FunnyGuy

Avalia

Time: Late Morning
Location: Edena, Daka Island
Interaction with: Myra @13org

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After Kol had given his welcoming introduction to Edena, the contrasting part of Morteum located on the other side of the mountain, He walked forth towards the beautiful garden.

“What do they call you on your world human, and what is the name of your demon bride? I will address you accordingly.” Kol spoke sternly. Darius followed the dark elf as his eyes took in the beautiful site. He turned around to his left to see the white and blue section of the castle that was positioned along the other end of the mountain. It actually looked nice, which perplexed the hell out of him. How is THIS on the other side of where we just were? I guess Aklenroth wasn’t just lying his ass off, this place is nice… Wait, did he just say BRIDE???

“It’s Darius and this is Myra, my friend.” Darius was already irritated with the elf. He looked to Myra and smiled. “Maybe future wife if she keeps being such a sweetheart.” Darius joked. Kol scoffed but refused to add any comment to Darius’ apparent joke.

“The garden before you is owned and tended to by General Faister… He treasures it like it is his child, so refrain from ruining even a single petal if you want to avoid death. You will be permitted to venture out in due time, but it is wise to remain on the grounds.” Kol took a moment to take in the sight. It was a view not seen in Azmor Galus. Meanwhile, Darius just seemed glad that Myra was in a better mood. He was sure the two would spend a lot of time out here. He’d also make sure to be mindful of the flowers. Kol then abruptly turned to face the castle and nodded to it before stepping forward. “And over here we have Edena’s living quarters, it’s still connected to the Morteum. It is… brighter than the rest of Morteum and houses several of Aklenroth’s most esteemed servants. This will be your domain for food, shelter, and rest. It is here where I will also educate and train you to be worthy of fulfilling your goal. My king believes you want to rid Avalia of the humans brought here by the Dimensional Rift Opening Machines, DROMs for short.” The dark elf spoke with his head forward and back to the two as they were expected to follow him towards Edena. He stopped and turned to them for a moment. “You cannot hope to reach such a goal without power and might. The rebellion will not simply give up their human weapons. And not many of the remaining humans will trust Aklenroth’s offer in leaving this world peacefully. Most if not all will have their heads filled with lies of his inability to do so. They will flee, fight, and even attempt to kill you. But power and might do not come easily in this world! It isn’t as simple as wanting it, you must train your body, challenge your mind, and break your limits! I can show you the way, but Darius, you must be the one to take the path! Understood?” The dark elf spoke with a fierce passion, filling Darius with determination and confidence.

“I understand clearly.” Darius appeared to be taking this more seriously than previously. What he was shown when he had smashed the mysterious red crystal in his palms was still bothering him. As much as he wanted to bounce back into his joking mood, Darius found it impossible to keep it up. He almost wondered why he felt so responsible for the lives left in this world. He could have made a quick exit and left these strangers behind, never having to worry about Avalia again. Sure, he’d have to purchase a new bed, but… No, his conscience would eat at him. Those people he witnessed die wouldn’t just escape his mind, and the thoughts on those he could have saved from a similar fate would haunt him as well. He’d feel like he had felt a few years back on the day of his older brother’s wedding. Cowardly selfish…

Kol nodded at Darius’ answer, accepting it. Not disciplined, but that fire in his eyes is something I can work with. Kol led the two inside castle, through a different entrance from where they had come from. The area the two entered appeared to be some sort of dining room adorned with royal blue banners with several wooden tables and benches within. Darius stopped in his tracks as the aroma of spices and home cooking filled his nostrils.

“The dining room. Scheduled and requested meals are served here as one might expect." Kol walked past the tables and towards an open entryway into a staircase to the second floor. The dark elf had been prepared to make his way upstairs but was stopped by Darius’ distant voice.

“You think we could make one of those requests before we go up? We haven’t eaten since…” Darius tried to think. It hadn’t been since dawn, right before they went marching up to Morteum. Fuck, it’s been a long time... He put on an uneasy smile. It’s been a while.” Darius’ uneasy expression faced Kol’s cold one. The dark elf took a moment to speak before clearing his throat.

