and got comfortable.
“Now” he began, “I am king Roth, and we shall speak, but not now. First you will rest. There is a small building around the back of this hall, there is room enough for you to sleep” people began to fill the hall behind them; “you had better be quick. There’s a storm coming” The weather of the wastes was bad. The storms were so much worse; the gales blew strong enough to knock a person clean off their feat and at truly unbearably cold temperatures. Even if one could manage to survive the cold there, was still another danger shards of ice blew among the winds, able to cut through flesh with ease. It was just such a storm that began to rage as Kirra and Nihil took shelter in the building behind the hall. Unfortunalty, it was little more than a broken down tool shed. After trying to seal as many of the holes and missing parts of wall as they could Nihil went to a corner and sat with his back against the wall. Kirra, on the other side of the room sat down trying to wrap the cloak around her as much as possible. Nihil seemed to find rest easily, and soon the glow from his eyes dimmed as he drifted into a state of half sleeping though ever aware of his surroundings. However, Kirra found no respite from the intense cold, even the cloaks odd warmth was not enough. She wondered how Nihil stood the cold with such ease. Already he seemed to be dreaming, his fingers would twitch and the dim lights of his eyes flickered. She tried to curl up as much as possible under the cloak, to no avail. Frustrated she stood and paced the small room. The air grew colder and colder as the storm reached its terrible peak, the gales outside roared and hammered the walls so much that, at times, Kirra feared the building would collapse. She looked back to Nihil and sighed. She needed sleep, she needed warmth, and there seemed to be only one way. She didn’t like the idea, but many things had changed lately. As quietly as she could she walked over to him, he stirred slightly but did not seem to waken. She sat down close to him, though remained careful that they didn’t touch. At first, it seemed colder than before, but after a few moments, like his cloak he began to give off an odd heat. It was better but not by much, then she noticed something moving behind him. It was an odd twitching at first, and then it began to unfold ad stretch out. She had not noticed before, it was black and blended perfectly to his armour, but now she looked upon a large black feathered wing. It stayed stretched out for a time, each feather blowing in the wind, and then suddenly it moved folding again, around her. She grew anxious at first, but soon felt warmer, now shielded from the cold winds she smiled slightly and settled against the soft feathers, and soon fell asleep.

Things in the great hall were quiet, many people felt uneasy with the presence of the strangers, whispering and murmuring broke out among the men and women as the sheltered from the storm. Roth sat on his throne deep in thought. After a time, he turned to his adviser, a small man with dark eyes, thin hair and a body that looked as though it would snap in a small breeze.
“Are those two with the men who came on that boat?” asked the king.
“No my lord, our scouts tell me the woman came on a smaller boat, most likely chased by the others, and the man, well he...came from the great mountain” his voice dropped to a frightened whisper as he mentioned Nihil.
“The mountain...” said the king with a sense of awe. An old man walked slowly across the hall towards the king. He held a battered wooden staff and wore dusty brown robes.
“My lord” he croaked as he approached, “The goddess has spoken of this man before. She fears him. If I have heard her right. He almost killed her once” A harsh gasp erupted from the people and many drew their weapons. The king sat thinking for a moment.
“He will have many questions to answer” he now raised his voice, “and I shall be the one to ask them”
“But my lord” One man protested, “what if he tries to kill you?”
“Then I shall try to kill him” He sat back and drank deep from a large tankard. A bad feeling had come over him; he felt as though trouble beyond the storm was brewing. He had many questions and all of them troubled him greatly. Something in him knew he would soon be holding his sword in battle once more.

[[EarthWitch]]

It is awesome! It is so descriptive...it is great...WOW! You have talent. Great! More! More!

[Eretik]

Evocative storytelling.I can't wait to see where this is going.

[jcrowfoot]

Wow, that IS awesome. Me thinks you've been on a boat before.
Your descriptions are *amazing*, and it's a very exciting read!

Only a few things that I would change... and again, these are only suggestions.

1. Have one of the regular people (or the king) as a voice who's mind you are reading to get some of the info about the island itself. I suppose you could also use Nihil, since he *came* from the mountain.
If not, then the king's right hand man, or something... to leave intact some of the nifty suspense parts about what he's about to say. Also, this gives you great opportunity to describe the mind state of the people who's island has two sudden new and unusual (and slightly hostile) residents.

2. To describe the "unnatural" awareness that Nihil has while hes' sleeping, (presumably it's not unnatural to him) have it come from one of Kirra's alternative senses... have her be a bit surprised by that. She did think he was human, after all. I suspect that she must be able to sense such things, if she's been able to dodge angelic witch hunts successfully.

3. Does her form that has nice, sharp pointy teeth, also have a coat of fur? If I were her (sorry, played "Werewolf" too long) I'd shift into a nice fur coat and hide somewhere where casual lurkers won't see, and leave a form that at causal glance would *look* like a sleeping slight human form. Would also appeal to a pervading sense of paranoia and further could be utilized later to thwart a simple-minded ambush.
OTOH, if he's relaxed enough to show off his wings (even asleep) she might not even have to worry about being furry and sharp.

Don't get me wrong, the cuddle huddle (tongue in cheek, natch) is some good character building material, and possible foreshadowing... I've read too many writer's books, too.

Hope this helps. If it doesn't... well, throw them out.

[Pav]

Hey thanks for the kind words guys and jcrowfoot, thanks for the suggestions I really appreciate it.

I was hoping for the king (who will become a more main character later) to add a little more detail of the island as he looks back on and maybe explains his past.

I think I can better describe Nihil's odd way of sleeping, and I like the idea of Kirra being able to sense something unusual about it

Kirra does have fur in her werewolf form, the only reason I didn't have her use that to stay warm is simply because I wanted her to have that nice moment with Nihil I guess I'm just a big softie lol

[jcrowfoot]

I wanted her to have that nice moment with Nihil I guess I'm just a big softie lol

Hey, that's a valid explanation. YOU are the writer, and you have a nice easy excuse within reach. After all. she might be being observed , and hey! Black wings are easier to discount in the dark by feeble human eyes, than, say.... a shaggy she-wolf where a woman should be. Best not to look like the nasty critters of the wood, lest she be somehow related.

