kelzthalassunwhisper

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

I heard you… beckoning to monsters just so you would not be alone in the dark. You dread your innermost thoughts more than you fear your own demise. I wonder… would you accept my gift of silence?

DISCLAIMER

(Blood and Gore below - if triggered by such - read at your own risk)

What was laced in secrets was easily undone by those who knew the contents of the message. And in the case of Kelz'thalas, she recalled distinctly what this duskwhisper was all about.

Some moons ago, she had a little venture into the Ghostlands, drunk and driven by nothing other than spite. Not that anyone knew the wiser save for the demons that haunted her and the living alike. And she brazenly removed her gauntlet and slew the skin upon her hand to cast the droplets of crimson to bait the monsters in the dark.

What was more unsettling about this was that she had believed it didn't work - that her voice had fallen upon the silence of the unknown. But the price had been paid and with it, she regarded that she had held dear. With sober thoughts and her family within view, she wondered what they might think knowing the truth.

Would she be able to say goodbye?

Fingers curled tightly as the ancient magics at play held fast to her frame, reminding her of that commitment she needed to see through. She wasn't afraid for herself, but more what others might do in the wake of her demise.

The path she forged on was dark and that was not a responsibility she could ask her family to bare yet again. She could feel the Sorceress waiting for an answer, with patience likely thinning beyond the veil.

It was a courtesy call, but the oath was made. And she could feel the way her blood began to boil beneath her skin. She ducked into another room, seeking a way out of the estate so that her afflictions would not be visible for her family to bear witness to. Cuts started to appear along the surface of her wrists as blood eagerly dripped onto the floor in long-awaited dues.

Her body tumbled through an open window as she ran through the back courtyard. The guards that were on post or otherwise patrolling shifted from the sudden abruptness of the heir, some disappearing into the estate, while others pursued her to investigate the disturbance she was making.

"Stay back!"

She called as she could feel her heartbeat rising within her chest as her arms now fully began to turn red. Her skin was torn apart, like invisible seams that were being undone remotely. Knees buckled as she looked to the fence in the hopes of escape. But the macabre bloodshed would not be hidden.

The beating of wings could be heard as a thud was felt beside her. Words were spoken with urgency, seeking to rouse Kelz'thalas from the mental conversation she had yet to finish. The Sorceress continued to play with each string of her vitality, forcing blood to bubble up from her mouth as she coughed upon Kal'ren's chest. Her eyes opened to look at him as she took in his face once more, finding that the most peaceful image to be that of the lover that left her.

"Take care... of my family..." she said with her final breath, before her mind addressed that of the Sanguine Sorceress.

"I accept your gift of silence, you Conniving Bitch." And with that her body exploded within Kal'ren's arms, showering him in the crimson blood she had so willing spilt upon the alter. It now adorned him in her warmth, assuring that this sin would never be forgotten.

(( Thanks for the ask @sanguinesorceress - hope this is to your satisfaction for your games XD Mentions: @grumpyoldfker @allasticus and @kalren-daelish ))

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Your character receives an anonymous package. Within it is a seems to be a bag of extremely fine black and gold sand. A small handwritten card within reads: "Pour me out but don't worry, I'll always return to the bag when you're done." (The sand will magically create the image of a person's face or the entirety of their person as a perfect replica of how you remember them. This person though has to be deceased for it to work. Who does your character think of? Why them? Sending this to a bunch of folks for the holidays so they have a surprise IC gift that might also hit them in the feels! Happy Holidays!)

"Delivery!"

The voice carried through the door as Kelz made her way towards the apartment entrance. Upon unlocking the door and opening it, she was offered a small box from the courier. A few gold coins given in exchange as she took the package inside. Upon opening it, she revealed an ornately wrapped gift.

It was small and had some heft to it. And as she regarded the lack of tag, she felt immediate suspicion. For now, though, the present would be scooped up to rest beneath her arm as she made her way to her family's estate for Winter Veil.

With some coordination with the Majordomo, her gifts were already brought into the family room. A few hours of family bonding and gift exchanges were made, while the strange gift sat unopened beside her.

"Who's that from?" Her brother questioned as he peered around her.

"I don't know. It arrived on my doorstep this morning from the courier. Just... not sure if I'm ready to open it. They didn't leave a name."

Adonis's features darkened as he rose from his seat. A hand was outstretched pointedly. "Let me see that."

"W-What? No, it's a gift. It's..."

"Give it to me."

A disappointed sigh was heaved from her as she picked up the small parcel and offered it up in surrender to him. His hand held the gift balanced on a single palm, while his other hand began to glow with the light of the Eternal Sun. Beneath his illuminated hand the gift rattled with animation, causing both Allasticus and Kelz to shift in anticipation.

The paper that had concealed it burned away, allowing a simple silk black bag to take its place.

"Dad, wait what if it's-"

"Quiet." He said as the bag did not appear to be willed away so easily. It was not transparent from what they could tell, and magic would do little to reveal its contents now. A piece of parchment that had not burned floated towards the floor in response to the rough handling. But it didn't escape her brother's notice as he leaned forward to claim the written message and read it aloud for the Patriarch and his sister to hear.

"Let's pour it out, Dad." She suggested after hearing the instructions from her brother.

"No." He said with cold indifference and sought to pull the small thing away to dispose of it. But before he could get far, he would feel the weight of his daughter on his arm and her brother on the other. A hand waved over the place where his fingers clutched her gift.

"Dad, please! It's Winter's Veil!!!"

Haldir, who had been a silent onlooker throughout this exchange cleared his throat gently. But eventually Adonis would surrender his efforts to keep the gift away. The bag was pulled free as Kelz scurried to settle on the floor. The drawstring to the bag was loosened as the contents of gold and black sand spilled onto the surface. Kelz took in a gentle breath as she set a hand over the particles in hopes to create the image of a memory lost.

But the sand did not form a shape. The magic of this gift required something she no longer had.

"...It doesn't work," she declared with her hand slowly receding from the spilled sand. Disbelief etched on her features as her thoughts spiraled into thinking the gift was some hoax or prank.

Allasticus and Adonis both knew exactly who she was trying to bring back in the shifting sands. But her brother knew the torment that often lived in their father and made no move to try to animate the sand with his own hand. His hand curled at his side as he fought against the turmoil of the Matriarch's absence as well.

Tears that had often been shed on numerous accounts by her family threatened to return. But the motion of the Patriarch taking a knee beside her stopped the tears from running down the course of her cheeks. His hand settled on the sand as it began to stir from his contact and his memories. And as it started to take form, he cast his gaze away in response to the magic unfolding beneath his hand.

A startled gasp left Kelz as her hand sought to cover her mouth. The inexplicable tightness in her chest confirming the image that had been lost to her for years. The first of many warm tears rushed down the surface of her face as Adonis couldn't ignore his daughter's sobs.

The authenticity of her likeness seemed like life was expelled into the room for the first time in a long while. And Adonis could not ignore what his eyes saw. He could remember every part of her and held that image so fiercely that the sand seemed to become hardened by his desire to bring her back. Allasticus took a spot near his sister as they looked at the spectacle that now warmed their home once more. All of which were silent in remembrance of her legacy as the Matriarch, a beloved wife, and their mother. ( @dinthoqaf - you kill me with your asks. BUT I LOVE THEM <3 Q_Q

Mentions: @grumpyoldfker - oops. Sorry Dad :x & @allasticus - SOMEONE GET ME A DAMN TISSUE! )

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

*Snickers* I HATE HER >:x

Dragons are often majestic, beautiful creatures, like yourself. On the antithesis of this, what would you consider to be the most pathetic, and horrible looking of dragons? What about their appearance disturbs you the most?