“Zorrah!” Kol called out as he walked towards the dining room tables. He looked around a bit for the one he had called, but nothing. An irritable sigh escaped him. ”Ves-”

“Whoa! Stop!” A blue-skinned woman with bright yellow eyes suddenly appeared several feet away from the three with a quick flash of purple light. She appeared flustered, not wanting Kol to continue calling out to whomever he had started calling for. “I am here. I have been SUMMONED.” The blue-skinned woman addressed Kol with a tired and bothered tone. Her gaze went to Darius and then stopped on Myra. Her brows rose slightly, showing minor intrigue. “Another human and a demon.” The woman scanned her surroundings for a second. “Food it is. Any specific requests?”

Darius looked upon the woman, not knowing what to say. He didn’t really know what he wanted to eat. In fact, he had questions of his own. Like where did this woman come from… and did she just TELEPORT into the room?! And what was she? Her ears weren’t pointed, but her skin was blue. Then there were the yellow eyes. What is she?

“Uhh, how about steaks for both of us! I’ll have mine medium rare and Myra here will have hers rare.” Darius looked down at Myra with a questioning look. “Bloody, right?” He asked his friend in order to be sure. Darius was always warry that he’d speak out of turn in Myra’s stead. His eyes met the blue woman’s yellow ones. “My name’s Darius by the way.” He smiled, but the pleasantry wasn’t returned by the woman.

“I’m Zorrah…” She looked Darius over a bit before a smirk formed on her face. “I think like you better than the other one. That Jack guy is just... odd. Anyway, I can get those steaks ready in a bit. Might throw in some carrots or something too.” Zorrah stared at Myra now to observe her demon kin's reaction.

Avalia

Time: Late Morning
Location: Love Lounge, Roshmi City
Interaction with: @Tae - Azriel, @Legion02 Xenelith @Alivefalling Jack @Eviledd1984 O’Ner

Umber casually floated into the Love Lounge behind his apprentice and partner, Azriel who led the pack of villainous misfits to a suitable spot within the recreational establishment. Being inside and getting away from the scourge that was the sun was always refreshing to the demon. Umber had initially been unsure about going to the brothel, not knowing what he was truly in for. Things seemed to start off nicely as the previous occupants of the table the group took gave Umber a nice appetizer of fear to start off the festivities, courtesy of Azriel and her blade of course. The large demon landed and took a seat cross-legged beside Azriel and proceeded to take in every spiking emotion of pleasure, excitement, pain, dissatisfaction, nervousness, fear, anger, regret, and even a bit of hatred. His four eyes widened at the intensity of the emotions pulsating within the brothel. The establishment was a literal all he could eat emotional buffet. Exquisite… Absolutely delicious!

“This was a fine idea… There is so much potent emotion to feed on…” Umber voiced as his body slumped forward due to how relaxed he was feeling. “Don’t mind me… Indulge in these beautifully miserable creatures! Do not allow shame to hold you back from your pleasures!” Umber urged, in an almost uncharacteristic way.

Avalia

Time: Noon
Location: Devils Bay, Daka Island
Interaction with: None

About three hours had passed since Skar had said her farewells to Darius and Myra. Her thoughts remained on the two as she noticed her own and Darius's tracks on the path the trio had taken previously to Morteum. Myra left no trace of her footing as always. The demon was one that was a master at both stealth and agility.

"Sneaky demon… Odd creatures Skar met…” Skar stopped and took a moment to think of Darius and Myra. “Do not die. Darius. Myra… You will see how strong Skar is! Avalia will see how strong Skar is!” Skar shouted towards the sky.

The orc ferryman seated in his rowboat dock on the sand about twenty feet away stared awkwardly at the female orc but lowered his head as she continued walking towards his direction. The taller female orc had crossed over to Daka with “two” demons but was now returning for his services alone. The runt of an orc wondered if she had let the foul creatures loose. He almost shuddered at the thought of the obnoxious water demon and the silent pale terror.