That would get her kicked out in a NY minute, and possibly hunted by yet *another* bunch of idiots.

OR even that she's too freaking tired to manage another change... since it's not cold enough to be really about survival.

So hey, all bases covered!

[Pav]

Hmm, you know, I'd honestly not thought about the idea of her staying human to avoid any more trouble *dashes off to put that in* lol thanks!

[Pav]

Well, for anyone who's interested. Here is the finished version as before any advice or feedback is welcome.

Return From Exile
The northern wastes are a dark and foreboding land, standing at the top of the world the land of ice and darkness is known, feared and avoided by all men. Only trade ships dare risk nearing the island, choosing to traverse stormy seas rather than risk attack from pirates and raiders. Although, they never land, their men look over the sides of their ships, a cold chill running across their spines as they face the thick icy shroud of mist that surrounds the island. Beyond the shroud lies plain after plain of thick snow, pierced only by massive jagged mountains of black rock. Deep into the island at its centre stood the greatest mountain, one that reached the skies themselves, a mountain made not of rock, but of thick ice. Hidden deep within it lay something old, a power long forgotten, but ever dreaded.
The dark seas writhed and churned in gales that blew relentlessly, throwing walls of water high into the air, and pillars lightning stabbed endlessly into the waters. Thrown from wave to wave, battered by wind and rain was a lone ship. So small it could be nothing more than a one man fishing boat, helplessly tossed over on the sea it came ever closer to the islands coast.
Within the mountain of ice, the old power stirred. What was it that came with such trouble? So small, how had it survived this far? Why had it not broken on the waters? Such a little pulse, so stubborn. The power knew all that happened on the island, and in the water. Feeling every raindrop, every snowfall, and every beat of an animal’s heart. Even the sad slow voice of mountains and the free fast song of winds. Now something came, a new heartbeat, sadness and anger surrounded it. It almost felt familiar.
Finally, the little boat crashed against the rough coast. Wood splintered and broke, its cargo thrown violently. Some small bags were ripped and strewn across the sharp rocks, others fell into the ocean and one, a body, fell limply onto the snow. There it lay, as still as death if not for the slightest of breaths. The fall of that body sent ripples, like the drop of a stone in a pond, ripples that echoed and surrounded the creature in the mountain. The land trembled as it woke, confused, troubled and angered it gathered its power. It seemed the time had come for it to return to the world, overwhelmed with desire to see what had roused it; it began to scratch at the ice.
Another ship drifted out at sea, beyond the storms and hammering waves, it waited on calm waters. At its bow, looking towards the looming darkness stood a lone figure. A tall young man with long golden hair and pale blue eyes, a large grey cloak hung from his shoulders and covered his whole body. Behind him, a crew sat and muttered to themselves, all of them looking impatient, fearful and angry. Finally, a man stepped forward; he too was young and bore a striking resemblance to the golden haired man.
“Brother” He said as he approached, his voice was soft and no more than a whisper, “the men are troubled. Do you mean to go into those waters?”
“That is where our prey is, so yes” Replied the other man strictly. He turned suddenly on the crew, “row!” with that crew scrambled to their places, and the large ship began to move faster and faster into the waiting doom.

Ice cracked. All across the great mountain a web of cracks had formed, shards of ice fell to the ground throwing up large clouds of snow. Suddenly a huge chunk fell from the centre of the mountain leaving a wide opening that lead to a dark hollow chamber. Two dark blood red lights appeared. They soon rose and began towards the opening. Nihil stood now in the pale light, standing about six feet tall it was the figure of a man. His body was entirely encased within black jagged armour with red veins that spread out from the chest. A scarlet cloak hung from his shoulders, flowing like liquid in the wind. Slowly he surveyed the surroundings, then looked sternly in the direction of the crashed boat, and leapt from the mountain.

The large ship ploughed quickly through the ocean despite the turbulent waters. Men swarmed across the deck bailing as much water as they could. From below the decks large oars struck at the water, pushing the boat forward. It was not long before the islands coast came into view, and some of the wreckage from the small boat became visible. The man at the bow smiled quietly to himself, his prey was so close now he could hardly contain his excitement. The only thing to have escaped him, and he would enjoy squeezing the life from it.

Anger rose as Nihil strode across the snow. Hatred and violence burned in his heart, someone dared to invade his island? He could not allow it, speeding up to a run he moved with ease through the snow now, as if it feared to attract his wrath. Suddenly he stopped. He had come to where the body lay in the snow, though he was closer now the heartbeat was much fainter. He looked down at the body of a young woman, she was tall and slim with skin almost as pale as the snow and long jet black hair that reached down to the middle of her back. Dressed in only a simple and battered black outfit he wondered how she had survived the unforgiving cold for even this long. Shouting and cheering soon erupted from the distance, and the outlines of marching figures drew closer. Nihil’s anger suddenly rose again, all but forgetting the woman he focused on the coming invaders. It was not long before a force of at least two hundred stood before him. The man who appeared to be their leader stepped forward and pointed at the body at Nihil’s feet.
“Stand away monster. She is my prey, not you. Stand away and there will be no trouble...for now” He spoke with a voice of command that would of worked on any human, but Nihil stood as still as rock.

