The pendant had landed in the woods with a crash, leaves and dirt rising from the ground in a small explosion before slowly drifting back to the ground. For a time all was still in the woods and every went about as normal. Moving from a bush a small rodent approached the pendant, scurrying up beside the charm he glared at the shiny object.
The rodent sniffed the item curiously, and the pendant began to glow and vibrate. Squeaking in fear the rodent turned and ran from the object.

Lightning charged from the object as it started to change...it began to expand slowly as it changed shape, it's mass growing a hundred fold as it took the shape of a man, a man with no features. Eyelids formed and two eyes peered out of the form, eyes of solid black, which slowly turned to an icy blue, and the silver skin took the color of pale white, then to a more human flesh. A mouth emerged and long coarse hair of black turned to flowing hair of blonde. And the naked skin of the creature began to blister and form the armor which his host sported, and from a protruding bone in hiis back a sword was formed and wrapped itself in a sheath of skin turned steel.

When all was finished he was a perfect copy of the being he had been feeding off of. Vim looked down at his open hands and smiled contently. Everything was to plan...there was chaos amongst the siblings and that was exactly how it was meant to be. It was too bad his host had cast him away so suddenly, he had to admit it was fun using the simple humans emotions against him to help steadily send him to ruin. He frowned slightly at the thought of the female Oriana. Twice it had been her magic that had interrupted his patient manipulation...and it was for those two meddlings that he had decided he would make the creature pay with three times the pain.

Vim was far from human...a creature of magic created by melding magic with steel. He was a perfect being, nearly indestructible with natural steel skin. He knew his host thoroughly to the "T"...his every thought and his every desire, Vim knew he would enjoy bringing pain and suffering to the male being and his sister. But now was not the time for that....he would have to tread carefully now, for he was no longer hidden as the charm...any false move could reveal him now, and that could greatly jeapordise his true goal.

Yessssss...ssssoon it will be. And the true fun ssssshall begin my playthingssssss.

Looking around at the woods about him he smiled impishly...now would be the time to test his new form. To see how well he truly knew it.

Sleep did not come easy for the mage even with someone she trusted whole heartedly watching over her, when she was able to slip from awakeness she was met with horrible images and scenerios that would wake her with a scream building that she would forced to die in her throat. After wrestling with her subconcious, with the tricks her mind tried to play on her anytime she closed her eyes she finally surrenedered to the fact that she would get no sleep, which meant she would not be well rested to undertake the task she had set for herself. Nonetheless she would press on, dertermined to find an end to the means. Noticing that she was sprawled across the chair she righted herself and rubbed her eyes, Kain was still sitting across from her seemingly lost in thoughts of his own. She hated to impose, but there was still no sign of Gabriel, her brother was furious with her and she could not blame him, but she needed him, not just because they shared a bond, but because she was convinced that the chain and pendant he carried with him served more purpose than simply to remind if of times past. A purpose that Gabriel might not be aware of. She took into consideration that she might be wrong about the bauble but the only way to know for certain was to have it in her possession. Rubbing her temples warding off the dull ache that began to throb along her forhead she took to her feet, she needed to go over the spell one more time, had to make sure that all the right elements were put together in just the right order. One wrong component out of place, one words spoken even slightly incorrect and the reprecussions could be fatal. They had dealt with more fatality in one day than any should have to bear so she had to be extremely cautious and handle the incantation with great care. Soon she was pacing no matter how hard she tried to concentrate on the spell, her thoughts kept turning to her brother. Had he truly meant what he had said to her? Was it really hatred that she saw burning in his blue eyes? No. She could not, would not bring herself to believe that the damage done was irrepairable. Leaning against a wall closest to the entrance of the tower she sighed. Where was he?

Kain sat there lost in thought, so much so that he did not notice Oriana awaken. He was thinking of past times, when was the last time he was truly happy? When was the last time he was alive. Had he become so dense that he couldn't find it in him to laugh? He spent most the time sitting there searching within himself for answers. So many questions... why was life like this? He wouldn't bother with sleeping for tonight, too much weighed on his mind. Then he looked over, and noticed Oriana was no longer in the chair across from him, he felt a bit of a panic coming on, where the hell did she go? He quickly looked about and saw her pacing back and forth, a sigh of releif came over him. Often times lately he found himself so absorbed in thought that he became unaware of his surroundings. He stood to his feet and walked over to Oriana as she leaned against the wall. What seems to be the trouble? He was pretty sure it had to do with her brother, but he asked the question anyhow, with a hushed tone.

What seems to be the trouble?

