Spirits of the Earth

This was an ancient church. Well, not so ancient. Simply... The ravages of the Civil War passed through here. The stained glass windows had long since been shattered, the multi-colored dust and shards covering the shattered and blackened pews like the remains of a million butterflies. Major Hakon Kilandre approached the altar, picking up the small effigy to Ansgar's glory- justing it off delicately with one heavily armored hand. Before righting it upon the cracked marble.

Slowly, she slid off the helm, letting long, straight platinum blonde hair fall loose upon silver-white armor as she gazed down at the effigy in grim silence. Hakon stifled a yawn, her men and unit had retaken this small town that had briefly been in the possession of the rebellious mages. Of course, the church had been the first to be destroyed in their occupation- but now the worshippers of Connlaoth's God deity could continue once more.

Her hazel-grey gaze slowly rises to the largest shattered window- night was coming quickly. Briefly she wondered about the mercenaries that had been made to accompany her- how much had they helped in the battle? They certainly did not cause a hindrance but alas... the Major shook her head slowly.

Passing through a remote corner in the valley, Zod took a moment to smell the breeze that came downwind. Blood..again. "Surprise surprise," he thought to himself darkly. He heard rumors of a battle..no, rumors of an assault force. Another mercenary he talked to in the morning said all capable mercenaries should east and prepare for battle against the mages. Following the scent, he began to change his direction and walk due north. Even in a place like this, you couldn't trust small town folk with directions.

The sounds of battle began to clash in the distance. He could hear distant screams and grunts.He began to pick up his pace, and headed straight for the danger. Distant flashes of light from the various spells darted around in the distance. Zod drew his blade. By the time he got to the battle, it was over. Dead mages and mercenaries covered the entire ground.The small village looked ravished by the war. Zod faintly recognized one of the bodies, he gently approached it and crouched down. His hearty laugh filled the otherwise bleak landscape. The mercenaries wanted to keep their cut, and told Zod to go in the wrong direction so he would miss the battle. He wondered how many poor chaps missed out because of the same lie. Being a foreigner, and a new one at that, he didn't know any better. He continued towards the center of the town. A beautiful, or what once was, church filled his vision. He walked closer and surveyed the damage. More bodies were strewn on the ground. The rankings of the troops seemed to increase he reckoned. They became more armed and armored the closer he got to the church. He came across a beautiful young women, and watched her take a helm off. Blond hair fell down to her shoulders. He watched her surveying the damage, and then shake her head. With her gait, it was clear she held importantance, power, or both.  Zod cleared his throat loudly and walked closer.

Turning slightly, Hakon focused upon the man that had intruded upon her meditation. She blinked once, he was most definitely a mercenary. That much was clear from his attire- somewhat slouched and almost wolf-ish stance. Hunched, predatory, wary. Even in the darkness there seemed to ve a weak glitter of hauntedness within his eye.

Stepping down from the altar, Hakon moved slowly toward the man, hand resting upon the hilt of her scimitar," Who would you be, sirrah?" She asked quietly, though the great pillars of the church caused the soft inquiry to amplify and bounce around and out the shattered windows.

She gazed at him unblinkingly, pausing a few feet away. Her body still burned from the battle that took place merely an hour ago, but still she was wary. Who knew if the Mages had sent this man to her as her guard was down?

As she turned towards him, his eyes met hers. He gazed into the eyes of a women who had been not only touched by battle, but whom he assumed was molded by it.  He quickly glanced down as her hand grabbed the hilt, and returned his gaze up to her eyes. His grayish blue eyes reflected mild concern, with a judgmental tint. He could still smell the remnants of sweat on her armor, and immediately realized he had the pose of the tracker. He straightened himself, and shifted the weight onto his heals discretely. He didn't get an impression of hostility, but coming from a battle, who knows what she might think. He was prepared to run or fight if things went south. He didn't answer her right away as he considered all of these things.

"My name is Zod," He bowed his head as he said this. "I am an adventurer in these lands. I heard there were some, who requested assistance in defeating some mages." He turned around to face the dead bodies, and then looked up at the ruins of the church. "I can see you've been quite successful."

Offering a grimace of a smile, her hand relaxed on the sword. The heavy armor hissing softly as she shifted her stance slightly," It's a pleasure Zod. I assume you are not a native Connlaoth citizen or else you would know the purpose of this slaughter, hm?" Her voice, as ever, was low and gravely but with an oddly relaxing thrum to each word.

Her eyes follow the man's gaze toward the bodies of the mages that had been wantonly stacked just outside the splintered doors of the church- beyond that, the neat rows of ghostly white sheets that hide the ruins of Connlaothan loyal men who had fought and perished in this tiny village.

" Do you seek employment, Zod?"

He noted the tone in her voice. It might have concerned other men, but Zod wasn't most other men. He was seemingly unphased, but inside this sparked his curiosity. "No, I am not a citizen of these lands. I have heard rumors only, what was the purpose my lady?" After hearing her question, he gave a wide smirk. He began to relax and took a small step towards her. The opportunity to work for someone so seemingly dignified and graceful excited him. He was neutral in the war, but had seen atrocities mages had committed. Not to mention his own torture at the hand of mages. Better than settling some pointless dispute, or looking for another runaway child of a noble. "That would depend," he said with a large heartfelt smile, "Who needs to be killed?"

Always she had felt that men who allow ther bloodlust to show outside of combat were to be watched and made wary of. Her brow furrowed slightly," Connlaoth has long tolerated mages within our midst under strict watch and limitation. They have found our toleration- simply put- intolerable and have revolted as a new Grand Duke ascends."

Pausing, she knew this history lesson would likely fall upon deaf ears, most mercenaries tended to listen more vigilantly to something between their legs rather then atop their shoulders. Alas, she continued in a measured voice," So we stamp out their rebellion and drive them out. To Hell or to the borders, it makes no difference." His approach had made her cautious- alas, she turned her head slightly to look him straight in the eye.

" my name is Lady Hakon Kilandre, Major of the heavy cavalry unit Ansgar's Hand and currently in charge of this operation to free the valley of any rogue pockets hiding within the populace. This village was apparently made up of mostly mages, so we were able to act..."

Falling silent, she seems to search for the right words before an odd smile curled her lips," Vicious."

Zod listened on with great interest and attention. He wanted to know the details of a conflict so destructive. A perspective as to why death litters the land. She paused while speaking. Zod felt almost as if she expected him to not understand her. For a brief moment he was offended, but quickly realized the usual sort she must deal with on a regular basis. Unlike most mercenaries, he would not blindly kill. 

