Spirits of the Earth

((Rated M for copious amounts of gratuitous gore, dismemberment, and other such things))



It seemed to be a reoccurring thing. Large, green open fields, rife with life.

And Kranath, a blight of dark upon the open vista. But he wasn't alone this time.

Into the sky a fan of blood did fly as a crystalline daikatana bisected a man in twain. Rusted, patchwork pieces of armor followed the blood, sundered to fragments under the force of the thin, glass-like blade.

Here, in the Serha Plains, bandits and highwaymen were a plague. The dark man had not been aware of this until recently.

It was a very pleasant change of pace. The air reeked of blood and death, and the assassin was reveling in it.

He'd stopped in the middle of the night before, under the light of a full moon that refused the cover of clouds and had remained so for over a week. He had stopped, uncaring of what was around him. Early this morning, his meditation had been interrupted by a group of bandits, demanding he pay toll or be enslaved.

And now, those green fields were covered in red.

In slow motion, the blade came back down, and the figure holding it twisted about to impale a would be assailant creeping behind him. Taking one hand off his deadly weapon, he seized the filthy man by the throat, his crimson eyes suddenly flooding with darkness, his face covering in lines of Eldritch power, appearing cracked and broken under a web of darkness.

The man opened his mouth to sound a silent scream, as his body began to drain of life - literally. The skin pulled tight and pallid, gaunt and emaciated as necromatic power ripped the very energy from his body.

Kranath revelled in death, even as the man's life force empowered him. The last man fell from his blade, and Kranath was alone once again.

No....not alone. Keen nose picked up a scent, but he remained motionless. There was something familiar about it...something that reminded him of the darkness that remained about him at all times.

He remained still, awaiting this newcomer, curious.

A trail of darkness followed. Plants withered behind the soft and light footsteps. Rot and death followed in the small figure's wake. The life in the large open fields slowly wilted and died.

Several birds fell from their flight, having died from coming too close to the aura of dread that surrounded her. And surrounding her were several undead homonculi which she had expertly made herself. The stitch marks and odd patches were more than obvious. Claws and fangs, odd protrusions. It was a grim contrast to Salem.

She saw a figure in the setting sun off in the distance. It was the person she had sought out, the aura she had followed.

The individual Tiamat had her track down. For their meeting was fated.

A soft hiss of black smoke rose in front of Kranath, thickening in volume until she stepped out. Instead of directly speaking to Kranath, she seemed to be interested in the corpses themselves, checking for their eyes, inside their mouth. Sometimes, a hum of approval was heard before the shredding of flesh as a certain usable appendage was found. And Salem had no issue with taking what she needed.

It took some time before she finally looked up at Kranath, without a sound, instead, she tapped her own head. Then pointed at his. During this, the flesh abominations had finally caught up with their mistress.

It was with great restraint that Kranath didn't open this woman from shoulder to hip, appearing the way she did. The only thing stopping him was that scent, so much stronger now with her proximity.

She smelled of the Lady. The Darkness trapped in the lunar or that even now was disappearing behind the brightening light of the sun.

Tiamat.

When she raised a hand to her head, he was at first confused, but the look she was giving him clued him in. With one hand - drenched in blood, mind, as there wasn't much of him that wasn't - he reached towards her.

Laying that bloody hand upon her forehead, he closed his eyes, those pitch black orbs disappearing behind pale lids. However, even with his eyes closed, he could still see her clearly - perhaps Tiamat's gifts had other uses.

He pushed his mind outward, feeling his consciousness extending beyond its confines to link with hers.

After all....telepathy for him was much more broad - two servants of the Dread Queen would need more...private means of talking.

Thus linked, he opened his eyes. Now red, they gleamed like twin pools of blood, but did not glow.

Who....are you. You smell of the Lady...and a human. What claim do you have in her power?

Crimson, cat like eyes also closed as the blood stained hand pressed against her forehead. She rose her own hand, soaked as well as his due to the rather rough handling of the corpses from before. She felt him attempting to connect to her, which was rather useless. She could easily invade his mind, she needn't his consent.

This was purely due to her respect for him. Another being marked by Tiamat's influence. And while she was still so young. She had recieved such vast power.

She looked up again to meet his eyes, the feline eyes having something playful to them. Inclining her head, the female took a step backwards.

I am Salem. Tiamat spoke to me when I was young. And recently. I was tasked with finding you.

Kranath's eyes widened, though almost imperceptibly. A human, in Tiamat's service? Preposterous. But....his senses didn't lie to him. And by the scent of utter darkness about her, it had to be true.

But it didn't mean he had to like it.

Why? Why find me? And why you? You're a human. Not a dragon, not a demon. A human. What do you bring to the table that makes you so grand? These abominations? These golems? Don't make me laugh.

That last word would sound as a hateful hiss, making his discontent known. As a rule, he despised humanity as whole. They were beneath him, they dared breath in the presence of dragons. He had recently discovered they dared ride dragons, as if they were beasts of burden.

Needless to say, he was disgusted. But despite this, there was nothing he could do. Tiamat's influence was not his to interfere with.

It was her choice, I embraced it, she answered, a playful smirk appearing on her lips. She turned around to tend back to the corpses, the golems assisting in taking the pieces, some tearing off their own limbs and attaching new ones.

My flesh constructs fight better than any seasoned warrior, she glanced back up at him, the smirk still present. And it takes me but the blink of an eye to crush a mind like yours. A giggle followed. Both haunting him mentally and being present in the physical world aswell.

That does not mean I don't admire you. Tiamat told me about you, I am... Positively impressed by your capabilities.

When he spoke now, it was verbally. His eyes resumed their void-like qualities, stark black and soulless. His voice dripped with abyssal power, black silk soaked in venom. She would, in time, find that he was not easily intimidated, if intimidation was possible at all.

"You will find my mind is not so easily crushed, human. Tiamat may have given you power, but I also have power that is my own, beyond that of simple physical ability."

His hands began to swirl with darkness, a black, solid blob that writhed seemingly with a life of its own.

"The power Tiamat grants is not boundless..." he said, even as the area around them seemed to be drained of light, despite the suns steady advance into the sky above.

"But natural ability can be. Tiamat gives me power over death and fear...but my own power is that of shadow, and you will find my mind wrapped in it always, and absent of your searching if I so choose."

The darkness evaporated into nothingness, and light returned.

"Do not assume power over me, and I will respect the same, even if it is only Her will."

The soft smirk turned into a surprisingly warm smile as she stepped forward, softly grasping his hand and intwining her fingers with his.

You can change reality, which is admirable, Kranath. But I can change your reality. I promise not to due to respect, but your believes, your life and your perception are all mine to decide.

She glanced up at him, I am a mute.

Yet she suddenly opened her mouth to speak with a voice so soft, so soothing and oh so dangerously alluring. "But I can make you believe otherwise. I will not assume power over you, nor will I ever use them on your mind. Realise only that I am on equal grounds to you, Kranath."

She smiled softly again. I am here because the lady instructed me. Attempt dialogue with her if you do not believe me.

Kranath did not need to attempt to contact the Dread Queen - it was then that She made Her presence known to them both, Her silken voice penetrating deep in their minds, smooth yet so hauntingly dark.

She speaks truth, Kranath. I sent her to you...you are my Will upon mortal soil, and she is my Voice. You together are Avatar and Priestess, and you will work towards my goals.

Kranath's eyes flared brightly, and slowly he fell to knees, his face turned towards the moon, now invisible behind the light of the sun.

"My Lady...your will be done."

See to it. And know this - ANY contest of power between the two of you will result in your deaths. I will not tolerate infighting between my Children.

Kranath's eyes closed, and his head lowered. "Of course, my Lady..."

The smile only grew softer as she heard the voice of Tiamat echo throughout her conscience. It as sweet and soothing. A voice that had directed her in the past, had returned at once. She didn't speak, no, it wasn't her place to speak now. It was Tiamat's.