Words spoken so soft, so low and hushed had she not been aware that she was not alone in the room at all, she might have thought that there were spirits whispering in her ear. Such, what was the word she was looking for, gentleness? Maybe. The word for it didnt matter. What mattered was how her nerves calmed, how her stomach stopped jumping around and how her hands stopped shaking. She had been a wreak on the inside since she first started to put together all that had happened, the confrontation between her and Gabriel only confirmed what she had feared might be true, still there was so much left undiscovered and without that damned pendant, she might never find what she was looking for. Everything tied into that pendant, therefore everything tied into Gabriel, and what tied into Gabriel, tied into her. She would have to keep her findings as small as they might be to herself, at least until end. Only then would she voice all that knew, and believed. If she spoke now, Condrik might strike out against her brother, the man was consumed by grief and grief could turn to anger, whether they mended their broken tie or not, Oriana would not let harm come to Gabriel and if that meant killing then that was what she would do though she prayed with all her heart that it did not come to such a scene.
Keeping her gaze directed at the wall the mage answered with hushed words of her own, her tone forlorn, she sighed.

I went to far Kain, I knew I was going to far the whole time I stood in those woods and fought with my brother. Do you know what I saw, who I saw when I looked at him? I saw someone I didnt know. Someone who has my brothers face, but that person was not my brother. I know that a person can change, that people do change, but not like that. Not in the space of a heartbeat. I saw hatered in my brothers eyes, burning bright and blazing because of me, and I pushed him and pushed him. I know I cannot save the world, but I have to try and save Gabriel even if he doesnt want to be saved. Do you think I am trying to play the hero again Kain? Should I stand down and not work my magic to try and right a wrong? Every fiber of my being is screaming at me to do what I have planned, but I keep thinking about what you said, and how you were right on so many levels. I have tried one time to many to save all those I love in one way or another and all I have done is create more trouble. I dont want to do that to anyone again. Its confusing, the path I walk has split into so many other paths that I dont know which to choose.

...I dont know which to choose. He truthfully did not know the answer to her questions. He tried his best to give her advice before, but now.. now he realized that it isn't his place. Not this time, she would have to decide for herself what was the right course of action. Something seemed definitely amiss with Gabriel Shadowbain, who would attack their own sibling? It was beyond him, if he could be reunited with his sister, he would never even think about hurting her. He let out a sigh, I wish.. I wish I had all the answers for you Oriana... alas it is beyond me now. It lies completely within your own judgement. You say you have to try to save Gabriel, do you? That is for you, and you alone to decide. Playing hero isn't what it's about. He paused for a second. Don't think about playing hero... think about being a sister, a sibling. A family member, what would you do for your father, or your mother? He used the terms singularly, because in his eyes her father and mother were Griffon Shadowbain, and Mara Brightblade, regardless of the fact that she was created before they were even born. I know that I would do all that I could to help one of my family, however... the decision is ultimately yours. Remember, I'm here for you. Whatever she chose, he would stand by and support her.

There is no one who can choose or answer for me Kain, I know this...

She turned then, the peasent garb she had been wearing now hung in deep black velvety folds around her like a warm comfortable blanket, without so much as a word, so much as a glimpse of flesh she had used simple magic to return her black robes where they belonged. Smiling softly she patted Kains hand as she walked past him, her words carried behind her, to the pool where so many had stood watching, waiting for something anything that would clue them in on Raynalias whereabouts. Where so many witnessed the deaths of not one but of two good men. Now as she looked into the pool herself she saw the elven maid curled in a ball on her side sleeping, though she could tell from the way Raynalias eyebrows would knit together her sleep was not peaceful. Dippng her fingers into the water the images shifted, becoming distorted until she withdrew and the water settled making clear the picture.

I do not want you to have the answers for me Kain, what would be the point of learning, of self growth if I were simply handed the answers and told what I should do? There wouldnt be any reason to live, as you said our expeirences mold us into who we are. Knowing that you would give me answers if you could, that you stand beside me whatever I may decide to do is enough Kain.

Turning so that she was leaning against the brick that formed the well of watching she made her choice, it was made from the start but her motives had not been clear to her until that moment.

It needs to be done. Not because I need to be a martyr, not because it is what is expected of me or what my mother and father would do, it needs to be done because it is the right thing. There are strong magicks at play here and no one is as versed in the Art as I am. If any other were to try, they would surely die and that would be wrong when I am quite capable of doing it.

Her bottom lip found its way between her teeth and her hands wrung nervously. Why did she find herself feeling like she were afloat each time he was near, each time they were alone. She tried to pass it off due to the amount of time they had been spending together, that they had spent together in the past, but something was slowly creeping its way into her thoughts and each time she pushed it away. But what if she were die, what if something went wrong and she never at least told him if nothing more? Taking a deep breath she let the words flow freely...

