This is Chapter 1 of the Novel im writing called Silence of the Ebony Twilight.

hellhoundwolf · hellhoundwolf on Sat Aug 30, 2008 11:13 pm

Sorry this is typed on MS paint becuase i dont have word pad. So no spell check and i have poor grammar as is. SORRY!

Chapter 1 Raid

"Roc" Zane's voice rang clear and deep in the night air. The rider atop the grey horse nudged his mount forward allowing the light of the waxing moon to expose his body. The hulking body was bulging with thick muscles and viens that rippled under his thick hide. His head was that of a bears, his body was covered in a rough layer of brown and black fur. A course mane hung from his powerful neck. He wore a cloak similar to Zane's. Thick boars tusks protroded from his lower jaw. An enormous jagged battle axe was strapped to the side of the grey mounts flank with tough dragon hide leather.
"Order them forward, burn the city to ashes and leave none alive. I will follow you and aid you shortly but first there's someone I'd like to kill" Zane said as he readjusted himself in the sadle and with a flick of the reins, his black stallion charged down the rocky hill they stood atop. Roc shook his mane and let loose a bellowing roar. Answering howls and screechs came from the base of the hill behind him. Hundreds of mounted warriors stood in formation at the hills bottom. Some rode upon tall horses, others upon vicious dire wolves and still more astride various cat beasts. To the skies giant eagles, hawks, ravens and bats hovered on the air currents. The warriors, all from various tribes were clad in traditional tribal armor, rough leather arm and leg guards, hefty chain mail and dense mithril breast plates. The armour, hued from shades of crimsion to deep violet glowed in the faint light. Roc unbuckled the axe from its straps and stared at his own fearsome expersion in the seratted blade. He kicked the grey paint horse and charged down the hill following his orders, the horse galloped down the earthy hill. A deep roar rumbled from Roc's throat. The warriors behind hearing the call to battle ran their mounts forward eager for their long awaited revenge against the last of the human race.
As the Elven warriors flooded the hillside their different animal features caused prominant differences in their formation. Those upon slick cats came gracefully to the front, while the wolves and horses follow close behind. The rest upon clumsier or slower animals followed more slowly but all to eager for the upcoming blood bath. The flying creatures of the tribes flew ahead over the city, their riders, Elven archers and marksmen rained their black arrows and bolts upon the city's guardsmen sitting upon the high stone walls. Loud bells began tolling as the city awoke in turmoil. Troops of guards swarmed to the high walls armed with crossbows aimed to the skies. At the word of command, a volley of arrows sailed through the wind, some sent their targets spiraling to the earth as others permeated soft feathers into red flesh. The tribe's flying mounts plumetted to their death as the wolves and horse charged through the wooden door of the city. Cheering howls and roaring echoed against the bloody walls as the tribal warriors plunged into the city, hacking at standing guards with cleavers and swords, axes and sythes. A foul wind began stirring as a dark shadow passed over the moon, extinguishing the fading light as a monothical raven soared over head. The raven bore silver armour and renforced steel talons, each feather, tipped silver fluttered in the harsh wind. A young female sat at the ravens shoulders, she was cloaked in a long black kimonno with elegantly printed red roses stiched into it. Her lower body were that of a leopards and her long tail streamed like a silver river behind her. A beautifully carved long bow lay across her lap and a quiver of silver arrows was belted to her back with fine deer pelt. She gently stroked the giant birds neck. The raven screeched and wooped down close to the walls. From her perch on the raven's back the archer could be bodies of humans and Elves along with thier mounts. Many were birds and amoung the bodies a few wolves and horses lay struggling for life, they tried to crawl away from bloody wreckage but collapsed and fade away. The raven watched as a hawk stumbled on it's clumsy feet, it's whole left wing had been torn off and the other broken at the shoulder. The silver raven cawed to it's cousin. The hawk looked up at the call, it returned the speech and went on hoblling down the blooded path to the outside of the city. They flew closer to the cities spiraling towers, the raven slowed and hovered over a large brick plaza. It's talons scrathed the rustic bricks as it landed. The raven gently folded its wings and bowed its head. The archer slid off its neck landing gracefully on all fours. she leaned back and sat on her haunches as she played with the white feathers of her arrows. She sat for almost and hour until the sharp claking of hooves arossed her from the boredom of waiting. She stood and watched as a hulking figure atop a grey horse came tromping down the brick street. Only the dyeing moonlight and the torches lining the sides of homes and market stands showed the presence of the two elves.
"Took you long enough to get here Roc" said the she elf.
"You should show more respect to your elders Nala" Roc replied as he dismounted the grey paint and walked over to Nala.
"So where's my brother Zane? Did he leave to find Van?" Nala asked.
"Lord Zane has ordered the city to be burned and pilleaged. He said he'd help later but first he had buisness to attend to." Roc adjusted his pelt and continued "Why do you care Nala? Your not even supposed to be here, lord Zane ordered you to stay at the fortress."
" I dont care what happens to Zane. He can take care of himself but I dont want him to hurt Van." Nala's tail flicked as she spoke.
" Well if you want any hope of saving your beloved Van then I suggest we hurry if we want to catch up with Zane's satallion." Roc placed his foot in the stirup and swung his leg over the grey's back. He swiftly settled himself and kicked his mount, with a soft niegh the horse bounced forward with a jolt of strength. Nala shouldered her bow and returned the arrows to her quiver. She lept on the raven's back. The raven opened its wings and beat the air furiously. Swift whirlwinds whipped around the plaza as the raven rose into the air, black feathers swirled about the raven as it hovered over the plaza then lazily drifted forward following the troting steed.
Zane ripped through the city. His black mount stepped down hard with each stride. Froth seeped from it's lips as Zane guided it through the torch lit city. The light dimed suddenly, Zane looked up curious at the disepearence of the light. The silhouete of a large bird passed in front of the moon then turned sharply and dispeared behind the clock tower of the city's town hall. The light returned and Zane pushed on. The black mount tossed it's head, snorted and slowed it's pace as a frantic civilians ran into the rough road. They froze in horror of the tall stallion charging toward them. The horse tried to turn from the street but Zane pulled it's head back to the road and kicked it's flanks. Unwilling to delay the asault on Van, Zane trampled right over the humans. The iron hooves crushed the bones of their victims, spaltering the crimsion liquid of life upon the homes of the wood and brick. With nothing left but the road ahead the stallion once more galloped with the speed of the howling wind behind him. Zane opened a small dragon skin pouch on his hip and fiddled with diferent veils and bottle with strange liquids held inside. He pulled out a thin necked bottle that rounded out into a deep belly. A corked stopped the thick slosh of scarlet liquid. He closed the poch and held the bottle with two fingers as he steered the reins. The dark path thinned out to a narrow path. The path turned to an alley, rats scruied away from the thundering hooves. Zane watched the road carefully, something didn't feel right.
"The lord of the tribes running freely through the grand warrior city of Resnview unchecked? No somethings wrong I smell a trap" he thought to himself. Glancing up at windows looking for archers or assassins then grazing over the ground for trip wires but nothing was found. Zane remained cautious, knowing to never trust his own security. Anything could happen and everything will happen if you let your guard down. The stallion continued on but tossed its head as they approuched an iron fence that blocked the alley. Zane whipped the reins and the stallion lept forward, its neck arched and legs stretched. That one powerful leap cleared the fence with ease. The heavy thud and sharp crack of the hooves reverberated from the rock walls. At last bursting from the filthy alley the stallion whinnyed in joy of the crisp night air. Zane gently pulled the horse to a stop in front of an enormous cathidrol. The mount bowed it's head the nibble the greens of the lush gradens to the sides of the soft path to the house of worship. Zane held the viel to the moonlight it glowed like the foul blood of the dead. Zane placed it on his lap and patted the horse's shoulder. The stallion's side were soaked with sweat as it's flanks heaved, breathing in the chilling wind. Zane pulled the broach back to it's orginal placed and settled himself until his mount had filled it's belly with the dewy grass. Pulling roughly on the reins Zane tugged the horse to the smoothed grey path to the left. The wide path was lined with tall pillars, garden beds lay at the base of each pillars. Tall vines crept over the marble surfaces of the posts. Zane held the reins lightly admiring the beauty of the gardens, the sweet aroma of roses floated to him. Zane glanced to see the soft white petals drifting on past following the path forward twirling and dancing with wind. They tugged at Zane pulling him forward. The stallion went without protest following the entice of the rose. The harsh wind turned to a gentle pushing, urging both rider and beast to follow. The whole walk through the circular gradens was a blur to Zane the scent of the rose seemed to fog his memory he couldn't recal why he'd come to the garden or why he was even here in the city. The garden abruptly ended in a circular gazzebo. An old willow tree grew in the center. The breeze slowly diminished, the petals calmingly drifted to halt at the willow's base. Zane entranced by the garden dismounted the stallion and walk up the wooden steps to the landing where the willow stood tall it's sad branches lay still in their misery. Zane lay his hand upon the trunk. The wood was old, very old worn away by the elements it was soft as silk. Zane leaned close to it, the rich aroma eminated from the willow. Zane could here a soft whistling coming from the melancholy tree. Zane listened to the strange song, between the notes whispering could be heard. Zane couldn't understand the soft speech, the inadiauble words faded away and the scents and songs left Zane standing alone in the graden mystified at the oddities of the willow.Suddenly the past engulfed Zane's mind, it snarled at him like a beast, it's sharp fangs the painful memories of bloody history. It's claws the old days of war and disption and it's eyes the look of pure hate and anguish of love now past. Zane turned his back to the tree, he strode back to the horse and clambered up on its back. Zane looked back hopeing to see the willow gone and faded like his memories but nothing stirred in the garden only a tiny leaf waved on the old tree. Suddenly the ground burst open, long tendrils torn covered whipped from the crag striking Zane, he had lingered far to long here, he kicked the stallion's flank and slapped hard on the reins. The black horse reared up in protest, Zane kicked again. The horse still refused to run from the stinging whips, Zane grabbed it's mane and pulled back it's neck. He gently stroked the horses neck and calmed it. The satllion whinnyed and stomped it's feet eager to leave the cursed garden of Van Willow. Zane glared at the willow and bared his sharp canine teeth. He spit at the tree.

