Shadowlight-Official

This blog is dedicated to writing the story of Shadowligh, a fantasy genre book with many references (if you can spot them). You can also read chapters and lore on my wordpress site: https://officialshadowlight.wordpress.com (The writing originally began on one of my blogs thehumbledwritinggirl)

[madamstormcraft-blog]

I need to find an illustrator to help me turn my book into a comic or manga. I'm really curious to see what it would look like.

[madamstormcraft-blog]

Shadowlight (on Wattpad) https://my.w.tt/eaM6y2ciIT

Chapter 9: Swordsman of the Circle and Chapter 10: The First Mission Part 1 are available now on Wattpad.

[madamstormcraft-blog]

Shadowlight (on Wattpad) https://my.w.tt/VYn1fgrLtT

(The first 8 chapters are introductory chapters of the main characters. The 9th chapter will begin the story.)

Shadowlight, a being predicted to encompass the powers of darkness and shadows, with the power to manipulate light energy. Some millennia before the current time, the Swordsman of The Circle predicted this forthcoming of Shadowlight. It …

[madamstormcraft-blog]

Hey guys, hit me up on Wattpad, I've transferred the writing over to here, and will keep tumblr updated everytime I post a chapter. Make sure to read the story from the beginning again, as the chapters have been updated and edited. Chapter 9 is finally out and available to read. Go ahead and click the link, comment on the story, and give me a follow on Wattpad as well if you like. (Wattpad is always free to join.)

[madamstormcraft-blog]

Shadowlight (on Wattpad) https://my.w.tt/VYn1fgrLtT (The first 8 chapters are introductory chapters of the main characters. The 9th chapter will begin the story.) Shadowlight, a being predicted to encompass the powers of darkness and shadows, with the power to manipulate light energy. Some millennia before the current time, the Swordsman of The Circle predicted this forthcoming of Shadowlight. It …

[madamstormcraft-blog]

The next introductory chapters.

Hi everyone, I've rebogged the first intro chapters for all the main characters over to this blog for the story Shadowlight. What's next to come is adding the next few parts to the intro chapters, as each chapter is not complete. The second part to Kage and Aileen's chapter will be coming out next. It's been two years, and during that time ceremonies were held for Sophie and Alvis each. Reese and Yuriah had left to Oriun Marus to discuss things with a Valkyrian Elite Vanguard captain, Zircon Terra, about Tlilpotonqui Baran. Tanda works on talking to both Krystal and Emerald over a few personal matters between the two of them. Kage and Aileen are closer to finishing their training. Barak and Aidan both come into their own conflict, between each other, and with their kingdom. Wesley aides Sophie in training her body after her ceremony, as does Adamu with Alvis. Both duos soon come in contact with each other when Wesley and Wesley and Sophie visit Sun City. Amara begins to travel to find Tanda, after the gruesome testing of his abilities underneath his father's teachings.

These are the things to come in the next few parts of each chapter. Have fun reading everyone ^-^.

[falsel0ve-in-reallife-blog]

Reblog if you want a bunch of “have you evers” and “would you rathers” in your ask box right now.

[thehumbledwritinggirl]

Shadowlight: Reese Medi and Yuriah, and Tlilpotonqui Baran

Traveling through the Ortese Communion Reese was on the search for the first Valkyrian Valican, Tlilpotonqui Baran, as discussed with Tanda Seeker. Yuriah, Reese’s familiar was on constant alert searching through the capital of Grāpendāsh, in the form of a black house cat. Reese had a telepath connection with him, as long as he had the pen on his waist. The pen itself was encased in amethyst, Yuriah’s favored crystal. The amethyst kept the familiar bound to the pen. The pen itself was bound to Reese, making him the only one to use it. If the pen was lost, Reese could call for it by name, and it wherever it was, could travel through the air to his hand. The amethyst was made from a piece of the Amethyst Tablet found on Crescent Island

The tablet was found to be one of the many pieces of knowledge that the goddess Allyr left on Vrinea’s world. They were thought to not be breakable, but the amethyst tablet was found in three pieces. The bottom right corner, did not contain any words written on it, so it was molded by Yuriah to encase itself over Reese’s pen. Being a familiar, it was rare for one to change the structure of the tablets, but being paired with Reese gave Yuriah nearly unlimited power, but only after touching the piece of the tablet.

“Reese, I sense him. I have tracked the scent of Feather Steel,” Yuriah communicated.

“Find him, and when you do, tell me where,” Reese replied.

Reese looked around cautiously now, peering through the alleyways to make sure he didn’t miss the Valkyrian.

“Reese! He is heading in your direction,” Yuriah exclaimed, “His sent is heading towards the market. If there is combat there, casualties could be made!”

“I’ll keep watch,” Reese responded, pulling his pen from his belt. He uncapped the pen, and wrote ‘echo’ in the air, so he could sense Baran. Multiple people were surrounding him, making it hard to notice where Tlilpotonqui was. The amount of Orcs and Alti’s did not bother Reese, as he could possibly gain aid from them, if the guards were willing anyways. Within a short distance, Reese heard the tingling of metal, as if slivers of metal were being flown against each other, but Reese never looked up. Suddenly there was a crash that smashed through one of the market stalls next to Reese.

Reese looked over, seeing an Orc, bruised and bloody lying against the broken stall. An Alti was standing, possibly the merchant, and was angry and freaked out, looking in all directions of where the Orc had come from.

“In the air” Yuriah called as he appeared in the market shifting into his original form, a dark figure with white tribal tattoos and an ethereal lower half, his head held long curved antlers, that curved behind his head, “Look up Reese.”

Reese did as Yuriah said, and saw a winged armored man, carrying twin swords, flying in the air. The armor was darker than any black he had ever seen, as well as those feathers. “I am tired of this chase. You are but a child compared to me boy,” Tlilpotonqui Baran roared underneath his helmet.

“Yuriah,” Reese shouted.

“Yes, Master Medi,” Yuriah replied.

“He’s not running away this time,” Reese said, “Help me make a sword.”

“Yes sir,” Yuriah agreed. The familiar traversed through the crowd to merge with Reese’s pen. Once merged, Reese capped the pen, and the pen formed into a sword, one of Yuriah’s eyes appearing at the base of the blade and looked at Reese, “Are you sure about this Master?”

“I am, we’ll use our in Cresentian characters to form our words. Every swing will count towards making a character,” Reese replied, as he readied the amethyst blade, “Come at me Tlilpotonqui Baran, I’ll test your mettle.”

“It is your funeral child” the Valkyrian threatened, before dive bombing directly towards Reese. His speed was intense, but Reese was able to keep up, blocking Tlilpotonqui’s twin blades. For glimpse of a moment Reese caught sight of Tlilpotonqui’s eyes, they had golden iris’ with snake like pupils. “Golden eyes” Reese questioned. Tlilpotonqui blinked, and his eyes themselves turned to a jet black. This surprised Reese, as well as Yuriah.

“He’s going all out Reese, get away from him” Yuriah exclaimed. Swinging the blade, Reese backed away, directing Tlilpotonqui to the ground. As expected of the Valkyrian, he landed on his feet, sliding into a crowd that parted away from him. “Everybody run,” Yuriah shouted, causing everyone in the market to race in directions away from the fight.

“It looks like I’m going to have to work on enchantments instead Yuriah,” Reese said to the familiar.

“Be careful master, he is the first Valkyrian after all. Who knows what tricks he has up his sleeves,” Yuriah replied.