“Ferryman! Take Skar to Azmor Galus! 15 amas!” Skar demanded as she stepped onto the large wooden rowboat and pointed her sword at him. The ferryman looked up at her and her demand with a challenging scowl. Sure, she was larger, but he wouldn’t allow himself to be bullied by this exiled Diamond Heart Clan bitch of an orc! He simply would not allow it.

“The ferry doesn’t go to Azmor Galus! The ferry goes to Orc Landing and Orc Landing only! 100 amas or…” Skar’s sword thrust through his chest, cutting him off short. Skar stared into the ferryman’s stunned face, her expression fierce and unforgiving.

“No more talk tiny orc! Just die.” Skar thrust the blade further before violently pulling it from the ferryman’s body. Her free hand reached out and caught him by the shoulder, only to push him off of the rowboat and into the sand and let fate do as it pleased with him. She moved to drag the boat into the cold waters of Devil’s Bay. Skar take Skar to Azmor Galus. No need of ferryman. He stinks and take up room. No more stopping! As cruel as her action seemed, this was her way. With the reward of 5,000 amas on her person, the orc was too eager to wait and spend it. She took a seat on the boat and gripped the oars tightly before pushing off from the shore. Her next stop, Azmor Galus, home of the dark elves.

Ossvien

Time: Morning
Location: Parlay Cay
Interaction with: @Tae - Adrielle, @Darcs - Elenei

Malek nodded at Adrielle's mention of having to sing if the worm lacked the talent. Now he was really hoping the cat performed poorly. If it meant Adrielle would sing, Malek might consider kicking some poor soul overboard. There would be an attempt at rescue of course… an attempt at least. Malek had given Adrielle the name of Nightingale due to her beautiful voice. It could sway rowdy crew into a state of tranquility or lift the spirits of those lacking in motivation. Her voice was possibly her most powerful asset surpassing his charm with its range and ability to affect many at once. She didn't even need to be facing folk like he had to. Malek's charm was just a potent smack to the face.

"Ah you spoil me, Nightingale… And you spoil the crew." Malek turned to the rest of the ship performing their duties to please their captain after she gave direction. He appeared as if he was ready to scold the lot of them, but… "Full sails! Full spirits! We will embrace the sea! For most, we are returning to the vicious beauty once more! To the new and few! You will learn to know her embrace! We set sail for the Shadowmount Isles!" Malek boomed with excitement as he caught the eye of many of his excited crewmates. "So I'll keep up the good mood."

Malek turned back around, satisfied with the message he had given. Only seconds later did he hear the approach of the light-footed navigator, Elenei. He turned his head and looked down at her. He silently nodded to her greeting with a much harder look on his face now. He respected Elenei because she did what was needed from her and more. Malek liked her initiative. The firstmate would never say it without a few bottles in him, but she was possibly his favorite amongst the rowdy misfit crew

"Sorry my shouting didn’t make it to your ears. We had to make a hasty leave from the cay.” Malek smirked and motioned his head in the direction of the Pirate King’s ship that was far to the rear, but could still be recognized by anyone who had laid their eyes on it before. Malek avoided speaking aloud the fact that the Mermaid’s Fortune always departed when the Pirate King’s ship entered the same dock. “Now we’re set. You have your navigator and some luck too. I’ll tend to the crew while you two keep us alive.”

Ossvien

Time: Morning
Location: Parlay Cay
Interaction with: @Tae - Adrielle

With his arms crossed at his chest, Malek turned away slightly and rolled his eyes at the captain's explanation on the old sea witch's usefulness. Admittedly so, Adrielle's words were not false, but Malek just did not think it was enough to keep the old crackpot aboard.

"The man doesn't just scare ships. He scares almost everyone with his fits of madness." Malek commented as peered over to watch Nur walk away from Aharuhn. Malek did not expect a reply from his complaint as it was an opinion that had been voiced previously. Perhaps the first mate was just waiting for the day Adrielle changed her mind and agree with him.