hellhoundwolf · hellhoundwolf on Sat Aug 30, 2008 11:14 pm

It was too long heres the rest

"Damn you Van, I'll get you soon, I'm coming for you old friend and this time I refuse to pity you Van." Zane thought as he turned the horse and galloped away from the cursed tree. Zane followed a cobble stone path out of the garden. The trip to the willow had given the black mount new found strength and eagerness. Even without a sign from Zane the horse dashed to the paved road that headed on a steady incline. Zane let the horse lead as he pcked up the bottle of the red liquid. He had almost forgotten about it but now held tightly in his hand. The pillars ended and the view of the city returned. The torch lit streets grew wider and intersected as they entered the heart of the city. The streeet opened into a plaza circle. A tall fountain stood in the center. Black feathers lay scattered around the plaza.
"Nala? I told her to stay at the fort, why can't she just listen to me for once?" Zane thought aloud, he let the horse trot to the fountain and drink. Zane craned his neck to see over the tall clock tower at the rear of the plaza, the moon was fading fast. The first rays of light began seeping through out the city. The light a soft warmth to the plaza. The clock tower chimmed once, twice, a third time until it struck five. Zane pulled the reins back and set the stallion out at a lobbing pace. The path rose further up, it curved around a cluster of market shops then continued strait ahead. Zane pricked his ears at the sound of far off stomping. He halted the black horse and waited. The stomping grew louder it was coming closer. Zane waited with pateionce, his mount stomped and snorted his eagerness hadn't dulled since they left the garden, he was eager to find the source of the stomping. Zane held him tight. The stomping halted as six armed guards stood erect their long swords at their sides and shields at hand. Zane smirked, his fangs flashed from behind his lips.he clutched the red liquid's bottle with one last glance he tossed the potion. The bottle shattered at the guards feet. The red liquid seeped under them. The guards only glanced it then drew their swords intent to kill. The liquid formed a pool under them and started bubbling. One guard knelt down to stare into what seemed like an endless void within the pool. The pool bubbled and popped, boiling and spreading wider under the guards. Zane whistled sharply, the kneeling guard looked up at Zane and gave him a dirty look then returned to staring at the captivating pool. A faint barking bewildered the guards, they looked this way and that but could not find the source. The barking grew louder it's tone vicious and blood thirsty struck panic in the guard's hearts. The nearby torch's flames burst. The fires licked at the creeping dawn. The guards backed up as the pool spread out farther and the savage barking grew louder, closer, blood chilling roars. Abruptly the barking stoped, as well as the tremors and the flames died down to bare lighting. The guards looked to each other for answers but none could understand the situation at hand. The guard who had looked into the pool stepped forward to see what lay within the void now, he looked closely at what he saw, twelve gold eyes stared savagely back at him, then with out warning six huge Hellhounds lept from the pool their eyes, a shining gold flared at the sight of fresh kill. The hounds were scaley dog like creatures, each scale's end was sharp as a thorn, Huge tusk like horns grew from their shoulders and hips. Long yellow fangs jutted out from their scarred muzzles. Their massive paws housed the power to break bones. Long tails tipped like arrows slammed the ground with impatence. Zane whostled again and the hounds turned to the guards, saliva dripped from their gapping jaws. They lept, snarling and barking each tore at a guard. They ripped off steel armor and devoured soft flesh. One of the guards screamed and kicked the hellhound off his chest. He rolled over then jumped up and ran. In his frantic attempt to exscape the savage fangs and claws he knocked a torch from its steel ring holster. The flames singed the stone and slunk over to the grass beds on the either side of the paved street. Within seconds walls of flames blocked the guard's only hope of escape. The hounds raised their heads and howled at the flames their long choruses sent eerie chills through what was left of the guards. The hounds turned back to the guards and finished devouring the guards. Zane whistled once more and the hound quickly cleaned themselves and stood in a semi-circle behind Zane's horse. Zane slapped the reins the stallion burst forward dashing through the flames, the hellhounds followed close behind, barking and snarling. They clacking of hooves rang in Zane's ear as he rode on steadily. Old, painful memories flooded his mind, suddenly an image of Van loomed in his thoughts. Instatnt fury pelted through his mind, but he could not remain angry at this memory, one of the few good ones he had left. The image had been of him and Van when they were just cubs and still had their friendship to hold them through the first war, but that was over twenty-three thousand years ago, Zane couldn't understand why after so long he had just now dicovered that memory. He sighed.
"What good is it to be immortal when you can hardly remeber what you've done all those years?" he questioned himself. "No good at all" was the only reply he could answer. He shook the memories away and concentrated on the road ahead, he'd soon be arriving at the House of Resnview, the manor of the king. Zane whipped the reins again. The black stallion neighed and pushed forward as fast as its long legs would carry them. The hounds started to lag from the horse's break neck speeds. Soon they were out of site after coming around wide bend in the road. Zane looked back, to his relief the hounds were still following but were far behind. Zane gently eased back on the reins slowing the stallion stlightly, allowing the hounds to keep up with them. They chrged on through the city keeping to the center of the the beautifully decortaed road, marble and fine red brick lined the road leading to the highest point of the city. The Hall's tall four watch towers could be seen from the road. The towers stood as guards and watchers to the king. Zane analaized the Hall's defenses, impenetrable stone, armed with balistas at each of the four windows,soliders on and horse back archers sat upon the roof looking down upon the city. Fires burned more than half the city's outer ring, the flames swarmed through the streets begining to enter the garden of Willow. Zane turned back feeling the strong pull of the garden. He could almost imagine the old tree screaming as the flames devoured its old bark. The hounds barked at the flames and pawed at Zane's horse. With a strong tug of resistence Zane wrenched his gaze from the garden and kicked the stallion, enthusiastic to leave behind the memories that the willow had provoked. Zane urged the horse forward walking the stallion calmly up to the broad iron gates that led to the Hall. The hounds baraged the door, slaming against it, tearing at chains that held it. Zane waited with patience as the hounds busted the lock and rammed the gates open. With a hard kick Zane sent the black steed barreling through the gates trampling a gaurd. and crashing into a stout bay mare with gaurd on her back. The bay was thrown to her side, the guard crushed beneath her. The hounds tore open the guard's shells of armour, sharp teeth pierced the tough leather beneath the steel. A loud thud caused the hounds to look over at one of their pack mates. One lay on it's side it's tonuge lolling from its bloody mouth. A long spear sprouted from its flank and a cluster of arrows pinned its throat to the stone. Another loud thud. Zane turned to see anther of the hounds shot dead it's head had been impaled into the neaby wall. A rush of air gushed past Zane ruffling his hair and spooking the stallion into rearing on his hind legs. Zane looked down, there jutting out from the cracked stone stood a three foot long sword. It's blade twisted in be rivets, leaving deep serated edges. The hilt and guard were the crafted in the shape of a dragon's skull. It's pummel was set with an amythest. The base of the blade from it's guard was narrow but widdened in to a flat, hooked end.
The blade glowed amaculent shade of deep violet. Zane slowly slid down from the sadle never switching his view from the sword. He wrapped his right hand around the hilt. He pulled the blade from the stone with ease, the smooth, cool leather handle fit perfect for his graceful hands. Zane knew almost immediatly what this blade ment. Zane swiftly scaned the tower windows. The farthest back to the East standing in view of the now presteges sunrise was Van Willow. The tall king bore a solemn look, his short blonde hair shimmered a lavish gold in the beauty of the morning light. A tight leather tunic was buckled to an extravegant red velvet vest. In his gloved hands was a bronze raiper, it's stout blade connected to silver guard and hilt, a ruby stone set in the pumel, illumenated in the strong dawn's light. sturdy chain greeves came to his lower calf, and strapped to his shins were leather guards jutted with iron spikes.
A golden lion's tail swayed with the persistence of metronome behind him. The tuft of fur on the tip, glistened bronze like the raiper. A golden choker wrapped itself around the base of his throat, a lion's head amulet with ruby eyes bore it's gaze to the sun. Zane scowled at the traitoous figure. His sharp fangs grinded together with outrage. Van smirked at Zane's frustration and played with the amulet, scratching at it with fingers. The lion's eyes started to shimmer, then grew more brilliant. With each passing second it seemed to glow brighter. Even from Zane's view the light grew blinding, he winced and closed his eyes tight. A rush of wind burst from the space in front of him. Zane could feel the heat of the alien light and dared not open his eyes. The terrorfied shriek of the stallion behind finally braved Zane. He opened his eyes, only to see the fierce fangs of great beast in front him. He was stareing into the gapping jaws of a golden predator. It's rank breath filled his senses. Zane with a strike of panic lept back, nearly toppleing into his fear stricken mount. Zane at last saw the clear vision of his oppenent. A solid gold lion stood with it's head drawen back, it's fangs bared. The hulking shoulder shook as it inhaled a the glowing light of sun. With a great heave the lion bellowed a deafening roar. The ground beneath cracked under the beast. Zane snatched the hanging reins of the stallion as it reared up screaming, froth and saliva fying from it's mouth. Zane held the horse tight. The mount tried to turn and flee from the lion but was bound to the firm hand that held it. The hounds whimpered. A throaty chuckle came from the lion. Zane gave a stunned look.