I wont lie to you, the spell itself is simple enough to cast, but the consequences could be fatal Kain, I have enough confidence in myself to believe that I will come out of this whole and alive but there is that chance that I may not. You have to know Kain that I truly care for you, perhaps more than I should because in all honesty I love Guidion yet at the same time my heart is beginning to split like the paths before me. I dont know if you can understand that, I barely understand it myself but I thought it best to tell you, just incase the worst happens. You have to promise me that in a few hours from now, no matter what, you will leave fate run its course.

A sense of relief washed over her at the same time she was filled with a sadness that she still knew nothing of Guidions whereabouts. What if she should lose her life before she ever got to see him again? How long had they been apart now? The better part of a year, but she hadnt been able to give up on him, on them, not the way she had talked Raynalia into moving on, into giving up on Gabriel. She once thought that the bond shared between her and Guidion was unbreakable, but with each passing day she could feel his presence along the edges of her mind slipping away, she had called to him time and time again only to be met with silence, so what did that tell her? Shaking her head she forced herself to think of something else, and each time she began, she found herself thinking of Kain instead. Groaning a little, she was mildly frustrated with herself now and she threw her hands into the air in defeat not caring if Kain thought her daft.

You know I have this fantastic knack for landing myself into hot water, you'd think I'd have learned by now.

She changed back out of her peasant garb, then she spoke of what she must do, simply because it was right. He nodded, then she spoke of the spell, and it's consequences. It was like someone took a dagger and stabbed it through his heart. His shoulders sunk a little, then she spoke of how she cared for him. It was what he wanted to hear for so long, but he knew she was with Guidion, a good man. He didn't want to interfere with that, however hearing her mention her feelings for him filled him with a bit of joy. However the realization that she may perish prevented him from being truly happy about it. She was the only purpose he had in this life. He followed her through thick and thin. Fighting in her name, regardless of the god. She was his only direction anymore. He never thought what it would be like without her anymore. Sure he went on adventures in far off lands, and seen many things. However since coming back and getting to know her, becoming her champion, he had never thought what it would be like with her, Oriana, gone. She surfaced so many feelings he had long forgotten, feelings that were stowed away, and hidden deep within the hard shell he had put in place.

You know I have this fantastic knack for landing myself into hot water, you'd think I'd have learned by now. Kain let out a small chuckle and smiled. Not realizing it, being the first sign of laughter in thirty years or so. Don't we all, Oriana... don't we all. He realized that he had laughed midsentance, and quickly tried to regain himself. The feeling that was there was more akward than anything. You'll be fine... He said a bit unsure if he actually beleived himself.

Opening her eyes to the world around her, Kiara closed them again tightly trying to squeeze away the scene forever etched in her mind. The void was unbearable, what had once been the piece keeping her whole was no longer and she was empty inside. Nothing Losa said was going to make the pain of losing her twin fade. She thought of the events that brought them to where they were, her emotions were running rampant, anger, grief. loss. The loss was the worst part of it all. How could she not mourn for her brother though she told the others that there would be time to mourn later she could not keep true to her own words. Condriks wife might be a prisoner somewhere but she was still alive. True the loss of Robert was devistating but somehow she could no longer bring herself to feel any sympathy for his loss. No she was angry and she blamed everyone. Losa for the bad blood that had been between him and his brother at one time, Oriana for convincing Rayne that it was best to go on with life, Gabriel for not having at least the decency to inform Raynalia of his whereabouts instead leaving her wonder if he was dead or alive or if he had simply just abandoned her, Condrik for having brought so much chaos into her home since the first moment he had stepped foot into their lives, and she blamed Raynalia for always managing to get herself into such situations.
Losa was next to her, his arm around her protectively, an arm she shied away from and shrugged off. Speaking, her voice was choked with resentment & pain.

I dont want to be touched.

She all but jumped from the bed and was halfway across the room before she spoke to him again over her shoulder.

They need to be laid to rest. Kristian .... needs to be found so that he may rest with them, with my mother and father...

She could not bring herself to say more. At that moment everything, everyone around her, made her sick, the only light at the end of the dark dark tunnel, was Aidan and the babies growing strong inside her.
Slipping from the room she thought of going to the tower but she could not trust herself to face Oriana and not spew words she knew she would later regret, paying no attention to where she was going she suddenly found herself standing in front of the door that opened into her brothers room.
Taking a huge breath she turned the knob and stepped inside. A familiar scent filled her nostrils bringing stinging tears to her eyes. Crossing the room she set herself down on her brothers bed and ran a hand over his pillow. This time the tears fell echoing the breaking of her heart.

She had set him on edge without meaning to, the nervous sound that slipped from him probably catching him surprise was the first attempt at laughter she had ever seen or heard from him and as unsettled as he might have felt, she could not have been more pleased. Who would have ever thought that something as simple, as ordinary as laughter could bring such joy. Lifes simple little pleasures truly were amazing to her at times. She wasnt thinking when she threw herself at him and wrapped her arms around him hugging him to her while her own laughter filled the room.