"This is such an easy question for me to answer," she mused as there was no other target more suitable for blame than the Dragon Queen herself.

"You know of Alexstrasza, correct? The Dragon Queen, the Life-Binder... The Red Dragon whore."

She placed considerable emphasis on the term before turning to her speaker.

"She is supposed to be... the unifying leader for all the flights. Someone who makes the hard choices and has the final say. Yet during the Nexus Wars, she made a choice that.... well was wrong! She is the definition of life. She is supposed to promote and protect the realm. She... was appointed on the recommendation from Malygos, the Spell-Weaver. The original Blue Dragon Aspect. And the real leader that united the Dragonflights. Sure... there are rumors that he turned down the leadership role, but he was smart. He knew the implications that came from it and deemed it worthy to someone who could utilize compassion and show genuine care for our kind."

A hand lashed out then as a frosty lance was lobbed at the wall from the rising feelings of fury.

"She opted to kill Malygos. She didn't find a cure or save him from his madness. She felt she had no choice. But she always did. I've seen her sister now, turn to madness and die at the hand of demons. I've heard of the rumors that surround Nozdormu and Murozond. And Neltharion... we all know what happened there with Deathwing. No Aspect is immune to this corruption and this highly praised and beautiful red dragon, is the most tainted of them all. It doesn't take an Old God to whisper into her ears to cause calamity. She should be put down."

Deliberate steps were taken as Alicion gazed outward towards the city of Valdrakken with disdain.

"...If no one will do something about her soon, I might have to act. She does not represent me or my interests. She is the most pathetic dragon I know."

(( @safrona-shadowsun thank you for the ask <3 ))

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

“If her mother were still alive, how would kelzs life be different?”

As the sun rose in the distance, so too did the B'andtherion family. The Third War, which had been a devastating blow to their people, had fortunately not robbed them of each other. There were certainly injuries they had sustained, but nothing life-threatening or damaging. Both of her brothers were taken under the Patriarch's wing to become suitable leaders while she... was dolled up and put through the motions of noble convocations.

"Mom..." She fought against the urge to complain. "I don't like these events. How do you tolerate them?"

"I don't like them either, Sungrass. But you come to learn lots about people and our presence is always required. Absence gives way to exploitation and by being there, we enforce a certain level of decorum and obedience. Naturally, you have to make entertainment for yourself. It helps at times when you can be accompanied by your own, but your father and brothers have other obligations to adhere to."

Several servants flocked around both the Matriarch and Kelz'thalas. Their appearance was groomed from head to foot in luxurious attire and kempt diligence.

"Well... Kal'ren said he would try to show up, but the Daelish family didn't receive an invitation."

"That has never been an issue for the B'andtherions. Haldir, could you see to it that Kal'ren is permitted entry at the event? If you have any issues, be sure they bring it up with me."

"Of course, I will see to it." Haldir gave dutiful bow and strode out of the room. The Matriarch turned then and smiled brightly to Kelz'thalas.

"I hope you do forgive me if I'm scarce during this. There is someone I must speak to in relation to certain affairs. But I'd like for you to navigate these waters on your own. Afterall, there will be many seeking to occupy themselves with us. And we must weed out those that have ulterior motives. The deception always starts with honeyed words."

Kelz'thalas sighed and stared at her reflection with disinterest. But she had to hand it to her mother - she really understood people. Even if it wasn't the words she had wanted to hear. It was a caution not to trust so easily in the face of niceties others may delude her with. And she never felt comfortable flying solo.

"Come now, we must hurry. There isn't time for delay. And the sooner we handle things, the quicker we can come home and ...do something more enjoyable. If we're lucky, we can add more to the atrium on our way home."

A smile graced Kelz's features as she nodded and rose from her seat. The red gown drifted down the length of her legs as she turned to follow her mother through an open doorway. However, gray particles of sand manifested around her freezing the scene in its entirety and stopping Kelz from proceeding.

"It seems nice, doesn't it," a voice coo'd from behind her. Two leather covered digits strode along the surface of her shoulder before another hand wrapped around to take hold of her chin and turn her to face her speaker.

"I can make this a reality for you and your family. Give back everything you were supposed to have for just one little favor back in return. Afterall... don't you want to forget everything that's happened to you? Don't you want a chance to live your life as it was intended?"

How odd, but even in this past timeline, she could hear her mother's warnings about honeyed words. She knew this was a dangerous deal to take, but temptation pulled at her more as the man holding her waited for that answer to leave her lips.

(( @allasticus thanks for the ask. :3 I know I left it on a cliff-hanger, but who knows what Kelz would say here...~ Mentions: @erazeran my infinite derg who can make dreams come true!))

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Kez somehow got herself owed a favor by someone who does Dark Magic. The Deal being, that upon her death, this person will bring her back, not as an Undead, but living. This resurrection isn't simply that, it has a catch... When Kez is brought back to life, she finds herself inhabiting a brand new body. Perhaps it was one she picked out in advance, perhaps it was dealers choice... But what or who is she 'reborn' as? Do they have powers/abilities that they were already skilled with to make the transition smoother?

Kelz'thalas.

That was the fire within this soul. The one that always was reborn into another as a contingency to deal with the threats of the realm. To whom these arrangements were made with, was not so clear. Nor did it matter, all that had was the urgency in which she returned to the living in their time of need.

Infused with the blessing of the phoenix, wings adorned her frame as she materialized from a greater everlasting flame. The powers of rebirth made her immortal - guising the fact she could die simply from maturation. It was a blessing and a curse to walk the plane of reality, only to die at a moment's notice. And the power she possessed carried and grew when she lived. Cultivated by the generations of her strife to see that good could preside over evil.

"It's Sunwhisper!"

The name that was chosen as an alias in the absence of living memories now was used as a label to depict her. Her head turned to cry behind her, but she did not feel anything but the comfort of her own heat. Solitary as this life may have become, it was one that became her strength - as she was the light for her people.

"Stay back," she warned as the blaze from within was ready to release in splendor. At first embers drifted from the edges of her feathered wings before coalescing into one burning flame. Her silhouette was engulfed by this fire as the woman she was became no more. The unrest of fire itself furiously grew before seeking to devour any within its wake. She would be a force with the likes none could contend with - forging salvation with her power and being that phoenix the Sin'dorei had often revered.

(Thanks Anon for the ask! <3)

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

( You've had your walls stripped bare and defenses torn asunder emotionally. What's the deepest truth you refuse to tell a soul about them or yourself? - Meant to be an IC response of course! It's not something Din would much ask someone, but didn't wanna do it anonymously either. lol )

"Beware that, when fighting monsters, you yourself do not become a monster, for when you gaze long into the abyss, the abyss gazes also into you." - Friedrich W. Nietzche

It had to be a dream. There was no way there was just an end to all the fighting.

Labored breaths and a survey of their surroundings however did not mince the details to the altercation. The battle had ended and in its wake was silence and stillness. This was always what she had strove for. This... semblance of foreign peace. It didn't appear real. And she again looked for movement or a questionable shadow. Her hand reflexively tightening on the glaive she held until the hand of her father settled on her shoulder.