hellhoundwolf · hellhoundwolf on Sat Aug 30, 2008 11:17 pm

It still didnt fit darn it!

"Well Zane, isn't it glorious, this new form of mine?"
"Van? You sick bastard what have you done to your self!?" Zane barked back.
"Oh it's nothing much, but don't act so disgusted and act as if your inesnt at the act of fluanting your own powers!" the lion spat. Zane stood agasp, and speechless, how had Van know of his flauntery?
" surprised? Of course I knew Zane, It's amazing who much the old shaman told me after a bribe." Van smiled, his long teeth twisted crookedly. Zane, frozen with shock could only think to himself
How? Why? Why would he tell Van? What kind of bribe could persuade even the shaman? No, Van must be bluffing, the shaman swore it. He wouldn't tell, I know he wouldn't.
With rage Zane stepped forward the blade at his side and said
"Van, I know not of your trickery, but... that doesn't mean I came for trifaling prattle. You and this city are a threat to the tribes, and as their leader, I must kill you in order to asure their safety" Zane muscles tensed, his whole body shoke with anticipation, eager for vengeance. Van smiled bigger, his shoulders shook, and he sat on his haunches. The lion burst, laughing so loud the ground shook. The laugh was more of deep croaking, van raised his maw to the heavens and rumbled with even more laughter. Zane growled with scorn. The laughter died away leaveing the lion gasping for breath.
"Ha! You think you can kill me? Go ahead and try, in this form i'm just as immortal as you." Van lunged, claws outstreched. Zane side stepped barely avoiding the fearsome claws. Van barreled into the stallion, throwing the horse with a wild shriek. Van recovered himself and turned to face Zane. Again he charged, his long legs guiding him at incredible speeds. Zane tensed ready to spring. At the last second van lept into the air, Zane sprang to the right. Van twisted his monolithic body his paws striking Zane's shoulder. Van landed with the grace of big cat he was while Zane stumbled to his knees. A gush of blood spit from his gaping wound. The terrible claws had sunk to the bone, completely shredding the thick muscle and tendon. Zane limped to a stand. His left arm was soaked in blood, it dripped into a thin pool beneth him. Van chuckled and licked his lips. He charged again, with killing the only thought. Zane crouched the long blade outstreached at his side. The lion charged on it's tounge flailing from it's mouth and wily craze in it's eyes.
As the lion came crashing into his oppenent, Zane swung the the blade and spun in a complete three sixty degree circle, surrounding Zane in purple vortex. The lion reared back snarling in rage. gashing rifts were strewn over Van's chest and face. Reddish liquid oozed down the golden fur in sickly rivers. Zane gave an arrogant smile while Van shot look pure hate for his superior. An overthrown lunge from the lion regained Zane's caution. He swiftly dodged and rolled from harm's way. The lion whipped around and lunged again with blind fury. Zane dropped to his knees as the lion's body flew over top. Zane raised his sword and plunged it into the lion's belly. Dragging it over the soft inerds and gut. Van landed clumsily on his flank then heaved himself up only to be pulled to the earth by the pain. He could feel the warm sticky blood matting his fur. He stood slowly and managed to stay upright and speak.
"Zane you bastard, I'll kill you next time. But for now I have no time child's play" with that said the lion turned it's massive body and fled out the court yard gates. Zane growled and cracked his fists. His muscles throbbed and his left arm had gone numb. He looked around the hounds had been trampled or slaughter and blood had stained the court yard walls. He drew in a strong inhale held it then exhaled sharply. He relaxed his grip on the sword and cleared his thoughts. He strode over to his stallion, who had calmed and eaten his share of fresh weeds and vines from around the brick walls. He stroked the mounts long neck and combed his finger's through it's mane. He quickly tied the horse's harness to stone pillar to an iron bar of the court gates. Zane returned to the center of courtyard, He took a long look at the beauty he had not see before. A proud fountain stood with three basins. At the very top sat a stone lion's head. A water fall spat from between the teeth. Apple trees grew all around the court. Bushels of heather and sage grew wild within the colums of roses that wrapped around stone statues of magnicifant creatures. Storming centuars and pegauses seemed grand amoung the stone lives of the statues. A curled up stone dragon slept in the quite corners bathed in the morning sun. Zane looked long and drew in everything that swept through his vision but at last he noticed something he hadn't before. A high petestal impended over the court. Two statues, one of a tiger and the other of a lion stood. The stone statues so elgantly carved and shaped that at first to Zane they seemed as though they ight upon him. They both were crouched as if ready to fight. The tiger's strips glowed with imbedded amythest stones. It's eyes glowed the same ominous purple as the blade. Around it's thick neck hung a silver chain with tiger's head charm hooked to it. The lion had it's mouth a gap. The inside of the maw shimmered from the ruby fangs. It's eyes to were of ruby as well. A deep red gem was planted in it's chest over it's heart. Zane could not take his eyes from the lifeless battle that loomed from the lion and tiger. He stepped closer with curiouity twinkling in his eyes. The closer he came the more the battle captivated him. He stepped up to a smaller petastal beneth the battle's own. Two broad slits parellel to the each other covered the top of a stone block set upon the pillar. The one on the right side glowed a valiant crimson and the left an ominous violet. With a vague impulse as his only guide Zane gently wedged the hooked sword into the purple slit. A blinding flash of light blocked his vision. He shut his eyes and turned away from the stone. The ground seemed to heave then tremble beneth him. A mechanical grinding rung in his ears as he turned flustered with iggnorance to the situation he couldn't seem to grasp. Slowly the light died away, the grinding came to a halt and with reluqutence the ground stopped it's violent shaking. Zane looked around bewildered. His sword, the stone and the statues had vanished. The whole court had disepeared! The stone circle had been transformed in to a mighty cliff. The fountain a lone tree rooting itself before the downward plunge. A savage roar slashed the air. Zane turned to see a shadow tiger standing before him. It's long jagged stripes radiated the alien purple light, as well as it's claws and eyes. The tiger reared forth and screamed a horrific battle cry and lept forward slamming into Zane. but a peculiur thing happened then, with out a single scratch or push the tiger warped through Zane, passing like spectrul creature. Zane followed the tiger's leap to see it's intended victim. A grand golden lion jumped to meet the tiger with claws and fangs. The two beasts crashed together, jaws wide open with fangs ready to sink into fur and flesh. An ear splitting crack shattered the air as the massive fangs clamped together. The lion had landed a top the tiger and had bitten strait through it's shoulder, spliting bone. The tiger roared his pain then shoved the lion off and stumbled to it's legs. The liger lunged again and was met once more by the lion's teeth. The fangs a blazing red sunk through the tough skin and crunched down on the tiger's throat. The lion pinned the tiger in place with it fore paws and crushing the tiger's wounded shoulder. The tiger thrashed and kicked it's back claws scraping at the lion's soft belly. The released it's neck and lept away from the thorn like claws. The tiger rolled over and sprang to it's paws. Both animals crouched ready for the last blow that held victory from their paws. Suddenly they stopped, stock still their details faded and turned grey and bleak. They seemed to fade away all together. Zane gasped in awe. The cliff returned to it's stoney circle and the tree liquified and flowed to a fountain. Zane stood stunned at the awful battle. He looked up to see the petestal no longer aglow. It had sunken to the level of the ground, it's statues stood lifeless and devoid. Zane walked over to it and touched the silver chain around the tiger's neck. He flicked his finger and the chain slipped into his hand. He raised it eye level and examined it closely. The charm was finely carved with excruciating details. The eyes glowed as the tiger who had worn it. He slipped it on clipping it beneath his long hair. He ripped his blade from the slit and dashed over to his horse. Zane undid the loose knot and mounted the stallion and with a hard kick galloped through the gates into the burning city. The heat rasped at the stallion's legs. Flames bended to meet the pounding hooves. Zane kicked the stallion pushing him on. The stone paths were seared and blackened. Stout house burned and smoked. Nearby trees growled and crackled as flames gnarled their trunks and branches. As they charged on they came to split in the path that led to the garden. Zane tugged the reins to willow. The horse neighed and bucked in fear of the garden's curse. Zane whipped the reins and kicked forceing the stallion to the pillar enclosed road. The long curved path was blocked by the fierce flames. The stallion halted despite painful lashes from Zane. The wall of fire stood stock still never advancing nor retreating. The flames rippeled to the skies but burned not the trees nor roses. Zane stopped his insesent attack on the stallion and gazed up at the mystery of the flames. A soft breeze glided over Zane and the horse. Ivory rose petals whirled and whipped around the air. The same entice came over Zane. The stallion whinnied and snorted. The petals danced around the horse's legs and pranced under it's hooves as it stomped and kicked. Zane pulled back on his mane again and again tugging trying to control the franic beast. The stallion bucked and snorted, leaping into the air and throwing it's neck back. The white roses blew toward the firey wall, they stopped and difted to the seared stone path in front of the blockaed. With a sharp crack the petals erupted into flames and melded with the towering wall. Zane managed to settle the unrully stallion long enough to see the petals destroyed by the flames. An ominious pain crept through his belly and his palms cramped. A chilling cold shot up his spine, causing him to twist in agony. The stallion felt the same chilling sensation and shivered and whinnied. Zane clutched at the horse's mane suddenly feeling drained and faint. His trembling hands barely held him on the horse saving him from a painful tumble off the horse's back. He leaned forward in the leather saddle and rested his head on the stallion's arched neck. His whole body slumped in the saddle as he drifted into unconsiousness. His fingers still held strong around the sword's hilt. The ebony beast slowly turned from the looming flames and gently lobed down the stone path that lead to the main road. The horse trotted lightly as to leave his master in peace. He halted and pricked his ears to the main road. The piercing clicking of a hard pressed hoof beats winded it's way to his ears. A silhouete lifted overhead. Powerful wing beats wailed through the burning streets. The stallion snorted and tossed at a gust of hot wing rushed by. Dark feathers lazily floated by as an enormous raven alighted to the ground, it's talons digging into the brick. A tall woman sat on it's back with a bow over her shoulder. She swept her long hair from her face and lept down with grace of a cat. She strode over, her long, thin tail swaying and her back claws eeriely clicking on the path. She came in front of the horse and hooked her long clawed fingers around the bridle and pulled the stallion's head down. She caressed it's nose and patted it's neck with her free hand. The cracking of hooves against the stone drew louder and grey paint horse appeared from between to wooden houses. The paint came to a halt next to the raven who stood preening it's self. A brutish figure sat astride the beast. He heaved himself down and lumbered over to Zane and Nala.