Kirra opened her eyes slowly, fighting through exhaustion and cold. She slowly looked about seeing only the white of snow, until she saw. The enemies she had fled from had followed her even here, and now stood only a matter of feet away from her. However, there was another presence, a shadow loomed behind her. She did not move, hoping to be mistaken for dead. Whatever it was it seemed to be holding off her would be killers, seemed friendly at least for the time being. Suddenly she heard a voice she knew too well, Magnus, the angel that lead a force of humans and a select few others of his kind. The angel that had taken everything from her. A new strength coursed through her, he was so close and she wanted revenge so much. She readied herself, tensed every muscle to make one last attempt for vengeance. Just as she was about throw herself at her enemy, a large black metallic boot crashed down in front of her face. Whatever had stood behind her now stood over her, and confusion replaced all else in her mind. What was this creature? This great black shadow in a land of blinding white, but what troubled her more was why it would stand against such odds, against what would seem to most to be certain death.
The Enemy Of My Enemy
Magnus stood facing this new enemy. One final barrier before his mission was over, but there was something strange about this new enemy; it faced him and those who followed him with no fear. Unsheathing his sword the angel advanced. Hoping to finish his enemy with one mighty blow, he raised the blade high above his head and swung it with all his strength. Metal rang on metal, and Magnus’ eyes widened in shock as his enemy’s clawed metal fingers slowly closed around his blade. With a sudden pull, he dragged the angel into himself bashing head to head, then with a shout, he thrust a fist into Magnus’ gut. Blood fell from the angels’ mouth as he gasped for breath, even before he could recover, the Nihil swung Magnus’ own blade back at him hilt first, hammering the angels face and throwing him back. For a moment, all was silent and still, then all at once the force of humans and angels charged.

Kirra suppressed a smile as she watched Magnus being humiliated, but now both her and this strange ally faced the entire strength of their attackers, a sense of doom and dread fell on her at the sight of the advancing force. However, she had had enough; she was tired of running from them.

Nihil braced himself, ready for when this tide of enemies crashed against him. Suddenly the men at the front line looked nervous. Something crashed into Nihil’s back, and leapt off him to come down on top the attackers. He spun round only to see the woman gone. So, he thought to himself, she’s a werewolf, interesting. Already she was ripping her way through her enemies, he wondered how long she could keep this up. For a time he stood back, watching her kill, he was impressed. She was taller than before by at least a foot, but maintained her slim figure; it belied her strength and savagery. However, the tables were beginning to turn; weariness and the numbers of her foes were starting to take their toll. So what? He had no reason to care, no reason to get involved. Yet something stirred in him, and he felt drawn, compelled even, to join the fight.

She knew it was only a matter of time; it wouldn’t be long now for one on them to get a lucky hit and bring her down, but she would give them a beating they wouldn’t soon forget. Her claws cut through armour, flesh and bone with each swipe. Her jaws tore away weapons and limbs, and a black sword with red veins cut through bodies with disturbing ease. Whoever it was that had helped her before now stood by her again. In time, survivors began to retreat, some clutching lost limbs or grievous wounds, others dragging and carrying their fallen allies. Finally, only the angels still stood fast, most beaten and bloodied. No one had the strength to continue the fight, but no one wanted to back down. After some time one angel sheathed his sword, and stepped forward between the two sides
“Brother!” growled Magnus, “come back, now!” but the angel simply raised his hand to silence Magnus’ protests. To Nihil’s eyes, he looked almost exactly like his apparent brother, although younger. After a time the angel stepped towards his enemies. Kirra tensed ready to attack, but Nihil simply stood. The angel retrieved Magnus’ sword, gave a slight nod to his enemies, and then walked away following the humans. The others followed with him, some more reluctantly than others, until only Magnus remained before finally with sneer followed his comrades.

Nihil kept his eyes fixed on the angel until he had vanished into the distant mists. For a moment he stood, the world had changed since he left it. Its pain had all but gone, and the pulse of life now beat as strong as ever before. He suppressed the memories that began to surface in his mind and shook his head. After a moment, he heard the sounds of flesh being torn and bones broken. The woman had moved some way away from him and, still in her more primal form, had begun to feed on one of the bodies; she may have looked completely occupied but he could see her emerald green eyes fixed on him. She troubled him, and he didn’t know why, which, unfortunately only served to trouble him more. He scowled as he tried to find the answer to why he had helped her, why he had gotten involved in her problems, and why he didn’t just walk away.
“It is very strange isn’t it?” a voice echoed from deep within his mind, one he knew though it was not his own, “it’s been a long time. Old friend”
“Arcanis...I wondered when you would wake up” replied Nihil, “What do you know about all this?”
“I could only guess. Though I do get the feeling there’s something important to her. Maybe whatever that is includes you” It was the closest thing to a sensible answer. He noticed the woman had finished feeding, and returned to her human form. Now he decided, would be a good enough time to approach her. Instantly she noticed him and was ready for a fight. He only stopped at an arm’s length from her.

He may have helped her, but that didn’t mean that Kirra trusted him even slightly. All she knew was that he was dangerous, and a potential threat.
“Who are you?” she demanded. He hesitated for a moment, as if she had surprised him. At last, he replied.
“Nihil. Who are you and why have you come here?” There was something about his voice that disturbed her. It sounded as if two voices were speaking at once, one was dark and ominous, and the other was violent and frightening, but she did not let it shake her.
“My name is Kirra and I was forced to come here. I’ve been running from those...bastards for over a year”
“Why are they hunting you?”
“Those angels were sent to gather as many humans as they could and to hunt down and kill the things they consider to be evil. That includes my people”
“Have they succeeded yet?”
“I’m standing here aren’t I? I don’t know how man they’ve killed. I do know they slaughtered all of my pack but me, and they won’t move on until I’m dead” The memories of the attack on her home, and the death of all she knew filled her mind. And with them came the pain and hate that had consumed her life ever since that day, “Why did you help me?” she said after a while, with the utmost suspicion.
“I...don’t know why. It’s something I don’t understand” he replied sounding slightly embarrassed. She looked at him puzzled, and then said finally.
“Thank you” he simply gave a small nod then reached for both his shoulders and something clicked. His cloak fell into his hand. He then wrapped it around her. The next thing he knew was the tasted of blood, a loud worrying cracking sound and crippling pain.