She glanced up at the sky. Ofcourse, my lady, it is always a pleasure to hear your voice, she answered through telepathy, before she glanced at Kranath, then in the distance.

I think you angered their friends. Allow me. she stated, turning around to face what seemed like a band of at least twenty. And she resolutely strode towards, the flesh abominations joining by her side.

Kranath slowly came to stand, moving a hand up towards the handle of his daikatana, eager for more blood, to show this petulant excuse for a human what-

But no...

He lowered his hands, and crossed them over his thin chest, his expressionless face cracking into a bloodthirsty smile. He saw the group approach, appearing more elite and gilded than their slain brethren. Their armor appeared more durable than those others, their weapons appearing of a better make.

Let her handle this - he may not be able to kill her, but that didn't mean he had to help, either.

It seemed the rather young magus was fine on her own. The small group of four flesh constructs launched themselves at the warband, shredding through their armour with shapr claws and teeth. One of the constructs even solidly froze one of the bandits and proceeded to fight not with it's fangs, but with ice magic.

And slowly, Salem made her way towards the group, plants rotting after each step. An arrow flew right for her, aiming to end her life then and their. But it never hit.  The arrow corroded inches away from her face.

Several of their cavalry units broke formation and charged towards her, pikes brandished. A soft grin as she looked up to them.

Each and every bandit dropped from their horse, screaming and writing in pure agony, shivering and drooling as their minds were crushed, the horses halting before her and panicking at her very presence, making their swift escape into the woods.

And she didn't stop walking she made her way over to the infantry that was currently losing to her flesh constructs. Reality itself shifted and massive pillars shot from the ground, with ancient, runic etchings in them. A deep red energy connecting them.

Her golems retreated, slipping through the pillars. The soldiers, by now in complete dread, tried to escape, but smacked against the red veil that hung before them.

And slowly, their life was siphoned, sent towards herself and her golems, their wounds slowly healing.

Kranath watched these proceedings with interest, one brow arching as she summoned some sort of life-draoning wall from the earth.

Her magic truly was powerful. She used Tiamat's gifts to their full potential, and the avatar was actually impressed.

He began striding forward, arms still crossed over his chest. He shouldered past one of her patchwork golems, an eye catching sight of a sword mark sealing itself closed as he moved past it.

So, she could heal them. AND they - or some of them - could wield elemental magic. Impressive.

Kranath found himself standing before her, making his presence obvious. He looked her dead in the eye, his face completely expressionless, two pairs of crimson eyes locked on one another.

He gave a solitary nod, acknowledging her power, but nothing more.

Salem glanced up at Kranath, giving him another one those playful smirks, her feline eyes only reflecting the rather casual and playful demeanor. It was more than obvious she enjoyed slaughtering her foes. She glanced over at one of her rather spiky golems and walked over, breaking one of the sharp protrusions off and heading over towards the still screaming or drooling, braindead cavalry that had attempted to attack her.

And without any sign of remorse, she went about finishing them off, though not without holding for just a moment to relish their tortured minds one last time.

As soon as she was done, her flesh constructs went about gathering the corpses up, shredding them to bits and taking anything that might be useful.

As soon as most corpses were reduced to nothing but unidentifiable heaps of gore, the same black smoke appeared, her constructs slowly disappearing into it.

Salem turned to face Kranath again, smiling softly. What happens next?

I don't know, he said, glancing to the side. We find others to slay, and send their souls to Tiamat.

He lowered his arms, and turned his head to look at her wall of death, still standing and glowing brightly.

You may wish to dismiss your artifice. Unless you want to attract tge attention of the local military....or, now that i mention it, leave it up. Their souls will make excellent additions to Her power.

We need a home, however, a base. Something we can return to, she answered, glancing up at the enormous monument, before back at Kranath. Others will perish through this indeed. Be it due to human curiousity.

A soft, almost tired sigh as she stretched her back. By no means am I above human limits. I still feel fatigue and hunger, so I require rest.

She glanced up at Kranath. So, we require a home.

Kranath arched a brow, looking at her strangely. A home? That was something he hadn't had in... centuries. And the Aerie remained locked to him.

Suddenly, a bloodthirsty smile cracked his face as an idea struck him.

A home I cannot provide, though we coukd take one.

Then you can easily provide, she answered with a soft smirk. It would however put us out. People would realize exactly where we are.

She let out a soft chuckle. While it would be amusing, it might be an unwise decision.

Kranath's bloodthirsty grin did not fade, despite her refuting his thought. This one knew what he was doing.

You forget who I am, Salem...the only people who will know a family is dead is the family itself. And...well, let's just say that my ability to manipulate death is a little more... straightforward than yours.

The grin then faded, and he turned to look into the distance. He had a plan forming, a way to give them at least a temporary respite so that she could rest.

You just leave it to me. We'll find a place for you to rest, and I'll empty it out. A farm, somewhere with constant day-to-day activity. That will be simplicity itself.

I do not, she answered easily, shaking her head. There will always be ties, my dear Kranath. That is all I have to say in the matter.

She joined next to him, clasping her hands behind her back. Mind sharing your ideas?

We find a farm. I get in, undetected - that's no problem for me. I kill everything inside without leaving obvious wounds. Also easy.

He turned to look at her, a very slight smile cracking his face. Then we turn the family into automatons, and direct them to do their normal duties as usual. Then everything looks normal from the outside, while we're safe inside.

He turned away, then, and looked ahead. I'm more than just a loose blade. I think. I plan. I am an assassin, as well as a mage, in a way. And I've been surviving alot longer than you.

With we, I assume you mean me? She inquired with a soft smirk, clasping her hands behind her back. But the plan makes sense. Even though there is no need for killing, I can alter their sense of reality completely. Whether we're part of the furniture, or not existent at all in their home.

Another smirk played on her face. It is up to you whether you wish to stain your blade. Their souls make no difference.

All souls make a difference. The only variable is whether the gain is worth the effort.

He then looked to her, one brow arched. And, no, I am capable of necromancy of a more straightforward means than creating golems - I can raise them as they are. They need not be...abominations. Typically, it's not worth much other than to cause fear...but it could be perfect for this.

It is up to you, my dear Kranath, Salem purred in his mind. How long can you attain them? And if anyone approaches, do they still retain a mind to answer properly?

It seemed the young priestess was more than happy plotting this, merely addressing the possible complications it may present. The idea is proper. But it needs more refining, she added with a soft chuckle.

If anyone else approaches, I'll deal with them myself. More parts for your...things. It would seem as if he was still a little questioning of her golems.

And generally, my power outlasts the creatures themselves. They'll generally continue to operate so long as they don't get destroyed or start falling apart. There's perks to bring a dragon - I can hold automatons far longer due to not having a humans vitality.

At her final comment, he again looked at her oddly, arms crossed over his chest. Refining? Surely not.

And what would you do better, Salem? he asked, eyes glowing dangerously, one thin brow tilted as he watched her. So long as we're gone before the pile of bodies gets too high, we'll be fine. It only has to look good from afar, and while we're there we can think of something more permanent. I don't plan on staying there forever.

I refer to them as 'horrors', she answered easily, letting out a soft chuckle. I can give you a detailed description of how they work.

She glanced back towards Kranath, clasping her hands behind her back, before her eyes wandered back to the massacre she had just left. Do not be mistaken, some of these horrors are alive for fifteen years already, they have their own life essence, rather than borrowing mine.

She glanced back at him, rather unimpressed by his intimidating guise. She knew that he would make no move to harm her. He wasn't allowed. But the same went for her. If it is but temporary, this is the most efficient, thus I have no complaints.

Salem huffed softly. Let us move on, then, Kranath.

Kranath gave a solitary nod, the glow to his eyes dimming to a more passive light.

A few days, if need by, and hopefully nothing more. Kranath preferred to remain on the move, if possible, but he couldn't do so if her human limitations continually slowed them down.

Yes. I know not what we will find, but hopefully it will be nearby.