A firm squeeze was given with a muted assurance that what she was seeing was not a mistake. He had the experience to understand it, but she didn't. He had fought in battles and won. But in her case, she never had a victory. This... This didn't feel true.

"There must be-"

"It is over." He reaffirmed with a tone of finality. His blade was put to rest at his side as she couldn't believe him. Her father never dropped his guard! THIS WAS WRONG!

She searched for the position of her brother, Allasticus. Even he, one that was driven by bloodlust, had sheathed his blade. Though, his head hung as he stood over the remains of their young brother. This had to be some ploy or red herring.

The rubble beneath her feet crumbled as she moved in the direction where the Sanguine Sorceress had last been seen. Though the red was not something anyone could miss. It was a focal point in the dark and she was still as a statue - pinned into a wall by a blade. Those black lips of hers now had become an open fountain. Blood that had since been taken from others ran down over the curve of her white skin.

She was the monster that did not stop.

This wasn't Malakortana.

This was...

"Not convinced are you," quipped the familiar tone of the Nethermancer, Nixalegos. "Neither am I."

Before an answer could be offered, the nethermancer ignited the corpse of Malakortana with a deft motion of his hand. The flames of fel hungrily devoured the corpse of the she-devil. But her presence still lingered in the air, it was heavy to them both. Soulless or not, there was an aura about her. Even the blade that was mounted in her chest melted from the heat, ensuring that nothing would remain in its wake.

The Nethermancer was still moving, busying himself with his things and investigating the area. Yet, she struggled to find purpose now as this was not her field of expertise. All she knew was that this had been an ongoing ordeal for far too long. The flame, even if it had been snuffed, could burn again if a spark fell in the right place.

"Kelz."

Kal'ren's voice drew her out from the labyrinth of her thoughts, forcing her to turn to address him. He towered over her but had her well-being on his thoughts always. Though he was wise enough to not speak of it around others, generally.

"Let's take a look over here."

It was an invitation for salvation, one that she should have eagerly accepted. But the machinations of disappointment would fracture her reliance on others and her willingness to cope.

"I'm fine," she stated and sought to move away from him. But a clawed hand reached to take hold of her arm and stop her from moving away.

"You're not." He countered and his grip tightened like a vice. His inflection was seeking to appeal to her at the base of her own needs, and yet... she didn't want to believe the truth.

An ill-timed cough and sight of blackened blood left her lips. She could feel something. It stirred in response to her anger and reveled in it. Again, the coughing would continue as Kal'ren shifted to be closer in an effort to support her. He turned her to look at him, but she couldn't see him. A veil of shadows fell over her eyes, making them black to those who looked at her face.

Spurred by that of a holy mission, Naralinthe Emberdawn was running towards them.

"GET AWAY FROM HER!" Her voice cried out to Kal'ren, forcing all that had come to do battle to now converge at this place of potential contention.

Like a fire that had been housed in Kelz's chest, black smoke billowed up and out of her mouth as her arm roughly pulled from Kal'ren's grip. Hands sought to cover her own eyes as she strained to breathe against the miasma of her now tainted soul. The shadows would writhe in an effort to overtake her entirely, but her father did not stand idle as his hands pulled on hers so that she could be afforded a chance to see again.

But what he revealed was far more sinister. The color of his light, which manifested hope into strength now was seen as a blight in itself.

"YOU ARE THE MONSTER! YOU LET HER DIE! YOU KILLED HIM! YOU... ARE NO FATHER OF MINE! YOU TOOK EVERYTHING! MY MEMORIES, MY LIFE, AND MY HAPPINESS!"

Her head then turned towards Kal'ren now. "AND YOU! YOU HAD NEVER CARED! I WAS JUST A MEANS TO AN END. AND WHEN IT DIDNT WORK OUT, YOU BARTERED YOUR SOUL WITH A DEMON! LOVE WAS NEVER REAL, IT WAS FICTION! I'M JUST AN OBSESSION FOR YOUR FLAWS!"

Adonis's hands sought purchase on her shoulders, to roughly rattle her as the glow in his hands continued to ward of the influence of evil that encompassed her frame.

"This isn't you, my daughter!" He said, seeking to reason with her. He didn't want to lose her, not after everything else.

But fate had another answer to this disturbance as Naralinthe's blade found a place between Adonis and pierced through the surface of Kelz's armored chest. The decisive blow forced Kelz to fall to the ground as the shadows faded from the ethereal plane in which they had come.

Bereft with grief, Adonis tried to pull Kelz into his arms and placed his hand over the place of her fatal wound. But it did nothing to rouse her. And Kal'ren was forced to stay his claw as the Nethermancer shouted at him to stand down. Even Allasticus was prepared to stop his father, if the grief would turn into aggression towards Naralinthe. It was chaos within this party of allies, and only one knew the truth. Tears raced down her face as she looked to the younger ward, her friend, and potential family.

Like memories, her body would be confined beneath the earth next to her mother.

Years would pass as her eternal slumber had received all the preventative care and love the living could give her. But the evil that had taken hold of her that day would someday bring her back... You can either die a hero, or you live long enough to see yourself become the villain.

( @dinthoqaf - thanks so very much for this ask. Was fun to explore this.

Tagging: (Family first) @grumpyoldfker - sorry dad @allasticus - sorry bruh @lazraelbandtherion - you asked for this >:(

@kalren-daelish - :( I feel bad for you.

@sanguinesorceress (Youuuu) @themadamelioness :< BUT WHY MADAMEEEE - THE WHEEL OF TIME IS SO MEAN XD @nixalegos - I dont think I quite did your character justice, but ... I TRIED. You are so dang methodical, and I suspect he would have done more than this. XD )

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Reflecting on the past year, what is the most memorable moment that's happened for Kelz'thalas, or what has been the wildest?

The most memorable moment would be connecting with her father, Adonis. For many years he's become reclusive and closed off to outsiders and family. And with Kelz'thalas' return to her family, she's been steadily chipping away at that wall he put up. But it was when she had that breakthrough - that was an incredible scene to write with @grumpyoldfker.

Here's a snippet of the exchange:

The question she first posed rumbled in the back of his mind, as did many other things. He furrowed his brow slightly at it. Had he not explained it before? Had he not made it clear? Clearly not. Then, he realized, he had never explained it clearly at all. When she said his name and recalled her accomplishments, he turned his head towards her and arched a brow. "I am well aware of what you have done and what you continue to do. You are a Warrior. A Commander. It is expected..." he then turned to face her entirely, his broad shoulders leaning forward. A lesson was to be taught here. "You expect recognition? Praise?" he shook his head, "this is the level that is -expected- of you" he raised a finger as if silently commanding to halt whatever reaction she might have to his words. "You are a force, child. I have raised you to be as such... a leader. One that I had hoped your brothers would follow in..." He lowered his gaze and sighed, "You still have much to learn" Clearly, he also knew of her blunders "and when you do learn you'll not receive praise for it. You will be expected to do more. That is the trait of all creatures that go beyond their limitations..." he lifted his eyes once more, "but do not think that this old soul's heart is so cold that he does not have a measure of pride for his only daughter." ---- What had formerly been a matter of nerves and uncertainty now shifted to frustration and disappointment. Her eyes narrowed as she heard his response to her accomplishments. Despite being aware of these matters, he did not live them. He wasn't there for her, so what did it matter if he knew? She wasn't wanting acknowledgement of the deeds in the sense of doing them. She wanted him there. "Father with all due respect... I know this is a thankless job. No matter how much you put yourself out there and do a world of good for everyone, it's taken advantage of. But you and I have a different relationship, or rather... we should." Her voice was strained with growing emotion as she hadn't noticed the hand that now braced on the table's edge while she spoke. She didn't realize that it had dug so deeply into her soul that her body was cowed into reacting. Though his follow-up comments stung just badly and she kept her gaze on him. "Yeah, because the person who could give it to either of us is dead! The one person who knew how to show love and compassion to us is gone! I never got to mourn her, and you aren't the only one who feels her loss, father! You think I go on doing my job because it's an expectation?! I do it because I want to give people hope and know there will be a better tomorrow! You can't lead with discipline and adherence to policy or traditions alone. We can harden our resolve to be a force in itself, but without compassion, we are no better than those that would take it away!" She had at this point rose and sought an elevation above his eyes as he often put her in the same tier of those, he saw beneath him. She did know her place as a leader, and she had often navigated the path of caution when it came to him because of her admiration and respect for him as the Patriarch. But their house couldn't move forward if she let that be the only presiding factor. "We need people to like us too. I know I need to learn more. But you have taken the route of least resistance so that my experiences would be shaped in the worst of fashions. To say you have pride in me after a lecture does not amount for what I know I deserve from you." Her body had visibly trembled, and her lips formed a tight line as tears raced down the length of her cheeks. "I want you to teach me, Dad. I'm not your enemy. But I shouldn't be something that you should hone to lose too. You need to trust me too. Or we're going to lose everything again!" --------------

Adonis' face went tight. His eyes looked at his daughter in warning... she was crossing into a dangerous path. It was that moment when she mentioned the fallen Matriarch that his eyes went wide and his nostrils flared. Old, buried wounds were reopened. Old pains were reapplied. He felt a torment twist within him that he had thought he had long since hidden and it was at that moment that he understood that burying something and ignoring it did not make it go away... in fact, it would grow and fester and rear its ugly head much like it did now. Then... rage. He would fight this. He -had- to. He could not take such words from his own daughter... she was meant to listen to -him-. Her words, the emotion behind them, fuelled his anger. But he hung onto that anger in desperation as it other emotions clawed at him. No it is a weakness. They are all weaknesses. He shot to his feet and curled his lips back into a roar. The Light answered his call and drove its strength into his fist as he drove it into the table. The table effectively shattered at the impact point, buckling from his blow and sending the cutlery and utensils flying to the ground. He lifted his eyes at his daughter with a paternal fury. She is perfect. The voice. That voice echoed in the back of his mind. I shouldn't be something that you should hone to lose too. His daughter's words reverberated back and echoed for what felt like an eternity. Whatever rage, whatever anger he felt was suddenly sapped from him. He looked at her and didn't see the woman before him. He saw the small baby within her crib reaching out to clasp his outstretched finger, he saw the small girl playing with her brothers in the courtyard, and he saw the young warrior swing a sword for the first time. He saw her. He saw his kin. His breathing was ragged as he pushed past the debris and fell to one knee as he levelled himself to her seated height.... He ignored the hushed whispers, the scowls from the staff, the rumors that would swell from this moment. He focused on her... and his arms reached out to clasp his arms around her, pulling her into his large frame. He blinked back the tears that threatened to flood his cheeks as he whispered: "I can't lose you too...."

As for the most wildest? That was definitely the narrative I wrote labeled "Fruits of Loop." Again, for context here. I attended the Succulent Tart show on Kelz'thalas "All I want for Winter Veil" alongside Madame Naralinthe Emberdawn. While there, Greatfather Winterveil was handing out gifts. My understanding is that the pets and things could be associated as plushies and what not. But I took a spin on it to say, Kelz received a pet toucan. So, after getting shitfaced, she brought it into her family's estate and left it in her father's study - demanding that it had a place to live there since it was given to her by 'Greatfather Winterveil.'

If you haven't read the story - you can check it out here.

But yeah, I'd say that was pretty wild how she got home and went through the motions of 'convincing' her father to keep the damn bird. Though he had a response to that as well in his excerpt titled "De-Looped." You can read it here.

As always, it's a pleasure to get an ask from you @safrona-shadowsun - Hope this sates your curiosity for the ask!

Tagging @grumpyoldfker & @themadamelioness for the mentions and to thank them for this roleplay journey we have been embarking on with growing characters in a more story-driven and compelling fashion. It's been revitalizing to write like this again <3

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

A steady exhale left her, leaving her feeling weary and tired. No matter how much effort was put into seeing a resolution, the wheel of change did not turn. And why she tried to comprehend the resistance to betterment, she still felt lost. Not many had the tolerance she did to put up with the sneers, the violence, and the crimes. If there was no common ground to stand on, what would ever bring people together? Law-abiding or otherwise, it didn't seem anyone had the answer.

When Alphus spoke, she lifted her head and listened intently to what he said. And when the questions were asked, she took in a breath again and did her best to answer questions that were beyond her understanding.

"I honestly don't know. Everyone's threshold of tolerance is different. And in our society, the majority does not have much. Nobility will always be seeing things from a financial standpoint and thus make decisions based on proper investments. They don't contribute their wealth towards uncertainties. And the criminals will only see money being pulled away from improving conditions for their family and friends. As for those that are veterans... it's as if their contributions are viewed as steppingstones and not actual understanding. People die and what's left of them becomes that manifestation of resentment and injustice. They have been wronged for so long that it is all they know, and they will not approve of being questioned for their choices. Or rather... the only choice they were able to make."

As these words left her mouth, she felt a deep sadness take root in her soul. It was the first time she had seen the monsters for what they were entirely. Why they opposed her with such vehemence and disregard for the survival of their people. They had been scorn up until undeath, and it was in their new warped view - that they believed on an individual basis that they were never wrong.

"...I would continue to try... It's... all I've ever done. But... that grows more difficult every day. And what I give to improve matters; I get more taken from me. And I'm not sure how much more I can do so."

[[ @duraxxor - poke! <3 ]]

" You appear to be someone that doesn't quite understand where they are going? Yet, you have been here for some time. " A voice of worn baritone from what appeared to be a rather, grizzled elven man. A crimson scar wrapped around his entire jawline, paired with a patch of fabric over his left eye. A once azure gaze now possessed the depth of the oceans outside the walls. It was hard to say what age this man was. But one thing was for certain, he had the appearance of a veteran that chose to wear his old uniform that had seen better days. There was even a tattered cloak concealing his left arm. Lazily, he sat on one of the curled benches with a book clutched in his unconcealed hand.

The days had definitely lost their charm after the incident beyond the Shepherd's Gate. Her focus was unsteady due to the emotional burnout and physical exhaustion of her body and spirit. She drifted towards the bench, seemingly unaware of her surroundings as bare hands lifted to dig along the tresses of blonde hair. A deep breath was taken in before it was expelled in a weary sigh.

The words of the stranger caught her off guard, forcing her to straighten her posture and re-orient herself in her guardian regalia. With a brief glance she thought for a moment he might be referring to someone else. But his blue eye didn't seem to be bearing down on anyone but her. Seeing the eye patch and noting what uniform her wore, she cleared her throat lightly.

"Sometimes you don't know where your next steps will take you," she confessed as she leaned back against the bench to look outward from him. "But if you are familiar with my associations here, you would be correct. I have been here a while..."