hellhoundwolf · hellhoundwolf on Sat Aug 30, 2008 11:18 pm

Last one I swear!

"Roc take the reins." She roughly pushed the reins into Roc's meaty palms and stepped to the horse's side. She lay her hand on Zane's back and wrapped her other arm around Zane's waist. She gently eased him down. she lay him flat against the road and shook him. He stirred. His right hand still clutched at the purple blade now as dim as it's wielder. Zane slowly opened his eyes and turned his head to his sister. Zane clenched the blade tightly as if it were his own fleeting life. Nala gripped Zane's right wrist, he instintly let go of the blade and his hand fell limp. She released him and drew back at the sweet tang of a blood scent. She followed the scent, tracking it to Zane's left arm, which was drenched in thick blood. Zane's eyes tracked Nala's. He felt shocked, he had completely forgotten about his wound. His shoulder ozzed the sticky crimsion liquid. Roc craned his neck to see over the giant stallion, looking as to some hint why Nala was so silent. He strained and finally manged a glimpse at Zane's wounded shoulder. With as snort he quickly dismised it cursing his wasted attempts for a whim at something more interesting then a gash. Nala glared at him from behind the horse. She returned her gaze to her brother, who had propt himself up on his elbows examining his wound. He leaned haevily on his right arm trying to avoid provoking more bleeding. Nala stood and offered him a hand to steady his rise. Zane grasped her hand firmly and heaved himself up careful avoid bumping his shoulder against his horse. Nala turned with a smirk and cantered over to her raven. She pulled herself up and fiddled with a wrapped cloth packet. She neatly unfolded it and removed a tiny glass bottle from inside. With both objects in hand she came over to Zane. She on stopped the bottle and dabbed the cloth in the container's liquid. She brushed aside the black cloak and pushed back the chain mail and black under shirt and smeared the wet cloth over the cut. Zane winced at the sting of the medicine. Nala then tied the dry part area of the cloth firmly around his shoulder then knotted it with a thick string from one of her many bow strings she carried with her.
"Well that should take care of it within a few hours, so long at it doesnt reopen" Nala quoted with a sigh then continued "Zane you really need to be more carful or at least not pick fights with out some kind of plan" She placed her hands on her hips and shook her head slowly. Zane rolled his eyes and muttered something inadiable. Nala shot him a death glared, but then smiled and ruffled Zane's long hair.
"Just be more concerned about your health next time ok?" She inquired. Zane smiled back and nodded. Roc huffed impatiently.
"Can we leave this damn city now before we get fried?" He handed the reins back to Zane then tromped back to his horse and mounted. Nala lept on the the back of the armored bird, while Zane tenderly mounted the stallion. Each with bound detrimenation to escape alive kicked their mounts and pelted forward. Zane led strait ahead into the alley form which he had come before. Roc followed close behind while Nala soared above. The horse easily jumped the tall fence and avoid garabage debries littering the stone grounds. The house inclosing them had not completely burned yet but still torched in the flames. The heat lapped the stuffy alley shrouding Zane and Roc in layers of ash and smoke. They passed through the alley and into the burning plaza. The old clock tower had toppled and crumpled to the ground leaving only a stump of stone in it's place. The tall fountain's basins had evaporated and the was smeared with soot. Houses's and markets burned in a cirle around the square. Zane halted the satllion and examined, searching for an escape. Roc pulled up beside him.
"What should we do sir?" He asked not seeing any escape from the hungry flames. Zane did not answer, for he had non to give, his sapphire eyes could see no hope of leaving. A grinding screech form above drove Zane's curiostiy. Nala and her raven circled above, the bird screeched again then glide over to thin walkway and hovered above then screeched once more. Zane smirked
"Seems as though Nala's found us a way out of this dying city." He said to Roc. He slapped the reins and galloped afetr Nala, Roc following eagerly. The raven swooped low and followed the path. Zane and Roc pursued with vigor. The horse's too showed their enthusiam to leave by tossing their heads and hold high gaits. They trailed along occasionaly leaping over burning rush or thatch that had fallen from houses. The path broadened and merged with main road leading to the city gates. By now the spiraling towers had fallen and burned and no home had been spared, bodies lay all around most were of humans but the rare Elf body appeared along with it's mount. Many avain bodies lay slung over the black wall, shot dead and plucked from the sky. Ash dirfted among the blood and death. Smoke misted the air and choked out the sun's warmth. Thick clouds of it blotted out light leaving the darkness to crawl over the destruction. Zane looked around solemnly grieving not for the thousands of dead humans, no grieving for the less than thirty dead tribe warriors. He pitied not the humans and thought of himself,
They diserved to die, they brought this upon themselves, for no one who sides with the traitor Van is innocent.
He ambled on, at last coming to the splintered doors of the city. He and Roc trotted through and climbed to the hilltop that overlooked the city. They gazed aimlessly at the burning Resnview. A sudden realization struck Zane, he had forgotten the violet blade back within the city. He growled and cursed aloud, damning himself for leaving it behind. Roc said a small word of comfort but could not ammend for the lose of such a weapon. Within minutes Zane and his warchief were not alone. The elven warriors flooded from the city. They had at last obtained vengence and each was stained and reeked of blood. They were wild and frantic speaking to each other how many humans they slew and how they butchered them. Zane heard each voice clear but did not listen. Roc wandered off to join the conversing, leaving Zane to sit alone atop his horse. He looked himself over. He and his mount were covered in ash, his shoulder had not bled again but throbbed painfully and they had obtained no more than a few cuts and nicks but drowned in beads of sweat. Whirling gust of wind riled the air as Nala and her raven landed neatly beside Zane. Nala slipped down from the bird and stood next to Zane. Her long black and red rosed kimonno stirred in the smog driven breeze.
"Well I suppose I aught to give this back to it's master" she said as she produced the long purple blade from behind her back. Zane stared in astonishment but feverishly took the blade and clasped it to his side. He thanked his sister and sat up proudly. The city had at last burned down to it's last hut and tower leaving only a wide expanse of smoldering ashes and litter in it's wake. Zane turned to his warriors who stood conversing about their long awaited victory. He bellowed his summons and called them to gather in close.
"My warriors" Zane started " Today we have slain many foes and in that burned down one of the mightiest of human cities. It is something to glorify and when we return back to our lands it will be celebrated, however the traitor Van Willow did escape before he was brought before justice."
Zane looked down angerly. The crowd of warriors murmered disipointment amoung each other. Zane called for order amoung them and within seconds they stood alert. They seemed tense, their timidity of Van showed behind their angry snarls and bared fangs. Zane once more adresed their victory and prompted them with hope of killing off the foul humans and swore that Van would be caught and killed in due time. Then he added,
"We must return to our home by next moon full. We will set off at dawn tomorrow so be ready, and rest your mounts." With that said he turned back to Nala.
"Well i'm going to find a place to camp, so dont stay up to late." She said then went about leading the raven on it's clumsy legs. Zane watched her go then looked upon the dead city. He pondered where had Van fled to and what the vision of the tiger and lion had ment. For how long he stood in thought he could not recall, but as the sun crouched behind hills Zane decided to put aside his unease and get some rest. He searched around the valley land, he came upon a deep rut filled with thick bush and wind stunted trees. Zane led the stallion under the tallest tree and tethered him to the wind blown oak tree. The horse contently began browsing the golden rush bushels set at the tree's roots. Zane unbuckled the saddle's under strap and lifted the leather saddle off and lay it propped against the oak. The horse's back was glistening with sweat and was raw from the coaurse saddle. Zane lightly rubbed the sensitive skin, masaging the tender flesh. The horse whinnied and bowed it's head feverishly. Zane patted it's flank and undid the broauch's hook around his neck. He let the mantle fall to the yellow rush. He cast away the bloody chain mail then gathered up his cloak and set them down atop the saddle. He ruffled his black shirt plastered to his skin and started up the rut. He emerged on top the rocky hill he had stood before the previous night. He looked down upon his fellow tribes-men, gazing upon their swelling pride and admiring their courage for following him through to this. He hoped they'd follow him to the end of his long life ahead.