Dont think I wouldnt have heard that Kain! Did it hurt? Tell me is it killing you slowly or do you think you shall surivive having laughed after all this time?

Pulling away slightly she inspected his face, poked at his shoulders and back and even went so far as to look at his ears before she looked back at him again grinning from ear to ear.

Good sir, I do believe you will indeed survive!...

Her grin slowly left her face, her features grew serious, when her lips parted to speak, this time her words were whisper soft.

... and so will I Kain. I have plenty more hot water left to throw myself into before it is my time to leave this world... now is not my time.

It was odd, laughing, a feeling he hadn't known in so long. Then she threw herself into his arms laughing. Dont think I wouldnt have heard that Kain! Did it hurt? Tell me is it killing you slowly or do you think you shall surivive having laughed after all this time? She pretended to play nurse for a moment, checking his ear, poking his shoulder. Good sir, I do believe you will indeed survive!... He found it strange how she could be so joyous, with what was ahead, he found it encouraging. Then she adopted a more serious tone. ... and so will I Kain. I have plenty more hot water left to throw myself into before it is my time to leave this world... now is not my time. He wasn't sure if she meant it or not. He wasn't sure of anything anymore, except for that fact that he loved her. He held her for a few moments in silence, it may be his last chance to do so. What he did next, he knew was not his place, it may even have been a selfish act. However, he couldn't stop himself, he had managed to hold back before. He leaned in to give her a kiss, stopping just short of hir lips, he hung there for a moment. What was he doing? She was in love with Guidion, this wasn't right. He lifted his head up slowly and kissed her forehead. Pulling back slightly, he gazed down into her eyes, with a very intense look. He knew it, she knew it... he wanted her, so bad it hurt, however he wasn't willing to step between her and a friend. Guidion was a good man, and Kain did not want to ruin things between him and Oriana, and himself and Guidion. Why did life have to be so complicated, why did people love, when it hurt so much? He leaned his forhead against hers. I'm sorry, the words came out so quiet that if she was but a foot away she may not have heard them. He held her gently, not wanting to let go.

He was sorry. He was sorry? The fire in her cheeks could probably be seen from miles away had the thick fur skin not been covering the windows of her tower. He didnt have anything to be sorry for, she, on the other hand should have known better than to to act so impulsively knowing how he felt, knowing how she felt. There was nothing that could be done about it now, and she could not bring herself to be sorry save for the way she might have made him feel by her actions. She had no right to place him in such a positon, but she was not going to apologize, not to him, she would have to express her apologies to another however, but that would come later. Putting her hands on each side of his face, her touch light Oriana brought her lips to his, there was no hesitation in her actions, she was well aware of what she was doing, it might have been wrong but it would be even more wrong to deny what was going on inside. The kiss was brief but warm and soft all the same. When she pulled away from him her hands stayed upon his face.

Dont be sorry Kain, dont ever be sorry. Fate deals us cards that we play, right or wrong, and it would be so wrong to ignore what is unfolding here between you and I. No, dont ever be sorry... I'm not .

She knew that she was on the verge of ruining the life she had built with Guidion, but for so long their life had been on the brink of ruin, she could no longer pine for the perfect life with a man that may have loved her, and she him, but she needed more and she could not deny her feelings for Kain. It was selfish, but it would be even more selfish to live a lie. She never wanted to hurt Guidion, she loved him still, but that love changed somewhere down the path. Guidion would forever be in her heart, part of her soul and she would carry him with her wherever she might roam, but now it was time for her to heed her own advice, it was time for her to find life again.

No apologies, no excuses, we are here like this now, because this is where we were meant to be

Never in thirty years had the shell he built around his emotions been shattered like so. Oriana has always managed to find small holes, and prod at it, but never had it just completely shattered. The rush of emotion that filled him with the kiss was pure ecstacy. The kiss may have been breif, but it carried with it so much more than a simple kiss between two lovers. It brought a flood of emotion in which Kain found hard to control. A dam had been broken. Her hands, the warmth upon his face he cherished. No apologies, no excuses, we are here like this now, because this is where we were meant to be. He smiled, because deep down he knew it to be true.

His arms were wrapped around her, and he gently pulled her closer, leaning in he pressed his lips to hers, bringing more passion into the kiss. The flood of emotion was not able to be just contained, not anymore, the dam had broken, and the flood needed an outlet. Holding her, kissing her for longer than a few breif moments was this outlet. After he pulled away slowly, and looked into her eyes, his gleaming with joy.

You better come out of this alive... or I'll find you in the afterlife, and you won't like it. He joked, smiling.