He turned from her, then, and began walking a brisk pace, hitching his daikatana higher on his shoulder as he went. He could do for a bath, covered nearly head to toe in sticky, congealing blood and gore. Stealth would definitely be a necessity, as he doubted any would see him and remain comfortable.

Salem smirked softly and fell into step next to him. If we backtrack, I found some suitable places, it is but several hours away.

She glanced over her shoulder again, following Kranath in silence, whether he'd turn around or head on his way. She'd only speak up when they found a suitable location.

Kranath's eyes squeezed shut in irritation. Why couldn't she have said this before?

....fine. I don't mind the walk. You lead, I'll follow, and lets make this quick, if we can Salem. I'd like to at least get something accomplished today, even if it is merely accommodating your needs.

He turned around, opening his eyes again, looking again towards the gore piles. He gave a wry smirk.

Quick? A soft chuckle left her as she snapped her fingers. Reality before them seemed to distort, black smoke slowly forming infront of them.

It is safe, I promise. With that, she stepped into the thick smoke, disappearing completely.

If Kranath followed her through, they would step out into the plains once again. A farm in the distance. I believe this may serve us well.

Salem huffed softly, glancing at him. Proceed, Kranath. I will remain here until you tell me to approach.

Kranath stepped through the dark distortion of soace. The sensation was almost like that of his resurrection, a feeling of being and not being, a sweet embrace of dark and cold.

He hated it. Death was his to command, he didn't need reminders of his time in that state of being. But still, a means of quick travel was convenient. He'd deal with it.

When he stepped into the new landscape, he surveyed their environs. He could see it there in the distance, a two story affair with a barn and stable close by. It would do nicely.

Very well. Well done - I'll contact you when it's finished.

__________

About ten minutes later, Kranath found himself behind the barn. The structure itself was well made, but where age and elements had warped the wood, there were gaps that allowed him to see inside. He could see a single man, fending to a pair of large cows. They had apparently caught scent of a predator - no surprise, considering there was one looking in on them now - and they were skittish and constantly fidgeting. With no obvious way in from the back, he skirted around the far side of the structure, seeing no one outside and none peeking out the windows.

This would be too easy. Alone with nothing but a pair of animals, this man had little means of defending himself from the attacker coming from behind. Quietly, he crept into the barn, his eight inch kodachi in hand. His feet made not a sound as he continued onward, and his other hand swirled with blackness, almost like a multitude of tiny insects.

When he was but two feet behind the other, he slipped the narrow blade underneath the back of his ribcage, near his spine. With his other hand, swirling with necromantic energy, he gripped the back of the man's throat, the black specks of energy moving around the man's head and face , finding its way in ears, eyes, nose, mouth.

He never even fell. The dwindling vitality of the man was suppressed and negated by the darkness entering his body, snuffing out mortal life. The man's eyes appeared far away and empty.

Kranath removed his blade and his hand, and the automaton stood, turning slowly.

"Remain here," Kranath said. "In fifteen minutes, go into the house, clean the blood off of your corpse, and change clothing. Afterwards, follow your mortal routine." As he said this, his eyes swirled into pure blackness as he commanded the dead. When he finished, they returned to normal, his eyes glowing balefully.


((OOC: Gotta stop here, brain is being difficult, I'll pick it up again later, but you can respond if you like =p))

[Bad brain!]

Salem however, seemed rather indifferent to her way of traveling. It was something she used on a daily basis, after all. Praise? A soft chuckle left her. You are growing fond of me, aren't you, Kranath?

Another soft chuckle left her again as she turned around before he could retort, making her way to the edge of the forest and disappearing into the treeline.


Kranath made his way into the barn and realized his practical part with lethal precision and flawless execution. As well as a flawless execution. At the same time, Salem had taken position in the forest, sitting on a rock and waiting.

However, a small child approached her with flowers, handing it over to her. As impertinent as children were, her beauty was immediately brought up by the small boy. But she was by no means as pretty as 'mama'.

"Who is mama?" She inquired with a soft smile, tricking the child into believing she could speak. And making sure the small boy couldn't notice the withering plants around her. She was completely trustworthy to the child. Yet she already knew the answer. The instant she set her sights on the small boy, she knew exactly who mama was. And the fact that she was already dead. And that the boy lived in the same farm Kranath was currently raiding.

So it may have just become problematic. She gave the child a soft smile and stood up, approaching him a tender hand caressing his cheek. That was the last sensation he felt, she had slowly sushed the life out of him. There was no suffering for the boy. No pain or torture. Just sleep. No wounds or blood, she suffered needlessly as a child. None others needed to share the fate in her eyes.

Are you about done, Kranath? She inquired with a soft breath, knowing full well the range of her telepathy was nearly unlimited. He may have realised, but she didn't only attune to his mind. She linked her own mind to his.

Just finished.

Before him stood a pretty little woman, garbed in finery. She was the very picture of beauty, the way the light played across her skin, a perfect figure...

Oh, and not to mention dead, looking at him with soulless, empty eyes. He'd given her the same instructions he'd given the man in the barn, and at that point she turned to comply.

There's a child's bedroom in here. I only found two adults on the property.

He slowly made his way down the stairs, ears straining for any other noises in the house. Truth be told, he ought to be able to hear heartbeats and smell other people, but it seemed there was nothing.

This house is too large for just three people, but we need to find that child.

Then I'm on my way, her own sentence was barely finished before she stepped out next to the stairs, holding a dead child in her arms. Cradling it close to her chest. It looked like nothing but sympathy. It seemed even one such as Salem had some form of compassion.

She glanced up at Kranath. Here he is, was picking flowers for his parents, she remarked, smiling softly.

Kranath arched a brow, and nodded. We'll have to be on the lookout for others. Like I said, this place is far too large for three.

He took the child from her arms, and laid him upon the floor. There were no discernible marks to cause death, and he again arched a brow.

In any case, he repeated the process as he had with the other two, instilling the corpse with a bit of necromantic power.

"...Go play...or something. Remain near the buildings, but come inside after dark."

He didn't honestly know or care what the child automaton did, so long as it could keep up appearances and stay out of their way.

There. Now we have a place for you to rest....I'm going to find some way of cleaning the blood out of my clothing.

Perhaps, we'll keep a look out, she answered passing the child on, glancing down at the boy. She folded her arms as she watched Kranath dictate the child's new directive.

She leaned against the wall, glancing at him. Do you require help? She inquired with a soft smirk.

Kranath paused, having already began walking. One hand was upon the open frame of a doorway as he turned to look over his shoulder.

With laundry....? I doubt it. But you may wish to wash as well, unless you want to scare off everyone so they can bring soldiers or some such. We're near Adela...so attention is something we should avoid.

He turned away and stalked down the hallway, turning a corner to open a door leading outside.

When he got outside, he immediately undid the metal clasps holding the intricate sheathes for his weapons in place, and then she'd his long coat. He stood there, thin and tall, wearing a sleeveless black tunic shirt and black pants, both of the same material of his coat. He carried both blades and coat, walking slowly around to find a water hole or some such, or perhaps a well or a pump.

I see. Then let us, she answered, following him closely. As they stepped outside, a thick body of black smoke once more appeared infront of her. Dissipating immediately when she stepped through it.

Several seconds later, the same smoke appeared next to Kranath. I have found a small creek, her voice resounded through his mind as she revealed herself in the smoke, before taking a step back into it.

And as he followed her through, they seemed several hundred meters away from the farm. It's better here. Else the scent of blood will linger around the farm. We wouldn't want that.

And, regardless of his approval or disdain, she headed over to the water, starting to slowly pull her robes off.

Kranath did follow her through the cloud of blackness, making a sound of approval upon exiting it.

He dropped his blades on the ground, and too stepped toward the water. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw her begin to disrobe. Had she no vanity either...?

However, he couldn't help but watch the revealing of skin as pale as his own. With those eyes and that skin, she could very well be a black dragon, too.