Silent Ninja · Silent Ninja on Fri Oct 03, 2008 5:17 am

Wow! Thats awsome!! <3 very nice, keep up the good wokr ;0

hellhoundwolf · hellhoundwolf on Sun Feb 01, 2009 2:34 am

Chapter two:

Zane reminded himself the his mount needed water if he intended to ride him all the way back to Tribal Fort. He stepped down the hill keeping close eye and jutting stone blocking his path. He felt no need for carelessness into breaking dilicate toe bones or spraining his ankle in such a hurry. He strode through the make shift camp at the base of the hill. Cluttered skin tents lay strewn in semi-circle surrouding a cluster of burning trees set as a bon fire. Zane walked around fro tent to tent asking if anyone had found a stream or lake nearby. A wolf headed male told him of a nearby river that cut through a flat topped hill, that rolled along in a northly direction. Zane thanked him and strode back to his mount and walked him to the silver stream by the harness. The horse eagerly drank the cool liquid and filled his belly to the brim with it. Zane combed it's fine hair with his long fingers. After the horse had drunk it grazed lazily along the hill, gnawing at heather and wild wheat. Soft crunching arose from the grasses, Zane turned to see Nala causlly striding along the incline of the hill, gazing up at the heavens. Zane walked over to her leading the stallion behind him. Nala greeted him and petted the horse.
"I hope you've been treating Shadow well, hes a good horse after all." She stated while grooming the horse's mane. Zane nodded briefly and shifted his acheing feet. Nala stepped aside and knelt down by the river. She washed her face and drank the fresh water. After she had finished she turned back to Zane only to see he was no longer present. She looked around bewildered at where her little brother had vanished to in such a short time. She shrugged it off and returned to the camp and lay beside the fire to dry and warm. Many other warriors had settled and sat beside the fire, each was differnt from the other but they sat in unison speaking quietly amoung each other as if nothing had accured. She simpley stood and crawled into her own skin tent, she curled up upon a pallet of hay and fell into a deep slumber. sometime in the dead of night Zane had tapped on to the side of the tent to rouse her but had failed and returned back to his undergrowth bedding. He reknotted the reins on a low tree branch then lay a thick bedding a soft rubbering leaves over a pallet of the grassey wattle. He pushed away thick clusters of bramble laying them in a thicket wall under the oak. Shadow lay with his legs tucked under his belly and nibbled at the brambles generating a soft rustling that Zane quickly dismissed and lay himself on the soft pallet. He drifted off into a pleasant sleep.
Thin streams of light filtered in through the thick mists. Zane's eyes fluttered open. He groaned and rolled over hiding himself from the bright light. Shadow whinnied and clumsily stood on his tired legs. He trotted over and craned his neck and nudged Zane's shoulder. Zane groaned but patted the horse's nose and sat up rubbing his eyes. Shadow nudged him again, Zane pushed the horse's nose away and stood. He yawned and stretched his acheing legs and muscles. He stepped over the thickets of brambles and drapped his cloak over his shoulder. He clipped the broach and clamered over the hill and strode down into the camp. By now the fire had died to embers but that had not stopped the warriors from rising from their sleep. The camp was bustling with activity. Mounts were being saddled and rearmored, weapons being sharpen and repaired and tents being torn down and stowed away in packs. Zane searched around for his sister but was unable to find her amoung the turmoil. He returned to his camp and set the saddle upon Shadow's back. He wrapped the straps under his belly and buckled them tightly knoting the leather belts under the saddle bag. He came forward and tugged the harness, streching Shadow's neck forward to taught the skin folds under the saddle. He stroked the stallion's nose then untied the tether and held the horse as he swung the chain mail over the horse's shoulders. He placed a foot in the stirrup and swung his other leg over and sat up in the saddle and adjusted himself. He cracked his wrists then pulled the reins to a fitting postion. He kicked Shadow's flank and lobbed him into the excited camp. With a sharp whistled he gathered their attention. He quickly adressed that they would be leaving soon. Protests of how thick the mists had become rose up but was soon settled that the high sun would clear it up within in a couple hours. Zane dismissed them back to their preperations and trotted Shadow over to the stream for one last drink before their journey. He pulled the reins and led Shadow back to camp to wait at the for the leaving. They stood atop the hill, watching observatently as the tribes streamed around. At last the warriors stood ready, sitting upon their mounts. They stood in uneven groups chatting amoungst themselves. Zane looked around for Nala and her raven, spying them circling low over the rolloing hills amoung other flying mounts. Zane called for order and addressed that they should ride in long clusters keeping close to each other and waiting for the slower mounts to catch up. They nodded and murmered agreement to each other and formed their clusters and waited for Zane's order. As the glowing star rose above the hill tops casting long shadows from the riders and the valley land. Zane turned to gaze at the sun. He smiled and called his warriors forward. They cheered with roars and howls and charged over the hill rushing past Zane. He watched them go then turned Shadow around and slapped the reins. The stallion reared up and neighed then burst forward barreling through the clusters at great speeds. Top soil and rush whipped out from under the thundering hooves. Zane nimbley guide him to the lead of the charge. He looked up to see Nala racing over head. She swoped low and flew parrellel to Zane. She elavated over Zane and flow high over his head, casting a cold shadow over him. Shadow welcomed the cooling shade with a contented whinny. The horse's flanks heaved as he cleared a clump of brambles. The stallion galloped through a field of heather, the rush of air gave a sweet scent of the plant. The rest of the warriors followed through the heather. They too seemed contented by the scents. Zane could only look ahead and stare at the blazing sun. They traveled on until the twilight covered the skies and the stars began to twinkle at the traveling tribes. They passed flat open grass lands that lay between to rugged mountain ranges to the East and to the Southwest. Their snow peaked tops were shrouded by silver clouds dancing from peak to peak. They glowed a lavish black hue. They galloped strait on through the flat lands into a lowland. The golden grasses turned to brown ferns and sloshing grounds. Mud rose over the stallions hooves keeping it at bay. Zane halted the warriors and tried his luck to trudge through, reling on Shadow's strength to slosh through the muck. They were quickly subdued by the sludgey grounds and slicing saw grass. Shadow mangaged his to stomp back to the wheat stalks. The stallion's legs were soaked and muddy. Zane could see no other path beyond the bog, it streached for miles in all directions. Zane huffed his annoyence at this obstruction. He had not recalled ever seeing a swamp when they had first led the expedition to raid Resnview. He pulled Shadow's reins to the side and decided they'd have to find a way around the swamps. He called Roc forward. The brute warchief came forward on his grey paint horse.