When she told him they had started the war, this pleased him, in the fact he would feel less guilty about killing mages. Try to kill him as they might, they had never seen something like him in battle. He examined her head to toe and looked at the quality of her armor. They had never seen something like her in battle either. Or at least anyone alive. He gave a deep bow as she introduced herself. "Major? Very impressive, especially for someone who seems as young as you. Many mages are corrupted by their practice, these individuals are no different than a crazed demon practicing theirs."

"As long as there aren't civilian casualties, viciousness is an excellent tool. Strike your enemy down before they can even begin to realize they are dead. Buildings can be replaced." He did not know the group she spoke of by name, but he had heard of calvary of immense power throughout these parts. His respect for her continued to grow. Her experience dwarfed his, but he was a loyal sword regardless.

Hakon simply offered a tired smile- one not quite war weary but most deeply just... Stemming from lack of sleep," Do not bow. Such signs of respect make one a target for those who lurk in the shadows." She spoke quietly but mot unknimdlg," Civilians may have been harmed, all I know is I do not rejoice in the butchery of children."

She stepped forward, massive armor hissing with the movement- should another wear such heavy armor, they likely would have needed the assistance of another merely to lift a leg- alas, years of training and never once being without some sort of weight upon her had made this merely a second skin. The Major moved past him, gazing straight out into the night," Come now, we can discuss payment as we walk. I must know what destruction has been brought upon this place."

Briefly, she looked back at the man, now close enough to truly appreciate his features, a wry smile curling her thin lips.

Zod gave her a wide grin and took her advice. "I give respect to those who earn it my lady. But there is a difference between that and being a milk drinker, you're right. So long as it isn't common practice." Although anyone could say they would avoid harming, Zod sensed the sincerity of her voice.

He watched her move towards and past him. Her armor was heavy, heavier than Zod probably cared for.   He had so many questions for her, but did not wish to bore or annoy her. Despite this, he could see her curves distinctly outlined through her armor. As she strode past him, pure bliss entered his nose. He discreetly savored the smell for a moment, before turning and following her. He noticed her smile, but waited until she passed to let out a grin. He let her walk slightly ahead of him, but he stayed close to her. "I am not like most other mercenaries you have met my lady. Pay me when the job is done."

" 'when the job is done'..." She echoed, voice trailing off distinctly as she weaved between the rows of bodies. There was a prickling sensation on the back of her neck, the instinctive indication that she was being looked over making her feel the faintest flush of annoyance and embarassment. Alas, she had been growing more used to such attentions, not many women could boast of being on the front lines- so she could only thank her blessings that she was in armor rather then civilian clothing.

" You may very well die before the end is even close to near. As may I," she casts him a sidelong look as they emerge from the church yard into the empty street- a sparse camp of soldiers with an assortment of beasts as well as mercenaries having set up about the church, celebrating with a the exhausted ambience of men who were tired enough for their legs to pop off but unwilling to pass up a chance to get wasted enough to forget the victory.

She moved on without looking anywhere but forward, moving down the muddy and blackened street. The difference between cleanliness and otherwise meant nothing to her now- war was not a place for being obsessed with appearance, after all.

He hoped she didn't get the wrong impression. He noticed that she seemed on edge. He didn't look at her with lust, but rather mild curiosity.Being so close to her, Zod detected her pulse flicker up momentarily, "Too late,"he thought to himself. She probably expected him to be another lusting mercenary. He was going to explain himself, but decided against it, as the sights of battle made him remember their true purpose, and she was tired anyways.

"I wouldn't be so sure." Zod knew Hakon didn't know his true abilities, and would probably take this as a boost. "You have yet to see me in combat," he said to explain himself.  As they walked by the men, Zod smelled every kind of liquor one could acquire in these parts. He gave them a sympathetic glance and followed her down the street. As they continued down the street, he began to ready himself for a battle. While she was coming down from the rush of battle, he needed to build up to one. He began to concentrate on his breathing while they walked. His eyes began adjusting to the dark. He started to begin walking meditation, but this would not appear any different to her than walking. His mind began to calm and the sights of the bodies concerned him less. He prepared his mind.

"What kind of things can these buggers do?"

Hakin looks back at him, arching an eyebrow slightly, subtly motioning for him to walk dorectly at her side as they moved," If you are truly an adventurer, you should understand mages come in all forms and utilize everything God bestows upon this earth. Whether it be elements, body or simply base desires. Anyone who wields unnatural abilities is subject to investigation and perhaps execution."

They passed the remains of an old house, the stones seemed to have been melted in a waterfall of rock that had long since cooled," They sow chaos. I believe those who wield primal magic, alas, are the most dangerous."

Shifting slightly, she turned to look at Zod once more," I must ask- would you be willing to strike down children? This is a cleansing of our land of all those of magical blood. I refuse to leave even the smallest, weakest mage alive."

Zod take a moment to consider this. He thought carefully. "I would strike down anyone who raises their hand. I do enjoy killing children, but I will do what must be done." Normally this is out of Zod's character, but then again, he is a grey. He would not slaughter innocents, but he would go after all active combatants regardless of age. Her power inspired him. The wounds of long healed tortured seemed to mentally reopen. He didn't view all mages as evil, but those in this land had been corrupted.

He gazed upon the house, and quickly walked to catch up. He got closer to her as they continued walking, and as she motioned him forward.

" Good- you don't need to know how many men I have had to inspire in order to convince them otherwise." She bowed her head slightly, obviously fatigued from the nonsense of war- alas, this did not stop a small smile from curling her lips," I must say, Zod- I am interested in hearing your origin story. You are one of the more well spoken mercenaries who have come to me."

Turning her head slightly, she had to tilt her head back slightly to look at him, archingb a slender eyebrow ina vague show of interest.

"These are not my countrymen. I do not see these men as my brothers and neighbors. That isn't to say I don't value life however." He paused. "The answer seems straightforward to me my lady. Your lands have decided to outlaw magic. While this isn't a sentiment I agree or disagree with, it is your land, and yours to do as you please. Practitioners could always travel to more magic friendly lands." He looked down to see civilians or soldiers covered in white sheets. He didn't need his senses to tell the bodies were charred. "They have resorted to killing innocent men and women to promote their cause. I do not value theories of magic over the life of others."

Zod smiled, it was the first time he had talked to another intellectual in while. He admired her perceptiveness. "A story I would be glad to tell. Perhaps over a fire from the robes of our enemies?" As she turned to look back at him, Zods eyes slowly moved, gazing at each of her eyes for a few moments, before shifting to the other. He couldn't help but show pure curiosity.

Who was she...really? She was blunt, but still kind. He had the feeling her bluntness was out of necessity. Being an attractive women at the head of an army would draw a lot of attention.

Shrugging noncommittedly, she offered him a gentle and thin smile," Very well- if you are willing to put the work the skills you have accumulated, my friend," turning sharply, she entered the ruins of another small house, the hearth and supporting pillars the only things left of the foundation.