He peeled the bloody tunic shirt off, revealing deathly pale flesh, but also a well toned, wirey frame. On his left shoulder, there was a permanent scar - that where Tiamat had permanently burned the symbol for the Aerie from his flesh. On his right shoulder he wore a tattoo with the likeness of a dragon skull, inked in black.

Despite having been dead just over a week before, he appeared strong, agile, the very picture of what a professional killer should be.

He tossed his tunic shirt into the water, and hooked a foot under his coat and kicked it in as well. He kicked off his black leather shoes, and waded in.

She proceeded to disrobe, not seeming to notice Kranath's gaze. Her skin was pale and devoid from any scars or irregularities. It had an unnatural perfection to it. She was slim and agile, just a few of her ribs visible.

She took off not only her robes, but her undergarments aswell, being completely naked as she kneeled into the water, starting to wash herself. A supple chest and subtle hips. She still was rather young looking, considering the amount of power she currently held.

Make sure you don't forget to blink, she advised, being fully aware of his staring. She stretched stoftly as she washed her arms, washing away the dirt and the grime, before starting to tend to her clothes.

Kranath blinked.

There. Are you happy now? I was just wondering...your eyes. You're human, but red isn't typically a color for the mortal races. How did that come about?

When the water was to his hips, he removed his pants, and stretched out to catch his shirt, it having started to float away.

You're sure you have no draconic heritage?

She couldn't help but chuckle softly at his reply. My eyes are what pulls your attention? She glanced towards him with a playful smirk. I recall my parents stating they were green. Until Tiamat spoke to me.

She made her way back to the shore to finish up her robes, stepping out of the creek to lay her robes on a rock in the sun, before turning around and stepping back into the water, leaning back to raise her leg above the water and start washing it. And now, they lie dead.

Kranath's lips twitched up into a smirk. His story was similar...but on a far grander scale.

So, that's what happens to humans influenced by Tiamat.

He sat down in the water, scrubbing the blood off his face. And out of his hair, combing fingers through it to remove the congealed, sticky mass. In time, it was passable, but he'd need a comb later.

My story is similar, though...my eyes turn black. But...I slaughtered my parents. My sister. My whole clan. Thousands. It was....amazing, the power I got when Tiamat finally broke me.

The smile on his face was bloodthirsty, his eyes faraway. In his mind, he could hear the screams. He could smell the blood.

"Mmm..." he voiced aloud.

Not even realizing what he was doing, he laid backward in the water, his eyes slowly swirling with black.

When he next spoke, his voice dripped with the void.

"Her power is...intoxicating."

I haven't met others. That is what happened to me, she retorted, glancing around at the trees and shrubberies while Kranath was fondly reminiscing the slaughter from the past. A past so long ago her great, great, great, add several more 'great' grandfather wasn't even born. How different were things back then, she had to wonder.

Hearing an outward, surprisingly soft hum, Salem glanced at Kranath. Her lips curled in the same playful grin she more than often had.

I know, the sweet words in his mind were accompanied by at soft, warm breath that would tickle his ear. It seemed she moved closer without making even the water ripple, the veil of darkness slowly dissipating around her. And how long has it been since you died?

Those soulless eyes flicked in her direction, but without any whites to them, it'd be impossible to notice.

Almost ten thousand years. Before the kingdoms. Before the Fell. Before anything's in your recorded history.

He stood up, standing over her, soulless black eyes staring into her red ones. He was apparently heedless of his own nudity.

It was simple back then. I was so much stronger then...death has taken its toll on my power. The only one who could match my power was my fool brother, the 'Good Prince.' Impetuous little whelp...

In anger, the darkness of his eyes dispelled, replaced with a hellish glow that was bright enough to illuminate his face, even in the sunlight. His teeth bared slightly, teeth lengthening and sharpening into daggers. A patch of scales erupted from his chest, spreading like wildfire across his pale skin.

"It'll be him that dies this time...him and everything that stands with him." His voice had an odd sort of duality to it, nearly demonic now.

He was positively radiating with power, unbidden from thoughts and memories, those of blood and hate.

Those eyes stared still down into hers, illuminating her face as well. Even amongst the rage, he could see her there, small and fragile looking, like a finely crafted porcelain doll. Beautiful, but looking so easily crushed.

"Be glad that Tiamat chose you, Salem...you get to stand with me in the darkness. And we will cover the world in it."

I consider myself blessed, she retorted easily as she stood up straight again. Still wearing her trademark smirk as she closed what little distance remained between herself and Kranath. And darkness shall overtake all, by now, the words in his head, the voice in his mind was more silent, peppered with a soft purr.

Salem rested her hands against his chest, leaning in to feather soft kisses over his throat and neck. Calm down, she advised with a soft chuckle. Below the surface, she pressed her hips closer against his.

Another soft chuckle left her. After what seems like an eternity, the only thing you can do with a woman in state of undress is stare, she sucked in a soft breath as one of the hands slowly traveled downars in the lines and cracks of his muscles.

You're horribly pent up, aren't you?

Red eyes like hellfire stared onward, over the creek towards land, a gaze that would signal rampant death to masses. The power running unfettered through his body was palpable, and with each touch upon his flesh, Salem would feel it, and everywhere her touch lifted a spreading patch of scales would emerge.

Against his burning flesh, her touches felt as ice, slowly bringing him back to the surface. Her telepathic voice cut through the rage like a knife.

It's been thousands of years, Salem. You know not what it is like, dead but still looking down upon the world. Thinking but not feeling, having no mortal flesh to sense with. Pent up is an understatement.

As his flesh cooled, scales began to disappear again, sinking back into his flesh to reveal pale skin once more. One hand would raise to her hip, settling there for a moment before fingertips would trace a path up her side, brushing momentarily against the side of a breast, and come to lie on her neck.

You're playing with fire, Salem. And fire is merciless.

I do not, she agreed with a soft chuckle. But now, you can make them pay.

A soft huffing in his neck as she nuzzled into it. I know it is, Kranath, that doesn't mean it doesn't enjoy being toyed with,

she smirked softly, pressing a surprisingly tender kiss on his cheek. I'm the only company you'll have in a long time.

Her free hand traveled smoothed slowly down his back, a soft gasp coming from her.

You're the only company I've had in millennia, Salem, that hasn't either been killed by my hand or tried to kill me first. What is it you can do for me?

That hand lain on her neck pushed her away slightly, and he leaned backward as well. Burning eyes looked down at her.

You are fragile and human. I am neither. You tempt fate by trying.

That hand then slid over her collarbone, one finger extended to trace a line up her throat and to her chin. He lifted her chin up, staring downward.

...though I welcome your attempt.

Not a word was said, telepathically so, by Salem as she just listened to Kranath.

She glanced up at him, still smirking softly, almost coyly by now. I am not as fragile as you might think, my dear Kranath,

Salem's crimson eyes met him and she pressed her hips against his. Do you now? She inquired with a soft chuckle.

Kranath's hand traced it's way back down her side, the pressure applied this time leaving a line of reddened skin. Down the front of one shoulder, playing for a moment atop a breast, and then settling on her hip, a hard caress the whole way down.

His other hand lifted to place itself on her other hip, and he pulled her tighter against him still, allowing her to feel the hot length of flesh pushing against her thigh.

You tell me, Salem, he said, and verbally he let out a hiss at the contact.

And you'd better hope you're as sturdy as you say. Or I'll break you.

His gaze burned continuously, a red hot glare now that he had become aroused. The light emitting from his eyes made hers seem as if they, too, were glowing.

He managed to elicit a soft, shuddering breath from her due to the rather rough caress. And soon after, a soft giggle followed.

As she felt his member against her leg, Salem softly bit her lip. I can tell you're throbbing with anticipation, a hitched breath followed before her lips turned to a ghost of a smirk, cheeks reddening rapidly due to the heat that started to spread throughout her. Ah, ah, ahh. You're not allowed to, she whispered in his mind. Tiamat may get upset if you do so

Her hand grasped at his shoulder, nails digging into his softer, human tissue. Her other hand rested on his buttock, squeezing it softly.