Perhaps it was in this moment that she was considering her resignation with the Silvermoon Guard. But that was not a question to address now, but a thought for another moment in time. Instead, she turned to glance at him.

"Do you still serve?" She asked upon making that connection to his uniform and looking him over once more. "Apologies for not introducing myself sooner, Commander Kelz'thalas Sunwhisper." Her bare hand was offered to the man as she offered a small smile to offset any hesitation or suspicions on her part.

@duraxxor - ;3 thank you for the ask

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

When you walk the pathways of your dreams, which I imagine to be as beautiful as you are, do you see the sorrowful in any specific color or shade?

Was the question actually asked?

Her brow furrowed, trying to articulate the source for such an inquiry. When finding none, she sighed and pondered on it further. It figured that when it came to talking about dreams, she rarely recalled hers. Not only that, but she also fumbled in applying the term 'beautiful' with herself. So... what on Azeroth did she see?

Eyes veiled once more, hiding away the green in her eyes as she pried that part of her mind for answers. It was reluctant to respond, offering her a canvas of black for several moments before changing entirely. The first light that illuminated her thoughts to a vision of her dreams, came from the glow of a holy sun. It was far more radiant than the Sunwell, and that in itself was a spectacle to bear witness to. Yet, her illusory self-retreated from the oppressing light like a minion of the dark.

The next sight she could define was that of an endless body of water in all directions along with fires that burned at the surface. She couldn't see through the water as the smoke cast from the fires tainted the liquid she waded through. It was murky and obscure, but it revealed nothing to her in the way of beauty. And as she continued forward, a weight found her hands that had been submerged in its depths.

Unmistakable in shape and texture, she pulled against the links of chains that had gathered along her palm. She never questioned why or how they came to be, but she knew it was something she could not leave beneath the water. It was taxxing with every step, finding a point in which she could ascend and bring the chains up from the depths with a clattering of ringing clanks. But with a glance over her shoulder, there was no mistaking the sorrowful. Prisoners to their own anguish and despair, they relied on her for salvation. It was a burden she had often voluntarily shouldered until the light of the moon took its place in the sky.

At some point there would be nowhere else to walk, and she stood gazing to the sky in search of a freedom she never knew to exist.

(( Thanks for the ask Anon <3 - was fun visiting the dreamside of things! ))

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Tell us about your guild? IC story/relations and members/roles as well as OOC information. Are they active? Recruiting?

Probably my favorite thing to talk about! Before I go on to explain anything about the guild, I do wanna say that I truly am blessed as the GM of the Sanctum. I was blessed in our first run-through up till we needed to take our hiatus, I was lucky as a GM when I opened up my Goblin Guild for a few years on @frostahesmegabite and I'm just as lucky with reopening it with a completely different crew. I've been blessed with great writers and even better people and it's only reinforced my opinion that coming back to Villian-based RP was a good idea. Now that I'm done fluffin' my folks (lol), I can answer your stuff for ya! Structure/Roles: The Sanctum of the Forbidden isn't an 'Open for everyone' type of guild. I'm picky on who we recruit, who we bring in character-wise, and how we go about things and that's for a large variety of reasons. The primary reasons are that the concepts of playing a villain tend to require an advanced understanding of story writing, and being able to work with the community you're both in and surrounded by (ie the guild and the public RP population). Structurally we go from New Bloods (New Members) to one of three groups, those being The Onslaught (Our Militant wing), The Shades (Think Rogues, Hunters, Engineers, Specialists essentially.), and Mystics (Individuals who excel at Magical Arts and/or Research). Most members never go beyond this as the next rank is the Inner Sanctum. This belongs to our Officer Core and there's 1 Officer per branch (Once we grow larger if needed, a new rank between that 3 and Inner Sanctum will be created for Sub-Officers to help officers work with their associated branches.) and then you have Dinthoqaf at the top. These roles do not dictate what events you can/can't do or anything, it's merely what your character would prefer to do work-wise, and if your character wants none of them? Then we'll go with what works best as we emphasize personal RP as much as possible over forcing a square peg into a round hole. (I should also add, we're neutral, so Alliance or Horde toons are welcome!) All in all, it's a pretty simple system. The guild operates OOC a bit more loosely however while I do make decisions on things that directly dictate the direction of the guild (final approvals like most GMs), I try to defer to the Inner Sanctum (Officers) in most other matters. Discussing issues, guild reforms on rules if needed, disciplinary actions on what's suitable, and things of that nature. When decisions are made, we go over them with everyone. At this point, we invite everyone in the guild (New Bloods too, even a brand new one.) to offer opinions and insight on the decision and to offer counters on whether they feel something is too strict and things along that nature. No one in the Sanctum is above reproach, especially myself and none of the officers are either. If they mess up, if they did something poorly, I want to know so it can be corrected and fixed. If -I- do something wrong, I cannot begin to fix anything if I don't know about it and I try to make sure all of my members know that they can discuss anything with me, even my failings, without the worry of reprisal. (And I know, it's easy to -say- that, but I try to make sure my actions speak louder than my words in this aspect whenever possible. Best example I have is just a couple weeks ago I made a small poll that offered complete anonymity on my performance and critiques on how people thought the guild was functioning and I've made it a point to adhere to that. No email collections made sure to keep reiterating no specific examples that would out someone, etc.) But I digress cause this is probably already immeasurably longer than you wanted! (Sorry! lol)

Recruiting/Recruitment? Yes, we're always recruiting as our most common method is through referrals/word of mouth. I do have a few discord ads floating around, but I don't like recruiting on the wow forums and I refuse to recruit through the wow public chat channels in-game (Trade, LFG, etc.). You will also catch us occasionally supporting WRA's in-game Guild Faire (Horde side currently till I can be bothered to make an Alliance toon to level and represent us with lol) to support server growth/rp! If you ever see any Sanctum members online and you have questions, give us a poke! Either we'll answer ya or if it's a non-officer, they'll poke/lead you to one of us for ya! :D Activity! Right now the Sanctum is going a bit slow. It's the holiday season. Most of our members have families (Kids, spouses, SO's, etc.) and hold full-time jobs and as some folks know, companies love Overtime this time of year but don't let that dissuade you. Some just have extended travel plans. We're expected to hit full speed on everything again as schedules return to normal in early to mid-January! Story Line? The Sanctum has its overall storyline, which is currently a 'holy war' between Dinthoqaf and his brother, Ammaelin, who absolutely hate one another. Dinthoqaf is making efforts to become a God (It'll never happen, promise. This story has been smoldering for 12 years now and Din will never get what he wants cause, come on.) and his brother stands directly opposed to letting it happen. Not because Din's a 'bad guy' (which he is tbf) but because his brother is just as much an asshole as Din is and believes that Din needs to be put down for the betterment of his family's history and future (That and the fact he's been wounded/humiliated by Din several times has nothing to do with it *wink wink*. Belf Paladin Pride, amirite?). The Sanctum is a core group of individuals who support and/or have belief in Din becoming what he aims to be in the desire that once he becomes this God, he'll cleanse Azeroth of its petty factional squabbles and make it a place where people such as himself and those who follow him will no longer be outcasts or shamed/hated by society simply for being who/what they are. (Essentially, he feels the Horde/Alliance are complicit in their powers and trample on people like he used to be and who he recruits and he is a power monger intent on ripping it all down.) We also have another big bad playing the bigger scene too on this war/rivalry, but, spoilers~.