hellhoundwolf · hellhoundwolf on Sun Feb 01, 2009 2:37 am

"Roc I need you to keep in charge until I return." He said then turned Shadow to the East.
"Wait, Zane, where are leaving to?" Roc questioned reining the paint after Zane.
"I need to find a route around the swamp. Most of them wont be able to pass through it." Zane said as he turned in the saddle to face Roc.
"Very well but don't you find it odd that a swamp this size just appeared in less than two days with no rain fall?" Roc questioned supiciously.
"Yes I thought about that but will have to ponder that later. Right now we jsut need to get around it some how." With that he kicked Shadow and galloped off leaving Roc to hold the warriors together. Roc tried to call out to Zane but his cries fell deaf to the thundering of the stallions hooves. He could only gaze on, following the scrolling clouds of dust rising over the golden fields. Roc snorted his discontent but shrugged off his leader's impulsive actions and answered the streaming inquiries from the mass of Elven warriors.
Zane kept his head tucked low as galing winds whipped at him and Shadow. The horse plunged through the winds on unsteady strides. The winds swayed even the bulk of the stallion, lashing out at the horse's legs. Tall clouds of debries and soil flung themselves at the charging beast. Zane turned to look back for Roc but his perife was blocked by Shadow's trail of uplifted dust. The silver broach slipped form his chest and it's blunt edges impaled Zane's throat. an annoyed snarl rippled from his chest as he adjusted the broach back to his chest. He rubbed the sore scratch, now ever present as fierce winds and dirt swooped against it. He could only shield the wound with palm as he clutched the reins with other, while the blade rattled and clanked on it it's metal latch strapped to his hip. The sword seemed to luminant it's blade a hue of violet. Zane glanced down as the blade grew hot and brilliant. He grasped the hilt and ripped the shining blade from it's latch. He held tucked against his side as a lance. The blade grew heated and painfuling rugged. The smooth leather hilt had turned into coaurse, cracked skin. Zane bore it but soon the scalding heat began to singe his hands under the chain steel plated gloves. The blade savagely gashed and burned his hand til Zane could bear it no longer raised the sword, it's pummel to the waning sunlight and thrust the blade into the earth. The blade slammed to the dirt plunging through mountain rock and stood proturding from it's earthy stand. Zane looked back suddenly regreting the casting of his blade. As he turned to watch his blade disapear as he galloped over the ridge, he saw a dark shadow looming from the sword. He reined the stallion to a halt gwaking at the ominous sight. The shadow rose up from the ground and took shape behind the glow of the blade. The shadow grew broad shoulders and a feline head. It's hulking figure, showed it's thick muscles and glowing purple eyes. Long lightning bolts seemed to slowly carve their way down the shadow's sides. Massive paws unsheathed long silver claws, that dug into the earth. Strands of fur emaculated from the tip of the shadows nose and rushed to it's long swaying tail. Two silver fangs jutted rom it's upper lips. A fierce snarl and bared fangs struck Zane with a palabale fear. The shadow raised a paws and struck the stone generating shock waves that threw Zane from Shadow's back. The stallion nieghed in terror of the quaking. Zane pulled himself from the stones and looked into the shadows firey eyes. Eyes that were wild and fierce, that showed only death as their reflection. The shadow raised it's head. Zane rose with it, he gazed in awe of the beast that he knew now as the Shadow Tiger from before. The Tiger opened it's jaws. Strong ringing words flooded Zane's mind.
You dare to cast me aside, petty Elf? I'm the only reason for you surviveing that fight with my foe. You'd best learn to keep hold of me better, for I am the only thing that can kill the one you want in the Reaper's hands.
The words bellowed and bounced in his head. Zane raised his voice as to hope the Tiger would listen to firm command.
" Are you the spirit I was atop the pedastal? If so leave me, I dont want your burdern on my shoulder."
IGGNORANT CHILD! How dare you speak to me like you are my superior! If not for me you'd be dead you ungratful brat!
" Leave. I will not scume to you. None may control me."
Zane barked back and wrentched his gaze from the Tiger, clambered astride Shadow and gathered the reins. A tremendous boom rose from the bowels of the stones as the Tiger had lept clear over Zane and now stood over him. Towering over him and the stallion. The massive Tiger roared. Black flame coulms shot from a circle around the Tiger. Zane could not control the terrofied horse and was bucked off, landing at the Tiger's paws.
Wretched fool, never walk away from me. You will serve as my escort to the MoonCast Forest, as I cannot remain in this form long.
Zane rose and nodded unwillingly. He could see no other way to avoid being mauled by the Tiger. He stepped around the blade and unshealthed it from the grounds. The Tiger dematerialized and blade glowed like cold fire. Then dimmed and the overpowering fear from the Tiger vanished from Zane's heart. He buckled it back to his belt and remounted Shadow. The horse had hidden himself behind high walled boulders that lay strwen upon the plains. He kicked Shadow and set off bound for MoonCast forest, that lay just over the Black Ice Mountains that stood before him. Shadow galloped dilicatly, swerving around jutting rocks and leaping over ditches. Zane eased the stallion into a slow cantering as the rocks turned to sharp pebbles. Being weary of the stones that could slip into the inner hoof and crack the outside wall and even split leg bone. Shadow could be permanetly crippled if his shins split. The horse too seemed fearful of the rocks. Shadow whinnied at his master but Zane could only try to comfort, then push him on. They traveled on for hours up a steady incline. The ground grew treachorous, with crevices yawning down into the blackness and boulders blocking Zane's vision. As they traveled onwards and upwards the temperture plumeted. The cold winds thrashed at their faces and bodies. Shadow's knees grew weak, his joints grew cold and stiff. Zane unbroached the cloak and set the claok under him laying the warm silk over the stallion. With one hand he rubbed the horse's shoulder and neck tring to warm him. The driving winds turned to harsh snow, pelting them with ice and blinding winds. Shadow kept his head ducked low and his ears lay flat against his neck. His mane tossed and thrashed as the wind swiped at his hair. Zane leaned into the saddle keeping his head low. The horse's flanks heaved as it trudged through through the thick snow that engulfed it's legs. To both rider and horse the perilious treck through the mountains seemed as an icy grave. Zane considered many times turning back and returning to the warm, brillaint plains of grasses with his tribes, but the Tiger's battling voice drove him forward. At last the stallion could bear no more and collapsed on it's flank, froth gushing from it's mouth and body quivering. Zane was thrown from the beast's back. He tucked his head as he struck the ground, rolled, then sprang to his feet in a blur of movment. The sword clapped against his obsidian platted pants. He lept to the horse's side. He crouched in the snow and rested his hand on Shadow's thick neck. The horse's pulse was weak and unsteady. Zane caressed the horse cheek. Shadow's eyes followed the gentle movements. Zane lay the cloak that had been thrown off along with him and the saddle. The blade began to grow hot. Zane snarled and cast the blade into the blizzard, cursing the Tiger for driving them into this suicidal mission to the forest. From the white streaks of the blizzard the Tiger emerged, his long fur distorted by the winds. He glided along the top of the snow. He left no fot prints and did not sink nor disturb the snow as he walked with aloof as cold as the snow itself. The tiger walked around the dying horse and sat opposite of Zane. The Tiger bowed it's head and closed it's eyes. It began to a soft hymn. Anger for the Tiger thrashed and lept at his heart. The Tiger raised his head and it's hymn halted in mid-note.
You adhere your feelings to more things then you can replace when they are dead.
Zane snapped.
" Shut up you damn beast! This is your fault! You drove us into this and look what happened my beloved stallion! Hes dying!" he screamed angerly. The Tiger held fierce deadly gaze. Zane finally turned from the Tiger's adament eyes. He just barely surpress his rage flooding over him. Waves of grief cascaded over the rage. He rubbed the stallion's neck. The horse raised it's head and nibbled at Zane's chain mail. Shadow's neck collapsed back to the snow. The Tiger stood and dipped it's cold nose into the horse's flank. Shadow's hair dazzled and shined. The horse tossed it's head joyfully and lept to it's feet showering Zane in icy flakes. The horse nudged Zane playfully, stomping it's hooves and butting Zane's shoulder. Zane hugged the horse's head stroking it's mane. The tiger smirked and only shooks it head with it's amused look. Zane looked over the horse at the smiling Tiger. He bowed his head in respect and thanked the Tiger. He also apolgized for his misconduct. The Tiger agnoliged this and seeped back in to the blade. Zane once more buckled it his hip and replaced the saddle and tightened the straps and replaced the saddle bags and replaced himself in the stirrups and started Shadow off at low gait. Shadow seemed to move along with ease, his old heart beat steady and strong. His footfalls fell in to graceful beat. Zane kept a tempo to the beats of the hooves as they finally struck stone. With solid ground under their feet Zane let Shadow take his energy in legs. Shadow gave log strides then a fast trot then broke out in full on gallop. Zane clutched the reins as Shadow joyfully tore across the bleak streaches of snow and stone. The stallion tossed his head to the skies and threw his mane to the wind. The blizzard buffted against the horse's head and chest but he didnt seem to mind as he galloped on through the evening sunset and through the dead of night. At last at moon high the stallion's power began to waiver. He slowed. His flanks were doused in cold sweat. Icey chunks clung to his mane and ears. Zane looked around at the dreary setting. The foregrounds were slick with ice and crashing winds filled his ears. He could see no sign of shelter. The horse tossed his head and neighed pitifully. Zane patted his neck and turned him about. He decided to turn a differnt direction and look for an alcove. Suddenly a harsh wind rushed over him. A brackish scent clung to the winds. Zane sniffed the air. The salty scent lingered about. He grew curious and urged Shadow on with a swift kick. The bowed his head and trudged forward, wasted of energy. The winds blast grew less severe and the snow fall faded behind them. Shadow nickered at the scene before him. Deep cliffs of ice lay before them. Tall seas roared and foamed at the skies. Black clouds danced over their heads and sea spray lapped at them. Zane gawked at the complete change. The deep snow thined out to a jagged jetty that proturded to the icy ocean. Shadow walked walked forward to the cracked edge. The cliff dove into watery chasm of the blackish water. It swirled and roared, thrashing against the cliffs and gushing foam. The Zane looked down at the blade. It started to glow and the next instant the Shadow Tiger stood beside him. A hoarse growl rumbled from its throat. Zane shot a look of distain as the Tiger turned from the view and vanished back into the blade. He felt the unavoidable pull of the Tiger tuging him back toward the blizzards.
Beware the sea Zane. It can be cruel mistriess and a deadly foe. If all else fails and history repeats you maybe within Her grasp. The Tiger warned with urgency in his voice. Zane turned Shadow about and followed after the driving winds. They wandered on aimlessly before finding a cluster of rocks. Zane led Shadow between the tallest and stroked him down his flanks. He removed the saddle and tied it aginst a smaller rock. Zane pushed them in a more sheltering position and brushed away thick layers of snow where he lay to sleep. Shadow cried out as a damp wind gusted through the rock wall. Zane cursed under his breath and stood to soothe Shadow. The horse eventually mellowed and tucked it's legs under it's belly and slept. Zane looked over at the clearing of the snow then back at Shadow. He scoffed and curled up against Shadows warm sides. He fell asleep to the stallion's soft breathing.