Kranath hissed slightly as her nails bit into his flesh, and crimson light shown brighter. I never said it'd be on purpose...more like mishandling a porcelain doll.

His hand mirrored hers, slipping from her hip to follow around to her rear, fingertips trailing lightly underwater. His other hand made itself bold as well, coming up to grab a breast, squeezing slightly while the pad of his thumb rubbed over a nipple.

I'm showing great restraint already...I cannot be held responsible for an...accident.

She tilted her head slightly to press soft kisses on his throat, softly nursing at it. I'd be careful, her physical form let out another soft, shaky breath on cue with Kranath's rough ministrations.  I believe Tiamat would be... Disappointed if something were to happen to me.

She tilted her hips slightly, the hand around his shoulder slowly ran down the lines of muscle on his arm, before sinking below the waterline. She got a hold of his length and pressed the tip against her  slith. A shivering, content breath followed.

I trust you'll restrain yourself enough.

His fingers gave a rough pinch and pull to her nipple, then dropped below to move between her hand and her womanhood. He found the nub there, and two fingers ran over it with little force.

Of course...it'd be a shame if my new toy broke so easily...on the first day no less.

Outside of their heads, he chuckled. He gave her rear one last squeeze and moved that hand to her chin, forcing her head up and diving in for a rough kiss.

You'd better not break...you'll be no fun to me dead.

It was then she gripped his shaft rather harshly, it might even inflict some pain. I'm no toy, Kranath, her voice sweeped through his mind. Don't be mistaken, she added with a soft breath, leaning up to answer the kiss with an equal amount of fire, moaning softly into his mouth.

And that's from the man who couldn't do anything to seduce a woman but stare. She teased, loosening her harsh grip around his length. She angled herself properly and pushed her hips down on his, gasping softly as she took him in.

The dragon groaned, his hands coming to grip her hips quite firmly, shoving her downward to allow his full length to push inside.

Oh, but you are...and I think you'll find I take very good care of my toys.

He pulled his head away, only to dive to her neck, mouth open and teeth pressing into her skin. Again, restraint, as he could easily tear her throat out with a Dragons strength. He was being ridiculously gentle.

His hand, having lost the ability to continue where it was, found itself again at her breast, kneading and squeezing. His other hand squeezed one buttock, before moving to the middle of her rear. One handed, with a strength beyond a mortal man his size, he lifted her up out of the water.

Now shut up, Salem. I can't concentrate on you if you're in my head.

A soft, mewling whimper left her as Kranath forced her down entirely. A gentle panting started and she rocked her hips back and forth slightly. She wanted to slap or bite him, but there were other things she had to focus on. The heat of her arousal kept spreading throughout her body. Pooling in her lower abdomen and causing her blush to thicken.

Teeth grazed her neck and throat, causing her to tilt her head to present more room for Kranath's ministrations. As Salem was pulled up, she wrapped and locked her legs around his waist, one arm going around his neck. The other rested ontop of his head, streaking through his hair in a surprisngly tender manner.

Salem tilted her head forwards again, her hot breath tickling his ear once again, letting out soft and ragged moans at the same time.

I'm always in your head, my dear Kranath

When her legs locked around his waist, Kranath brought both hands to her waist with a firm grip. Now better positioned, he was physically able to lift her up and away from him, only to push her back down, thrusting upward as he did so, hard and repeatedly.

He pulled his face from her neck, feeling her fingertips dragging through his hair. With ragged breaths, he looked her in the eye, no longer truly coherent enough to initiate telepathic speech.

Salem slowly scratched across his scalp, moans ripped from her as he felt Kranath's repeated thrusting inside of her, mercilessly so. The arm around his neck slowly alternated to his shoulder, gripping it harshly, nails softly digging in.

She glanced down at him, panting softly, yet her eyes still glinted with the same intelligence and playfulness. It was as if she had everything meticulously planned and under control.

She leaned down to press a soft kiss on his lips, before softly biting his lower lip, still letting out ragged moans.

Suddenly, Kranath's eyes blazed brightly, and he pulled her off of his length, swinging her downward to carry her nearly bridle fashion toward the shore. Her nails tore a furrow through his hairline, though the superficial wounds immediately evaporated into a mist of black, leaving not a mark. Even his lip, with a short spray of blood, healed seamlessly as her teeth scored flesh.

Eyes burning brilliantly, he deposited her upon the ground, perhaps a little roughly.

"Turn over," came the command, his words clipped and almost snarling.

A whimper came from her as he suddenly pulled out like that, the part of his lip she actually managed to rip off easily spat out. She glanced up at him with a frown, still panting softly as heat pooled in her core. Blood and bits of skin were now stuck under her fingernails.

She rested on shore as he almost threw her down, smirking softly as she remained on her back. Deciding not to turn around, just look up at him, legs spread slightly in invitation. By no means would she allow him more control than she was content with.

Kranath let out an almost feral hiss, eyes gleaming and predatory, a glare crossing his face at her refusal. How dare she refuse him - the avatar of their goddess, while she was but mortal.

Priestess, yes... but human.

"Have it your way, then..." he stalked forward quickly, determined to let her feel why he was not to be refused. In one fluid movement, he slid his hands under her rear, lifting her easily and lining himself up once again.

With more strength yet than before - perhaps enough to add a bit of discomfort, even - he pushed himself fully into her, her lower half lifted up into the air by only his two hands.

Seeing the glower made her face contort in the same, albeit slightly heated, grin. Salem seemed to enjoy just how annoyed she managed to make Kranath by something as simple as this.

As he spoke, she let out a soft giggle in response, glancing at his rather aggressive demeanor with a soft smirk plastered on her reddened face.

As he picked her hips up, however, her shoulders were given a rough treatment by grinding in the dirt, but Salem was used to pain. The shock of him forcing himself inside quite harshly made her face contort slightly. The shuddering breath she released was one she didn't realise she had held in.

One of her hands clawed in the dirt, the other reached up to rest behind his neck, gripping at his shoulder.

With a look crossed between a grimace and utter euphoria, Kranath slowed as a dam built over ten thousand years ago began to come close to bursting. Close, but not there just yet - he lowered her back to the ground, allowing himself to flip free from her slick folds.

Taking deep breaths, he allowed his heartbeat to slow for just a minute, a sharp eye wandering over the female form below him. He reached out with one hand, wiping at a smear of blood upon her chin, where she had torn his lip before.

His other hand found itself between her legs, fingers pushing their way into her. His other hand went palm-flat on the ground, and he leaned in for a surprisingly gently kiss.

I'm impressed.... came a purring male voice, echoing into Salem's head.

It's not often a human woman can be found that matches a Dragons stamina.

Salem moaned and panted, climbing closer and closer. She was almost there. A few more thusts and... and- nothing? Nothing.

Salem frowned softly and opened her eyes again, looking up to meet Kranath's glare passing over her body, causing the deep blush to become even deeper. He was checking her out. She aimed to seduce him, but she didn't expect it to be so fast

A soft whimper came form her as the fingers slid inside. It was enough to keep her on her current high, steadily working her up. But by no means was it enough. The kiss made more heat pool towards her legs, back arching slightly. You sound surprised, came her reply after brief telepathic silence. Salem broke the kiss to take a soft breath. Pleasantly so.

Indeed. He pulled away from her, and looked down at her with a twisted smile. His hand came away from her folds, raising instead to pinch and pull at a nipple. And that's all you get until you turn over.

He stared at her pointedly, and pulled his hand away from her breast. No more touching, as promised.

Her face contorted to a soft scowl. So he still wanted to play that game. Salem went silent, bar from the soft and heated breaths she ocassionally took. He had shown tenderness just now, consideration for her, not just as a kind of usable tot to relief stress.

Which was more than she had hoped to start with. So Salem saw no issue with indulging him.