“Will do friend,” Reese said holding his hand over the crystalline sword, a glow began to emanate from his hands, as Cresentian Runes began to appear on the blade. Reese closed his eyes, his body glowing, runes shining underneath his clothes.

“Do you think you can keep up,” Tlilpotonqui questioned.

Reese’s eyes flashed open, tiny glowing runes surrounding each iris, “Yes!” Suddenly, Reese seemed to vanish into thin air before appearing behind Tlilpotonqui and swinging his sword. Tlilpotonqui’s left blade blocked the swing. 'He’s fast Yuriah,’ Reese said to Yuriah through telepathy.

'I noticed, I’ve been watching his energy,’ Yuriah replied as Reese took the opportunity to bounce off of Tlilpotonqui’s sword, 'He’s not even at full power.’

“Not using your full strength are you Baran” Reese taunted.

“It would be a waste of energy to use it on you,” Tlilpotonqui said, “But I guess it cannot be helped.” A black shadowy aura seeped from Tlilpotonqui’s eyes, enveloping him completely. A large figure began to unfold out from the aura. As the figure grew, it began to show more distinct figures. Then the figure fully formed, an obsidian colored dragon with pitch black feathered wings, “You want my full power child, you have it!”

Reese looked up, “Yuriah, help me out here.” The amethyst blade began to expand to Reese’s arm, covering his entire body in a crystalline armor. The sword became a spear, fitting in Reese’s other hand. Runes began to appear onto the crystalline armor and spear.

“Master, your body won’t be able to hold all of those runes for much longer,” Yuriah warned.

“That’s fine, I just need your power,” Yuriah replied.

“You don’t mean…” Yuriah became concerned.

“Yes I mean that,” Reese exclaimed.

“That magick could destroy half of Grāpendāsh though,” Yuriah yelled.

“We’ll be aiming when he releases a breath,” Reese stated.

Yuriah blinked a few times, hesitating, “As you wish Master.”

A surge of violet lightning began to emit from the spear, with blue sparks flying around. The market and several houses had already collapsed, but the arcs from the spear began striking houses farther away.

“You seem to be using all of your power as well young one,” Tlilpotonqui roared, “Have a taste of mine.”

Tlilpotonqui sucked in a breath before unleashing a breath of solidified shadow, a beam of pure dark energy. Before the breath could strike, the lightning arcs had condensed into the spear. “Allyr’s Wrath bring you down,” Reese shouted, directing the lightning directly into Tlilpotonqui’s breath attack. The lightning pierced the solidified shadow, striking Tlilpotonqui’s current form, electrocuting Tlilpotonqui enough to cause the Valkyrian to collapse, reverting back to his original form, his armor still intact and smoking.

Reese relaxed, causing the runes to fade. Yuriah had the amethyst recede back to it’s original casting over the pen, materializing beside Reese, “So this is the first Valican, huh? He’s got a darkness to him.”

“Well Master, he is a Valkyrian after all. They were known to be the most adept in magicks when they first started. He was also one of the original Twelve Councilors for Oriun Marus…” Yuriah began explaining.

“Take us there,” Reese commanded.

“Oriun Marus? Are you serious? They might execute him for all we know” Yuriah exclaimed.

“There’s only one person we can trust to see there before we head back to Tanda. Besides we need to leave before a massive crowd shows up,” Reese explained.

“As you wish,” Yuriah responded; with a snap of his fingers, the three of them disappeared from Grāpendāsh.

[thehumbledwritinggirl]

Shadowlight: Krystal Snow and Emerald Hope

In the northern tundra continent of Polaris Wilds, a young mage has just finished the Ice Maiden Practicum, a trial, and coming of age ceremony. Krystal Snow, is now an Ice Maiden, a mage that has control over the cold, able to bend ice, snow, frost, and cold all to her will. As a Valican born from a Frost Dragon heritage, she knew she would be able to excel properly. Her dragon like qualities became more apparent throughout the Practicum. Many of the Arctician mages new her background, so during the Practicum, they had pressured her the most out of anyone who had gone through it. This type of pressure gave Krystal the realization of her strength, and the ability to have control over it.

Like many Draco Valicans, she has a vast amount of power within her body, being able to punch through objects with ease. The Practicum, helped her control that strength, by teaching her patience, relaxation, and power over her own will. At first, she couldn’t hold a glass of water properly without shattering it in her hands. Is now more easily able to control her power, as she can hold a glass chalice without ushering even a crack into it. But things changed when a Valkyrian showed up to Articia. Valkyrian Valicans were some of the strongest of Valicans, being able to level a city with one blow. This particular Valkyrian was Emerald Hope, a member of the Valkyrian Elite Vanguard. She was hired by a government official in Exile Community of the Ortese Communion.

When bumping into Emeraldin the residential area of Hollow-Stone, Krystal had called her out, “What’s the Valkyrian Elite Vanguard doing way out her in Polaris Wilds?!”

“Classified business” Emerald replied as she walked past Krystal, her green feathered wings, held closely knit to her body to keep her warm, “What’s a Draco Valican doing way out here.”

“I have become an Ice Maiden for the city of Arcticia, I have been recognized by leaders of Polaris Wilds as a guardian of the continent,” Krystal explained shortly, causing Emerald to stop her movements and stand in one place.

“So you have abandoned Oriun Marus,” Emerald questioned coldly.

“I have only extended my reach to another continent. I know the law for abandoning Oriun Marus, and I know you Vanguard, enforce the laws of Oriun Marus” Krystal replied. ‘I could possibly take her on if she tries to take me on in a fight instead of finishing her business, but that all depends on her magickal skills,’ Krystal thought to herself.

“So extending a hand from one continent to another then, is that correct,” Emeral asked, “You do remember that Valicans are not meant to be guardians of other continents right? We are only meant to serve as mercenaries for them. That is another law we are meant to follow.”

'Shit, I didn’t think of that one,’ Krystal thought in annoyance, “I guess I did. But I don’t feel that law is necessary, considering it was the first law created by our people after The Rebellion. It’s been centuries since then, and we haven’t changed a single law.”

“Well, I guess my business with the Exile Community of the Ortese Communion will have to wait. Tlilpotonqui Baran was one of the law makers back then, even though he fled from his own kind a few centuries after the making of Oriun Marus. I guess you’ll be the next addition to my list of people to take in,” Emerald responded, unfurling her wings and preparing her weaponry, a shield and sword, made of Onixium. They were crafted by an Alti woman a few decades back.

The gauntlets on her arms, pulled the two pieces to her arms, the shield attached to her left forearm, and the sword to her right hand. From what Krystal could tell, she held a curved long sword with dual edges, and the curve looked similar to that of a scimitar. The shield was in the shape of a crest, they both looked like thin metal, and if swung at something solid, could break on impact. In Krystal’s mind, she felt off about those weapons, considering they looked undamaged by any wear and tear. So she got into stance, cold air emanating from her breath and forming around her hands.

Like Emerald, Krystal had wings, except hers were without feathers. She reared them back in case if she had to fly above the residential area.

“I can bring you back to Oriun Marus dead or alive, your choice,” Emerald shouted.

“I make my own choices, Valkyrian” Krystal replied.

The two began to run at each other, armed to the teeth and aimed to fight, even to the death. But before they could clash a bright light suddenly flashed in between them, and a woman stood before them. This had surprised them both, as the woman had not only stood between them, but had her hands pointed at both of them, freezing them in place.

“This is not what was meant to be,” the woman yelled, louder than either of the two Valicans. With a push of her hands, she forced the two onto the ground, as if they had been thrown telepathically. The woman had strained herself in doing so apparently as well.