The Major paused briefly, her gaze clouding in thought as she looked about the single room shack. Wondering who had lived there, what their family had been like, if they had children, if they were the enemy or... she shook her head- such thoughts would drive one mad if lingered upon too much

He gave her small, but sincere smile back as she said this. He looked up at the stars, through the wispy clouds, and clumps of fire smoke gently blocking out, but adding to the beauty of the view. It was a still and quiet night. This emulated his youth. When he was a younger man, he loved the feeling. It made meditation so raw, so perfect...

He looked down to the ruin of the house and quickly regained composure. This house emulated his present reality. Instead of giving him comfort, the feeling made him wary. He followed her into the house. As she shook her head, he tried to smell anything that could of interest. The flames, the wood, the smoke. He tried to go further. He could smell the burnt bread, and a rotting apple in a cabinet across the room. He frowned, but immediately was surprised by a new scent. Following it, he walked over, and put a reassuring hand on her shoulder. He bent down, moved a piece of wood, and picked up part of a tattered blue robe. "Don't worry, it wasn't one of us." He tossed the robe onto a smolder carelessly and stood up. Something didn't seem right. He looked around nervously. "I don't sense anyone nearby, but we should be cautious," he said grimly.

Having settled down, folding her legs beneath her and resting her arms over her knees- the woman cast him a suspicious look," 'sense'?" She echoed quietly, pursing her lips slightly a sshe arched a slender eyebrow at him. Even biological differences were looked upon with suspicion but tolerated with Connlaoth- considered odd blessings or curses granted by Ansgar.

Hakon tilted her head slightly to one side, the strands of white-blonde hair falling over her eyes and sticking to the steel pauldrons eith static.

"I smell things, I hear things, I see things. Things that are far away. There isn't anything magical about being able to smell the stench of a mage, don't worry. And there's even less magic that goes into putting one of those muppets down," Zod said.

Realizing the shadow he cast out into night, he squatted down next to her. "What's the plan...major." Zod sad with a smirk.

Pausing, she shrugs slightly as if accepting his explaination for now, prying off the thick steel gauntlets as the robe crackled, burning surprisingly slowly. The Major's eyes flickered to him from across the fire, murmuring softly," We shall continue to sweep the valley due South toward the Serendipity border. Magical refugees are bound to head that direction to find sanctuary with the infidels there." She spat in disdain, grimacing slightly as her fingers delicately began to fiddle with the leather straps and clamps that held the massive pauldrons upon her shoulders.

" I would not be surprised if it was Serendipity that insighted this civil war in the first place."

Zod picked up some wood and placed it on the fire. He got real low, and began to blow on it gently, causing the smoldering to rise into small embers. He placed another piece on the embers, allowing them to continue on in the night. Realizing they would be resting for the time being, Zod took of helmet, and gave his short shaggy hair a shake freeing them from his helmet hair. He took off both gauntlets, and put them gently next to him.

His knees began to ache dully from their current position. The many miles he traveled from the morning previous had depleted a good portion of his stamina. He was ready for battle nonetheless, but allowed gravity to take its course as he sat down on the wood. He gave a deep sigh/grunt, clearly relived to have at least a couple moments to rest his legs. He nodded to her explanation.

Having incredibly light amor compared to her, he reached for his own pesky shoulder straps and undid both of them. He revealed a jet-black undershirt, showing the broad shoulders, and wide frame he possessed. He wasn't a giant, but his frame clearly extended that of typical humans. He tossed his armor gently next to his gauntlets, making sure not to make a noise while he did this. He shot her a sympathetic look as we watched her struggle with her armor.

"That makes sense to me. These folk are smart, but not the well organized type. Serendipity is filled with powerful mages, strengthened by a lifetime of study, and others by the sounds of battle." Zod visibly shuddered at this thought.

She allowed the ornate breastplate to fall apart like a shell neatly about her waist. The tunic beneath was emerald and black- vaguely splattered with darker droplets like black-red paint. Beneath that further seemed a linen undershirt streaked with sweat. It did not show off whatever figure was beneath at all, but from her slender arms that were well muscled- one could... Use their imagination. Reaching behind her head, she drew her hair behind her shoulders- looking at him inquiringly.

" What is your experience with mages, Zod?" She asked quietly, breathing deeply the smell of wood smoke rather then that filled with the ashes of the dead. It reminded her of home- though dry grass had a much lighter scent.

He admired her muscular and toned arms. That armor must be well over 150 pounds he reckoned. He admired her tunic for its beauty. Growing up poor for the majority of his life, he had rarely seen clothing that well made.

"I was tortured at their hand for almost a full sun cycle. At first they only physically beat me, but my will is strong," his glance gazed directly into the fire after he said this for a few moments. He looked back up at her again, "but no matter how hard they tried, they couldn't break my spirit."

Reaching toward the fire with one hand, flexing her fingers as if to sift the stiffness from her joints, the Major murmurs," Then you hold no love for them- why did they treat you so? If I may?" She asked softly, gaze flickering back toward his face curiously.

Hakon took a moment to relax as she examined her companion's features, a forlorn haunted look had passed over his eyes. Empathy instantly welled in her chest but refused to show.

"About two sun cycles ago, I was much less selective of my work. I was a poorer man, looking to crawl his way into a life of stability. I took the work of two noblemen. It was convenient, as most of one's tasks, led back to the other's lands," he stated with an almost reminiscent tone...

"Eventually, the war broke their relationship. I did tasks for both, and one got jealous," Zod said, breaking the momentary pause he had created. He looked up at her as he finished speaking, his gentle eyes gazed into hers.

" I assume several events lead up to your capture, torture and subsequent presence of being here then, yes?" She answered, quickly breaking eyecontact to look into the tongues of flame somewhat solemnly," That is why it is always better to become the master of your own fate- I wonder why men follow me when they could better on their own."

Shrugging idly, she frowns faintly," Do you have the ability to fight Mages, I suppose is the real question. A man can have the will, but ability goes a long way."


Just beyond the ring of light created by the dancing flams, a cat had settled itself atop on of the ruined pillars, watching the pair with curious and disdainful eyes. Its fluffy tail wrapping about delicate paws.

"Their differences were created by their views. One was sympathetic to the mage cause, the other was not. Having no personal attachment to the war at that time, I helped both men. The sympathizer got scared I would eventually betray him, as the other noble paid better. On my return to his palace to collect my coin, he betrayed and captured me," Zod said matter of factly. He stretched his legs out moved his now chilly hands over the fire. He returned to her question,

"You are inspirational. Men without purpose can find one in yours," he said kindly. He sniffed the air softly once, and peered out past the major who kept him company. He detected life, he could feel the stare piercing into him. He scanned until he found the source. A small black cat.