With a soft whimper, she sat up and turned around. Getting on hands and knees, swaying her hips tentativitly for him. Inviting him without uttering a single telepathic word. Though she had one demand. I want to feel you on my back, seeped the words into his mind, accompanied by a glance over her bruised and scraped shoulders from his rough handling earlier.

He came behind her, gently putting both hands on her hips and lining himself up with her entrance. Of course. That was the plan to begin with.

He slowly pushed his way inside her, almost gently, sinking his length forward until he could go no further. And then, slowly, rhythmically, he resumed his movements, gradually picking up speed as he did so.

One hand released her hip as he leaned forward to reach around her chest, grabbing and fondling a breast with a gentle squeeze, holding back so he wouldn't hurt her more than he had already - he was more than pleased with her apparent tolerance of his roughness so far, and so moved on from aggression to instead show finesse.

Salem sucked in a shuddering breath as she felt the hands resting on her hips and Kranath's tip being pressed against her core.

He managed to elicit another soft and breathy moan as he pushed inwards once more. A slow shiver crawled down her spine at the sensation, still being very sensitive from the prior ministrations. She pressed her back into his chest.

She sat up on one hand, turning slightly to rest a hand in his neck. Soft panting came from her, meeting Kranath's eyes. Surprisingly tender, the telepathic words descended into his mind, a hitched breath following once again. I'm so close, she remarked.

When she leaned back into him, he was able to lift his other hand to her chest as well, holding her steady with both hands again, working at both breasts with fingers toying with her nipples.

He continued pumping into her, his hips bumping into her buttocks with every thrust, still picking up speed and gradually gaining force as well. He leaned his head and neck forward, opening his mouth to place teeth again at her neck, biting gently.

Then I shall push you over the edge.

The soft slapping of his hips against her butt became audible, slowly picking up in speed and volume as Kranath sped up.

And each time the soft and sweet collision between her flesh and his hips resounded, it was immediately accompanied by a soft moan. Salem's eyes slowly closed to slits, craning her head to allow Kranath's teeth to graze past and press down on her neck.

Salem's free hand caressed over his cheek, before she dragged the tips of her fingers through his hair. And, shortly after Kranath's words sunk in, all of her muscles tightened, the hand caressing his head turning to a soft and jarring clawing as all her nerves were set alight. The sweet release made all of her muscles clench tightly for just a moment.

Besides having Salem now moaning and panting heavily in his arms, her body occasionally shivering due to the lightning that seemed to pull through her nerves, he could also feel her tightening due to her climax.

The tightness created by her clenched muscles, combined with his constant thrusting into her, was very nearly enough to send him over the edge. He remained at the brink for several more seconds, contiuing his movements still, his neck arching back to press his head against her hand.

He could feel a floodgate opening, one that had been shut for far too long. With a grunt, he put his arms on her back, pushing her downward as he slipped his length from her hot opening. A split second later, she would feel a sudden heat as his seed jetted onto her back in bursts, pooling in the small of her back and sliding down her rear.

Breath heaving, he sat backward, the glow in his eyes quite dim as his heart pounded heavily. He rested back on his arms for a moment, before reaching out to rub lightly on one of her hips.

"Salem..." he started, unable to focus enough to speak to her mind.

He shook his head, trying to clear the haze from his eyes.

The sensation of his member being pulled completely from her caused a soft whimper, leaning down on her elbows as Kranath pushed her down. She felt the warm liquid in the small of her back, trickling down between her buttocks.

She let out a heavy, laboured breath as Kranath said back, resting her hand on the one he placed on her hip. She sat up, turning on her knees to shuffle over to him. She padded forward and brushed her lips over his, looking up into his eyes with those crimson, bright orbs of her. While her face was signed with exhaustion and a deep blush, her eyes still portrayed the same playfulness and intelligence.

She huffed softly against his lips. An invitation she extended.

Kranath looked at her with an uncharacteristically serene look in his eyes, lifting a hand to the back of her head as he kissed her back. His other moved to her side, playing lightly over her ribs before his palm flattened over her flesh to hold her.

This is...odd, the way I feel right now.

He broke the kiss, and lifted his chin and pulled her down to rest on his chest, both arms encircling her back, uncaring of the wet trail running down it. They could bathe later.

What is this that I feel? It's almost... contentment.

As Kranath closed what little distance remained between them to consider it a proper kiss, Salem's eyes slowly closed as she leaned into him, the palms of her hands resting against his chest.

Deep crimson eyes glanced up at his as he broke the kiss, before she rested her head against his chest, eyes closing again. Salem let out a content little huff as she listened to the sound of his throbbing heart.

Mayhaps, she answered, pressing her lips against his chest. It doesn't require me to read your mind to know you're feeling better.

Perhaps. But I don't just mean physically. He raised his hand to run fingers through her dark hair, his fingertips lightly brushing against her scalp. His other hand lightly played across her back, avoiding the scrapes from his roughness before.

It's something else. I know not what, though.

He sighed a bit, and glanced toward the creek, idly wondering if his clothes had drifted downstream.

I think we'd better get ourselves cleaned up, in any case. We've been away for awhile...and we've no way of knowing if a bystander has happened upon the automatons.

[]I know, Kranath, it is called affection,[/i] she answered with a soft and breathy chuckle.

His suggestion caused her a soft frown, at which she looked up at him and shook her head. Salem leaned back into him and softly started to nurse at his throat. You struck me as someone who wanted a second go.

To enforce her statement, one of the hands slowly caressed its way down his chest, grabbing his member in hand with a soft, yet insistent stroke.

Kranath gave a soft chuckle, and his hand slowly drifted downward to cup one of her supple buttocks, giving a bit of a squeeze. You're simply incorrigible, aren't you?

His other hand continued curling through her hair, and slowly his manhood began to fill with life again.

A Dragons stamina could be a dangerous thing for a human. He wondered how aware of that she was.

Always been stubborn, Salem answered with a soft grin, before sucking in a soft breath at the squeeze.

She gently kept stroking his member, letting out a gentle breathing as she did.

Kranath issued a hiss of pleasure, dragging the hand squeezing her rear around her hip and her belly to trace a line to that spot between her legs, fingers rubbing lightly before finding her entrance and delving inside.

Stubborn is good... his mind whispered.

A soft moan ensued, followed by the gentle and audible breathing of Salem. I'm glad you approve, she replied, leaning forward to nurse at the slope of his neck.

The hand on her head moved to tilt her head up towards his, pulling her away from his neck. He leaned forward for a kiss, as his fingers withdrew from her folds to instead rest on her side, pulling her more firmly against him.

Below, his manhood pulsed and throbbed in her hand, ready again even after only a few minutes.

She answered the kiss with a gentle brush of her lips against his, eyes sliding closed again. She let out a soft whimper against Kranath's lips as he pulled his fingers out, by now glistening with her anticipation.

Salem broke the kiss to take a deep, shivering breath, glancing down at the member in her hand, with several soft jerks, she placed the tip on her slith and waited for his further movement, resting the top of her head against his shoulder.

Kranath placed both of his hands on her hips in response, and agonizingly slowly pulled her down atop his length, not moving his hips whatsoever.

When he was fully inside her, he leaned forward to take a nipple between his teeth, biting very gently, and slowly lifted her up and down with only his arms.

A breathless gasp left Salem as she was slowly pulled down. Every ridge, nook and cranny, every little vein or irregularity on his member was felt as she moved down. It felt like blissful eternity, increasing with each inch, until she straddled him completely.

Salem rested one hand in the back of his neck, fingers past his hairline, while the other softly gripped at his arm. She started to slowly grind her hips back and forth, letting out the ocassional moan and even whine as she did.

Kranath hissed out a breath against her breast, pulling away to push his face toward her neck. First, teeth gently drug against her throat, moving up to her jawline. Both of his hands fell to grab her rear, fingers digging lightly into flesh.