People tend to join Dinthoqaf primarily because they hate the factions, because they're outcasts and need someone to help them survive, or they just don't know where to go anymore in life. Whatever the reason is, Dinthoqaf takes all willing to serve and aid his cause and becomes something of a father figure to all those who need it.

While this is our 'general' guild storyline, I keep the story relatively simple primarily because I emphasize and encourage personal storylines. Guild story is great, but you know what's more satisfying? Seeing your character -grow-. I'm a storyline whore like that. Dinthoqaf aims to become a god, yes, but I try to play him as a Support Role as often as possible. I want to help -you- build the stories you want to build, to help your character hit the next benchmark you want them to build. As much as I like to lead, I obtain my satisfaction as GM through being a tool to help you get what you need out of your RP. If you read all the way to this, you have no idea how much I appreciate you sticking it out. I have a lot to say but that's because of how proud I am of the community we've built. <3

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

How long have you been watching me from the shadows?

He hesitated, the weight of the question halting his response. Shadows coiled and danced around him, as if yearning to pull him back into their embrace, only to be banished by the light her words had cast.

Kal’ren feared the truth his answer might reveal, a truth that could paint him in an unflattering light. “Long enough,” he said finally, his voice low and uncertain. “Long enough to see that much has changed—for your family. For you...”

A wistful sigh escaped him as his gaze drifted away. “It was never my intention to intrude or to seem like a shadow stalking your steps,” he murmured. “But I... I made a promise when we were young—that I’d look out for you, in one way or another. Given the circumstances, this was all I could do... until fate, or you, decides otherwise.”

@kelzthalassunwhisper

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Dad, let's go on vacation somewhere! You've been couped up in this study for far too long it's become like a grave!! Where do you want to go? Who will come with us? And what would be the first thing you would do to RELAX?

Here’s an improved version of your text:

Adonis arched a grey brow, his tone edged with a sharp lack of amusement. “You take issue with my study?” he asked, his voice low and measured. “I find it a most satisfactory escape from this world.”

His gaze swept over the towering bookshelves that encased him, their presence both imposing and comforting. Papers sprawled across the oaken desk before him in what might appear to others as chaos—but it was his chaos, carefully cultivated and familiar.

“Call it a grave if you must, child,” he continued, his eyes narrowing slightly. “I would gladly be buried among these tomes than waste a moment on some whimsical beachfront or any other frivolous distraction.”

@kelzthalassunwhisper

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Have you ever been jealous of me? Be honest.

Allasticus smirked. “You know,” he said, his tone light but edged with something deeper, “I was wondering when you’d get around to asking that.”

The Warrior leaned back, his gaze drifting from his sister as his eyes roved over their surroundings, searching for the right words. “I’d say it’s more envy than jealousy,” he admitted, his voice steady but contemplative.

Turning back to her, his expression softened, and his words carried a quiet certainty. “I’ll always be proud of your accomplishments.” He hesitated, the next admission weighing heavier on his tongue. “But... I’d be lying if I said I didn’t wish I had the same connection with Father that you do.”

He shrugged lightly as if trying to dispel the vulnerability of his confession. “Still,” he added, a faint smile tugging at his lips, “I hope you know your brother doesn’t care if you’re placed on a pedestal" he then reached out and brought her in for an embrace "because he’s one of the hands holding you up there.”

@kelzthalassunwhisper

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

(Origin story underway for my new OC :3)

Dark Origins: The Old World - Pt. 1

Setting: Some time before the War of Ancients... Seeds were planted so many years ago within the Black Dragonflight. Developing a hunger for vengeance and festering within each dragon, slowly breeding the corruption within their heart and minds. Not all were lulled into dropping their guard to the unknown as they plunged into the earth in search of answers and maintaining Azeroth's defense.

Tilling the dirt so that his body could weasel through, Empyrian surged through mounds of the surface as rumors above had started to trickle down to his flight in the subterranean level. His eyes blinked in an effort to protect the cornea from particles of sediment disrupted by cutting scales. But soon the earth would part overhead as the force of his body rivaled that of a rising mountain. Wings flared out at either side before engulfing the realm in shadow beneath him.

Golden eyes emerged from veiled lids to take in the surrounding area as if the feat he just managed was no trial at all. A forearm shifted forward to demonstrate the authority of his presence, forcing nearby wildlife to flee this newly conquered territory. Not that it was his intention this time.

A shrill but curt roar resounded ahead of him, signaling that his mate had surfaced nearby. Spurred into action by her call, he opened his maw in turn to answer. Aggressive and challenging, his roar demanded further compliance from those that hid from his piercing gaze. It would have been seen as a bold and reckless declaration had he been any other creature on Azeroth for such a challenge. But it seemed as if peace would never contest against his will.

Wings now had fanned out fully while raising in height before sweeping down to effortlessly raise him off the ground. His legs kicked with this motion as the bulk of his mass glided over quickly fleeing trees. Their leaves were stripped from their branches at his passing. His head, large like a great boulder slowly rotated in search of his mate's frame.

Her body towered in a way that his did, but not to the same caliber his frame had. A gradient of black scales that bled into purple colored her entire hide.

Ivoriya was his consort and obsession amongst his hoards. No treasure could compare to her as she was a natural beauty blessed upon Azeroth's surface. His heart thundered with joy as he reunited at her side with a quaking thud of his frame. Claws expertly absorbed the impact and adjusted him so that he could move quickly upon his landing to gaze upon her fully.

His vision trailed over her curves before meeting her own piercing and expectant look. A series of fangs gleamed in mischief as she quickly rose to nip at his neck in affection and adoration. The scent rising from her burned of their passion and carried a hint of their impending clutch as the eggs had recently been laid. Three were gathered into a small crater of magma and molten rock beneath the surface they stood upon.

"Empyrian," His mate stated in greeting. "You only grow when I see you."

Slowly, Ivoriya withdrew her head as eyes-maintained contact all throughout her exchange of playfulness and exaltation of his grace. It caused his jaws to flex with elation before he ignited the furnace within his lungs and expelled breath of fire overhead in offering to his mate.

"Ivoriya," he growled with resplendence enveloping his tone forcing her to lower her guard to his majesty. A forearm drifted upward with purpose before wrapping over the arch of her side and digging his claws along her spiked back to turn her over so that her underbelly would be exposed for his viewing pleasure.

She did not resist his physical command and let her claws drift down towards her crest in pleasure and desire.

"Your words sate my inner fire," she murmured in a low growl. "I know not how we did not yield a finer clutch."

Again, her words sought to make his heart sink, and his head fell forward in a show of support. He was her unyielding strength and an unstoppable force to her doubts.

"Your body is flawless to that of a pristine black diamond. Cast your fears as flames from your mouth and burn such nonsense from your thoughts."

An exhale bristled out of her, forcing a chill to slide down her spikey spine. And also caused her tail to lash out in response to his consolation.

"Of course," she hissed and gradually relaxed within his midst. For a time, they were both silent as the world around them had also become quiet. It warranted suspicion to them both before the massive silhouette of the Dragon Aspect Neltharion himself lunged out from nowhere into the sky.

Ivoriya sought to shift, but Empyrian's arm did not relinquish its hold upon her. They were still for another moment, before Empyrian's possessive grip released and allowed Ivoriya her freedom from him. He understood her response and did not fault her for it, and eventually he would lower his head before nodding faintly to his consort.