"If they are mortal, they can and will fall by my blade," he said suddenly. As he said this, his normally soft eyes turned cold. They reflected the hate and disdain that burned in Zod's heart. Taking a deep breath, his eyes quickly returned to normal.   

Her gaze had returned to his face, observing teh vast array of emotion before nodding gently," Well said, my friend- well said." Moving her attention to the thick plates that armored her thighs, the young woman began to loosen the straps, murmuring," Now if only there was skmething to eat,we could consider this place nearly comfortable."

Flashing him a small smirk, she unstrapped the belt that held the viciously curved sword to her hip, setting it down enatly beside her.

Taking this as his queue, he stood up and unstrapped his leg armor, revealing jet black pants with noticeably thicker material than his shirt. Setting it next to the rest of his gear, Zod walked over to his pack, crouched down and opened it. Unfortunately, the only food that stared back at him was several small loaves of bread. He sadly shook his head, and stood up.

Turning to face her, he offered her one, and put the pack in the space equally between them. He gestured towards it, to show that if she had finished the one he gave her, she was free to help herself.

"Now its my turn to ask you some questions," Zod said with a smile. "Have you learned to hunt?" Just asking her made his mouth water. He turned to his piece of bread, imagined it was a cooked piece of venison, and took a large bite.

Seeming surprised at the cordial display of companionship, the Major murmured her gratitude as she took a small bite of the bread, having lef tthe straps upon her armor loose but not quite undone," I have- but my specialities make it rather difficult to be stealthy, agile or even fast for that matter."

Shaking her hair out before running her fingers through it, she flashed him a smirk," I suppose interrogating me is fair. You've spoiled me in some sense- at least for a warzone."

Chewing into the bread, it was apparent that this wasn't as fresh as when he'd bought it at the market this morning. It wasn't near the stale level either, so he easily polished off his first loaf. Taking another, he set it gently on his leg.

"Oh don't be modest," Zod said somewhat playfully. "Wearing armor that heavy on a regular basis, would make you faster than many of the hunters who rely on the profession."

He returned her smile genuinely, "I'll keep things light for now, how old were you when you first rode a horse?" He lowered his voice as he asked his next question, clearly with a hint of embarrassment, "and what was it like?"

Shrugging gently at his praise, she kept her gaze downcast, upon the flames - once she would have ducked her head to her chest with a nervous smile, but war made all weary, old habits became hard and crumbled due to the waste of energy they perveyed. The Major blinked in faint surprise, as if the vage suggestion that he had never ridden was enough to snap her out of such a stupor.

" I rode... Maybe when I was no more then a few moons old, my family- we raise Theocog, it's our legacy to be riders-" she murmurs almost absentmindedly, memories perfumed with the scent of dry hay- her father's hands steadying her upon the broad back of one of the beast's- her mother's gentle laughter carrying from the blackness like a sickeningly sweet echo from the past,"- Have you... Never ridden before, Zod?"

Zod had heard of Theocogs, or at least, distant rumors. He wondered what it would be like to charge into battle aboard such a creature. He imagined the terror that could strike into the enemy. More so, Zod wanted to wield a halberd, whether on horseback or not. But alas, he had little space to carry such a weapon. Not to mention most of his fights took place at close range, hardly the conditions optimal for such a tool.

"Nay, I can't say that I have. My speed is fast, but surely not that of a horse. I want to someday.." he trailed off. He looked down at the glowing fire, "but embarrassingly enough, I have more confidence in wiping out these pockets of mages, than I do riding such force."

Elaborate word aside, Zod felt like a foreigner, like an outsider, for having not experienced such a common transportation method. Wanting to shift the attention away himself, he returned to her, and with a more serious topic. "With all due respect major, I would consider myself a highly perceptive man. When I look into your face, into your eyes, I see a softer heart. Why do you put up such a great wall around yourself?" He earnestly returned his gaze from the fire back to her.

Her eyes flickered to the man across the fire, her lips a thin and grim line. Her hazel-grey eyes seemed black and orange in the darkness- reflecting the flames easily. Chewing thoughtfully on the hard bread, as if attempting to dissolve every last ounce of the yeasty flavor upon her tongue- the Major exhaled carefully through her nose- taking her time before answering.

" Women, Zod, have always been seen to have the need to be blind folded by the men around them. Not to oppress them... No, though that may sometimes be the case-" she took another bite, the pause stretching out excruciatingly until she began again,"- it is to protect the beautiful worlds they conjure up. How easily those illusions can be crushed when a man's world encroaches upon it. As fragile as water's face." Her eyes closed, a bitter sweet smile curling her lips," Though men protect these illusions in order to have a taste of innocent purity at its finest- the fragility of such a mindset is easy to spit upon, for it will not fight back."

" The moral of this is- men will respect a statue and worship a visage of greatness in battle- but are less likely to feel inspired past fear for the sake of a easily destroyed flower, hm?"

"In these lands, and most around it, it would appear so," he sympathized with this powerful women more than he could display in words. "Almost as if that flower is more valuable than the one who grows it." In this new light, Zod understood. He imagined how much more difficult his travels would have been had he been born a woman.

"I've been on the move too much, to have any similar sentiment. With the thought of consent death, who cares what is between ones legs? So long as they can watch your back with the might of their weapon, it matters not to me."

He could not help but think there was a hint of subtly in her words. He wanted to question this further, and was about to, but hesitated. Knowing she would probably catch on, he looked down before honestly stating, "Many men say the things I have as a guise, but I mean them sincerely."

" It is hard whether to tell if sweet words in any sense hold any truth no matter one's position. There is no honor in war- as much as we please ourselves with the guise of it," she holds the bread within her mouth as she finishes removing the armor from one leg, siding the other out- the loose fitting pants seemed to have once been white- but now were dyed pale brown with yellowish stains from sweat and dust. She shiftered once but quickly retrieve the cloak from her armor, wrapping it about her shoulders securely before biting into the hard dough at long last.

" Perhaps in an enlightened society we could dream such things," she chuckles weakly, running another hand through white-gold strands," I shall give you the benefit of the doubt until you prove me wrong, alas."

There was a pause, she pointed idly but critically at him," But turn upon me... And I shall promise to show you exactly why I have gotten so far."


The cat stretched, yawned- tiny ivory fangs flashing as it leaped down from the pillar, treading stealthily into the darkness. As if upon a mission - though as a cat does, not quite as determined as it otherwise could be.

"Why of course they do my friend! The mistreatment of women existed in my culture, but women were allowed to be warriors." He gave a hearty laugh as he continued, "most men weren't even allowed in the plant garden, as they were seen as too dull in that regard to effectively take of a crop or herb."