He felt her stir and then move from him. There had been very few times when she had ever spoke something like that to him. He had not even got a chance to talk to her before she was out that door. He knew something had to be done and he knew something that might work. He needed to bring peace to the hall again. He may not be one of the Elite but he was the Lord of the Hall. He got up and went to check in on Aidan and he sighed.

He searched out the elite.

My wifes orders are clear, we need to get the family laid to rest. We need to find who is doing this and find the body of Kristian. Nothing is going to fix the losses that have happened but we need to do something. I do have a sort of an idea of something, my wife would probably want to kill me if I come out of it alive, but there are only two people who could do this and get it done. Its just I am not sure how well it would work. Please let me know when Altrius arrives. I need to go figure this out and go see my son for a bit. My plan if it goes wrong this could be my last night in the hall. I know if it is my family would be taken care of I know how you all watch out for each other.

He heard his son crying and he went to him. He picked him up and sat down in a chair with him. Rubbing his back and patting it. He thought about the idea he had and knew it might be the only way the only one who would know if there was another way was Oriana herself. He would go see the mage as soon as he could. He wanted to get this under way, Con and him would have to discuss this. Kiara was going to need time alone and Losa knew that. He just stayed in the room with Aidan and once Aidan fell asleep in his arms he also fell asleep. Holding his son to him.

Gabriel walked back to the Tower from where he was left outside the city. He pushed his anger down and held it deep inside. He was no longer angered by the situations that had come to pass, ever since casting the pendant away he had been able to come to terms with what Oriana had told him alot easier than when he had the pendant. He knew that Rayne's leaving him was not her fault, but that of his own. He was still upset about it, and still felt betrayed, but he would not let it affect his judgement any longer.

He made it to the tower and ascended it to the room where he knew the pool and where Oriana would be. He was not trying to find her for conflict, or answers to their situation, he had pushed that aside because there were more important things to deal with right now than what was between him and his sister. He was hoping that maybe there would be some answers to Rayne's situation soon. And being with Oriana would bring him closer to those answers.

He reached the room and opened the door to step inside, what he was had taken him by surprise, seeing Oriana and Kain locked in a kiss that was just ending as he entered. His eyes narrowed as watched this, and he said nothing as he stood in the doorway. It seemed he hadn't been wrong in his assumption.

He woke and could not go back to sleep he headed back out. He knew many hours had passed he was hoping Oriana would be up. He went up the stairs to see what was going on he had a strange idea and he was not sure if it would work, it could cause his death but if it meant Rayne being free was his death too big of a price. He wanted to talk to Oriana see if what he was thinking would be possible or not. He knew she would be the best one to ask. He went to go and knock on the door. He then saw Gabriel standing there.

Has there been any change or any news?

Feeling after feeling swept over the mage catching her in a tidal wave that she had not expected. Sure she knew what it was to feel and how someone could get caught up in a moment but it was no ordinary moment she was living in. Every fiber of her being was telling her she was right where she was meant to be, that there would never be regret, that she found what she never even knew she was looking for. Losing herself in Kains kiss, in his arms she was dazed when he pulled away from her and threatened her jokingly about finding her in the after life. For a second she had no idea what he was talking about, her senses had left her the instant his lips touched hers with such need and emotion she felt she was on fire and that fire was all consuming, but then she remembered and her eyes went wide first at the realization that Kain had actually made light of a dark situation, surely the world was coming to an end if Kain was now joking, either that or she had succeeded faster than she thought she might in cracking the wall he had built around himself. Then she remembered what she was planning to do and somehow the task ahead, did not seem as grim or daunting. She was filled with a new confidence, one she had been missing before and now she was more certain than ever that she, that they would previal. Leaning over she kissed his cheek and brushed his hair back from his eyes.

Well then there will be no going to the afterlife for me because I'll be damned if your going to follow and hunt me down, though it might be interesting to see just what you would do if you did find me.

Taking herself from his arms she turned to go to the pool again and nearly jumped from her skin, her brother stood in the archway accompanied by Condrik, but Condrik really was of no concern to her at the moment, Gabriel on the other hand, was exactly who she needed even if he was looking at her all wrong through, his eyes narrowed to mere slits, she quickly turned her head away unable to look him in the eyes, not wanting to see what might lay behind them. Clearing her throat she spoke but would not look anywhere but the pool.