hellhoundwolf · hellhoundwolf on Sun Feb 01, 2009 2:45 am

" Shut up you damn beast! This is your fault! You drove us into this and look what happened my beloved stallion! Hes dying!" he screamed angerly. The Tiger held fierce deadly gaze. Zane finally turned from the Tiger's adament eyes. He just barely surpress his rage flooding over him. Waves of grief cascaded over the rage. He rubbed the stallion's neck. The horse raised it's head and nibbled at Zane's chain mail. Shadow's neck collapsed back to the snow. The Tiger stood and dipped it's cold nose into the horse's flank. Shadow's hair dazzled and shined. The horse tossed it's head joyfully and lept to it's feet showering Zane in icy flakes. The horse nudged Zane playfully, stomping it's hooves and butting Zane's shoulder. Zane hugged the horse's head stroking it's mane. The tiger smirked and only shooks it head with it's amused look. Zane looked over the horse at the smiling Tiger. He bowed his head in respect and thanked the Tiger. He also apolgized for his misconduct. The Tiger agnoliged this and seeped back in to the blade. Zane once more buckled it his hip and replaced the saddle and tightened the straps and replaced the saddle bags and replaced himself in the stirrups and started Shadow off at low gait. Shadow seemed to move along with ease, his old heart beat steady and strong. His footfalls fell in to graceful beat. Zane kept a tempo to the beats of the hooves as they finally struck stone. With solid ground under their feet Zane let Shadow take his energy in legs. Shadow gave log strides then a fast trot then broke out in full on gallop. Zane clutched the reins as Shadow joyfully tore across the bleak streaches of snow and stone. The stallion tossed his head to the skies and threw his mane to the wind. The blizzard buffted against the horse's head and chest but he didnt seem to mind as he galloped on through the evening sunset and through the dead of night. At last at moon high the stallion's power began to waiver. He slowed. His flanks were doused in cold sweat. Icey chunks clung to his mane and ears. Zane looked around at the dreary setting. The foregrounds were slick with ice and crashing winds filled his ears. He could see no sign of shelter. The horse tossed his head and neighed pitifully. Zane patted his neck and turned him about. He decided to turn a differnt direction and look for an alcove. Suddenly a harsh wind rushed over him. A brackish scent clung to the winds. Zane sniffed the air. The salty scent lingered about. He grew curious and urged Shadow on with a swift kick. The bowed his head and trudged forward, wasted of energy. The winds blast grew less severe and the snow fall faded behind them. Shadow nickered at the scene before him. Deep cliffs of ice lay before them. Tall seas roared and foamed at the skies. Black clouds danced over their heads and sea spray lapped at them. Zane gawked at the complete change. The deep snow thined out to a jagged jetty that proturded to the icy ocean. Shadow walked walked forward to the cracked edge. The cliff dove into watery chasm of the blackish water. It swirled and roared, thrashing against the cliffs and gushing foam. The Zane looked down at the blade. It started to glow and the next instant the Shadow Tiger stood beside him. A hoarse growl rumbled from its throat. Zane shot a look of distain as the Tiger turned from the view and vanished back into the blade. He felt the unavoidable pull of the Tiger tuging him back toward the blizzards.
Beware the sea Zane. It can be cruel mistriess and a deadly foe. If all else fails and history repeats you maybe within Her grasp. The Tiger warned with urgency in his voice. Zane turned Shadow about and followed after the driving winds. They wandered on aimlessly before finding a cluster of rocks. Zane led Shadow between the tallest and stroked him down his flanks. He removed the saddle and tied it aginst a smaller rock. Zane pushed them in a more sheltering position and brushed away thick layers of snow where he lay to sleep. Shadow cried out as a damp wind gusted through the rock wall. Zane cursed under his breath and stood to soothe Shadow. The horse eventually mellowed and tucked it's legs under it's belly and slept. Zane looked over at the clearing of the snow then back at Shadow. He scoffed and curled up against Shadows warm sides. He fell asleep to the stallion's soft breathing.