"When you sit at the head of military, and prove them wrong, you will take the first step in creating that world my friend," Zod said earnestly. He took her words in, but realized they were probably said out of necessity rather than aggression. "I wouldn't dream of it major," he said honestly but with a hint of mischievousness. His gaze temporarily gazed past hers as he listened to the cat scamper off. Stalked as it may, cats always made him weary.

He watched her put the cloak on and felt sorry for her. Standing up, he walked over and gathered more wood. Placing it down diligently, he blew on the embers creating a weak, but warmer fire.

Offering him a small smile, she pulled her legs up to her chest, muscles feeling almost too free- as if she had shed what force kept her to the earth- seeming to see is mischievious smirk, she arched an eyebrow at the man but shook her head," I am simply a Major- women are illegal to join the military unless they are born with the enate ability of Mordecaism or Adharaism. Even though I possess Adharaism, I was trained as a Mordecai." Hesitatjng she chuckles," My noble family is truthfully impoverished, though I was offered a place within the Knights of the White Lily- I am too brusque for those women."

Tilting her head with a small sneer, she stared into the darkness," Nor can I make the promize to forever keep my chastity for the Saint Adhara lest my family die out altogether. So I made Ansgar's Hand-" her gaze slides to him calculatingly,"- we are small, but strong... And could always use more men despite the expenses involved."

Being vaguely familiar with mordecaism, he nodded. "What is adharaism? I've never heard of such a thing." Pausing briefly he continued, "you would've hated a life like that. Imagine having to hold your tongue constantly and never having the freedom you desire."

When the time eventually came for Zod to settle down, he dreamed for a women half as intelligent as the one he sat in front of. He thought of the women Hakim had spoken of, blinded by an illusion and never having the intuition to challenge such a falsehood forced upon them.

Zoe's gaze slowly rose to meet hers. "My people are all but a myth, I can relate to you there," Zod said with sympathy. He curiously gazed into her eyes, "how is it that a women of your position doesn't have a line of suitors into the next village?" He asked without suggestion and with honesty.

" It is essentially Mordecaism- but with a much small rafius and much more powerful. If particular entities get close enough to me, they may be unable to even move if they are purely magical- some even dissolve altogether." Leaning back slightly she chuckles at his comment," I was told I was too lewd, apparently I act too much like a man to truly be a good virgin knight,"

Laughing lightly, the sound echoed like bells in the darkness, intermingling with the popping of the flame- gazing at him curiously," Who are your people, Zod?" At his inquiry, she merely snorted and waived her hand, shaking her head with a smirk- as if saying 'you don't want to know'

"Some even dissolve altogether," Zod repeated with astonishment. "Lewd? Thats certainly an accusation, would you consider yourself?" Zod asked with a light tone and a smile.

Her laugh echoed in him, lightening his mood with every chuckle. Judging by some of the characters he had met out here, he probably didn't want to know.

"A nomadic people," he began, "we learned to travel this world on foot. We were taught to always hold a neutral perspective, and travel the world seeking to help those we encountered. A noble cause, but one that was exploited in these times. I worked a farm for the early part of my life. Unfortunately, the people, tribesmen and farmer alike, became ill and began to perish. The head of the area, thinking my people the cause, he began a campaign to rid of from the earth. He mostly succeeded."

He gave a reassuring smile, to show that he had no resentment towards this fact. "It is simply the will of life," he stated. "When this is all over, what do you see yourself doing?"

Shrugging carelessly, she shifted beneath the cloak, massaging her own shoulders as she spoke softly,"... Do you want venegeance Zod?" Her eyes flicker to his curiously, watching him steadily. As if searching for the subtlest sway of opinion to be show in his face.

Hakon tilts her head slightly, seeming to evade his inquiry by waiting for him to answer her own.

Eyes not breaking hers he took a deep breath. "My culture says I shouldn't. It says thoughts like these can corrupt someone into insanity." He looked up to the sky. The moon had started to descend back into the horizon The stars faintly glowing less. "But its hard not to. I spent a good portion of my life preparing for it, only to discover their fate similar to my peoples."

Taking her silence for contemplation, he quickly added, "I did not mean to pressure you my friend."

Shaking her head slightly she offers a soft smile," Please- do not worry, I am merely curious. Vengeance is a... Hollow satisfaction." Wrapping the broad cloak more securely about her, resting her chin upon her crossed arms- she weakly shrugs.

" As for my answer to your question. It is because i am poor, and I am vicious." Yawning idly, she covered her mouth with a shakey hand, shuddering slightly. Once more focusing upon him, she shrugs," Perhaps... One of these attributes will become more clear then the other to you in coming moons."

"That it is, sadly, it doesn't bring back those who inspired you take it." Her yawn echoed across the room, causing him to give one in kind without thought.

"I hope you are right, but for the time being I am content. He looked at her and could tell she was fatigued by a days worth of combat. Her tunic provided further proof of that as well. "We should get some rest while we still can."

His own fatigue had been setting in, forgetting the vast distance he had traveled today, he viewed the day as a success. "Do we have the luxury of a watch beyond these walls? Or would you like me to take up the first one?"  He took a spare piece of bread, crunching into its thick exterior, slowly but surely revealing its tasty core. 

Hakon lay back, curling her knees to her stomach beneath the robe as she clutched her hands together near her chest," We are safe- unless the Mages decide to raise an army in the night," she muses softly, releasing one hand from clasping the cloak shut- reaching it toward him in an inviting gesture.

" Rest, Zod- hush... Let your fears mely away with the light." She murmurs, closing her eyes as her gravely drone became a tired song. Yawning quietly once more.

Looking at her with still wary look of a man who had been ambushed many times. He moved closer towards her. Primary so that his back no longer faced the doorway of the house, but he would not object to sleeping closer to his new found friend. Her entire presence breathed security.

Grabbing his pack on the way, he reached into its depths, and pulled the majority of its contents out. Two small deerskin blankets soon emerged. He tossed one her direction, and laid one over himself. "The other usually goes on the ground if I'm in the in the wild....dont worry, I gave you the clean one," he said sleepily.

His breathing began to slow. The house, the church, the city...all started to fade out. Still marginally awake, his mind peacefully drifted off.

Murmuing her thanks once more, she gratefully pulled the hide iver her, resting her head upon her clasped hands as she dozed. Barely concious of the fire dying and eventually going out altogether as she slipped off into the sandman's arms and a dreamless sleep.


All was silent, the ruins of the town, the unit slumbering within the town under the vigilant gaze of sentries, even the flames from the distant and low embers seemed to make no sound. As if all were muted to an eery nothingness.