He started moving against her, her gyrating combined with the slow vertical movement causing a shudder to run through his body.

Her breath hitched softly as the sharp teeth grazed her neck. The soft gyrating of her hips was jarring, a cold, yet delicious shiver crawled up her spine. Salem leaned in to feather kisses ontop of Kranath's head, breathing softly in his hair.

Her previous orgasm caused her to be extremely sensitive, the slow, almost loving, movements were enough to make her climb steadily towards the numbing feeling of bliss. Kranath could easily notice her approaching climax by an increase in her panting and soft moans.

There was one distinct similarity between a human man and a dragon - after orgasm, a second bout could last so much longer.

Kranath felt the pleasure, but he wasn't even halfway done yet. He heard the various sounds Salem made, and increased the tempo of his movements. One hand  moved up her back, fingertips digging lightly into her flesh, his hold firm.

Kranath, she whispered in his mind, the words were light, gentle. And so silent the question arose whether it was her, rather than his imagination.

Being at his mercy now, she ceased the soft kisses on his crown. For the simple reason that she was too distracted by the currents ravaging through every nerve each time he fully pulled her down again. And that speed only picked up, her breathing became more and more laboured. Her eyes slowly fluttered shut as she bit her own lip, teetering on the edge.

Kranath barely heard his name whispered so lightly into his mind, so quiet he could barely hear it over his own pulse pounding in his ears.

As her eyes shut, his remained open, sharp, red and focused, concentrating on every little muscle twitching and movement in her face. His movements increased in force and speed, the slapping of his hips on her thighs getting louder. His hand moved back down to join the other at her hips, holding her steady.

Let go, Salem... his mind whispered, even as he continually plunged into her.

Her hands moved up to both drag to his hair, clawing softly as she moaned out her nearing orgasm. And like that, with Kranath's increasing tempo and force, she finally came with a keening moan. Delicious currents of lightning ripped through her body in form of pure bliss. Salem's muscles tightened, hands clawing at his crown softly and pulling his head down against her chest.

A soft panting came from her as she adjusted her hands to rest on his shoulders and lean back slightly, looking at him with hooded eyes, shivering occasionally.

Kranath gave a groan as she clenched around his length, the sudden tightening nearly pushing him over the edge as well. He continued pushing up into her, dragging her body down onto him as he did.

His eyes flickered with light as he suddenly lifted her up off of him, spraying ropes of seed on her thighs and upon the ground. His eyes squeezed shut, and slowly he put her back down, his hands coming behind her head to hold her against his chest. His breath came out in heavy exhales, and his heart was pounding.

The continued thrusting caused more bliss to lance throughout her body as her orgasm kept being extended. She let out ragged moans and laboured breath, before being finally pulled off. The strings on her thighs and belly felt as if it was molten magma.

She rested against his chest, listening to the heavy throbbing of his heart.

After several minutes, she took a deep breath. We should get washed up and return to the farm, she stated.

Kranath smirked slightly. Didn't I say that earlier?

He pushed her up off of him slightly, and levelled a stare at her. "And if my coat and clothes have floated down the river, you're sleeping with the cows."

He arched a brow at her, then. "Speaking of which, where are yours? You didn't leave them in the water, too, did you?"

Yes, pressing a soft, almost apologetic kiss on his chest, right above his heart. You did. But I think you enjoyed this more, rather than returning.

She chuckled softly, shaking her head. Don't you even dare, she retorted, before leaning back and pointing at the one of the rocks closeby. Drying she explained easily.

Then, she looked down in his eyes, falling silent for but a moment. She leaned forward, brushing her lips against his in invitation. She wanted to gauge just how he woul react to the almost kiss as opposed to how he did earlier. By no means could she go for a third time. Salem was positely exhausted now. Still panting evereven so slightly in the aftergrlow.

Kranath kissed her back, eyes still a little hazy. He supposed he could allow her close now - as if they could get any closer than they'd just been.

After a moment, he pulled away, closing his eyes and focusing on his heartbeat, still trying to calm the pounding in his chest.

Well...let's get cleaned and gather our things. We really should get back.

Not as intimate as she had hoped, regardless, it was a start. With a soft sigh, she rested her hands on his shoulders and got to her feet. Every muscle in her body however, made it's protest known. She felt numb all over, still catching her breath.

But, regardless, she made her way over to the creek against and started to wash up again with the ice cold water. Which was only more severe due to the hotness of her body after their romp. With a soft hiss and a surpressed whimper, she washed herself properly, before stepping out again.

Kranath stood as well, moving with almost feline grace toward the water, all his muscles having rapidly healed what little strain they had endured, his regeneration kicking in with a small puff of black mist escaping his nostrils.

As he moved past Salem, he reached a hand out to her back, fingers trailing lightly across her skin and ending contact at her waist, a small smile curling his lips. He stepped past her to retrieve his clothes, forgotten in the water.

He tossed them on the bank with a grimace, and washed himself off again. He then moved to retrieve his clothes again, wringing as much of the water out as he could before dressing again.

Salem, too busy to pay attention to the sound of parting water as Kranath moved up behind her stood up with a jolt, glancing at him with wide eyes. She was quite spooked by the sudden touch. But it seemed the dragon left it at that.

Salem stepped out of the water again, stretching slowly, glancing down at her drenched body. A sigh left her and a roar of flame suddenly traveled over down, drying her off rather effectively.

After that, she started to dress herself again.

I don't suppose that would dry these without setting them aflame, would it?

He stood there, fully clothed  and still dripping. He'd watched her stretch, appreciating the view with a smirk. The flat facade was cracked - the assassin stepped aside to let the man show his face for the first time since that man was a child.

He watched still while she dressed. I'd rather not have my clothes sticking to me all day until they dry.

She glanced at Kranath as he posed his questions, halfway through dressing. She had her undergarments on already, robes hanging loosely from her.

Salem extended her hand and snapped her fingers, a similar flame roaring into life underneath Kranath and traveling upwards, drying him up in the blink of an eye. And his clothing wasn't even as much as charred.

A soft sigh came from the woman as a puff of black smpke appeared behind her. And an individual stepped out. Unlike her other abominations, this one looked human. With blonde hair and deep blue eyes. And even Kranath could tell this 'horror' was more powerfuk than the others he had met.

And it started to help her dresshead. After all, how pretty or ugly didn't matter.

They were her slaves. Her will was law to these constructs.

As soon as she was dressed, Salem turned around to the black mist that lingered and extended her hand inside, tearing at thethe fabric ofof reality. Let us return.

[Sorry, was just updating the post :S]

The dragon lifted an eyebrow. The flame offered heat, but no pain, even as it coarsed over his face and his head, drying his hair as well.

When it was gone, he smirked again. Did Tiamat provide you with that, or is it your own?

He stepped toward his weaponry, fitting the intricate network of leather straps that held his sheaths in place over his shoulder and waist.

This completed, having only taken less than a minute, he moved to stand before Salem. He smirked a little, and lifted that brow again.

A pity your clothes cover so much... came his voice, nearly purring into her mind.

That was me, Salem replied with a soft huff, straightening out her robes and dusting off the long sleeves from her outfit. Deep red, feline eyes glanced up at Kranath as he took position infront of them. Behave. They're a pain to get, she deadpanned in his mind, letting out a soft sigh on physical level.

But nevertheless, her hand moved up to softly caress his, before gripping it tightly. She tore through the smoke, opening another one of her so called gateways. Come, she ushered, still holding his hand.

Coming, Salem.

He smirked, and briefly rubbed the pad of this thumb against the back of her hand before stepping through the portal of swirling black smoke.

The sight before him when they exited very nearly depressed him - he was almost hoping someone had wandered onto the farm and noticed it's occupants were no longer living... At least, not truly living.

His gaze flicked to Salem, beside him. His eyes remained fixed on her face for a moment, his gaze crimson and penetrating. After a moment, his lips curled into a thin smirk.