“Krystal Snow” the woman spoke, “and Emerald Hope. Neither of you should be fighting. It was not the path that Allyr has chosen for you.”

“Then what path am I supposed to take woman” Emerald exclaimed with curiosity.

The woman had looked over at Emerald with an extremely serious look, even though her eyes didn’t look human, “You two are to join forces, along with thirteen other people. Though they are not entirely ready, neither are you. There is a force that is gathering. One that grants powers to others without ceremony, this is not the will of Allyr, nor Vrinea. This force has intruded upon Vrinea’s lands without permission, keeping Vrinea suppressed from protecting her people, and the people of other gods. This includes the both of you.”

“Not only does this force grant powers, but also desires, with conditions that people would have to take with them. All it takes is a signature, and this force of desire Grant’s them whatever they wish for, as long as the condition is followed. As I said, this is not by the will of Vrinea, the other gods, or the goddess Allyr” the woman continued, “And if we let this go on, magick will surely suffer and dwindle on Vrinea’s world. Elementals could be harmed, Dragons would be without power, technology would not flourish without magick. So the both of you need to come with me.”

“Why should we choose to believe you” Kyrstal spouted.

“You both chose a path that lead to being guardians, warrior or mage. You have a duty to uphold. If you don’t believe me, then I shall show you” the woman said.

Holding her hands out once more, the woman sent a telepathic image to both Emerald and Krystal’s minds, one of an ethereal being absorbing energy from an elemental fissure, breaking the fissure open even more. A massive pain had rang through their heads as if the being almost seemingly could see both Krystal and Emerald; it’s voice and energy being close to too much for the two Valicans. But the image had stopped.

The two both groaning and holding their ears, had caught the womans attention, “I see you now believe me. It takes only one look from that being for someone’s head to start ringing. I am Tanda Seeker, an angel, and follower of Allyr. It is my duty to protect the gods, and now it will become yours as well.”

“What…do we do” Krystal asked, having to pause from the pain.

“You will come with me to Serra Pahn, and we will then discuss things further. I have made contact with another they will join us a few days after we reach our destination” Tanda replied.

“I will have to speak with my commanding officer first” Emerald said, trying to stand up.

“There is no need, I have spoken to them already. They gave your mission to another” Tanda said, “As for your chase for Tlilpotonqui Baran, Emerald, I have sent another to find him. Reese Medi, a human, with immense power, as he underwent the Path of The Scribe. His familiar Yuriah will help him find Tlilpotonqui, and they will join us in this fight.”

“Baran, nobody has ever been able to find him, what makes you think that a human and familiar will be able to find him” Emerald exclaimed.

“Reese’s ceremony was not one that gave him power based off of his name like most coming of age ceremonies do. It gave him power based off his creativity, and his own hidden power, his will. Yuriah, his familiar has almost limitless power because of it. They will be able to find Mr. Baran rather quickly. Mr. Baran is very good at escaping someone who would chase him, but he won’t be able to keep chase from Reese and Yuriah for very long.”

“If you say so, let us be on our way then” Emerald replied.

“Looks like we’ll have to set aside our differences for now Emerald” Krystal spoke.

“Both of you be quiet and put a hand on my shoulders so we can teleport back to Serra Pahn” Tanda said, feeling slightly annoyed now. Both Emerald and Krystal nodded, placing their hands on both of Tanda’s shoulders, before teleporting out of Arcticia.

[thehumbledwritinggirl]

Shadowlight: Sophie Automo and Wesley Indigo

Sophie Automo was an artificer, constantly building gadgets and unique tools that seemed way beyond the current technology. Sophie had once visited the Mechanization School in Sun City, and was inspired to create her own inventions. Currently, she was beginning to create a gadget that would attach to the body, and become an exoskeleton like insects have. It would hold tools and weapons to be of use in and out of combat. As she was finishing up the last specifications for her gadget, a man walked into the shop, the brass bell dinging as he walked in. He skimmed over the various wares that Sophie was selling, while she was in the back, still tinkering. The man looked at a sign that sat on the marble counter that said, “Ring for Service”. A small gong sat on the counter with a mallet sitting beside the sign.

He picked up the mallet and rang the gong. No reply. He rang it again, this time hitting the gong twice. Still no reply. Sophie was putting on the last few touches of the gadget when she heard the gong. After setting the last piece together, she walked out of the back room, right before the man could ring the gong again. “Whaddya want,” Sophie shouted in annoyance. Before the man could continue speaking, she noticed who he was, a dark skinned wood elf, known as “The Weapons Tester”.

“I know you” Sophie said, “With that chiseled chin, bony cheeks and tall, slender build. You’re the Weapons Tester aren’t you?”

“Most people I know just call me Wesley or Wes,” he spoke, “But I do go by that title too.”

“I’m guessing you’re here to test something” Sophie gestured, pointing out the gear that she hosted in her shop. Most of it were armors and newly developed gadgets, like a grappling gun. She did sport some weapons, a spear gun being one. It was a long barreled projectile weapon, that holds up to three spears at a time. It held three barrels to fire different types of spears. It came with several attachments as well. She also held a sword that could separate into multiple swords, up to five. This weapon was mainly sold to Alti’s.

“Yes, but none of these,” Wesley said, “A little birdy told me about how one of your gadgets had saved her life. A pair of gauntlets that could summon her weapons to her, if she ever became disarmed in combat.”

“Dammit Emerald,” Sophie whispered under her breath.

“What was that,” Wesley asked, cupping his hand to his ear.

“Yes, I have made something like that, but it runs off of magickal circuits that manipulate polarity. That kind of setup was extremely complicated, and I had to get the materials from Sun City in Star Haven. The magickal circuits within the technology had to use special Crystal’s from Oriun Marus, which that little birdy had to provide” Sophie told Wes, “But, I do have a new invention that I just finished. It hasn’t been tested, properly naming it, it would be called the Auto-Suit, a metal suit of mechanical armor that strengthens the attacks of it’s wearer, while also increasing defense. It has magick deflecting properties as well, but I was limited in options, so I used the remaining crystals our mutual friend gave me. It can deflect all forms of magick, but can only deflect as long as three minutes worth of a magickal attack before having to recharge in starlight.”

“I would like you to test it on me,” Wes immediately replied.

“I’m sorry,” Sophie questioned.

“Put on this Auto-Suit you spoke of and fight me with it. I will not attack unless you prompt me to” Wes answered diligently.

“This is how you…test…weapons and armor” Sophie asked hesitantly.

“What better a tester, than one who cannot die,” Wes boasted loudly.

“I’m just going to go grab the suit” Sophie said, walking towards the back room. She picked up the first piece of the suit, being careful not to touch the inside with her hand. The entire set of armor was made of a rare metal called Onixium, similar to the Onyx Stone in color, it was more metal like with the light density of Obsidian, and a similar toughness of Feather Steel. On the inside of the gauntlet were short needles that could penetrate the skin, and use the wearers blood to keep the crystal circuit from degenerating. It stung once it was placed onto the body, but the pain went away afterwards.

“Well, time to test it” Sophie said as she began placing each piece onto her body, beginning with the breast plate, which looked just like one frontal piece for the torso. The moment she stuck the armor onto her body, she could feel the pin pricks of the needles. Also once placed onto her body, the crystal circuits activated, causing the armor to transform into an entire cuirass. Piece after piece, the armor suit transformed from half sized pieces into full sized armor. The folds of the armor moved with Sophie’s movement. The last piece was the helmet, a piece that looked was just like it was meant only for the scalp. Once placed, it transformed into a full helm, A button on the side of the helmet, about the size of a small dial, was pressed to form the mouthguard.