She is not being held anywhere on this world, its more like a void, another plain so to speak, whoever put her there, is strong, I've said it before I know, but no simple portal will bring any of us to her, or her to us. I've looked and thought and the only thing I can come up with is going to her through the pool. If I was able to cast a spell to see her like we do now, I can do the same to allow entrance into the plain. The problem with that is, if I can get there, that means whatever is there can get here, and that whatever might not be myself or Raynalia. Whoever is behind this, may possess powers to reach any of you here. I will of course do my best to ward the room properly but until I know fully what or who I am dealing with I cannot say with full confidence that any of you will be safe. Another point I must bring up, I will be able to spell cast from the void, essentially it will be like I am in two places at one though my body will be in the void my mind will be here and there. I dont know how to word it so that you can grasp what I am attempting here, but I dont see any other way.
Gabriel... I know I have no right to ask anything of you, I know you want to see Raynalia safe, but please if you care for me at all, if all your love for me has not gone, please leave my tower, Condrik can take you the council room of the elite, that is the most warded room of the hall save for my tower and I do not want to risk what happened to Kristian happening to you...

Finally she turned her head and stared at her brother.

I am sorry Gabriel and if this is the last we may see of one another as much as you have heard it before I need you to hear it one last time... you are my brother I love you and I never meant to hurt you. I will right the wrong Gabriel.

The time was drawing near, there was no time to see Kiara or to see any of the others, no time to see Guidion, to let him be free and she found herself being free, no time to tell him how much he meant to her and how much she was grateful for him. There was only time for those in the room with her now. she might have been sure of herself but the unknown always managed to happen and she had to be prepared incase the worst of the unknown came to pass.

Kain... sit near the fire and remember your promise. No matter what you see, what you think is happening, do not try and stop it.

She wouldnt be able to start until the others were gone from the tower, but she hesitated in asking them to leave, she had to see if maybe just maybe Gabriel could find it in his heart to forgive her.

He looked at Oriana and then to Gabriel then to Kain.

If this is the only way to get one of us there i understand why it needs to be you. But I do not want Rayne to suffer another loss like she has in the past, she does not need that at all. Maybe there is a way to make sure that you are safe while you are there, it is me he was after when he killed Kristian. That is what my little brother told me. I can always try and get whoevers attention from back there to here to concentrate on trying to get to me, while you get Rayne out of there. I know everything we do without knowing what we are dealing with is risky.

I love Raynalia and I would do anything to help my wife out of wherever she is. I feel almost helpless, and I know once she gets back is going to be the task of dealing with the deaths of the others and Robert and us burying him. I know that is going to hurt Rayne even more. But I also know she will want to say goodbye to our son.

I know you are the type that says no thanks are necessary Oriana but I do thank you for working to bring Raynalia back to us all.

I do apprecciate your help in all that it has taken to find what you have. I am hoping for both of you to come back safely. I know I am not a lot of peoples favorite person or anything but some just dont understand things that others do.

Gabriel your presence here will mean a lot to Rayne to know that you came to help her even with the circumstances as they are.

Gabriel felt the presence of Condrik behind him and heard the man's question, but he did not answer, or even turn to him. His attention was on Oriana and Kain. It disturbed him seeing the two so close. Gabriel knew that Oriana was with another man, or at least had been before now. It seemed to Gabriel that perhaps nothing was sacred in this world anymore and love was something to be given and taken away at will. But that was of little consequence right now. What mattered what was Oriana explained to him of Raynalia.

Gabriel knew magic to be a fickle mistress, capable of giving you power of the gods, and doubly capable of destroying your very existence if used improperly. Gabriel was well aware that things could go horribly wrong here in any number of ways...which is probably why she wanted the two ment out of the tower for fear of their own lives. Gabriel simply nodded, it would do him no good to argue with her about letting him stay to assist, it did irk him that she would have him leave and request for Kain to stay, he merely grunted, and turned away.

Looking at Condrik he merely shrugged, he didn't have anything to say to the man, but he would answer to the man's thanks.

What happened between me and Rayne is a part of the past. But still she is a part of me in some way and she is a friend...and I do not leave my friends in times of need.

Looking back at Oriana he fixed her with his blue eyes, betraying no emotion at all as he gave her a little nod.

So be it...I will be outside. I wish you luck, and do hope to find you later alive, Oriana.

Looking over to Kain he looked the man up and down, then he sighed and shook his head.

Take care of Oriana, Kain. If she does not come out of this alive, it will be your head I am after.

There was a hint of a smile and mischief in his eyes before he turned and left the room, making his way downstairs and out of the tower.

There was blood on the body of Vim as he smiled cynically at his new piece of handiwork. Looking the hanging body in the tree up and down, he took pride in his accomplishment and the fact that whoever found this body would be challenged to discover if the being hanging was a man...or a human at all.

Indeed his body was strong, every aspect of the Man, Gabriel Shadowbain captured inside of him. It was even more spectacular knowing that no one, not even his host knew of his existence...and when the stage was finally set and everything was thrown to Chaos would he make his presence known to his toy before he ended his life. Vim would take great pleasure in his pain and suffering of those he was enlisted to kill, he always did.