When Adrielle replied to his want of rum and a good time, he found it difficult not to smirk at her playful words. His body slightly turned again. This time towards her.

"Sounds like a great plan if any." He thought of winking back, but slightly turned his face away and scowled. He didn't want to unintentionally use his charm on Adrielle. All it took was a simple gesture or the use of a softened tone of voice and one would find themselves captivated by him. He respected Adrielle too much to place her in such a state. His power was a gift when needed, but curse during any other time. "The worm can prove her worth, but my bet is that she is either shit at playing or she catches stage fright." He sighed. "As much as I want to see her inability… The good time might be something to look forward to as well." He smiled at the jagged rocks and the ocean, the few things he couldn't ruin with his charm.

Avalia

&

Time: Dawn
Location: Morteum, Daka Island
Interaction with: Myra @13org, Aklenroth @Alivefalling

---

Darius stood in place for a moment as he still found himself taking in all that he had seen from the vision. Witnessing the many people come through the rifts in the vision he experienced proved to be heavy on his heart. There were not just able-bodied humans that came through to Avalia. There were children, elderly, and many that would not be considered fit for the wilds of this world. Do I even want to know more? I could leave and never look back. I could be sent home...

“...you gotta take risks sometimes man." John’s words echoed through Darius’ mind. He looked to Skar, but her face held no answers for him. Instead, she seemed to be looking to him for answers of her own. She still wondered what was it he had seen through the magic from the crystal. Then his eyes shifted to Myra who seemed to be just as confused as the orc beside her. You’re both making this difficult… I know I said I’d stay and… I did say I would try to save everyone… Me… Why did I even say that? Darius bit the inside of his lower lip as concern filled his face. I could just leave… Go home... I just have to...

“...you have so much potential bro, and you hold yourself back... and I don't know if it's because you're…” John’s words would be cut off by Darius’ quick retort. Just like when the words were initially said.

I’m not… But something peculiar happened.

“...scared, but you don’t need to be. You’re strong Darius. You’re powerful... Now get the fuck off of the sideline! Do something!" The words were powerful, even though they were not John's. They were the words Darius wished he let his late brother say to him. He closed his hands into fists and took a deep breath as he truly made his decision. He'd do what he said he would. It wasn't just a slip of the tongue. It was his drive to want to do something different for a change. To take the harder road. To take the risk, as it was definitely worth it if it came to keeping people from suffering from the events in the visions he had seen. Determination filled him. Darius finally took a step forward with the few seconds it took him to do so felt like a lifetime to him.

Skar looked upon Darius as he approached. Her eyes were cold as she awaited what the human would say. She noticed his serious demeanor, which was something she admired about him. Skar could only trust how ready he appeared to be.

“I’m going inside with Aklenroth.” Darius said as he walked over to his companions. “I-”

“Darius is too weak to go alone. I... and Myra will follow behind.” Skar cut Darius off before using her sword to point at Aklenroth as he led the way inside of the castle. “We will get amas as promised.” Skar smirked at Darius, who returned it with a confident nod.

“As promised.” He then looked down at Myra with a cheesy grin before squatting down to her level. “Then we’ll get out of this creepy place… I miss my happy Myra.” Darius pinched the demon’s cheeks and tried to make her smile, but only managed to reveal her extremely sharp teeth. His eyes widened briefly and he let go of her cheeks before letting loose a soft chuckle.

"How could I forget those pearly whites!" He then stood up and noticed Aklenroth had made it quite a way into the Necropolis. “Guess we better keep up, right?” Darius lightly jogged after Aklenroth until he caught up with the Lich King that held the appearance of a light elf. “You ever think about making this place a little more presentable? I mean, the dark and gloomy theme is legit, but there's no way in hell I can convince people that this place is the way back to home sweet home... Like, I know it worked on me, but I have two badass lady friends. There's not much to be afraid of with them having my back.” Darius spoke casually as if Aklenroth was some dude on the street.