Walking out towards the front of the shop, you could hear the armor making noise as Sophie moved. “Where is your sword,” Wes questioned.

“I thought I was supposed to test it out on you for you to find out what it is capable of,” Sophie gestured sarcastically, “Just follow me, I have a sparring ring just outside.”

“Then I shall follow” Wes responded.

Walking towards the right side of the shop, a hallway lead to the back of the shop, where the sparring ring was. Many obstacles had been previously set up for other inventions. But the Auto-Suit had a majority of those inventions already. While the armor looked bulky, it was rather hollow, holding the many inventions that Sophie had previously created. The two had stood in between all of the obstacles, training dummies, bullseye’s and other obstacles. Being an Alti woman had it’s advantages against this one wood elf, as she had four more arms than Wes. Or so she thought.

“I would like to inform you madam, you will find the reasoning behind my title, ‘The Weapons Tester’, to be tied to my my ability” Wes spoke.

“Then don’t hold back” Sophie commanded.

“Fine by me” Wes said, as he began to suddenly morph his body. It looked as if he was growing extra limbs, his body extending itself to match them. The man was groaning as if he was in pain almost. Suddenly a bone like material began to sprout from his skin, covering his body like armor. When he was finished he stood taller, with four extra arms to match Sophie. His face still remained the same, has a helmet began to cover his face, leaving sockets for him to see through. It was like his skull was now outside his body, as the helmet matched his skull. “I have undergone The Ceremony of the Bodyshifter. It makes me similar to a shapeshifter, but instead of changing my appearance, I can grow extra limbs and grow bone from underneath my skin that can become as dense as any steel that I know of,” Wes stated about his strange form, “My skin can also become thicker than the hide of a dragon, and I can use my nerve endings as spear like weapons, whips or anything I will them to be.”

“Do you feel any pain” Sophie responded to the explanation.

“None, now let’s begin” Wesley stated as he got into a stance for hand to hand combat, “Show me what you’re made of.”

[thehumbledwritinggirl]

Shadowlight: Adamu Paragon and Alvis Claire

In Sun City of Star Haven, many Citizens devote their life to scholarly work. One young man in particular was known as the most intelligent of his generation, Alvis Claire. At thirteen he developed a machine, powered by alchemy and magick crystals, that was known as the first communications device. The invention was never given a name though, so the young Alvis always pondered. On one day, his wild thinking caused him to not watch where he was walking. Bumping into an older young man, Alvis’ train of thought was lost, “Oh I’m sorry, I didn’t see you there I swear.”

“No need to get hasty buddy, it’s my fault I bumped into you” the young man apologized.

Eyeballing him, Alvis noticed the style of clothing the young man was wearing, as well as the fact that he was also half orc, “You’re from Dura Argos aren’t you?”

“Oh, well yeah. It was the clothes that gave it away wasn’t it? These were my fathers smithing garments. He passed away by not following Orc-Alti law. He was living in Ortese Communion and had relations with an elf woman. Orcs see having relations with elves especially heinous, even more so than the Alti’s” the young man examined, “So my mother moved away to Dura Argos, the clothes and remains of his body were sent to her as a warning message from the Orc Community.”

“Wow, rather tragic backstory ya got there. I guess you could say you grew up to be an actual bastard then huh” Alvis said, not noting that phrase could have been said even worse.

“Well yeah, but oh well. I heard a lot of stories about my father being a smith, so I decided to take the Ceremony of Creation in Dura Argos, and gained the magickal gift of materealization. I can make just about anything, even materials for the things I need to make. At sixteen, I’m the worlds fastest smith, for just about any kind of weapon I can imagine,” the young man boasted, “By the way, I’m Adamu Paragon, what’s your name kid?”

“Alvis Claire. I’m studying to be an inventor here at the Mechanization School of Sun City. It would be nice actually if I could get something from you. A few name ideas for the first communications device, if you don’t mind” Alvis replied.

“Can I see it” Adamu asked.

Alvis pulled out his new invention. showing it off to Adamu. It was the size of Alvis’s hand, with the flick of his wrist, what appeared to be a holographic screen appeared, as if the device was projecting it outwards.

“Wow, that’s a nifty little invention. Hmm, how about the Palm. It fits in the palm of your hand, and it looks like it doesn’t take much skill to use it” Adamu pointed out, with a name suggestion that rung well in Alvis’ ears.

“Perfect, I have to tell the school masters” Alvis jeered, running off towards the school.

“Make sure to give me credit for the name,” Adamu called out.

~ hours later ~

“Where is he, where is he, where is he” Alvis frantically chattered, trying to find Adamu in the market. Stopping, he looked around and found Adamu looking at the wares of a weapons merchant. Alvis ran over to him, just to see his magickal ability in action. Adamu’s hands began to brighten. A sword began to materialize just over his hands in the air. It seemed to be a replica of a weapon the merchant was selling, as it looked to be made of solid glass. As Alvis had come closer, the weapon dropped into Adamu’s hands, it was a large two handed axe, the light refracting to show the intricate structure of the glass weapon.

“Oh my,” said the merchant aloud.

“Yeah, I can make an exact copy of that battle axe if I could hold it for a moment. The one draw back of my gift is that I have to touch a material to be able to create materials first, and then turn those materials into the weapons or object I desire. Creating a weapon out of thin air only helps me create glass weapons. My teacher told me that the glass is hardened air particles that alchemists have discovered over the years” Adamu was explaining.

“Such a wonderful gift you were given” the merchant replied, “I’m sure you could sell many wares as a weapons merchant. Could these skills be used for combat?”

“Creating glass weapons would be fairly easy in combat, but they could break easily depending on how much I harden air particles. I have noticed that once a weapon made that way, once shattered, will evaporate back into the surrounding air. But I’m always constantly carrying materials in this bag I created. I had some help from local magicians, and created this bag that is like a little pocket dimension. Since the bag is connected to my own will, I can summon a material from the bag in order to craft weapons mid-battle” Adamu explained.

“Then I guess you wouldn’t mind helping me work on those Palms I designed then” Alvis interrupted, his arms crossed as he stared at Adamu.

“Did I just hear the voice of the young prodigy Alvis” the merchant asked, revealing himself from the hood of his cloak.

“Why yes, and if it isn’t Barbus, the ‘knock-off merchant’ known throughout Vrinea” Alvis replied.

“Knock-off merchant” Adamu questioned.

“That’s correct Adamu, Barbus here comes to Sun City quite often, and tries to sell weapons that he says are cursed, blessed or 'the original’ weapons of well known heroes and scum known all over the world. He once tried to sell me a knock-off of the rare metal swords of the Valkyrian Valican, Tlilpotonqui Baran, who actually created his swords from the metal feathers on his wings. There is no other metal that comes feathers like his, and it’s naturally ingrained into his body. I actually got to meet Mr. Baran and hold his swords when I was a child, they are lighter than steel, and even stronger, and sharper than any metal known to life on Vrinea” Alvis told Adamu, while slamming Barbus at the same time. “The ones that Barbus tried to sell me last year, were as heavy as Orc steel. Do not trust this man, whatsoever Adamu. He is a crook, and should not even be selling in this market after some of the stunts he tried to pull.”

“If I shouldn’t be in this market, then maybe you should take the Ceremony of Telepathic Clarity down in the capital of Comet. Prove me wrong” Barbus grinned slyly. This frustrated Alvis.