Without hesitation she dug down hastily into the ground nearby to ensure their clutch was protected. Empyrian remained resolute in his stance as his body shifted only with slight tensing of his limbs and heat roiling within his chest in anticipation should he need to release a gout of flame towards intruders.

But the tremors beneath his claws suggested otherwise and he would allow the heat within to subside once more. When Ivoriya returned, she shook her head causing the frilled skin along her head to wave freely. Her golden eyes emerged to ease his worries as pheromones of her relief bombarded his senses.

His maw parted to breathe in and exhale another growl of victory to his mate before nudging her with the end of his jaw.

"The Earth Warden moves... so it must be true." His gaze drifted in the direction of Zin'Azshari. ('The Glory of Azshara')

More roars and cries echoed from above the Kaldorei city as many dragon silhouettes filled the sky. Something was happening and the chill that fell upon his scales caused him to take a step forward in anticipation.

"They have need of us," he said to prepare his consort for flight as she reluctantly resigned to his judgment over her own. Again, her head nodded as she fell into step beside him. Her wings would move before his, as he often preferred, she would have his cover this way in the event of an attack. And as soon as she was airborne, he pulled himself into the air behind her.

Land transformed beneath them, turning from nature to that of a sentient and mortal society. Their mountains were hollow compared to their own and lacked luster in place of practical usage.

The sole skill to which he could commend them, was from their sculpting hand that cut marble and stone into mirror images of their beloved Queen Azshara. The pride of her people was within her aura always, whether it be by flesh or refined stone. Empyrian desired such for his own lair someday to protect his children and defend their home by always casting his presence abound.

"Empyrian!" Ivoriya's words broke his concentration as chaos unraveled before them. A dense green flaming stone careened skyward towards them and forced their unified flight to split.

In response, Empyrian would search for the source of his attacker before casting heavy shadows over the buildings beneath him. His descent had him brushing against buildings, which did not prohibit him from leveling them along the earth beneath his claws. Anger had rightfully been dispensed now as he sought direct confrontation with his opponent.

Though, another green fiery stone was cast his way before it hit him squarely in his armored crest. He could feel how the flaming magic sought to strip him of his scaled defenses and would raise a forearm casually to stroke the burning debris from his chest. Impervious to such foolish tricks, he now set his sights again but the moment his gaze fixated he charged.

Again, the buildings fell away from him as the ground quaked from each stampeding step. And when he was upon his foe, he could see the monstrosity they were. An apparition of envy made flesh and twisted by corrupting hatred. Like him, they were winged and possessed claws, but a less than sightly face full of fangs. Their skin was paled from discoloration and harboring the fel within their bodies.

"Foul prey should be dispelled by flame!" He bellowed as heat erupted through his lungs in a show of flames that dwarfed the demon before him seamlessly. Fire continued to roll from his parted maw until he could feel the body of his foe crumple along the ground at his claws. Ivoriya continued to monitor above for additional attackers as Empyrian scoured for evidence to the hostile reception from within the High Elven city.

Months before the place would have been something of fairy tale brimming of promise and fantasy. Now it had become a warzone, and he contemplated the nature of their battle's forthcoming. Neltharion's presence was enough to rally any within their brood to assist. But the lack of foresight on their leader's part was troubling. Or perhaps moreso was the fact they were not made aware of these developments until a few days prior.

It was unmistakable now though, as the threat to the ancient leyline that converged at the Well of Eternity's base was now a point of contention. All forces would seek to rally at the source, and he knew Ivoriya was ill-prepared to deal with the danger. His head rose in anticipation to redirect her as his maw began to open. But the sight that he saw next caused the blood in his veins to boil.

Several dragons hailing from the red, blue, green, and bronze dragonflight converged towards her. Their flight formation had left him stunned, but their assault against his mate put him into an enraged state.

He commanded his mate with a fierce roar to kill and she sought to retaliate against the bronze dragon that had latched onto her front in defiance. The bronze dragon's maw bit harshly over the right side of her shoulder and neck. While this bronze had dwarfed her size, it did not to the extent Empyrian's size had.

Her cries of pain propelled Empyrian to ascend quickly as his maw and claws sought to ground a nearby green and red dragon with his attacks. Skin tore along the sinews of the wing before the red dragon could no longer support his own weight. This forced him to fall with one uninjured wing waving above him uselessly. The collision against the earth below had killed the red on impact as blood colored the ground more than his remaining scales had.

Next came the green dragon, which Empyrian righteously bit down against the throat of this traitorous snake hard. Jaws compressed fiercely as fangs dug through flesh and muscle angrily in a show of lethal spite.

He wanted every breath that green dragon drew to cause pain and make him wish for death over life. His foe scraped with futility against his dense armored hide making Empyrian revel in his superiority in combat.

"May you not live a Dream or be a part of it any longer!" He declared as his claw swept through the underbelly of the emerald dragon. Green skin tore apart from blood-soaked black claws that retreated out of the body. With so many grave injuries, the green dragon lost her will to stay aloft and fell into a newly forming garden of corpses plastered and started by the former red dragon.

However, the blue dragon was smart and had opted to attack Empyrian while his back was turned. A series of arcane missiles barraged him, forcing Empyrian's wings to curl inward while his back arched from the force of the attack. His back hit a building that somehow had the structural support to hold some of his weight from the cascading impact of tyrannical black scale.

Ivoriya's roar called to him in urgency now as the bronze dragon had managed to force her beneath him as they now fell from the sky. His talons had taken hold in places she could not reach, and she collided into the surface of the earth much like his foes had. There were no further cries from her and the scent of her blood was immediate. The pupils within his eyes grew dangerously thin as a charming voice spoke among the countless thoughts that berated his mind.

"Your brood will be culled from weakness."

There was irrefutable truth to this, and Empyrian shifted slowly in agreement to the plan of his false mind. But the blue dragon was a pest and sought to dispatch any further resistance of his kind with another blast of arcane power against Empyrian.

Again, the force of impact shattered the structure beneath him as he barreled towards the surface below. A flash of the bronze swept into Empyrian's view as the ribboning sway of time announced his use of magic. But the black dragon was denied a choice of peace and no matter what foresight this insolent bronze whelp was blessed to have or thought he had was for naught! An ebon scaled arm rotated upon the bronze like a collapsing tunnel, forcing the bulk of Empyrian's weight over the bronze in a show of outright dominance.

"FEEBLE ARE THOSE WHO RELY ON TRICKS TO CONTEND WITH PURE MIGHT!"

The earth, which answered to the call of the earthen elementals and shaman, was reluctant for a moment - before a pillar of rock erected towards the descending bronze dragon. The tip of stone was narrow as it pierced through the bronze dragon's chest and ran through its heart before emerging out the back in a stained crimson. Droplets of blood fell as Empyrian's hunger for revenge cast them away under a strong flap of his wings. His pursuit was none other than the pesky blue dragon now that sought retreat.

Terror was chased behind the blue dragon's retreat as Empyrian surged forward with another fierce flap of his wings. A claw rose forward from beneath Empyrian as he snagged onto the blue dragon's tail to pull him towards his demise. Hundreds of sword length teeth were brought down into the azure dragon's back, before gripping at the joints of both of its wings, squeezing and stripping the bone from its back. A forceful push was given to the blue dragon with one of his clawed feet to accelerate his descent towards death.