The deer pelt atop Zod shifted slightly as something slipped beneath it, a comforting and warm weight slowly pressing down upon his chest as a hand presses lightly against his cheek," Zod~" a familiar voice sang, warm breath brushing past his ear as the figure straddled him rather easily, leaning down to whisper these words," wake up- I need you-" a playful giggle erupting from the creature as gently hands idly pressed against his chest~

(And with that sir, i bid you good night! BWAHA XD)

Eyes heavy, Zod gave one final sense. He could feel the sentries, far off, peering into the night. The distant fires of the men they had encountered previously in the day, dwindled down to occasional wafts of smoke. The liquor from their previous engagement drowning the air. His senses slowly moved inwards, attempting to detect a last change in pace closer to their location.

Detecting nothing, his attention moved to nearest living thing aside from the two. The cat, having finally caught a prey, began to drive its teeth into the adult rat. Hearing a squeal, and nothing else, Zod shifted into sleep.

He lay in suspense. Completely passed out, he relaxed into the wood beneath him...

He was in the woods, and hunting a query of some kind. With a surprising and surpassing display of speed, The prey placed one massive paw against his chest, and started pushing deeply, driving him into the ground. His sword just out of reach. Trapped, Zod lay on the forest ground in confusion, he attempted to struggle, but couldn't move against whatever had him trapped. Panicking, he grasped the shoulder of whatever, whoever had pinned in the dream...

With a snap, he awoke. Hand still gripping the shoulder of what was on top of him tightly, his eyes flashed open, quickly scanning what they could possibly see. His other hand fumbled in the dark for his sword. "Damn it!" he swore into the night.

Instantly one hand rested firmly over his mouth while the other struck forward- pinning his arm to the ground as the weight upon his chest seemed to sharply increase," Shh- shh- shh-" the beast in the Major's skin tsked gently, pursing her lips- tilting her head as it leaned over him- lips hovering just before his eyes as a sensual purr left it's throat," Don't wake her, it is the first time in many days that she has slept socwell. And ai am quite sure her dreams are filled with thoughts similiar to our situation, hm?"

It was becoming clearer and clearer that this was, in fact, Hakon that pinned him here- but some
Abomination that chose her form for... Perhaps obvious reasons. The skinchanger smirked softly, purring," Isn't this what you want...? Hm?"

This was the major, but she didn't smell right. As the beast said this, he scanned over and indeed saw the now unconscious Hakon. "Mine were too you stupid son of..." Zod lied into the beats hand. He was startled, but this had made the 32nd time EXACTLY that Zod had been ambushed in his short life. The initial shock always hit him as he was easily startled, but his mind shifted to escape. He knew not what trickery this was. The seemingly slumped form of the real Hakon lay what seemed like a vast distance away, at least in this moment.

If her features were half as accurate as this beast assumed, her future husband, whoever that may be, would have one hell of a wedding night. He laughed heartily into the hand as the thought this, ironically thinking of his situation...this was as close as he had gotten to another women, and it would probably be the closest he ever would...with an imitation of one of the few people he actually let into his life.

His muffled laugh turned grim, and then sadistic as he grew impatient of being trapped. His kind eyes now reflected the black beady eyes of a caged beast, looking at her with pure hatred in his eyes. They conveyed to her what all caged beasts do, if he was to escape, he would tear the flesh off her bone.

Taking the upper fold of lip, he attempted to grasp the edge of her meaty hand. With great strength, he bit down into the hand that covered his mouth.

The monster's flesh seemed to fold beneath his teeth as if there were no muscles nor bone beneath the skin. Nonetheless, it's hand arched in pain- writhing like a trapped animal but mking no sound, as if afraid to wake its original copy. Its hand grasping his wrist slmmed his hand into the ground harshly in an attempt to dislodge the blade from his hand. Lifting its body as the skin began to shift and boil. An abomination of some kind so it seemed- if it had the power to shift, it was very likely the Major slept too far away for her aura to take hold.

Zods teeth implanted into the skin of his assailant. His whole body gave an eerie shiver as held onto what seemed like just skin. Increasing his grip, he tightened the pressure on its hand, beginning to savagely turn his head to side in an attempt to increase the pain further more.

His wrist slammed against the ground painfully. Having concentrated on biting, his blade clinked on the wood. Grasping for the hilt, he pushed his blade far across the room so that the beast may not be able to utilize it either. A slight sheathing sound could be heard, as the blade slid on the wood floor.

He watched the beast boil and shutter in pain. Whatever it was, it could still feel pain. Zod would make sure its whole wretched body echoed from pain. With his hand now freed from the weapon, he began to call upon all of his strength, attempting to move his pinned hand towards the beast's neck.

The creature began to try and wrench its hand away as thick, clotted blood began to poir from the wound his teeth had begun to rend, this time making a soft shrieking sound as it struggled to keep his other hand at bay. Its body pulsed and bulged weirdly- all human features rolling into the thick screen of pale skin-

The sound of the sword and struggle began to awake Hakon who quickly sat up- freezing in shock at the rather horrifying sight if a fleshy mass wrestling with her companion- trying to free herself from the cloak-

Attempting to free itself only made the pain worse, as its skin began to tear itself on Zod's sharp teeth. Feeling it struggle to both resist the bite and stop his grip, his hand inched closer. As the beast tried to pull its hand free, Zod let go with his teeth, attempting to surprise the beast and have its weight shift awkwardly back.

He spit its foul tasting blood out of his mouth, and moved both hands in to attempt and grasp its thin and bulging neck. If he succeed, he would grip with force of a predator grasping its prey in place, watching the life slowly drain from its wretched hide. If he failed to grasp the beast, he ready himself to spring onto his feet and give chase.

He listened to Hakon stir, and an immediate relief shot through his body. "Anytime you're ready," he grimly and sarcastically grit through his teeth.

The beast realed back, but his hands closed upon the bluging neck- the feeling was like grabbing a bag of leather filled with several cats trying to escape. With an inhuman wail, the beast's 'head' began to shrink into it's neck-like appendage, akin to a turtle slipping back into its shall- the chest splitting suddenly to reveal a large beak as a bird of prey would sport. The sharp mouth attempting to snap at his chest- the sharp point tearing into his shirt hungrily-

The Major simply cursed in response, ripping to her feet as her hand closed upon the hilt of the scimitar. Bracing her weight upon one foot, it took two quick bounds to cross the distance between herself and Zod, the sheath flying from the viciously curved blade as it swung in a terrible, horizontal arc that cleanly lashed the writhing abomination's back- causing the creature to scream again before the woman bowled full force into the beast. Quite literally tackling it off the mercenary, both landing rather heavily- a foul scent, akin to putrifying flesh filled the air as the demon began to squirm simply as if the air burned its very essence- the Major's aura seeming to be taking effect.