“Fine, I’ll take it. I’ll also make sure you are to never sell your false wares at any market, ever again, and that’s a promise” Alvis shouted, grabbing Adamu by the arm and dragging him home.

“Why am I coming with” Adamu questioned.

“Because we now work together” Alvis stated, continuing on the path to his house.

[thehumbledwritinggirl]

Shadowlight: Barak Striker and Aidan Kross

On the continent of Heathen’s Kross, two teenage boys, one who grew up in riches, and one who grew up poor were the best of friends. Heathen’s Kross was known for being a place where crime was the popular thing, and the boys both knew this. But instead of there being chaos running rampant in the streets for these two young ones, there was order, especially in the kingdom city of Kurn. Kurn was one of the blacker sheep of the kingdom cities, because of how it runs crime on the continent. Instead of bandit raids, organized crime in Kurn authorizes the use of magick to sneak into places and steal treasures. A quarter of the population these boys knew, were also treasure hunters. Another quarter of the population of Kurn were magick users who used what they call Trials, as coming of age ceremonies. The other half were the elders, citizens, and facilitators of operations.

These two boys, one tall and slender, was Aidan Kross, an heir to the Kross Crime family, and soon to be new king of Heathen’s Kross, while a shorter, stockier boy was Barak Striker, a poor boy who left his clan, after it began to fall apart and disband. Aidan, at his age was considered fine to live on his own, with the exception of a few servants, trainers, and body guards. Barak, while being short and stocky, was an elf, and was well trained in knives and sneaking. The way these two met was rather uncanny so to speak. Barak always ran along the rooftops at night, and had seen Aidan, practicing archery in his courtyard, for another time in the past week. As Barak watched, knowing attacking the Kross family was forbidden, noticed that Aidan was having trouble with nighttime shooting. So he readied a throwing knife, knowing that he might have to teach Aidan to work on his aim, especially in the dark. The moment Aidan had missed the bullseye on the hay target, Barak threw his knife, in a way that it curved, to cut the arrow in half and still hit the bullseye.

Aidan became surprised and readied his bow again, aiming everywhere to find the source of the knife. Barak called out, “Your stance is choppy, and from what I can tell you shake too much to hold a bow, as if you aren’t ready to use one.”

“Who’s there, do you know who I am” Aidan shouted out, “I have bodyguards posted nearby.”

“Well they never thought to stand on the rooftops like I do” Barak called back, causing Aidan to look up for a sign of any person. Barak shifted, to keep himself hidden in the shadows.

“The first sight of you, I will shoot” Aidan spoke, trying to track Barak’s voice.

“Well that depends on if you can find me, and if you can actually shoot me” Barak replied, and with that phrase, Aidan had pinpointed Barak’s position down.

“Well fuck you then” Aidan screamed, notifying the guards as he shot an arrow in Barak’s direction. What was expected in Aidan’s mind was a sure fire hit. But his expectations were not achieved, because as if in slow motion, Barak leaped from his position, flipping over the arrow, swinging a dagger at it to cut it in half, and then solidly landing in front of Aidan.

“Good sir, you couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn with that aim” Barak bowed, winking at Aidan.

This made Aidan’s heart fluster out of nowhere. But that didn’t stop a cacophony of guards to come and surround Barak with sword, spear, and bow at the ready. “Master Aidan, are you alright” one of the guards questioned.

“I-I am actually. Lower your weapons, I believe he could be of some use to me, and I him” Aidan responded.

“Master, are you sure you haven’t lost your head from training so much” a guard with a bow questioned.

“I’m fine Gene, everyone just go to the mess hall, I want to speak to this…intruder, myself” Aidan nodded. The guards all lowered their weapons, and did as they were told.

“It seems I win” Barak smirked.

“For now” Aidan spoke slowly turning back towards the bullseye, “Who taught you how to wield a blade?”

“My father, it was the only thing I really learned from my family. I learned how to infiltrate places on my own. I honestly just have sheer luck” Barak replied.

“You have such lightning speed, have you ever thought of going into one of the trials” Aidan asked.

“I have actually, I heard there are multiple trials here, but the one that interests me is The Trial by Lightning. A rather pain inducing trial to absorb the energy of lighting. Some have said you need to have some real thick skin to enter that trial. To achieve success, you have to he high skilled at not only surviving lightning based runes and absorb the energy, but you have to enter combat at the same time. Any, and all weapons are allowed” Barak explained, “If you were to experience a Trial what would it be?”

“The Trial by Fire” Aidan spoke silently, drawing his bow once again.

“Excuse me. The Trial by Fire? You do know that is the most dangerous one right. I’ve heard rumors of hardly anyone coming out alive. You get stamped with runic firebrands, the brands transferring the power of pyrokinesis to the subject” Barak exclaimed.

“That is the point. I excel at just about anything my family throws at me to train with, except archery. So I figured, why not compensate archery for magick” Aidan responded, releasing the arrow, and still missing the bullseye.

“I dunno if your nuts, or extremely ballsy, but I like it” Barak began clapping.

“Let me teach you one thing about the Trial by Lightning” Aidan spoke up, “My family, more specifically my uncle, runs that trial. Never mention we met, to him. Clan pride and all that bullshit.”

“Our little secret, Aidan Kross, but as long as you keep my secret. I am Barak Striker, the ex-member of a currently disbanding clan. And you know what happens when clans disband” Barak responded.

“I know, my family created that law. I swear they made it when their pride was the highest. By the way, if you need a place to stay I have an extra bed in my room. I know that the Trials are running tomorrow, if you need someone to walk with tomorrow, I’m your guy” Aidan offered, turning towards Barak.

Barak smirked, “I’ll take you up on that offer.”

~Meanwhile, at the Bandit’s Capital~

A crowd was gathering around for a public execution, “Joliah Striker, for the crimes of disbanding your clan, what say you, for your last words?”

The executioner was at the ready of a lever to release a guillotine on the man known as Joliah Striker. Joliah’s face was wounded, as if he had been tortured, and his hands broken in several places. Many of the members of his clan, men, women and children,were already executed, and the last in line was Joliah.

“I just wish I could’ve spent more time with my son,” Joliah spoke weakly, “I only got to do one thing for him, and he excelled at it. It is my hope, he becomes the future of a newfound clan, under the name of his own choosing. I would wish him good luck, but he already has it. Goodbye Barak, I wish you well.”

The judge of the execution began to speak once more, “You have spoken your words to the Judge, the executioner, and to the crowd. I, Deriniah Kross, here by sentence you to death, for disbandment of the Striker Clan. Executioner Delvin Kross, clean up this mess.” Delvin nodded, and released the guillotine, ending the life of Joliah Striker, the father of Barak Striker, and ex-leader of the Striker clan.

[thehumbledwritinggirl]

Shadowlight: Amara Deema and Tanda Seeker

A young Alti by the name of Amara Deema was born with 8 arms, he was tall in stature with a lean muscle structure, and was among the upper middle class of his society. Thankfully, for his sake, he grew up to know his parents. His father Dalin, was a high class official of his sect, being that he has six arms and four legs. To be able to keep his way of life, Dalin underwent the Centaur Transition. a magical coming of age ceremony that transformed his lower body into something close to a centaur. His front feet when closed together look like hooves, but when he opens them, five fingers become apparent, each one able to give him a better edge when it comes to climbing. His rear feet offer the same action. Amara however did not receive four legs like his father did, but Amara already had his coming of age ceremony. The Quest Meditation, was a two phased ceremony. The first phase was public ceremony, traditionally giving him the beginning to start his meditation at the temple.