Home sweet home.... came his muttered voice. He released a short breath, and turned back to look at the house and barn before them. He was almost glad they would only be there for awhile... He'd like to find something more permanent for them. Something defensible enough they wouldn't have to hide.

Something people would fear. But in the meantime, this would do.

I imagine you're probably hungry and tired. There seems plenty to eat if you're of the mind to prepare food.

He glanced back to her, and gave her hand a soft squeeze. Myself....I must rest. That was...honestly more draining than I would have anticipated, even after such a long time. He gave a bit of a wry grin, and released her hand.

Oh shush, she quipped softly, shaking her head at him, before guiding him through the nothingness. Though the soft geeture against her hand didn't go unnoticed. And she had to think whether itthe was subconcious affection or him toying with her. Being forbidden to read his mind and emotions certainly made for a challenge.

Salem looked up to answer his inquisitive gaze with an inquiring one of her own. Already feeling sentimental? She inquired withwith a soft giggle. And I have already eaten, she answered with a soft stretch of her back. Rest, or sleep, for now is all I require.

And like that, she grasped Marakai's hand, letting out a soft hum. As if they were very close all of a sudden. And she started to walk, making her way to the master bedroom.

Kranath looked go her oddly, a brow raised. Sympathetic? Hardly. This place is hardly fitting for us...that was pure sarcasm, I assure you. He sighed a bit, and voiced a chuckle. I was actually thinking of finding something a bit more...grand.

He followed her as she began moving through the house. I...don't require sleep, just so you know. I prefer to meditate, and leave my senses open to the world. He didn't release her hand, though.

And so was I, Salem replied easily, chuckling softly. There was sentimentality to him. No doubt about it. But she knew it would lay deeper within. Harder to grasp and particularily manipulate.

She gave him a droll look over her shoulder. Trust me, Kranath, was the only response she could give. Accompanied by a, soft smile. She pushed the door to the bedroom open and stepped in. Lay downI, get comfortable. A soft sigh came from her as she started to free herself from her intricate robes, soon standing there in onky her undergarments.

Kranath arched a brow, but did as she requested. He undid all the straps to his three blades, leaning them against the wall nearest the bed. He then unbuttoned his longcoat, and draped it over a chest of drawers.

He sat on the bed, and slid his feet out of his shoes.

He hadn't been on a bed in...centuries, at least. Not since the Aerie, in any case. He turned his crimson eyed gaze on her with a brow arched, and then slid up into the bed, lying  atop the blankets. He had to admit, it was comfortable. Nearly as much as his own bed, if it even still existed after all this time.

Completely unbidden, his mouth suddenly opened wide, and he yawned. Then he blinked - several times. He was...tired?

....did you do something to me? I feel so...sluggish.

Not at all, she replied. Though her voice became silkier, even smoother than it already was. Salem slowly eased the, blankets out from underneath Kranath, before joining next to him. Sleep, or rest, enjoying the warmth of another, she whispered in his mind. Voice now soft and lulling. I pose no threat, she assured one last time.

Salem herself laid down next to him, shuffling closer to rest her head on his chest. Her arm came to rest on his chest as well,  herr hand finding occupation on his shoulder. Slender, warm legs wrapped around his and Salem pulled her entire body against his for good measure.

And her eyes slowly slid closed.

For several moments, Kranath laid awake, eyes boring holes into the ceiling. He was puzzled...and that didn't happen often, if ever.

This day...everything had changed. Tiamat had brought another under Her wing, and named her Her priestess. And while Kranath had no issue with his Lady's will, he still puzzled over the personal question.

Why did this girl, this human, affect him so? Yes, she had power, an admirable quality. Yes, she followed Tiamat's will, but many would come to do the same, soon enough.

Did he have affection for this human girl? He...wasn't sure. Love? Surely not. But then....what?

That question was the last he had in mind before fell into darkness.

His dreams were filled with blood.

Kranath would come toto enjoychange a sense of calmth through the night. Mayhaps, his dreams were filled with bloodshed, mayhaps with anger or his sorrows. But there was such a sense of calmth. After allall, he wasn't alone now.

This was not Salem's intention, it was her subconscious mind aiming to protect his. Shielding it from any negative influences from the exterior.

As the sun rose, Salem blinked awake and cracked a soft yawn, before glancing up at Kranath. She pushed herself up on her knees and just watched him. Examining his facial features. Without a word. Physically or mentally.

While he slept, Salem would note an odd sort of softness to Kranath's features, despite the sharp lines and planes of his thin face. Even the black marks on his face, the evidence of Tiamat's essence within him, would appear subdued, muted somehow.

He laid there, chest slowly rising and falling, appearing and feeling at peace for the first time since before Tiamat's influence. Once Salem's mind intertwined with his, the violence and anger within his dreams simply...stopped. It was as though everything had simply faded to black within his mind.

After several long moments of being watched over, he would crack open his crimson eyes, his vision blurry at first, being unused to being shut for more than a second or two. For a moment, all he could see was a silhouette, an outline of Salem framed by the sunlight pouring in behind her.

His eyes snapped open the rest of the way, and he blinked them into focus, until they were adjusted enough to recognize the figure hovering over him.

"....Salem?" he voiced, too tired to first consider telepathic communication.

She tilted her head curiously as he woke. As he spoke, Salem smirked softly, before letting out a soft chuckle. So, you do sleep. And quite peacefully, she answered, leaning down and trailing her fingers across his cheek. A soft, almost caring kiss was pressed on his forehead. Salem pushed herself up again and got out of the bed, heading for the neatly folded pile of robesher to start get dressed.

He blinked, exactly one time, and then stared at her with the oddest look as she got up.

He'd...slept. He felt  unusually well rested, much more so than he'd have if he'd entered his meditative trance for a few hours. And it was the following day, he could sense. But it had been late morning when they'd both laid down.

He'd slept, and for an entire day. Just how tired had he been?

He sat up from the bed, brushing a mess of long black hair from his face. Salem...what...how did...

His thoughts were a jumbled mess, so much that he couldn't properly communicate just yet. He raised a hand, rubbing over his eyes, frustrated as he waited for his brain to catch up to him.

Ugh...why did you let me sleep so long?

Salem looked over her shoulder as the dragon spoke, his thoughts still a jumbled mess. But nevertheless, she waited patiently for him to regain the ability to form any kind of coherent speech. She held up the robe infront of her chest, prior to his fully waking up she was busy with getting her arms in the sleeves.

She sighed softly at his question and sat down on the bed, next to him. I have only just woken up myself. Yet it only means you needed it. She clicked her tongue softly. Let your body mend. It has withstood a lot of abuse. Allow it relaxation.

"Heh," came his voice, finding slight amusement in her words. And then, the proper response came.

I think it's relaxed far more than needed. He swung his legs over the side of the bed, and stood to stretch. He'd forgotten what it felt like to actually wake up, and he was still feeling sluggish and perhaps a little lethargic.

So....what shall we accomplish today? he asked, just as he was fitting his arms into the voluminous slee es of his longcoat.

Salem looked up at Marakai and took a deep breath, before standing up. It depends, did you have anything in mind. I have normal maintenance on my horrors, I have been putting it off for far too long. The woman drew up behind Kranaths, starting to dust his coat off slightly, humming under her breath.

While still holding the robe up with one hand.

Kranath turned to look over his shoulder at her, a brow raised. What sort of maintenance do they require? It seemed to me that they were plenty...sturdy enough.

He turned around the rest of the way, noting how she still held her robe, rather than finish dressing.

She glanced up to meet his eyes, before shaking her head and proceeding to dress. Thank you, but yes. These magics and absorbed souls can heal wounds. But sometimes, they do not heal right, or at all, she answered with a soft hum.

So if they're healed wrong and it infringes the original design, I'll have to make the wound again. In any case, I will be spending my own energy.

At that, she pushed the door open, descending the stairs, before glancing over her shoulder. A soft grin on her face. That is, unless, if you have need for me with other bussiness.