A Way With Women And Brotherly Love
Nihil stumbled back in pain clutching at his chest. He began to wheeze and cough while blood began to fill his mouth. He didn’t understand much about why it had happened, as he looked down at his chest he only marvelled at the fist-sized dent in his armour and the cracks that spread from it. After a few moments, he could feel the uncomfortable and in some way, disturbing feeling of cracked and shattered bones pulling themselves back together. Kirra stood a little further away now than before, rubbing her slightly bruised hand. She looked both angry and slightly apologetic.
“Wow!” Arcanis’ voice returned with genuine shock, “want my advice? Don’t flirt with this one, she’d probably kill you” Nihil growled silencing the voice. He stood up at last, still struggling for breath.
“I don’t like being touched” said Kirra in a tone that sounded more of a warning than excuse. Nihil didn’t know whether to be angry or impressed. After a few moments he approached her again, before she could step away he had grabbed the cloak at the two corners that hung at her shoulders. Acting out of what almost seemed like reflex she struck him again, this time her fist hammering the side of his head. Looking almost unaffected, he clasped the two corners of the cloak together at her neck.
“Keep this for now, it’ll stop you from freezing to death” To the surprise of both himself and Kirra, Nihil’s words seemed unusual calm and compassionate. Nihil felt blood trickle down the side of his head, but tried to ignore both it and the feeling of bone yet again fixing itself.

Kirra looked down and away from Nihil, she felt both slightly embarrassed and sorry. She had not expected him to have shown even this slight kindness. In truth, she hadn’t even imagined him as anything but a threat, but now she couldn’t help but think better of him. She pulled the cloak closer around her, enjoying its strange warmth and comforting softness.

Magnus brought his knee up hard into his brother Malek’s stomach. The angel fell back into the snow with a grunt. Magnus could not contain his anger and frustration, Malek had been a failure, he had been the first of the angels to leave and had disheartened the others. Now he made his brother pay for the mistake with a brutal display of power Malek was all but beaten to death.
“Damn you brother!” Shouted Magnus, “you are a traitor! A failure! That fight was ours we had them outnumbered!”
“Outnumbered, yes. But you underestimated them both! When they fought together they beat back the humans”
“Humans are weak! And they are cowards! We are angels brother, far superior to any human, and the twenty of us can easily defeat one mongrel bitch and that...whatever foul creature he is!”
“That “foul creature” almost beat you senseless” To this Magnus brought his foot down hard on his brothers head spilling more blood onto the snow. The other angels remind silent, they knew better than to get involved. Magnus walked away from his wounded brother and sought to check on the humans. Those who had lived now sat nursing their wounds and or the wounds of their comrades. Many people had lost hands, arms, legs, eyes. Magnus looked in disgust at the pitiful force of mostly crippled incompetents. He turned to the closest angel.
“Simon, have those who can fight rest and fed, that means the men who still have at least one good arm and eye. Have the rest tend to the boat and supplies” he commanded. Simon quickly nodded and went to work. Magnus sat down with the other angels, most were checking bandages, while others sharpened their blades. Malek now stood looking out into the distance, even though he had been badly beaten he still stood tall and proud. He had always been the more revered of the two brothers, it was he who was both strong and fair, both noble and humble. Magnus though physically stronger, shared none of his brothers better attributes. The one thing he did excel at however was command of others. He had been chosen by his masters to lead the small number of angels on this new mission, and though he loathed siding with humans, he needed their numbers. It had all gone well; no enemy had escaped him...until now. He could barely contain his frustration that one simple woman had gotten away from him, and just when he was so close, victory was torn from him by some bastard newcomer. He was more impatient than he had ever been, but he could feel victory was still nearby if he could just wait a little longer, just until the others were rested. He had underestimated his prey once; he would not do so again.

Kirra felt as though they’d been walking for hours, it must have been about midnight when she saw the lights. Nihil had told her to follow him, though reluctant and still somewhat untrusting she followed him. She had no idea where they’d been heading; they didn’t speak during the entire trip. Even so, she felt unusually safe. Now there was a multitude of orange lights. As they approached the mists began to clear and she saw a large almost fortress like city. It had high thickly built wooden walls, all patrolled by dark figures.
“People actually live here?” Asked Kirra.
“Yes. Sometime ago a boat full of humans crashed on the shore, oddly enough they survived long enough to build shelter from the elements and the beasts”
“Beasts? I haven’t seen anything but snow since I’ve been here”
“Then you’re lucky. The creatures that manage to adapt to this place are...very unpleasant”
“And all the wood? It must have taken a forests worth to build that place, and I’ve seen no trees”
“There are still some, though they’re only on the north of the island now. Anyway, that settlement is the only place there is to rest” They continued on towards the great wooden wall and soon the sentries began to notice them. More and more people began to appear on the wall, most armed with bows. As the two of them drew closer, a large wooden gate reinforced with iron loomed out of the mists and began to creak slowly open. Four men stepped through the doorway and began to walk towards them; each one gripped a sword in his right hand and wore a shield on his left.
“If I were you” said Nihil quietly, “I wouldn’t look so hostile, these people wont trust easily, and they’re all armed” he had noticed Kirra’s stance, the same stance she’d used when facing the angels, and the fact she was bearing her teeth that were already starting to change to fangs. She relaxed slightly, but took several steps back. Soon the men stood in front of them. Each one of them wore a mixture of fur, leather and chainmail that looked as if each one had put the outfit together personally. They had long unkempt blonde or light brown hair and pale blue eyes. One man stepped forward; he was taller than the others and bigger of build. He looked from Nihil to Kirra, then back to Nihil. He gave a short grunt and sheathed his sword.
The Children Of Asha And The Benefits Of Storms
Life in the northern wastes was not impossible. Indeed humans had been living there for centuries, cut off from the rest of the world and forced to adapt quickly to the harsh environment and local animals. Originally, from the main lands the men and women who now called themselves “the children of Asha” crashed onto shores of the wastes. They prayed to the goddess Asha, who was known for her love, and compassion. They believed it was her care that allowed them to live and survive. Over time, after almost constant attacks from predators those that lived became hardened and strong. Both men and women learned to hunt and kill, and soon were able to fend off their attackers. They began to build, more and more and as time passed, humble shacks became a village and a village grew and grew into what was now a city built like a fortress. Stout wooden homes sheltered behind the walls, all built by families or groups in whatever space was available, resulting in crooked and unpredictable streets. At the rear end of the of the city stood a great hall, built out of both wood and rock and standing upon a small hill it was an impressive sight.