The Necropolis appeared to be a colosseum-like structure from the outside, but once inside, it opened up into a large gothic chamber with brick flooring that led to a vast stairwell that led upwards to several pathways above. Along the walls of the vast chamber appeared to be aged tombs and statues. A blue glow shined down on the chamber from blue orbs of light above.

Meanwhile, Skar kept her distance in the rear with Myra. Her eyes barely peered at the scenery of the Necropolis. Instead, her focus was on the two ahead. Maybe Skar is fool to follow Aklenroth and Darius into fortress. This for amas, but Skar won’t die for greed… Not without fight.

“See, Myra, I told you light elf are no good. Now you see, eh?” Skar mentioned quietly to the demon as they followed several feet away.

Ossvien

Time: Morning
Location: Parlay Cay
Interaction with: @Tae - Adrielle

Malek had made sure no one screwed up too badly on the deck while noticing the absence of certain characters. He scowled at the steps that led below deck. Letting out a low huff Malek walked from the center of deck and marched towards the helm his eyes spotted Aharuhn speaking to Nur, which only made him shake his head. She appeared to have been performing her duties as the doctor on the ship… if you consider cooking up tea a doctor's duties.

Walked up to Adrielle's side, his eyes forward before peering down at her.

"I've asked this before Nightingale, but… Why Aharuhn? The man is accurate and he is considered to be a notable sea witch, but he is batshit." Malek voiced before turning to see the older man in the distance. "Just look at him harass Nur… Actually… That's not so bad." Malek smirked thinking of Aharuhn's nonsense colliding with Nur's poor attitude. "They almost deserve each other. Kind of like how I deserve some great rum and a good time."

Avalia

&

Time: Dawn
Location: Morteum, Daka Island
Interaction with: Myra @13org, Aklenroth @Alivefalling

---

Skar remained ready with her weapon with her attention forward, even though she wanted to chastise Darius for just yelling at the most powerful being in Avalia or the “final boss” as he had mentioned frequently. The orc glared back and forth between the two undead guards, sizing them up before she noticed a blonde elf gracefully descend down to greet the two. While Darius' eyes widened in awe at the sight, Skar was simply confused. Darius let the swirling water in his palms splat onto the bridge as he let his guard down at the majestic sight.

An elf!
An elf?

Once the undead guards lowered their spears, Skar took one more good look at them before stepping forward, her sword tightly gripped in her hand as she found the situation to be very out of the norm. Darius looked to the undead guards as she did and followed. He hoped Myra was following but didn't look back as to draw attention to her. He had faith that she would be there, but he couldn't shake off how bothered she was at the bridge. His eyes narrowed at the elf and before Skar could address the light elf stranger, he spoke.

"Epic entrance and all, but we're looking for Aklenroth so I can go home and she can get paid for delivering me here." Darius looked past the elf and to the castle wondering if Aklenroth was inside.

"Human wants to turn in." Skar attempted to explain to light elf figuring he was a servant of Aklenroth. Darius looked to the elf with a raised eyebrow.

"So we follow you, right?" Darius questioned not knowing he was in the presence of lord Aklenroth himself.

Avalia

Time: Morning
Location: Between the River Fairy Kingdom and Roshmi City
Interaction with: @Tae - Azriel

The Week

Umber had been displeased in making a detour from his hunt of the human known as Elsea. Every time he looked upon Jack had caused a slight bitterness, but the demon knew well that Aklenroth's toys came before his own. He was glad and appreciative to have Azriel as his company as always. Elsea was a new flame, but Azriel's inferno withstood the test of time. The demon rarely pondered it, but he wondered if she would ever leave him like the others before her had. During the Amora flight back to Daka Island, Jack and Azriel acquainted themselves a bit more. There were few that had held their taste for sadism, and Umber could not deny that it was poetic when the man spoke of his pleasures in killing another being.