Hakon landed heavily upon her side, quickly recoiling her armor from the mass of flesh- popping to one knee as she used the other to pin the beast down- her scimitar briefly glittering in the darkness as it rose and fell to the steady rhythm of the creature's dying squeals. Pigs to the slaughter.

He watched with horror as his plan melted away before his eyes, quite literally. Zod slowly put his hands on either shoulder if its, not quite sure what to do next. He tried to throw the demon forward over his head, but at that moment a crimson red beak shot from the creature.

Tearing into his gut, the creature pulled away and chewed satisfyingly. Attempting to readjust his hand through the sliding pain, he tried to grip the beak tightly shut, but simply pushed the beak into his shoulder. With another gut wrenching tear, the peak pulled from his collarbone.

Quite suddenly, a sickening rip painfully seeped into Zod's ears, as the creature was sliced into and tackled off of him. Groaning painfully he got to his feet as quick as a man could in his condition. The wound in his chest looked raw, but the bleeding had stopped and it has scarred over.

With a sudden motion, he tore the useless clothing off his once mangled body, and reached into his pack to reveal another, and final black shirt. Had the major been facing him, she could easily tell this was a common procedure. As luck would have it for him, she indeed faced the other way.

He wasn't embarrassed to tell her, but if their coming battle was for a fraction, as intense as this brief encounter, she would have plenty opportunity to watch it happen before her eyes. He spoke of course, of the two now visible scars on his body. The one on his gut already turning his skin color, and the one on his collar bone brightly red from formation. He slipped on the shirt and went to approach the pair.

"Thanks for that", he breathed with a clear tone of relief and gratitude.

Hakon simply hunches over the still creature's body for a moment before turning slightly to work at him with clear worry. Pivoting upon her knees, she pushed herself up as he approached- still brandishing the blade somewhat defensively as she watched his body's accelerated healing, clearly wary. But- she offered a tiny grimacing smile, chiding softly," Of course."

Slowly, she lowered the blade, hand twitching slightly from adrenaline before smirking faintly,"... So what was that all about? I was about to kill you as well if that thing had buried itself into you." tilting her head to one side, her shoulders and entire body slowly began to relax, a yawn parting her lips.

He watched her wearily and with concern, as her demeanor still echoed their previous engagement. Still having a reactionary mind as well, his eyes darkened considerably as she said this. He knew not whether or not she meant this sincerely, mind still echoed from battle. He began to take a low unarmed guard stance.

Having seen her begin to relax, he realized his tense position. He straightened himself as he muttered to himself as quietly as he could, "or so you might try."

As she inquired to what happened, his mind fell blank. What did exactly happen? He quickly regained coherence of the events that preceded. The warm imitation of the nearly undressed Hakom was burned into his mind. He blushed and looked down to wood floor, now being illuminated by slivers of light in the rising sun.

He chose to ignore her question, unsure of how to answer. How could someone explain what had just happened? "I've seen a lot of crazy shit," be began, but soon stopped himself. Reaching over to his pack, he unbuttoned it and took out its final contents. A large wooden corn cob pipe emerged, along with a small pouch. Emptying a bit of its contents into his pipe, he also reached in and pulled a piece of  flint. Striking up a storm of sparks, he lit the pipe as he quickly turned to her, not being able to look at her in the face directly. "I need some air," he said quickly and without emotion.

He strode out the front door, and felt the sunlight strike his body. The radiating heat made him feel better, as did the familiar smell of smoke. Walking down a path, but not out completely out of sight of the house, he sat upon a small stump, in a clearing in the woods. Being in his natural environment, along with the growing time between his clash let his heart return to normal.

In truth, he had left the house not because he was afraid, but because his blood boiled with the taste of combat. He had nearly enraged himself to a point which could not easily be returned from.

He was left several long moments of peace before Hakon appeared next to him once again, this time with the cloak clasped about her neck, observing the steadily lightening sky beside Zod in several moments of silence. Pursing her lips, she murmured," I cannot tell if that thing was once a mage or the result of demoncraft or some primal rituals- could you?" this seemed to be a rather cringe worthy attempt at small talk. The Major definitely was not the most suave creature Connlaoth had to offer, but there was sincerity in her question.

She could not recall seeing such a beast before, even in her brief clashes with demons this was... Just nothing short of a freak even my magical standards- or so she assumed. But, alas, her mind returned to her companion's rapid healing- though the Mordecai Grandmaster had managed to slip to the top of the ranks as a shapeshifter, his only excuse being that his abilities were biological rather then magical, she never the less felt an unease toward her companion. Though- it has been somewhat admirable to watch him simply sink his teeth into the demon while it attempted to do the same- not many were willing to taste foul blood even to save themselves.

Feeling much calmer, he heard her approach as she drew closer to him. As she spoke, he returned to his feet. His eyes were much calmer now, displaying his usual kind stare with a slight twinkle. He could hear, what he thought to be a slight hesitation as she started to speak, but he thought nothing of it.

"I know not. They seem much too powerful to be considered human." He looked upon himself with irony as he finished, "but I know i can kill it. Whatever it may be. With things like this about, everything changes. This is no longer a mission for simple coin."

Pausing, he gathered his things into the pack he brought with him, and slung it over his back. Turning back to her, he walked closer. Breaking their usual standing distance of acquainted strangers, he got as close as a good friend would. He softly spoke with confidence,

"I don't know how, why, or who exactly turned me into what stands before you now. I don't know how it works, and I don't know how to control it. But I do know this. I know I'm still every bit a man as when I was dragged into that chamber. I know I feel pain at the strike of a sword. I know i can't do that," he paused, motioning to the general area of where its corpse stained the earth.

Taking a step closer to her yet, he resumed speaking. "And I know that as long as these mages still breath life, and the possibility exists of more creatures like this roaming these parts...I am an easy, and unsatisfied man."

Earnestly grabbing her shoulder, he gently steered themselves back into the direction of the house. "We best get a move on, major."

She watched him steadily as he approached, neither moving forward to meet him nor traveling backwards to retreat- simply listening with a quite unreadable gaze. His hand rested upon her shoulder, likely feeling the muscle pulled so taut that it was almost like pressing a statue of stone, the utter opposite of whatever the creature had possessed beneath its hide. Human- so at least that was good to know.

Turning slightly on her heel, the Major nodded slightly, listening to the calls of her unit as they awoke and began to tack the beasts. Briefly, she reached up, placing her hand over his while she located her armor within the ruins, murmuring absently," The one with a purpose to fulfill is the most dangerous." Pulling away as she mobed to retrieve the silver plates of steel.

It took Quite the while  to replace her armor, but when it was done, Hakon felt an immense relief, tacking the cloak about her throat as she slung the great shield over her back and the scimitar at her hip. Her gaze flickers to Zod, tilting her head to one side,"... You'll need a beast if you are to ride with us. But I suppose you do not know how-" she pauses thoughtfully, gazing at him unblinkingly

Hello

Grasping her hand firmly however briefly, Zod turned to her, "Well then lets show them ours friend."