For almost every Quest Meditation, they would usually last about one month. Amara was a special case though, his meditation was quick; for only one reason though. His meditation led him to an unknown plane of existence. It was dark, but streaks of colored light flourished from time to time. Walking around Amara was confused. Then he came face to face with a young woman, about 18 years old. Her eyes looked like the stars themselves were contained within them. He then proceeded to ask, “Who are you?”

“I am you,” She spoke.

“But you don’t look like me,” Amara replied.

“That is because I am also, not you,” She said.

“That doesn’t make sense” Amara became even more confused.

“Let me put it to you in a way you might comprehend, from a quote by the first elder goddess. I am nothing, but I am also everything. I am the darkness, but I am also the light. I am a demon, but I am also an angel. I am the Underworld, but I am also the Heavens. I am a person, but I am also the Omniverse. I am one, but I am also many. I am fire, but I am also water. I am earth, but I am also air. I am Death, but I am also Life. I am left, but I am also right. I am the Descendant, but I am also the Ancestor. I am the past, but I am also the future. For I am nothing, but I am also everything” Tanda quoted.

“The Goddess of all Creation, Allyr. Those were words written down on the ancient Ruby Tablet, the one that cannot be broken. So you follow her” Amara questioned.

“I serve her will. By the Rite of Allyr, I have full communication with her, foresight, aura sight, aura manipulation, and trained under her guidance of many ancient martial arts” the girl explained.

“And what is her will” Amara asked.

“That is not for me to tell” the girl replied.

“What can you tell me” Amara questioned.

“Allyr commands Vrinea to give you the gift of immortality, the art of reincarnation and immense strength” the girl replied once more.

“Why would I need to reincarnate if I’m immorta” Amara wondered.

“Only an immortal can kill another immortal. And from what I am told, there are several out in the world, and beyond, who have this gift. But it is given to you so you may change the future of your race, the Alti’s” Tanda spoke.

“I only want to ask one more question then” Amara told her.

“I know your question. I am Tanda Seeker” Tanda replied.

“Wait, if you knew my question” Amara began.

“Then I knew all of your previous questions and the proper response to them” Tanda interrupted. And to answer your first ever question, this realm is the mind of Allyr"

“How did y–” Amara was about to begin a question.

“Foresight and direct connection with Allyr remember. This has now become boring. Your meditation was shorter than most by the way. It was intentionally planned for you to be in meditation for only seven days. Goodbye” Tanda spoke, before flicking Amara on the forehead. Suddenly a rush of images flustered through Amara’s head, as if the whole universe flashed before his eyes, beginning, middle, and end. And suddenly he sprung awake from his meditation.

“Yahhh” Amara screamed before falling over backwards onto the meditations mat. His father, Dalin, was watching him.

“The monks were concerned about your meditation, so they called for me. Your done early. Too early. What did you see” Dalin questioned his seventeen year old son.

Rubbing his forehead, he began to piece together what he witnessed, “I saw a young girl, she looked like a priestess of the angel race, but I didn’t see any wings. Her name was Tanda Seeker, a follower of the ancient Goddess Allyr. She said my meditation was planned, but not by whom.”

“Son, your meditation was planned by yourself. Did you receive any gifts” Dalin questioned.

“The gift of Immortality, the Art of Reincarnation, and the gift of immense strength, all from the Goddess Vrinea” Amara continued to piece together.

“The Mother of Vines? But that shouldn’t be possible, she can’t grant immortality to us, she is not our creator” Dalin’s brow furrowed.

“Do you remember The Ancient Ruby Tablet father, the one that can never be broken” Amara asked.

“Wait, one of the thirteen Tablets of Allyr? Those were known as a myth up until the finding of the Ruby Tablet” Dalin replied.

“The others may be scattered across Vrinea. One of them might dictate how gods and goddesses can interfere with one another’s creations” Amara spoke, “I think I need to go search for them, or find others like Tanda to help me go search for them.”

“Not now you will not, it is tradition to test your gifts after your meditation, the monks wish to test your skills, especially since you are out of meditation so early” Dalin reprimanded.

“Fine, but only to prove my gifts are given to me. She did say only an immortal can kill another immortal” Amara spoke.

“Who, that girl in your vision? What was her name…Tanda correct,” Dalin asked.

“Yes father,” Amara replied.

“Then we shall use lethal force, created by the might of our Orc brethren and sisterhood smiths. The Orcs have now begun to create something they call firearms, and combination weapons. They have spoken of how they would be of great use to us Alti’s. So we shall use the prototypes and even some magick used by the monks. This will be the greatest test out of all the Alti temples” Dalin suddenly began to gleam.

~Meanwhile, on a small, remote floating island of Serra Pahn~

“Yes, he got the message” Tanda spoke silently in her hut, scrying her crystals.

“And what about the others” a voice emanated from the crystals, causing them to glow with each word.

“I will bring them together” Tanda responded promptly.

“Good, do not forget to watch over Emerald either. She is to meet with Krystal Raina soon” the voice replied.

“I will your grace, thank you for your blessing” thanked.

“You are welcome Tanda. May the lights guide you in the dark” The voice responded, before ending the communication that was held with Tanda.

“Always” Tanda said alone.

[thehumbledwritinggirl]

Shadowlight: Barak Striker and Aidan Kross

On the continent of Heathen’s Kross, two teenage boys, one who grew up in riches, and one who grew up poor were the best of friends. Heathen’s Kross was known for being a place where crime was the popular thing, and the boys both knew this. But instead of there being chaos running rampant in the streets for these two young ones, there was order, especially in the kingdom city of Kurn. Kurn was one of the blacker sheep of the kingdom cities, because of how it runs crime on the continent. Instead of bandit raids, organized crime in Kurn authorizes the use of magick to sneak into places and steal treasures. A quarter of the population these boys knew, were also treasure hunters. Another quarter of the population of Kurn were magick users who used what they call Trials, as coming of age ceremonies. The other half were the elders, citizens, and facilitators of operations.

These two boys, one tall and slender, was Aidan Kross, an heir to the Kross Crime family, and soon to be new king of Heathen’s Kross, while a shorter, stockier boy was Barak Striker, a poor boy who left his clan, after it began to fall apart and disband. Aidan, at his age was considered fine to live on his own, with the exception of a few servants, trainers, and body guards. Barak, while being short and stocky, was an elf, and was well trained in knives and sneaking. The way these two met was rather uncanny so to speak. Barak always ran along the rooftops at night, and had seen Aidan, practicing archery in his courtyard, for another time in the past week. As Barak watched, knowing attacking the Kross family was forbidden, noticed that Aidan was having trouble with nighttime shooting. So he readied a throwing knife, knowing that he might have to teach Aidan to work on his aim, especially in the dark. The moment Aidan had missed the bullseye on the hay target, Barak threw his knife, in a way that it curved, to cut the arrow in half and still hit the bullseye.

Aidan became surprised and readied his bow again, aiming everywhere to find the source of the knife. Barak called out, “Your stance is choppy, and from what I can tell you shake too much to hold a bow, as if you aren’t ready to use one.”

“Who’s there, do you know who I am” Aidan shouted out, “I have bodyguards posted nearby.”

“Well they never thought to stand on the rooftops like I do” Barak called back, causing Aidan to look up for a sign of any person. Barak shifted, to keep himself hidden in the shadows.

“The first sight of you, I will shoot” Aidan spoke, trying to track Barak’s voice.

“Well that depends on if you can find me, and if you can actually shoot me” Barak replied, and with that phrase, Aidan had pinpointed Barak’s position down.