However, the man was mentally broken, therefore there was nothing Umber could change for the worse. Once Aklenroth's gift was delivered, he and Azriel returned to the River Kingdom to pick up the trail of their lost prey as well as take the opportunity to play with some more temporary playthings. Fairies… they were Umber's favorite. Many were so pure-hearted and kind. To hear their screams disturb the very nature they commanded was… beautiful to the demon. The creatures of the forest scurried and shivered at the torture of their wispy winged neighbors and friends.

Umber took his time. It was almost as if he knew his prey wouldn't get very far. Elsea… Her name almost taunted his thoughts. She was like an eternal itch that he could not reached. The long lost feeling of impatience filled him to the point that he shared his new obsession with Azriel while he viciously tore strips of a fairy woman's wings.

"If only you could see it, Azriel… if only you could feel it! Her feelings… anguish, betrayal, rage, fear, passion. All of it. I want it all." Umber declared fiendishly. Sharing his desire so freely helped quite a bit, or maybe it was the fact that the two traveled closer and closer to Roshmi City with each minor village the two had their fun in. At first it had been to interrogate, but now it had regressed into plain fun and pleasure.

The Present

"...or would you call this a gift?"

"Have you heard?" Umber faced the most senior fairy in the village who was levitated high enough to be at eye level with the nine foot demon.

The fairy was mute from his fear. Tears streamed from his eyes as he lost hope for himself and his village. The two wraiths had entered his small quiet village and immediately rounded up its occupants. There was no explanation, just questions about about a group of rebels that none of them recollected.

"I created a new species of fairy… I created them, right here in this very forest. Have you seen them?" Umber said with faked excitement, imitating a scholar that had discovered some lost secret of the world. If the monster could smile… The past several days had been filled with bloodshed and torture, but the demon felt he could do this for many lifetimes. "You must know of them… elder. They are simply… beautiful." Umber turned to the many fairies bound and scattered about the grass; an audience of hostages. Umber made sure all of the fairies could see the illusion of the rebels as he remembered from Xenelith's sketches and the faint images he could pick up from Xenelith's drive to pursue them as well as other things Umber tended to appreciate. The fox's form being the most distinct amused Umber. What had this fox done to the dark elf commander?

All of the fairies in this village initially claimed to not have seen the members of the illusion in front of them. Once tortured many falsely admitted and paid for their lies with slow deaths. The second round of torturing only had honest answers. Even if they truly did not know anything, Umber would at least enjoy the time spent breaking them. His attention went back to the elder.

"If you do not know… then I will show you… and I will show your flock. Oh and…" Umber turned back to the bound villagers. "...it would be wise to remain… calm. Azriel will silence those who cannot do so themselves. Now, let's begin." Umber circled around the fairy elder who almost whimpered before stopping behind him. The demon's large lower hands grabbed the fairy's arms at his sides and then peaked his head out from behind the fairy elder to see his audience. Their faces held dread. Some knew what was coming, while others just knew it would be something that would forever haunt them. Rrrip! The tearing of the fairy elder's right wing made a disturbing fleshy sound as it was viciously torn off of his back. He screamed in horror more than he did for the pain inflicted upon him. "Mmmmm…." Umber tore the left wing off as the fairy elder continued to scream almost sounding as if he was some feral creature being torn apart by the razor sharp teeth of its predator. The fairy's screaming went on for a few more seconds before it died down into whimpering and moaning. Umber released his telekinetic hold on the now wingless fairy, letting his body drop in the ground next to his bloody wings. "Forest, Winter, Dark, and now the Wingless… Two for four... Now who to choose next…"

Avalia

`

Interaction with: Darius, Skar, and Myra @13org

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We're the three best friends that anyone could have!

Darius, Skar, and Myra had traversed many miles north by going through Orc Landing, ferrying across Devil's Bay, landing on Daka Island, and finally arriving at the fog engulfed Morteum. The sun had failed to break through the fog in this ghastly place, yet the area remained illuminated by the fog's pale blue tint.