But the runes of the blue dragon began to glow as arcane was employed to rescue his rapidly falling body. A rift of magic began to form beneath him as he fell, but just as he reached its center - he fell beyond the veil of forming arcane gateway. And by the time he realized it his body compressed into itself as blood and bone splattered into bits on the ground below Empyrian.

Unbridled rage blinded and drove the massive black dragon before he convened now at the Well of Eternity. He could not see the world in color any longer as a redness clouded his view. Golden eyes had bled into crimson, extinguishing the spark of sanity and housing a hatred so massive that even his own flight lost his trust and fell victim to him.

But there would be no solace found until his own wings betrayed him. Countless wounds had now lined his body, forcing blood to escape at any place scales no longer hid his flesh. He could feel his mind reeling with questions as he fell from the heavens.

...Did he succumb to defeat?

...Or had he run out of dragons and demons to kill?

Promptly after this question was poised, did his cerebral cortex completely fail.

The red in his eyes grew darker now as the light in his surroundings began to turn gray and fell completely still...

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

If Kelz had to choose between saving Allasticus from death or pulling Lazrael away from death and back to being alive and how she knew him... which path would she choose?

Balance had never achieved such discord like it had that day. And the battle between brothers would become a legend. Each warring blow and strike became a contest between the dead and living. Not one instance could they find reconciliation with the other, for their paths were not ever meant to intersect. Abhorred by each other's willingness to surrender to fate, Kelz'thalas couldn't stand idly by to watch this carry on.

There would be another loss if she didn't intervene. But perhaps that was by design from one who always saw the world laced in red. A light incantation was spoken, though it never reached the ears of the trio when Kelz'thalas arrived. Their weapons became idle, as their sister took their attention.

"You both need to stop this! We're family! DEAD OR ALIVE!"

But it was the lust for more blood that spurred Allasticus to act out first. He took a step forward, but the ground did not support his advance as it forced him to release his weapon and seek purchase with the ledge that was his only means of support.

"ALLASTICUS!"

She discarded her own position to grab Allasticus's arm and try to help pull him up. Though what she saw beneath him was more troubling. This was no ordinary pit, but rather a death's cauldron. Numerous undead stood at attention below. Their arms raising towards their dangling prize with an endless hunger for flesh.

"Hold on, Allasticus!" His weight was certainly something she didn't anticipate trouble with as she pulled.

The footfalls of her other sibling could be heard receding from this place.

"LAZRAEL! PLEASE!"

But he would not be deterred from rejoining the Sanguine Sorceress's side. She reached out with her other arm outstretched toward him despite the distance.

"You are family, Lazrael. Even in death, we love you! Please don't force another choice on us. I was there when we lost mother. But is it fair to make us face it twice while you reap the only benefit? To sever your humanity to adhere to the cycle that never ends...? What is your existence to be if not but tragedy? I'm begging you, Lazrael, as your own blood and flesh... to preserve both. Your brother's life, and your humanity."

A slow turn was made by her younger brother, but there was only apathy in his hooded gaze. Her words could not reach him whereas action might. His heart had fallen into the clutches of death, and thus the importance of survival held no consequences for him.

"Allasticus," she strained between clenched teeth and tried to pull with all her might. But the ground again shifted beneath her foot, making Allasticus sink further away. The sudden shift brought her to a knee, as she looked over her shoulder one last time to the pair that had sought to strip yet another life from her.

If only there was something she could do to save them both... Her heart pounded as if the blood pumping into it might rend it into two pieces.

"Brother, I won't let go." She assured Allasticus as her grip reflexively tightened.

Though in her eyes, she could see Lazrael in her mind, a soul that had needed the light to guide his lost way. It was a faint whisper, much like that of a prayer. A gentle voice, tender to the ears sought to appeal to him once more. To remind him that he had once felt the warmth of a heart and the adoration of one who deserved to be cherished over damned.

A last look was offered to the struggling siblings, but not all stories had a happy ending. In the instance he might have re-considered his path, both his sister and brother fell beneath the surface. Swallowed by the land itself, that memory would forever haunt and twist him. Not all disciples of death could escape the ramifications of upsetting the balance of order.

Their mother would make sure of that... A mother's love will guide you long after it is gone. Even if you can't see her, she will know the sins you have committed.

@allasticus - >:(

@lazraelbandtherion- >:(( @sanguinesorceress - >:(((

@grumpyoldfker - WHERE DA F WERE YOU? >:((((

@kalren-daelish - AND YOU!? >:(((((

At least mom still loves us :'(

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Would she sacrifice her father or any of her brothers to bring back her mother?

Never.

Even with the consideration of factors like mind-control where she would have a loss of will and control - she would seek to stop herself from enacting such a grave sin towards her family. They have all had their fair share of loss, and she would give herself to bring back their mother.

In retrospect, I believe that her siblings and father would find some semblance of peace with the return of her mother. But if I know anything about being a B'andtherion, we're all stubborn. So, I don't think the thought of Kelz giving her life would sit well with any of them, let alone her mother if she returned.

Would make for a compelling read, I imagine. :)

Thank you for the *revenge* ask, @allasticus.

[kelzthalassunwhisper]

Dangit, dad >:( YOU BULLY XD

If love is a trait the Matriarch represented and you could be reunited with her, would you give your son, the one known as the Shepherd, a second chance at life? I can twist your cursed fate, and make your life one less filled with hate...

The Patriarch’s eyes darkened, narrowing to slits as the offer hung in the air, cold and taunting. The mere mention of his “lost son” sent a tremor of emotion through him, his fingers curling into a fist. Lazrael. A name heavy with the stench of betrayal. A boy who had squandered the love given to him in life and turned to ruinous selfishness in death. The memory was a stain on his legacy, one that filled him with both fury and sorrow.

But the mention of the Matriarch pierced deeper, cutting past his anger like a blade to the soul. She had been the light, the love, the foundation upon which he had built himself, only for fate to rip her from his grasp. The ache of her absence was constant, a hollow space he carried with him. To feel her presence again, to hold her beyond the veil—that thought flickered dangerously in his mind, offering a glimpse of solace that was almost too tempting to resist.

He closed his eyes, reaching for her, seeking the sound of her voice, the warmth that had once steadied him. But there was only silence. His thoughts wavered, and for a fleeting moment, he saw the image of a feather caught in the wind—graceful, untethered, and beyond his reach. His jaw tightened as his eyes snapped open, the anger returning, colder and sharper than before.

And then, through the din of his thoughts, a voice broke through.

"I can’t do this alone."

It wasn’t the Matriarch, nor the Lionesses haunting voice. It was softer, trembling with quiet strength and vulnerability. His daughter.

The words struck him with a force greater than any blow, carrying with them the weight of need, of trust, of a bond that had not yet been severed. He saw her—bright and fragile, a reflection of the Matriarch’s love still enduring in the world. She was his legacy, his anchor, the reason he still stood amidst the ruin.

Had the question been posed to him months ago, he would have answered without hesitation, with the rage of a father scorned and the grief of a lover torn apart. But now, her voice tempered his anger and gave him clarity. To rewrite fate, to risk unraveling what remained, would not bring joy—it would destroy it.

His gaze, cold and resolute, fixed on the whispering entity. He leaned forward, his voice quiet but unyielding.

“No.”

It was a simple answer, but it carried with it the weight of all he refused to sacrifice.

@kelzthalassunwhisper

@themadamelioness mention