“Well fuck you then” Aidan screamed, notifying the guards as he shot an arrow in Barak’s direction. What was expected in Aidan’s mind was a sure fire hit. But his expectations were not achieved, because as if in slow motion, Barak leaped from his position, flipping over the arrow, swinging a dagger at it to cut it in half, and then solidly landing in front of Aidan.

“Good sir, you couldn’t hit the broad side of a barn with that aim” Barak bowed, winking at Aidan.

This made Aidan’s heart fluster out of nowhere. But that didn’t stop a cacophony of guards to come and surround Barak with sword, spear, and bow at the ready. “Master Aidan, are you alright” one of the guards questioned.

“I-I am actually. Lower your weapons, I believe he could be of some use to me, and I him” Aidan responded.

“Master, are you sure you haven’t lost your head from training so much” a guard with a bow questioned.

“I’m fine Gene, everyone just go to the mess hall, I want to speak to this…intruder, myself” Aidan nodded. The guards all lowered their weapons, and did as they were told.

“It seems I win” Barak smirked.

“For now” Aidan spoke slowly turning back towards the bullseye, “Who taught you how to wield a blade?”

“My father, it was the only thing I really learned from my family. I learned how to infiltrate places on my own. I honestly just have sheer luck” Barak replied.

“You have such lightning speed, have you ever thought of going into one of the trials” Aidan asked.

“I have actually, I heard there are multiple trials here, but the one that interests me is The Trial by Lightning. A rather pain inducing trial to absorb the energy of lighting. Some have said you need to have some real thick skin to enter that trial. To achieve success, you have to he high skilled at not only surviving lightning based runes and absorb the energy, but you have to enter combat at the same time. Any, and all weapons are allowed” Barak explained, “If you were to experience a Trial what would it be?”

“The Trial by Fire” Aidan spoke silently, drawing his bow once again.

“Excuse me. The Trial by Fire? You do know that is the most dangerous one right. I’ve heard rumors of hardly anyone coming out alive. You get stamped with runic firebrands, the brands transferring the power of pyrokinesis to the subject” Barak exclaimed.

“That is the point. I excel at just about anything my family throws at me to train with, except archery. So I figured, why not compensate archery for magick” Aidan responded, releasing the arrow, and still missing the bullseye.

“I dunno if your nuts, or extremely ballsy, but I like it” Barak began clapping.

“Let me teach you one thing about the Trial by Lightning” Aidan spoke up, “My family, more specifically my uncle, runs that trial. Never mention we met, to him. Clan pride and all that bullshit.”

“Our little secret, Aidan Kross, but as long as you keep my secret. I am Barak Striker, the ex-member of a currently disbanding clan. And you know what happens when clans disband” Barak responded.

“I know, my family created that law. I swear they made it when their pride was the highest. By the way, if you need a place to stay I have an extra bed in my room. I know that the Trials are running tomorrow, if you need someone to walk with tomorrow, I’m your guy” Aidan offered, turning towards Barak.

Barak smirked, “I’ll take you up on that offer.”

~Meanwhile, at the Bandit’s Capital~

A crowd was gathering around for a public execution, “Joliah Striker, for the crimes of disbanding your clan, what say you, for your last words?”

The executioner was at the ready of a lever to release a guillotine on the man known as Joliah Striker. Joliah’s face was wounded, as if he had been tortured, and his hands broken in several places. Many of the members of his clan, men, women and children,were already executed, and the last in line was Joliah.

“I just wish I could’ve spent more time with my son,” Joliah spoke weakly, “I only got to do one thing for him, and he excelled at it. It is my hope, he becomes the future of a newfound clan, under the name of his own choosing. I would wish him good luck, but he already has it. Goodbye Barak, I wish you well.”

The judge of the execution began to speak once more, “You have spoken your words to the Judge, the executioner, and to the crowd. I, Deriniah Kross, here by sentence you to death, for disbandment of the Striker Clan. Executioner Delvin Kross, clean up this mess.” Delvin nodded, and released the guillotine, ending the life of Joliah Striker, the father of Barak Striker, and ex-leader of the Striker clan.

[thehumbledwritinggirl]

Shadowlight: Gavampatih Slythe and Tatsuo Ito

At the port city Malih, in Dragon Haven, a ship arrived bringing many folk who came to visit, learn from the Dragons, perform archeological research under the watch of the Dragons, or perform their coming of age ceremonies. One anthromorph, a scaled humanoid, who’s ancestors tie back to the early times of Dragon Haven, was Gavampatih Slythe, better known by his friends as Gava. Gava had come to Dragon Haven from the floating islands continent known as Serra Pahn. The north of the continent was well known for it’s mountainous, and snowy islands, which Gava had resided. Aviation between the islands that Gava had to perform was done by the extremely stretchy skin he was known for having between his limbs and torso, as well as along his back, giving him the ability to glide.

He traveled with a lot of effort, to get to the the southern port city of Harbinger’s Paradise. The island where the city resides, is closer to the surface of the ocean, and uses the electromagnectivity of the island to run an elevator down to the floating port. Gava was glad he got a ship from there so he could continue his coming of age ceremony, which began in Arthona. Now being in Marlih, he could find the nearest Dragon Temple to understand the Passage of the Dragon.

It didn’t take him long before he began to pay attention to the citizens of Marlih, many of them either had scale patch tattoos, or had actual patches of scales. It was more obvious that some of them had thin webbing between their fingers, feet, and underarms. Some had long manes and antlers like those of the famous Lung Dragons. Many of these people appeared to have undergone their own version of the Passage of the Dragon. Some were humans, some were elves, a very few were orcs, and then there were even fewer Alti’s. Not all had undergone this transformation as far as Gava could tell. But he was the one anthromorph among the crowds of people as he walked through the streets. Many people who underwent transformation had long skinny tails. His was rather thick and bulky compared to theirs. Though, when he watched people talk, it seems that they didn’t develop a snake like jaw.

He decided to find information on the nearest temple, so Gava confronted a short hooded woman, what what looked like ceremonial robes. “Excuse me miss” Gava spoke as he tapped her shoulder. She turned, “Daris kuro fa meh?” She spoke in the language of the dragons. Gava had not learned the language of the dragons right yet, so in response he asked, “I’m, sorry, I do not speak Dragon Tongue.”

“Ah that’s ok, I speak English as well. I am multilingual here, as is the custom of Dragon Haven” the woman spoke, her eyes suddenly looking like those of a dragons, “I am Tatsuo Ito. I hail from Dahk-Fahl, but found sanctuary here with the Dragons.”

“Wait Ito? Isn’t that the famous family who owns global jewelry empire Praetorian Jewel Traders” Gava asked concerned.

“You are correct” Tatsuo smiled, “But they are people who I would rather not be connected with just because of my last name. I took some of my mother’s money and found a merchant who was willing to take me here to Dragon Haven. I have been living here since I was eight. The merchant still comes by and talks to me every now and then.”

“Wait, that must mean you are at least 13 now then right” Gava questioned.

“That is correct. My father did not want to have a daughter, as he felt I was disgraceful, especially for my talent with magick instead of the family business. But I saw something that the Praetorian Jewelry Traders didn’t want to see: the slave labor they use in the Dahk-Fahll jewelry mines. Many laborers are beaten when they mess up, damage tools, or are not working their shift. None of them are even compensated either. They only work for my family’s business because their payment is a roof over their own family’s heads and food to scrape by with” Tatsuo explained, beginning to put on an angered face. It didn’t really make Gava intimidated by her, especially due to her short teenage stature, but he was concerned by what she had seen.