Now Nihil and Kirra walked towards this great hall, following the man who had greeted them outside the gates. No one spoke but many quiet eyes followed them. Hands rested on sword hilts and axe shafts all of them ready to attack at a moment’s notice. They eventually reached what seemed to be the cities centre. A large statue stood carved out of the lands own black rock. It portrayed a woman both young and pretty in a long flowing dress, one hand was raised, and what seemed to be water fell from her palm. From the statues bass three other roads spread out and wound their way into the rest of the city. After a few moments, their guide stepped forward in front of the statue, knelt down and bowed his head. Kirra began to fidget uncomfortably and started to look around. At the many people who had gathered nearby. Nihil looked at her, and then at the crowd then took a step forward.
“Stop wasting our time” he growled looming over the man. Everyone within earshot drew their weapons. With surprising speed, the man at Nihil’s feet spun round and stood up sword raised above his head. But stopped before hitting his target. He gasped in surprise and pain, Nihil stood back, reaching over his right shoulder, he unsheathed his own blade. Kirra forced her claws deeper into the man’s side before kicking him into his own beloved statue. Just as the rest of the mob began to advance a loud laugh erupted from somewhere behind the statue. A man, who seemed of great strength, stepped around it. He wore the same style clothing as the rest of the cities inhabitants, apart from a crown styled from black rock that sat on top of his wild dark brown hair. He had a face full of pride and honour with a thick dark scruffy beard. His laugh continued until he reached Nihil, then he waved his hand, and the mob stood down

Kirra moved back beside Nihil, her eyes not leaving the crowd who now gathered around the newcomer. Something about him bothered her. But at least he wasn’t trying to kill them.
“What’s the matter here?” he spoke with a loud clear voice, “Why have your drawn weapons against these strangers?”
“My lord, they insult us” said the man who had knelt before the statue.
“They are not one of us, and so do not know our ways, come do not be so hasty” he turned on Nihil and Kirra, “You two could probably use some rest. Come, follow me to my hall, there I shall think of a place you can sleep” he began to walk off towards the great hall; Nihil shrugged and followed him, leering at those he past. Reluctantly Kirra followed after him. The hall was filled with a warming orange light, a large fire burned in the centre of the floor, scattered around it were tables and chairs, most with tankards and recently used plates and bowls. A throne sat at the other end of the hall, the man settled into it and got comfortable.
“Now” he began, “I am king Roth, and we shall speak, but not now. First you will rest. There is a small building around the back of this hall, there is room enough for you to sleep” people began to fill the hall behind them; “you had better be quick. There’s a storm coming” The weather of the wastes was bad. The storms were so much worse; the gales blew strong enough to knock a person clean off their feat and at truly unbearably cold temperatures. Even if one could manage to survive the cold there, was still another danger shards of ice blew among the winds, able to cut through flesh with ease. It was just such a storm that began to rage as Kirra and Nihil took shelter in the building behind the hall. Unfortunalty, it was little more than a broken down tool shed. After trying to seal as many of the holes and missing parts of wall as they could Nihil went to a corner and sat with his back against the wall. Kirra, on the other side of the room sat down trying to wrap the cloak around her as much as possible. Nihil seemed to find rest easily, and soon the glow from his eyes dimmed as he drifted into a state of half sleeping though ever aware of his surroundings. However, Kirra found no respite from the intense cold, even the cloaks odd warmth was not enough. She wondered how Nihil stood the cold with such ease. Already he seemed to be dreaming, his fingers would twitch and the dim lights of his eyes flickered. She tried to curl up as much as possible under the cloak, to no avail. Frustrated she stood and paced the small room. The air grew colder and colder as the storm reached its terrible peak, the gales outside roared and hammered the walls so much that, at times, Kirra feared the building would collapse. She looked back to Nihil and sighed. She needed sleep, she needed warmth and she was too worried about watchful eyes to turn to her wolf form and take advantage of its fur coat, the last thing she needed was more people out to hunt her, there seemed to be only one way. She didn’t like the idea, but many things had changed lately. As quietly as she could she walked over to him, he stirred slightly but did not seem to waken. She sat down close to him, though remained careful that they didn’t touch. At first, it seemed colder than before, but after a few moments, like his cloak he began to give off an odd heat. It was better but not by much, then she noticed something moving behind him. It was an odd twitching at first, and then it began to unfold ad stretch out. She had not noticed before, it was black and blended perfectly to his armour, but now she looked upon a large black feathered wing. It stayed stretched out for a time, each feather blowing in the wind, and then suddenly it moved folding again, around her. She grew anxious at first, but soon felt warmer, now shielded from the cold winds she smiled slightly and settled against the soft feathers, and soon fell asleep.

Things in the great hall were quiet, many people felt uneasy with the presence of the strangers, whispering and murmuring broke out among the men and women as the sheltered from the storm. Roth sat on his throne deep in thought. After a time, he turned to his adviser Erran, a small man with dark eyes, thin hair and a body that looked as though it would snap in a small breeze.
“Are those two with the men who came on that boat?” asked the king.
“No my lord, our scouts tell me the woman came on a smaller boat, most likely chased by the others, and the man, well he...came from the great mountain” his voice dropped to a frightened whisper as he mentioned Nihil.
“The mountain...” said the king with a sense of awe. An old man walked slowly across the hall towards the king. He held a battered wooden staff and wore dusty brown robes.
“My lord” he croaked as he approached, “The goddess has spoken of this man before. She fears him. If I have heard her right. He almost killed her once” A harsh gasp erupted from the people and many drew their weapons. The king sat thinking for a moment.
“He will have many questions to answer” he now raised his voice, “and I shall be the one to ask them”
“But my lord” One man protested, “what if he tries to kill you?”
“Then I shall try to kill him” He sat back and drank deep from a large tankard. A bad feeling had come over him; he felt as though trouble beyond the storm was brewing. He had many questions and all of them troubled him greatly. Something in him knew he would soon be holding his sword in battle once more.