Being a creation of Chaos, it was in his nature to destroy...he just took a little more pleasure in what he did than most of his denizens. He left his artwork strewn and hanging in a tree and turned to his task at hand. He looked down at all the blood on his body, he knew it would not do to walk into town and be covered in blood like this. A smile cracked the hard look on his face and the blood disappeared beneath his skin and armor. Moving through the woods at a walk, he made great progress, for he did follow and road, he simply cut through the woods in the direction that he knew his host was. He passed through any objects that got in his way, his body moulding and moving around the objects to join back together on the other side. The smile never left his face as he approached the city that lay out before him. The game would begin very soon, and in the end would it would make a great show.

His first job was to follow the mage woman to where Raynalia would be. He was to trap them there in his realm, he had many little treats planned in store for his new friends. He hoped they would enjoy the activities he painstakingly set up for them. Because Vim knew that he would.

What she saw when her brother looked at her made her heart sink to her toes. She knew then that she had damaged her relationship with her brother beyond repair and nothing she did would ever make it whole again. Still she could not stop herself try as she might from following after him, her own anger rising for reasons she couldnt quite understand, not towards her brother but towards Condrik for being so bold as to assume he was the only one that had been marked as prey, if she was correct, her brother was to be next on the list of those closest to Raynalia to meet their death and that was something Oriana could not allow. She lashed out with harsh words, harsher words than she had meant to speak, but they were spoken nonetheless. Whirling she faced Condrik with a fire burning in her eyes...

You are not the only one to be hunted and used against the elf. My brother may not understand but I dont want him here for the simple fact that he could end up just like Kristian because as much as insists that he is here as Raynes friend he loves her still. Truth be told I was a fool for convincing her she needed to move on with her life and make no mistake about it Condrik, if there is a way to bring the two of them back together that way will be found. Her true place is with him. I do not need your help Condrik, you would be more of a distraction to me than of help.

Her black robes swished almost violently when she turned back around and took to the stairs to find her brother. She plowed into him with such force she nearly fell on her backside, but she managed to right herself and she reached out to touch his shoulder with a shaky hand. Tears welled in her violet eyes and the truth of what she was about to attempt finally came crashing down on her in terrible brutal waves. In a voice so much like that of a childs she choked out the words to her brother.

Gabriel .... I'm scared, so scared and I need you to be safe because I know what might happen, because I know you could be the next to fall and I could not live with that. Hate me all you need to, I can live with that, at least I would know you were still breathing and alive....

Walking from back to front she stood before him with her head tilted back, her tears falling on her cheeks...

I love you Gabriel, even when you tried to kill me I loved you. I cannot let this go, it is not in my nature to, this cannot continue this way Gabriel... it just cant....

Peoples hearts change Oriana sorry there was more than just you at work then you at getting Rayne and I together. Or did you forget that things started without anyone else with us? Or are you that high up on thinking that just cause you helped her to feel it was ok to move on that it was all your doing. Do you even listen to what people tell you? I doubt it, your brother has done and said he is here as a friend to her. Yet you cant accept that because you feel responsible for something you are not responsible for. Do you always have to have your hand in something? Let me guess you are going to take credit for every match taht you even came close to being a part of. Its bullshit, do not interfere it is not your choice who Rayne is with. She chose me knowing he was alive, she knew he was alive but also knew that again he had matters that he went off to who knows where to deal with. She made her choice you did not make it for her. None of us did, she had made the choice. You must think you are some type of goddess who can control everything well guess what you are not and you can not. You know I used to think you a good person and an honorable person but now I do not. You want things for your own self serving selfish reasons. Your brother came back knowing that Rayne is married yet you again have to try and interfere. Are you that damn insensitive? I just held our son in my arms, and now you are going to try and make me lose my wife too? What kind of insensitive being are you? Are you that set on having to have things your way?

He was steamed and not a damn thing anyone was going to say was going to calm him down. He looked at her and shook his head.

Must be a hell of a existance to have that you think you have a hand in everything other people do and feel. Sheesh you going to take credit for my brother and Kiara as well, or maybe you want to try and find her ex too and try adnget her back with him. You really are a peace of work, you knew that your brother might be back some day, and so did she. She wanted to move on, or are you saying everything between her and I and all was a lie. You know I almost feel pity for you thinking you are so great that you make peoples hearts change and all. Stay out of other peoples love lives, take care of your own first.

Just because you have not seen your husband in who knows how long, does not mean you should go messing with my relationship with my wife. What is it with you that you have to get involved in something that is not your choice?

((Oh, my post is meant to come in before Cons.))

Gabriel had been walking down the stairs to leave the tower when he had been smashed into by Oriana. It didn't take much for him to regain his balance, Oriana's small frame did little to unsettle his balance, but it was enough on these stairs to almost send him careening. And when he turned back to Oriana he hadn't expected the look he got...he was prepared more along the lines of anger and not the anguish that he found.