“What about your siblings? If you have any” Gava asked.

“Pfff, my older brother doesn’t care, in fact if he did at all, he probably would have been introduced to the Rite of Twin Souls by now, just so he would be out of my fathers hair. He didn’t always catch on quick when we were growing up, but he was smart. If he found out about what was going on my father would have gotten rid of him as soon as possible.” Tatsuo scoffed, not knowing what was actually going on in Praetor.

“The Rite of Twin Souls? I’ve heard of people who’ve gone through it they’re very powerful duos, and depending on their abilities they can merge into one person right” Gava asked, forgetting his coming of age ceremony for the moment.

“That’s right, and a few have joined some of Dahk-Fahl’s most strongest armies to conquer other lands. Praetor has been able to stray away from attacks by those who underwent the Rite, because they are bound by their training to not attack those who gave them their gifts” Tatsuo responded swiftly, “And the tougher the training the stronger the duo. If my brother were to undergo the Rite, then he would be part of the strongest duo ever.”

“Why is that” Gava suddenly became confused.

“The name Ito means ‘thread’ in the Far Eastern language. Every coming of age ceremony is tied to your name. My brothers name is Kage, so his name means "The Thread of Shadows”. My brother has always been a depressed know it all. And in the Rite of Twin Souls…you have to fight and train against the worst quality about yourself. If Kage underwent the ceremony, he would have to fight his own shadow" Tatsuo explained.

“Interesting. Oh shit, I nearly forgot to mention. I am Gavampatih Slythe, I’m looking for a Dragon temple to continue the Passage of the Dragon, a test given to me by my Elders in Arthona” Gava suddenly remembered, “Oh, and you can call me Gava by the way.”

Tatsuo chuckled slightly, “And how old are you Gava?”

“Sixteen, in human years. In my part of the anthro race, we have a birthday every six months” Gava explained.

[thehumbledwritinggirl]

Shadowlight: Kage Ito and Aileen Neoma

In the land of Dahk-Fahl, the city Praetor, a capital kingdom for the continent, it was the day of a young boys coming of age ceremony. In Praetor, it is customarily called The Rite of Twin Souls. The Rite of Twin Souls gives the child only half of the abilities of their true power, and the other half is to be revealed within two years of practice with the abilities. abilities. The young boy is known as Kage Ito, a prominent young member of the Ito clan, as they specialize in the jewelry trade in Praetor. Kage grew up learning and advancing quickly from a young age in the knowledge of politics, religion, and his family’s trade.

Today during The Rite of Twin Souls, Kage was introduced to a young girl who looked about the age 14, the same as him. She had a significant strawberry blonde hair, and piercing white colored eyes. She looked as if she was from the Neoma clan, one of the other seven prominent clans that governed Praetor like him. Surprising to say, he noticed that her bust was rather large for most teenagers. The sharp tone in her face actually gave him a slight shudder, almost as if she was more of a fighter than a scholar like himself. “Kage” the priest shouted imminently at him, causing the boy to stand at attention, “Quit staring at Aileen and pay attention.”

Kage nodded his head with a gulp in his throat, “Yes sir.” Kage had understood The Rite of Twin Souls very well. Whatever magickal gifts or abilities were transferred to him by the gods and goddesses would most likely pair with whomever is associated in the Rite. In some rare cases, it has connected others so well with each other, that it was almost like an arranged marriage in some peoples minds. Another thing with the Rite is that it fused the two partners souls together as one, with some partners of the Rite being able to fuse into one being. This was however the first time in twenty years that there were going to be male and female partners. So Kage intently listened to the priest.

“As we follow the traditions of the God’s Rites and Ritualistic gifts of magick, as a priest it is my honor to bestow the gifts of the Gods onto our children of this generation. Especially from those of highly revered clans as Ito and Neoma,” the priest addressed the crowd, as the Rite was a public event held in the temple, “As we all know, the Gods grant us our abilities, based on the meanings of our names. Kage Ito, ‘The Thread of Shadows’ and Aileen Neoma, 'Light of the Moon’; both will be granted gifts based on those meanings.”

“So, I, Ivaan Asteria, mark these two younglings, with the symbols of Celesta on their foreheads” Ivaan spoke as he painted Kage and Aileen’s foreheads with the symbol of an eight pointed star caressed by a crescent moon, “They shall then drink the Guinetia juice from the gold rimmed bowl of fate, one passing it to another, as a symbol of their intertwining gifts.”

Ivaan handed Aileen the bowl first, “Guinetia the powerful fruit, that unlocks the gifts hidden in their names, is painful to drink at first, from it’s stinging sensation, as it travels into their bodies. As it unlocks their gifts, the pain shall subside, and a marking shall be bestowed upon the two, split into two pieces.” Aileen drank the juice feeling the sharp pain that was mentioned by Ivaan. Trying to stay strong as she drank the first half, before handing the rest to Kage. The pain had brought Aileen to her knees, making her hold herself up on just her hands and knees. Kage hesitated slightly as he watched Aileen groan in pain.

“Aileen’s pain will slowly subside once you take your drink Kage,” Ivaan mentioned to Kage. The boy understood and drank the rest of the Guinetia juice, suddenly feeling the intense pain that Aileen was feeling, dropping to his hands and knees as well. After a few minutes had subsided, both Kage and Aileen’s bodies began to cool down from from the pain. Aileen’s mark became visible first, appearing on her back as half of a white sun with some of her abilities starting to show quickly. She didn’t hold a shadow anymore, and glowed as the light from the two suns, Aelaea and Suristran. Her body looked ethereal, as if it had become a physical embodiment of light.

As her powers began to show more, Kage’s gifts began to show more. His shadow darkened, and lifted itself off the ground like a second being. It separated from Kage, and came to kneel by his side and put it’s hand on his back. Slowly most of his hair went from a silver color to a jet black shade, some of his silver hair still left untouched. his hands began to turn a slightly grey color, as if they were dipped in ink. His mark soon appeared onto his left arm, the other half of Aileen’s mark, the symbol of half of a dark sun.

Priest Ivaan placed each of his hands on their heads, “By the power bestowed to me by the Temple of Celesta, and Celesta herself, you are now eligible for magickal training under the Temple’s knowledge. You will practice alone for two years each, before getting to train with each other until your graduations at 18.” Ivaan snapped his fingers, and four clergy two men and two women had stood forward. “Ladies, escort Aileen to her quarters, and gentlemen, escort Kage to his” Ivaan directed. The crowd that was silent during the ritual finally applauded, Kage and Aileen’s parents were the first ones to stand and applaud.

“I would like to thank everyone here today for your silence during the Rite. For those who are thinking of doing the Rite, please speak with our Clergy here at the Temple, and we will guide you through it. It is now time to speak to the goddess Celesta. If you wish to cooperate in speaking, now is the time to do so, for everyone else, let’s take a moment of silence” Ivaan directed, and the rest of the crowd began to walk up to the various altars for Celesta, or sat patiently.

While the prayers were going on, both Kage and Aileen were walking to their quarters with their clergy. The clergy that were taking Kage to his quarters, were slightly intimidated by the walking shadow that he had following him. The clergy that were taking Aileen had to shade their eyes so they wouldn’t be blinded by her light emitting body. For both of them, their training would be difficult as they discover how to control their new abilities. But when it is completed, they both shall be able to fuse into an entirely new form never seen by the Temple, or in the entirety of Praetor, known as Shadowlight.