Brothers In Arms
“You’re getting soft, old man” laughed Arcanis. It was early morning as far as Nihil could tell, he had been awake now for some time. Kirra remained sleeping against his wing, “I remember when we first met you know” continued Arcanis, “all those years ago you would never of acted this way, back then you were nothing but pure violence”
“And look what that caused” said Nihil darkly, “This world still aches, and the Gods are still out to kill me”
“Yes...I know, I was one of them who tried to stop you. But that’s not the point, what I mean is you were strong then. I’ve been with women before; they’re a distraction for one of your nature.”
“That’s not it though...you’re afraid of her”
“I am not afraid! Something about the way she fights...troubles me, it reminds me too much of you. You know what I’m talking about Nihil, she is no normal woman, she will have big things to do in her future, and I fear that will prove bad for you” They were both silent for a while, soon sounds of people busying themselves with morning activities. Kirra woke only moments later; she was instantly tense and growled quietly.

He felt old now; Roth looked at his reflection in his iron shield. Where had the years gone? Where was the young warrior that once stood here? He had fought what seemed like countless enemies, stood against impossible odds and the most terrible of monsters. Yet, for all his strength, honour and glory, he could not fight time. The reports had come in only an hour ago, the invaders were mobilizing, heading towards his city. He knew in his hard whose side to take in the battle to come, but, more importantly he knew he would defend his people. So once more he donned his war gear, polished shining plate armour rested over his torn and battered chainmail. His heavy iron shield rested heavily on his arm. And his blade, the sword handed to him by his dying father was gripped firmly in his hand. He stood now, tall and proud, a warrior king who would once more lead his people to glorious victory. A knock rang on the door of his chamber.
“My lord?” asked the man outside the door.
“What is it?”
“They are waiting for you” He sheathed his sword, strapped his shield to his back and headed for the main hall.

A few men lay scattered about the hall, sleeping off the previous nights drink. While a few other men and women tried to clear the mess.
“So” called Roth as he navigated his way across the hall, “I do not think we have been properly introduced” he stepped up to Nihil and Kirra and shook Nihil’s hand, then went to show Kirra the same gesture before being stopped, Nihil clutched Roth’s shoulder and shook his head.
“I am Nihil, and this is Kirra” Roth looked at the girl, her gaze was fixed on him though she looked angry and uninterested in talk.
“Tell me” said Roth, “why are you being chased by such a force? It seems odd to me that one woman has attracted such hostile attention. And you Nihil, how does it involve you?”
“They’re chasing me so they can kill me” said Kirra with a rising sense of anger, “Why? Simply because they want to. Nihil helped me, so they’re hunting him now as well”
“How does this concern me and my people?”
“They will tear your homes apart if you’re in their way” said Nihil, “I do not think you have any great love of these invaders, they are after all, a threat to all you hold dear, we might both all gain from their deaths”
“We might” replied the king, “but, there really is only one way to find out”
They were refreshed now, though they had lost even more men to the wild beasts that stalked the land. However with their wounded now tended to Magnus and his force marched on, his heart burned with excitement, with lust for the kill. This chase had gone on long enough and he would make his prey suffer for the inconvenience. Malek looked over at his brother, he grew worried now, something was wrong with him. The others saw it as devotion, and honour to the cause, but he saw something else...not devotion or honour, but a sadistic madness. Things had gone all wrong. Malek doubted what he should do, and feared for things to come. Magnus had ordered than none should be allowed to live, he planned to purge the entire island. His force was large, and he was sure it would be an easy task. Soon the great wooden walls loomed out of the mists. They stopped and set up a camp.
“We’ll attack tomorrow at dawn” said Magnus as he and his fellow angels, all but Malek, sat round a fire. Malek who was sitting a small way away with the humans called over to his brother.
“That’s a little predictable don’t you think? Gives them a good chance to attack us in the night. Remember we are dealing with a werewolf and that strange creature, we don’t know what he’s capable of” Magnus scowled at his brother.
“If you’re so eager to fight them go now! See how you fare” Malek stood and walked out of the camp, he soon turned back and called to his comrades.
“Will anyone join me?” A few almost stood to follow him but sat down quickly as they saw Magnus’ glare. And so Malek left for the city walls alone.
“Your pride will be your death!” shouted Magnus.

One man? Why would they send one man? Thought Roth as he stood atop the walls, a number of his men stood at his side, Nihil and Kirra to stood looking out at the camp. Soon Malek stood just outside the gates, he heard bowstrings being drawn back, and saw the glint of arrow tips pointed at him. However, before any could be loosed, something landed in the snow in front of him. Nihil stood and drew his black sword, Malek in turn drew his, gripping it’s golden hilt the blade seemed to sing as it was released from its sheathe. Neither of them spoke as they faced each other. Together they charged forward, blade rang against blade, again and again they attacked each other, only to clash blades. They struck, then moved then struck and moved again, soon it began to look more like a well practiced dance then a fight. They night drew on and neither fighter seemed to show even the slightest sense of exhaustion.
“Ah, it is as I thought. You are quite dangerous” said Malek as they circled each other.
“You’re an impressive fighter angel...it’s been some time since I fought one of your kind for this long” They charged at each other with blinding speed and clashed in a power struggle.
“There is more honour in you than I thought creature I did not expect you to face me in a duel” asked Malek through gritted teeth.
“And I didn’t expect you to be noble enough to not cheat like the rest of your kind” They pushed each other away and charged again. This time Malek spun swinging his blade under arm. Nihil dodged quickly to the side and lunged. Blood fell into the snow and the two fighters struggled to break away from each other. Nihil’s blade had pierced Malek’s side, and the angels own blade was thrust through Nihil’s shoulder. Finally Malek kicked Nihil away from him. He ran forward, his blade above his head hoping to deliver a killing blow before Nihil could recover. His sword came down hard, but missed its target. Nihil had recovered soon than the angel expected and moved enough to make sure the blow wasn’t fatal, instead of striking his head the blade simply cut deep into his wounded shoulder. With a roar Nihil thrust his blade up into Malek’s chest. Delivering a killing blow of his own.