The trio had finally made it to their destination, but it was not without joyous times along with a few difficulties. Orc Landing had not been what any of them expected. At first, the three were not well received. Skar was an Orc outcast and claimed that Darius and Myra were demons she had enslaved. The group was tolerated at best as they all had the same thing in common, they did not belong. Thankfully the orcs asked few questions about Darius being a demon, especially after seeing Darius' ability to manipulate water. By this point in time, it was something he did often. He played with his magical ability like a toy. Skar had chastised Darius for this, but his "party tricks" went big with many of the orcs in Orc Landing. In no time, Darius grew to be somewhat of an attraction amongst the brutish creatures. He even earned himself some amas.

Darius had learned that the orcs of Orc Landing were a lot different from Skar. Most of them spoke clearer that she did, were better equipped, and were generally shorter than her. They called themselves the Unbroken and they were proud to tell him why. There were many attempts to bargain with Skar into buying Darius or Myra or both, but Skar knew the price of bringing Darius to Aklenroth.

Skar had enjoyed her five day long venture as well. She had rented out Peacemaker to an orc merchant that claimed that he could use the beast to deliver local shipments. With her moving storage unit gone, she settled on using a large leather backpack to carry all of her valuable and useful travel items. At the moment, Skar was a bit more heavily equipped due to not relying on Peacemaker as a weapons locker. She had an orcish shortsword, a shield and several daggers at her hip and her axes on her backside. In the past week, Skar had tried to instill some of her knowledge onto Darius and Myra. She didn’t have much to offer since both lacked the affinity for weapons, but she managed to teach Darius a bit about the other races in Avalia, tips for surviving in the wilderness and managed to teach Myra how to skin hides, spearfish, and to craft tools from nature itself. Skar was not the only one who taught the group some things. She had learned a bit about Myra and how fast she understood how to do things. The demon learned at such a rapid rate, you’d think she already knew all the skills she was shown. Then there was Darius with his funny-sounding phrases and odd gestures. As much as Skar claimed to hate it, the man had helped her a bit with her speech by talking to her often. He said it was so he could make Myra talk, but she was sure he did for her as well. The two had bets on what Myra’s first words would be. Darius bet it would be his signature anti inhibitious phrase, “Fuck it.” while Skar thought it would be what she often repeated, “Shut up Darius!” Both phrases were said constantly during their travel. It was surprising that in just a week's time the three had bonded so well. Skar had never had a companion like Darius. He brought out something in her she didn’t know existed. She had found herself smiling more times this week than she had in her entire life. The man planned to be gone soon and on his way back home, but she wouldn’t forget the funny charismatic human. Darius Barnes.

Despite the difficulties they had to face in Orc Landing and throughout their trip and the fact that she still didn't like the idea of going where Aklenroth was, Myra was still amused by Darius and Skar's company.

For the first time, she went to a place where other people lived, in Orc Landing. While both Darius and Skar had a bit of a difficult time trying to control Myra's curiosity, especially since their presence didn't seem to be all that welcome, a fact which Myra completely ignored. Luckily enough, Myra's curiosity didn't cause any problems. The fact that the other Orcs seemed to tolerate their presence much more and even enjoy their presence after Darius started using his magic water seemed to help a lot. While Myra was very interested and curious about everything around her, she also did stop to watch Darius' demonstrations with his magic water when he did it for the orcs. Other than that, Myra did notice that Skar was different from most of the Orcs living there. While the reason for that was a mystery, the difference in size was clear.

Other than the things she saw and learned at the Orc Landing, she also learned many more things with Skar and Darius throughout their trip, such as how to cook and prepare meat, the fact that Darius and other humans preferred to eat cooked meat and a lot of things regarding hunting with Skar. While Myra still didn't know exactly why would she want to take the hides from the prey she hunted or why would she want to craft the tools that Skar taught her even though she had her claws, learning how to catch fish, both with pointy sticks that Skar taught her how to make and with her own claws was undoubtedly interesting and useful for Myra. One thing Myra wasn't able to grasp just yet was the words Darius was trying to teach her. Despite his and Skar's countless attempts to teach her to talk, she still said nothing, even though it seemed she was getting noticeably better at understanding their words thanks to their efforts. Even though they were unsuccessful in making Myra talk though, she had learned a few gestures such as nodding her head to say 'yes', shaking it to say 'no' and even a few strange gestures that Myra wasn't able to fully grasp their meaning though, such as the one she held her hand open and hit it the other person's open hand making a clap sound or the one Darius taught her where she held up both her middle and index fingers from each hand making a V shape. Even though she didn't understand them very well, it was still fun to imitate Darius and see both him and Skar's expressions when she did so.