hellhoundwolf · hellhoundwolf on Sun Feb 01, 2009 2:46 am

The next morning Zane awoke cold and tired. His joints ached and his lips were cracked and bleeding. He rougly rose from Shadow's warm flank and brushed the fresh snow from his clothes. The horse stirred as the snow drapped his nose. He nickered and tossed his head. With one quick movement he stood and nuzzled Zane. The Elf stroked his velvet nose and tightened the girth then remounted him. As he grabbed the reins his stomach growled with pangs of hunger. Shadow snorted at the noise letting Zane know he too need nourishment. Zane had left his food rations with Roc and the others. He huffed at the situation then turned Shadow about. The stallion stomped in protest but went along after a sharp tug at the reins. Zane led him out of the rock shelter and turned him through the alcove that led back to the sea. They moved toward it's edge. Zane peered over the ledge. The swirling waters bubbled and foamed. He pulled Shadow's head a way from the now rising sun. The pale light warmed his back. He sighed reluctant to leave the soothing warmth. He looked back at the light. From atop the sea ledge Zane could see far below the mountains. It's foothills were over grown with the parie wheat and a huge black smudge swept across the expanse. The swamp. Zane snarled his fangs glinting in faint light. The tugged the reins and kicked Shadow. The stallion reared up at the sudden assault. He thrashed out with his fore legs then crashed them down on the ice. An ear shattering ripple reverberated over the grounds as hairline crack srinted through the ledge. Zane pulled light on the reins holding Shadow's head then released him as the horse calmed. Zane glanced uneasily at the split. He eased Shadow into a swift trot. Shadow felt the unnerving feeling of the ice spreading under him. He kept his foot falls as soft as his mass would allow. Zane followed the cliffs as far as they would take him until they reached an impassible shear ice wall. He let Shadow walk it's length that led to a rocky drop. The juting walls were coated in slippery frosts. Down the gorge were deep slits and over hangs. Zane could only imagine what foul creatures could make their home in the cold wastelands. From below a echoing screech bounced it's way to Zane's ears. Shadow's ear flattened against his neck and he snorted and backed away. Zane pulled him away frm the gorge and slapped the reins. Shadow stepped hard on the snow and pushed off, giving him a burst of speed. He galloped strait ahead leaping over small rocks and craigs lifting from the snow. The screech came again but still far behind. Zane forced Shadow up a narrow spirial the ascended up another ice wall. The lands seemed to shape in protective area Zane noticed. The ice walls were set in four sides like walls. The path they took didnt seem natural, it was to smoth and to perfect. It was carved at a spirial for easy passage up the walls for look outs Zane decided. The screeching drew nearer. Zane unshealthed his blade and loooked back. A winged figure dotted the sky above and behind them. It became steadily large as it flew closer. Zane could hardly see it for it was a whitish hide. Zane could see it had long feathery wings and a downy coat. It had a long arched neck and only hind legs which were shaped as Shadow's only the hooves were a gentle silver. The beast had horse like head and spiraling stag horns. Silver crests rose from the nape of it's neck down to the base of it's feathery tail. The white tail spread out in a broad fan and fluttered with the winds. The beast dove overhead. Pounding winds rushed against the stallion tripping his long strides. Zane leaned back as the horse fell to his knees as he slammed the ground pinning Zane's leg beneath him. Zane gritted his teeth as he felt his leg crushed benath the massive horse. The blade flew from his hand and postioned it's self up right in the ice path. The white beast flew closer and hissed loudly as Shadow thrashed out as it flew above. The sttel hooves beat aginst the feathers stricking the thick hide below. Zane tried to pul his leg from under the horse. He failed many times before Shadow managed roll on his belly and lift himself off of Zane. The snow under his legs was hued in inky crimson. The lower leg bone had been split and now it protruded from his shin. He tried to move it. Shock waves of pain flooded him and yelped. He panted then inhaled deeply to try and relax himself. He couldn't even feel the right leg at all. He could imagine the pain even before the shock settled in. At that moument the pain came. It sent shivers up and down his spine and he ground his teeth trying not to scream. From his side Shadow reared again and neighed then dashed up the path nearly tripping over the blade. Zane closed his eyes tight and leaned his head back. He gasped as he saw the looming figure of the white beast. It towered over him, it's maw was agate and a long red forked tounge slithered from between it's teeth. It hissed and cocked its head. Zane shifted ready to roll from the beast's teeth. It reared back it's neck and plunged at Zane. He pushed off his palms and rolled slamming his back against an ice shard. He screamed as the shard jabbed his wounded leg. Fresh blood pumped from the wound and splattered the path. From high above a morbid howl rose up along with Shadow's terrorified neigh. The beast wipped it's head around. It streached it's neck and snapped it's teeth. It's powerful wings streched and it's neck arched back. Zane could see the muscles in it's legs tensing. The beast screech then lept high into the air pumping it's wing. Snow kicked up and lashed at Zane. The beast hovered over Zane and rose steadily as it's wings beat the air. It's monolithic shadow layered Zane in darkness. It's massive body blotted out the whitish glow of the clouded sun. The creature flew off toward the howling. Zane gawked as the beast fell away. He couldnt believe his luck. He decided not to push Lady Luck any further and managed to struggle to his feet. He kept his bad leg off the round as he habbled to the sword. Using it as staff he looked for shelter, hoping he could help the poor howling creature and Shadow once he healed his leg. He stumbled upon a short cave. It roof was only about ten feet tall. It was coated in blood written glyphs and symbols. Zane could reconzige a few from his studies of the text of the Ancient Tomes. He could hardly read them in the faint outside light but the letters he saw read
"Hist.........peat....blo...hed......reat.b.ttl...om."
the same glphs were strewn over the wall countless time along with other deluded symbols Zane could not read. He leaned against the wall for support. His shoulder slid over the ancient glyphs. Zane felt an odd chill fill the air, he felt as if he was being watched. He looked back but nothing had followed him into the cave. A soft scrabbling over the stone floor made Zane tense up. His leg throbed acutely. He tried to concentrate but the pain dulled his senses. Before he could react quick enough a huge creature lept on his back. It buried it's fangs into Zane's shoulder. Zane struck the thing with the butt of the sword. The thing released him and lept back. Zane turned to face it, the wound on his shoulder stung but he fought past it. The things eyes glowed golden in the dim cave. Zane could see the glint of his own blood stained on it's fangs as it's leps drew back into an ugly snarl. Zane leaned his shoulder on the wall and held the sword poised to strike. The thing cocked it's head to one side then smiled. It came forward so Zane could see that it was white Werewolf. Zane lowered the sword to ground. He came to an upright postion, leaning heavily on the blade. The wolf clasped his paw on Zane's shoulder.
"Welcome night brother" He said turned and pointed to the opposite side of the cave."Follow me and I will bring you to my warchief." Zane tried to walk but his balance was quite off and he slipped. The wolf caught his arm and hauled him up before he struck the ground. He wrapped Zane's arm over his shoulder Zane leaned agianst the wolf with befoudlement. He had never met a white Werewolf nor had any clue their was an entire clan that lived upon the deselent mountains. He let the wolf hold his weight as he used his blade as a croutch and walked with the wolf. The strange cave sent eerie pulses form the glyphs to the stone floor. With each foot fall, the pulses sent shivers of pain up his legs. The wolf seemed to notice and chuckled heartly.
"The Blood Cave always grows angry at guests. It's only kind to us wolves." Zane looked up at the wolf, still confused. The wolf sighed."I suppose you could say this cave is well...alive. It sense foriegn foot steps. Now if you were to walk with wolf paws the cave would simpley beleive you to be a native wolf. Get it?"
Zane cocked his head to the side.
"How does a cave now these things?" He asked.
"Well it's a magic cave it was put here my our first warchief, his name was Mashaleish Farbeingei, which in your tounge would mean Boulltere Silverbane. He was once a gaurdian of one of the Ancient Tomes." Zane grew curious at this mention. He had couldn't recall a wolf by the name of Boulltere Silverbane. The wolf continued.
"He was a magnificent wolf with a stunning white coat and ice blue eyes. His battle prowess was regaurded as the greatest even amoung greater beasts like the ogres and fire wyrms. He was also a talented necromancer thats also what had him exiled to this deadland. He was furious that he had been expelled from his home lands and in pure spite he stole away the Ancient Tome as he fled. The Tome of Waxing Blood they called it. When the ruler of the night world discovered this he sent his powerful hellhounds to track him and slay him. While being hunted one night he found this cave and sealed it with powerful dark arts. He wrote an old curse that has long been forgotten upon the walls in his own blood. He went on to found the Silverbane clan when he fell in love with a she-wolf that lived in the valley uphead of this cave. But that was thousands of years ago and all ancient history our elders tell the cubs. Please lets find the healer he will fix your leg for you." Zane nodded and the wolf led him to the end of the cave. The exit was tall expanse of icicles that hung and jutted in the shape of a great beast's maw. They stepped throungh into a brightly sun lit world of pine forests, ice pillars and an enormous town. A cut stone path wound from the cave down a snowy hill that led to a plaza filled with markets,shops and shouts of biders and merchants yelling equally loud. The whole expanse was like that of Resnview only more primiative. Tall forests lines the four sides in an uneven rectangle. Behind them stood tall ice mountains. Zane gazed around astonished at the site. He was aazed that a clan could live here but a whole civillazation? It was unfathomable. From high above came a shout. Zane looked up. A tall stone watch tower stood on the right side of the cave's mouth. Tall parapets circled the top of the tower. From between one a brown fured Werewolf leaned over the edge. He was coated in thick leather tunic and rusty iron shoulder pads. He had a wooden bow slung over his back with a quiver of white feathered arrows. He bore an iron cap with a blue paw print with a silver arrow through the paw stamped on it.
"Hey! You down there! Whos' the Elf?" He shouted.
"He was wandering in Blood Cave, hes wounded though! Is the healer in the village?" The white wolf shouted back.
"Yeah! I think shes' in the Palace Library! Well she was last time I checked!" He turned and sat on the gap. His tail hanging over the edge. The wolf turned to Zane.
"It's a long walk to the palace. Do you think you can make it?"
Zane nodded and started forward, the wolf helping him desend the hill.

This is Chapter 1 of the Novel im writing called Silence of the Ebony Twilight.

This is Chapter 1 of the Novel im writing called Silence of the Ebony Twilight.

Re: This is Chapter 1 of the Novel im writing called Silence of the Ebony Twilight.

Re: This is Chapter 1 of the Novel im writing called Silence of the Ebony Twilight.

Re: This is Chapter 1 of the Novel im writing called Silence of the Ebony Twilight.

Re: This is Chapter 1 of the Novel im writing called Silence of the Ebony Twilight.

Re: This is Chapter 1 of the Novel im writing called Silence of the Ebony Twilight.

Re: This is Chapter 1 of the Novel im writing called Silence of the Ebony Twilight.

Re: This is Chapter 1 of the Novel im writing called Silence of the Ebony Twilight.

Re: This is Chapter 1 of the Novel im writing called Silence of the Ebony Twilight.