Nihil clutched at his shoulder as blood ran free from the wound; he knelt down next to the dying angel, Malek struggled to hold his last breaths.
“Ah, I could not have asked for a better death” he said weakly, “It was an honour” Nihil said nothing, but picked up the angels sword and handed it to him, “Thank you...listen to me creature, my brethren will attack at dawn. Magnus...my brother is worse than you think, I fear...this hunt has driven him mad” he reached out and grabbed Nihil pulling him so close that they were face to face, “do not let him win! She does not deserve what he would do” Nihil saw, looking into the angels eyes he saw what the brother was capable of, and could barely control the rage that stirred within him. Malek fell finally lifeless in the snow.

Nihil walked through the gates to the sound of cheering. Before the doors could even shut behind him he was grabbed by the arm and pulled away to the side. Kirra pushed him against a wall with enough force to keep him firmly in place.
“I want answers now!” she growled, “you didn’t give me a good enough answer last time. Why are you helping me? You’ve fought angels before, who and what exactly are you Nihil”
“There’s something important about you” he said after a moment of silence, “It was you who woke me, the invading angels angered me, but they are not the first to have come here, you can ask the king that”
“Why would it be me that woke you up?”
“I do not know. Maybe it was fate, that somehow our destinies are linked” Kirra was thoughtful for a moment.
“That’s the best reason you can come up with?”
“It’s the only reason I can come up with” She released him from the wall but continued to press her questions.
“So what are you? You’re not human that’s for sure, and I’ve never heard of creature like you before”
“Neither have I, I don’t know what I am, and I’ve never met someone who does” The king called them up to join him on the wall. When they got there a man handed Nihil bandages, then handed Kirra a blade and a suit of mail.
“It belonged to my wife” he said, “She was about your size, so it should fit well enough”

Pale light shone on the horizon, dawn was coming fast. The air was tense, Nihil flexed his shoulder getting used to the pain he would have to fight with. Kirra fiddled with her armour, she found it uncomfortable but not inhibitive. In the distance Magnus’ force readied themselves, now numbering one hundred and seventy good men they felt more than ready to do battle. The king turned to look upon his men, he had selected one hundred of his best men, the rest would be needed to be ready over the coming days, when the land would darken even more for months, and the beasts would rage across the land. However, those were not their problems now.
“Do you have any plan king?” asked Nihil.
“Yeah. Kill them. Go home, feast and drink ‘till our bellies swell” They laughed, cheering the hearts of those around them, “I will lead my people against the bulk of their force. I know the girl will seek her own victims, but what of you Nihil? Will you fight with me and my men?”
“Perhaps, though I feel my place in this battle bound to Kirra’s” The king grinned.
“I thought as much. Yes, you two have something rare and unusual; something that I believe will become a bond. A bond forged in the fires of conflict”

Nihil looked over at Kirra, she looked nervous but resolute and excited to be free of those who hunted her. She wore his cloak now wrapped amongst the armour: around her waist, shoulders and thighs. She looked like a true warrior.
“I’m glad I don’t have to do this alone” she said quietly. Nihil carefully put his hand on her shoulder, for a moment they both thought she would strike him, but she relaxed slightly and looked at him.
“I’ve been on your side since we first met...and I’ll stand by you now as well” he said. She smiled slightly. She understood now that he was someone she could finally trust. Soon the sound of the invading force grew loud in their ears, and they left the city walls to meet them.

The day grew pale when the two forces stood facing each other. Kirra instantly singled out Magnus, no one and nothing else mattered to her, and she would let nothing stop her from ending the angels life. The king smiled, it had been too long since he felt the excitement of battle, the thrill of facing the enemy with good men at his side. Nihil felt something all too familiar to him, a sense of bloodlust filled him, and when his blade tasted blood he feared what would awaken. Magnus looked at those who faced him and sneered, he would let nothing stop him from completing his mission, and he longed to make his prey suffer for all he’d been through.

All was still and quiet for what seemed like hours, before, finally the two forces charged. They crashed against each other like a great wave on a shore. Within moments, the first blood was spilt onto the snow. As the people fought, Kirra used the blade she had been given to carve a path towards her enemy, she moved with speed and surprising elegance. She darted and spun striking as she went. Those she struck didn’t even know what hit them, suddenly grasping at bloody wounds in their sides. Finally she reached Magnus, he faced her with a cruel grin and ran at her screaming. She no longer cared for the consequences of revealing her wolf form, she changed, howled as loud as she could and charged. Nihil had tried to keep up with her as best he could, finishing off those she had wounded. Now he had lost her behind a crowd. Though he judged that by the howl and sudden surge of people moving away from her direction that she had reached her target. It was her fight now, and so he moved towards the centre of the battle. He was soon surrounded by enemies, Kirra fought somewhere behind him, and the king and his men fought some way off to his left. He parried and dodged the blades and spears of his enemies, and cut them down. Soon it stirred, his heart began to beat louder and louder, sounding like a great pounding drum to his ears. His mind burned and writhed, the blade in his hand began to hum and sing with the joy of death. From the back of his mind came a great echoing roar that drowned all other sound. Fear gripped him, it was happening again, just like last time. His thoughts soon turned to Kirra.

The battle between Magnus and Kirra grew more and more savage with every second. However, the angel could not hope to match the werewolf’s shear strength and violence, and he soon felt the sting of failure creeping up on him. But that battle was not won, and then Magnus saw hope returning. A fellow angel had broken from the main battle and now snuck around some way behind Kirra. Like a cat stalking a bird the angel moved closer, stopped...and moved again, keeping low to the ground he kept moving forward. Finally as Magnus saw death approaching, carried on Kirra’s claws, the other angel was in range. He stood, hefted his spear and with every possible ounce of strength in him, he struck. With a yelp Kirra collapsed, the spear tip protruding from her knee. The angel snapped the wooden shaft and broke it over her head. Now recovered Magnus shoved the angel aside, threw down his weapon and clenched his fists. He had no reason to hurry.