Present Time

“The vibe screams final boss, but this is a bit too much. Like this walk is kind of shitty. And what kind of welcome is this?” Darius complained as the three reached the bridge that led to the castle of Morteum. It had taken an hour, but they managed to correctly traverse the fog covered dilapidated ruins. The blue fog of the vast ruins didn’t loom as much from the bridge, allowing this particular structure and the castle ahead to appear more clearly. The air was colder in this part of Avalia, which was why Darius wore a black hooded cloak over his black leather armor for warmth. Skar didn't bother with extra layers as orcs had thick skin and unrivaled pride. “Just across this and we’re there? Right where Skeletor lives… I mean Allen-Roth or however you say it." Darius had become familiar with the name… Well, kind of?

“Aklenroth, fool! Don’t die just before you get home!” Skar snapped as her eyes focused on the undead guard's on the other end of the bridge.

It was clear for Skar and Darius that Myra was very agitated as they stopped in front of the bridge going to the castle. The patch of hair on the back of her neck bristled and her claws were showing as Darius and Skar talked. Something deep down inside of Myra screamed that just being there was already a terrible idea. Not even Darius' carefree tone was able to calm her down.

Looking to both Darius and Skar, Myra pointed towards the castle, shaking her head in a negative expression as she tried to convince them to turn back and get away from there. Even if they had already refused once, Myra still wanted to try again. Pointing back to the way where they came, she looked again at Darius and Skar, waiting for their reaction. Not only it was incredibly clear on how agitated Myra was, but the message she wanted to tell them too.

"Hey Myra. We'll be fine." Darius tried to assure her by reaching down and caressing the back of her neck. She had gotten like this a few times during the journey. Orc Landing, the creepy hooded ferryman, and can't forget the day the three set out to travel to Daka Island. In times like these, he needed to calm her. With all the time spent together, it didn't take Darius long to learn that the patch of hair on the back of Myra's neck was her sweet spot.

"This the last part, okay? I'm gonna have him meet us out in the open." Darius pointed with his free hand to the open area on the other side of the bridge. "...so if he tries something… anything… We'll jump him!" Darius then used both of his hands to slam his fist into his palm. Giving her a confident look, he pointed to her and then cupped his hands over his eyes. "Hide 'n' seek! Remember? Do hide 'n' seek. He said referring to her camouflage ability. "You can keep me safe, Myra. I know you can. And then once everything is settled," He looked to Skar. "Skar will take you away from this place. Right, Skar?"

"Yes. Skar hate this place. It is… shit. Now, let us continue." Skar walked forward, taking the lead and Darius followed. To pass the time Darius casually passed a handful of water back and forth between his palms.

As they neared the two armored undead that appeared to be guarding the castle with their spears, Darius looked to Skar. He had faith in her abilities, so even if this was some sort of trap, he believed they could make it through on top. Skar suddenly stopped a few feet from the undead at the end of the bridge. She was wary of them, but they remained still as if they were decorative statues. She leaned towards the one on the right with her hand gripping the hilt of her sheathed sword. And there was still no movement. "Hm." Skar let out before continuing forward.

The spears of the undead guards crossed in front of her so quickly, Skar jumped back and unsheathed her blade. Darius had flinched back as well with spheres of water spinning rapidly in his palms. He scowled at the silent guards.

"You gotta be kidding. Let us in! Hey Aklenroth! Come get your human! Hot 'n' ready to go the fuck home!" Darius was clearly irritated and Skar was on the verge of engaging the guards.