As Gabriel listened to Oriana's pleading through her tear choked sobs, he couldn't help but feel like a complete dirtbag. He looked down at the ground and took a deep breath. As much as Oriana had made him angry the past few hours...no matter how badly he wanted to just hate her and be gone with her....he had no intentions of hurting his sister. He had been so absorbed in his own anger and jealously lately that he didn't even take into account how Oriana might have been feeling. Reaching out he took his sobbing sister in his hands and held her close, as he did when he was younger.

Oriana, do not mistake me...because I do not....you have made me as angry as all hell lately, but do not think that would wish harm upon you. You cannot blame me for being angry with you Oriana...I felt betrayed, as if the last decent person I knew had turned their back on me. But you can blame me for not letting it go...for not looking past it to the right thing you were trying to do.

Pulling back he looked down at Oriana and stared her in the eyes.

You know you don't have to worry for my welfare...I'm a Shadowbain afterall...and not just anybody can kill us.

And before he could continue his conversation too much further, he was rudely interrupted by Condrik. The man was furious, and he spoke to Oriana with anger the likes of with he would not allow. Angrily he attempted step around Oriana to confront the man, but he was stopped when Oriana reached out to him...he looked down at her questioningly and gave him a look that said. "I will handle this." Nodding a little he stepped back. He would let Oriana handle her business, but if Con got out of hand...there would be hell to pay.

Kain... sit near the fire and remember your promise. No matter what you see, what you think is happening, do not try and stop it. When he made that promise, things were different, now the floodgates were opened. Kain found it troubling to deal with all these emotions, it was like a child, learning to walk for the first time. As he went over towards the fireplace, he heard Gabriel speak to him, Take care of Oriana, Kain. If she does not come out of this alive, it will be your head I am after. He simply nodded. Then took his seat by the fireplace, and stared into it. Such a beautiful thing, fire, it danced playfully. It was however two-faced, it could provide warmth, and comfort, yet bring destruction and chaos. Like magic, it was fickle.

Kain continued to stare into the fire, trying to contain his emotions, one could tell he was worried simply by looking at him. It wasn't like him to be like so, usually he had a cool head, even in the gravest situation. Staring at the fire still, he watched as it flickered, like his emotions, moving about rapidly, trying to burst out. He managed to keep himself calm, then he heard Oriana and the man known as Condrik get into it. He was going to say something but thought better of it. He knew not of the situation, and would therefore stay out of it if at all possible. He simply watched on...

Her arm shot out to stop Gabriel from doing anything that her brother might later regret. His actions aside from his words showed her that he might have been angry, which she was well aware he had every right to be, but he would always be there in his role as her big brother. Keeping her arm across her brother she gave a gentle squeeze to his side indicating that she understood everything he had said, and in some way her actions were a way of saying thank you. The rift was still there between them but it was slowly coming back together and in time, they would be whole again.
Her gaze settled on Condrik then and she might have smiled so gently but her eyes blazed and her words dripped with venom.

Understand Condrik Shadow that I was asked by Raynalia for advice for counsel and I gave it even though by doing so I was in a sense speaking out against my brother. That is what eats away at me day in and day out, that I hurt my brother, that is what I am holding myself accountable for and even what Gabriel holds me accountable for. You know nothing of what I think or how I feel and I intend to keep it that way. Understand that what you think, how you feel means nothing to me and that my only concerns here are for my brother and for my friend. You can say anything you'd like about me what you think of me does not matter. Seeing you think I have to get involved in everything maybe I should be as self serving and selfish as you say I am and simply leave this place. You can fetch your wife on your own. Oh wait you know I wouldnt do that to her, and I wouldnt do that to my brother, I am going to make something very clear here to you right here and now. I dont like you. I never have and everything I am doing here is for my loved ones. Stay the hell away from me from this moment on or else you might find yourself a crispy critter and if Raynalia comes home to you not being here, well gee who do you think she'd turn to? Think about that!

Dropping her arm from Gabriel the mage started the walk back to her tower.

Its funny how your tune changes when your brother is around about things. It is rather pitiful, you speaking out against something you could not have stopped. Maybe you helped speed it up a little but you dont control how anyone feels. I am just speaking the truth look at your own life if you want to fix something. You are not the reason Rayne and I fell in love, and the reason she fell out of love with your brother. It was time for her to move on she was only looking for support in doing so. Just as I would not want a friend to get upset at me, its sad if you think you are the only reason Rayne and I got together. And I am glad to know your answer to things now is attacking someone who has done nothing more than speak words.

He watched her and shook his head he actually did feel pity for her. Thinking that it was just her that made him and Rayne what they were. She was mistaken and he knew it. The mage would have to learn not everyhting happens cause of her touch on it.