The fight was going well the king thought. He and his men had formed a shield wall and were even now advancing through the enemies number, pushing them back then cutting them down. If the continued, they would know victory with an hour. Then suddenly something happened, Roth noticed the sky world around them darken, the earth felt as though it trembled, and a blood chilling scream filled the air. As he looked in the screams direction his eyes widened, with one hand Nihil held a man by his arm in the air, and with his other arm held him by a leg. He could hear the sound of Nihil’s voice he sounded like he was in pain and that a scream o his own were building with in him. Suddenly Nihil pulled, the man he held was hidden in a spray of blood as his body split, throwing the remains away Nihil threw his head back and roared. The ground shook and cracked and many men were thrown from their feet. The king stumbled to keep his balance and looked over at his ally. He had changed, he seemed larger now, more broad than before, the red lights of his eyes were now replaced with unearthly black flames, and a similar black light shone out from within his armour. He grabbed the nearest man to him and with inhuman force beat him to death. He spun round, swinging his arms as he did so, knocking more people away and ran.

Magnus hadn’t paid attention to all the noise behind him, he was busy enjoying his work. Suddenly his arm stopped in mid swing and a sharp pain shot through his arm. He turned and saw Nihil now looking monstrous he pulled the angels arm, forcing it around his back and snapping it. Before he could stand he was forced onto his knees, Nihil held him down with one foot and snatched a wing in each hand. Panic filled the angel and he struggled desperately to get free, but Nihil’s grasp was unbreakable. He felt the bones of his wings begin to twist and bend and snap. Nihil tightened his grip on the crippled remains of the angels wings and with a loud snarl tore them away. Magnus fell to the floor in agony expecting death, but he lived on, for whatever reason Nihil now left him and began to unleash his terrible fury on others.

Roth held his men together, shouting for them to hold their positions, many were fearful now of Nihil, he was crushing men some way away but they all knew at any moment he could attack them, he was truly in the grip of blind rage. The king broke from the shield wall, stood behind his men, lifted his sword above his head and shouted at the top of his voice.
“For glory!” the men responded with a cheer and shouted all at once.
“For honour!” They all broke away, each one of them now fighting with all the strength of heroes heartened by the confidence of their king they showed their enemies the strength of men born to be warriors. Soon few were left and those that lived now wanted only to flee.

Magnus struggled upright, the battle was lost but he would not fail. He reached for the sword with his good arm, only to have it kicked away from him. Kirra stood he wounded leg barely holding. she growled, lowered herself and pounced. The angels vision was filled with blood, his blood, hatred, fear and pain were all he knew now. Kirra tore and bit wildly stripping flesh from bone and braking bone from body, and left nothing but bloody gore. Panting she limped away and, changing back to her human body collapsed into the snow.

Their enemies were now either dead, or had run like cowards, but the king and his men could not rest yet. Now they faced they’re ally, Nihil stood facing them, breathing heavily and snarling. It was the king who stepped forward, discarding his sword and shield he stepped towards the monstrous warrior. Nihil charged, and Roth braced himself, but just as he reached the king Nihil faltered and began to stumble, a burst of air rushed away from him and he fell to one knee. He had returned to his normal size again, the black lights that shone from his armour now disappeared back within it, and his red eyes glowed again.

Freedom
The air became relaxed and the king had his men go home, a chorus of cheers and celebration broke out from the city. Roth stayed to help Nihil stand up, he seemed so exhausted he could barely manage it by himself.
“She was over this way the last time I saw her” said the king as they walked. When she came into view Nihil pushed away and struggled towards her.
“Awww it’s just like the day you met” said Arcanis as Nihil knelt next to Kirra, “Please tell me you’re not going to try and touch her...have you forgotten! Nothings more dangerous than a wounded animal old man” Kirra opened her eyes slightly, there was a sudden flash of green from her emerald eyes before they returned to normal. Relief filled Nihil as he looked at her, and he understood now his compassion, his feelings for her, “It’s that strength, I think” interrupted Arcanis, “She seems a perfect mix of beauty and strength...that’s unnatural, that’s dangerous. But your feelings now are unavoidable, if it gives you any peace of mind old friend, I believe you are indeed special to her” She smiled at Nihil and used him to sit up.
“Are you ok?” he didn’t notice at the time, but as he asked her this he placed his hand on her side.
“Sore...but I’m free now, I have my life back, and I haven’t felt so happy in a long time”
“Well your happiness came at a price...just look at the mess you made on my island” he said pointing at the remains of Magnus. For the first time since he’d known her, and in fact for the first time in longer than she could remember, Kirra laughed.

Though the battle had been small, the victory was enough of a reason for the children of Asha to celebrate, the store houses were raided, the fire in the hall lit to a blaze and a feast was prepared by dusk. Roth sat at a table with the men he had fought beside earlier, Kirra and Nihil sat in a corner by themselves. The night grew on and the merriment grew stronger, Nihil and Kirra snuck away into the darkness, but Roth’s spirits were high and he would celebrate until dawn. Dawn came. The king and a large number of his people lay strewn about the hall sleeping off the meat and drink. Nihil and Kirra sat together in one of the halls empty rooms, Kirra slept soundly, her head resting on Nihil’s shoulder, his wings wrapped around her. Their meeting had been strange, their trust in each other had been uneasy, their opinions of each other confusing and now their love for each other was strong. Nihil sat fully awake, feeling the shifting paths of fate and destiny, plotting many battles, twists and trials for them both. But he was back in this world again, no longer alone, he...they would overcome all that stood against them.

[Eretik]

Pav,this story has left me wondering, how did they get there?What went before? For all the characters. Many questions.Will you be writing more? It feels like we enter the tale in the middle,I want the beginning too.lol.Very descriptive writing.I like that.

[Pav]

I've started on writing another, carrying on from this one and don't worry, I will try to answer a few of those kind of questions as it progresses, there'll be a few flash backs i expect

[Eretik]

I look forward to the next instalment.

[jcrowfoot]

Me too. I love this story! It's going to take me a little while to critique, since I need to chew on it for a bit, and read it a couple of times before I can say something useful.

Good show!

[Pav]

thanks this next oe might take me a lil while, I'm struggling with it a bit at the moment lol

[[EarthWitch]]

I love your writing. You could do a series of short stories from this. It is great....Oh that you could find a publisher!

[Pav]

thank you I think I was planning to keep it going as a number of short stories, so long as I can think up plots lol. My parents keep telling me to look around for places to publish it online or in a magazine or something, can't say i've really spent any time try to find anything yet though