While she put her amor on, he carefully put his leg armor on. He gathered up what supplies he left in the home. He rolled up her deerskin blanket, and extinguished the faintly burning embers. Turning to his own, he was delighted at the sight of his own blood on the fur, or at least, most of it was his. Taking a rather large and sharp knife from his boot, he cut into the blanket, tearing off a small chunk. Placing it into his pocket, he turned to Hakon and wickedly smiled.

"It left its scent behind. How....unfortunate." To her question, Zod shrugged, "I am fast, but I do not have the speed of a horse. If you prefer me to lead you to the best I can, otherwise I'm comfortable heading into the fray of battle. Just give me a head start."

Tilting her head curiously, the young woman muses softly," Lead us..? Just be cateful- not all the men are quite as accepting with biological... Enhancements as I am." She chides gently, she motioned idly toward the men beginning to saddle up.

Hakon moves from the building," Go ahead, I shall gather the men." Tilting her head slightly, Moving away at a relaxed gait- the attack seeming to have no phases her at all.

Zod could already tell the scent headed south towards the direction of the battle. How convenient, he thought to himself. "I shall scout ahead, and see what we're up against. The scent heads in that general direction for now. I assume it'll take you an hour to ready the whole force? I'll be back before then, if not, push on without me."

Having left the building, he watched her slowly walk away. Placing his chest armor on and gauntlets on, he turned to leave himself. He walked at a normal pace to the south edge of the city. Nodding to the guard he passed, he waited until he was out of sight. The foul stench wafted directly from the south.

Increasing his pace to a light, stealthy jog, he unsheathed his sword, scanning the forest and clearing alike for movement.

As he followed the scent, it would become oddly akin to that of the cat who had observed the pair the night before. The trees seemed to grow sparser as well, thorny bushes replacing ferns, oaks become white, bone-like husks of sad trees that died long ago and had begun to petrify slowly. The clearing he observed held an assortment of scents, tens of smells from tens of individuals who had converged there mere hours ago. But now, it was empty, void of even the wind passing through.

The Major meanwhile, had mounted Purgatorio, her faithful white Theocog- the beast moving to and fro impatiently as she briefly pressed her hands against the plates that covered the steed's neck, murmuring a mantra of a prayer. Waiting for her Captains to give the word that they were ready to depart.

Even as she attempted to meditate upon the words of Ansgar's prayer, her mind kept sliding curiously toward Zod- trying to rip the man apart to truly find what... Made him him. He very much was unlike any ally or foe she had encountered before.

How fitting it was the changer assumed the form of a cat Zod thought to himself. For it is cats who ambush their prey, one of few predators in the bush that relied on stealth primary to take down their targets.

He crashed through the underbrush, but rapidly and with great speed. The trees began thinning, and so did his cover. He crouched lower to the ground as he continued to trod along. He slowed, as he heard distant crackling of what sounded, and smelled like a fire. Almost kneeling, he took a moment to listen in.

Creeping along the hill, he quickly inched his way closer and closer to the pair. The adorned similar blue robes. Having the permission he needed, Zod silently rushed to meet his query. Blade held forward, he smashed through the back of the first assailants, blade emerging from his gut. Having been caught completely by surprise, he was slammed into the ground as Zod tacked him along with the blow.

Although this wasn't the smell he was looking for, Zod would at least attempt to lighten up the resistance. Placing one foot on the man's back, Zod ripped his sword clean and walked towards his other target, who had adequate time to back up, away from Zod.

Instead of being inspired by the hunt, his thoughts shifted back to Hakon. He wondered what she would've done in his position, how she would handled the situation. He enjoyed thinking of her, but needed to get into the moment of battle. He attempted to shake these thoughts, as he rushed forward to his 2nd prey.

The second mage alas, was much more prepared, a flames suddenly leaping from his fingertips- rushing toward Zod in a roar as he screamed a warning to wherever his fellows- wherever they made have been hidden.

A plume of black-grey smoke rose from the foothills, the Major ovserving this as the direction the mercenary had disappeared to. Glancing back, the captains indicated the unit was ready to depart as the column began to move out from the ruined village. Silver-white armor causing the troop from afar to look like a silvery stream over black-brown ground.

Flames brushed over Zod's gold tinted armor, beginning to turn it black. They rushed into Zod's outstretched hands, causing him to painfully cry out. Still rushing into the brunt of the fire, Zod began to close the distance. Some hit his leg armor, and others yet punched into his right cheek, causing them to instantly blister and swell.

Having closed the distance, Zod struggled to keep eye contact from his immense pain that peppered his entire body. Taking a wild swing into the man's midsection, he backed up, poised to take another strike if need be.

The mage drew a blade, advancing upon him quickly while more flames danced between his fingers, clearly about to fry the mercenary where he stood before pausing as an odd sound echoed through the bone trees. He paused long enough as if listening to the odd wailing cry. The knige trembled slightly before the cloaked man sighs wistfully- pointing the blade at Zod.

" Lucky man." He chuckled before fleeing rather unceremoniously but swiftly


Shortly after, several armored beasts  emerged from the underbrush. Upon a giant boar, a man with a massive guan dao pointed his pike at Zod," I assume this mess if from you, hm?"

Not exactly in the best position to give chase, his 3rd degree burns, now black in some places, riddled his body. The majority of the burns were underneath his armor, but as the flames stopped, his hands and cheek began turning a lighter shade of black.

"Darling..." Zod called out to his prey in a snarling tone, now fleeing the scene. He reached to his belt, and with a whirl, a small metal blade hurled itself towards the back of the mage's knees. Having the scent of that particular mage, he turned away, not caring about whether or not his knife hit his target.
He had bigger, and more plentiful concerns.

Sword drawn, and still panting, he approached the new man that spoke to him. Zod presumed this to be the leader. The boars and other animals shifted uncomfortably as he approached. The scent he was tracking gone. Instead, the wretched smell of fear saturated this grove he now found himself in. Fear of the animals, and fear of some of the men as they watched Zod's now deep red hands and cheek.

Sword held in a low guard, he started to strafe to the side, attempting to cause the others circle as well.  "Aye," he said simply. Giving a brief pause, he resumed, "and another to match it if you try anything stupid," normally a response such as this would been laughed off, four armed men on beast facing just one.

As this thought could've been had, Zod's scars now lightened to that of a pink hue. His armor menacingly now black, with eerie stripes of faded gold.

The mage cries out, it seemed the knife hit its mark yet still the man dragged himself away- disappearing into the dry foliage.

The boar rider's eyes narrowed slightly behind the grating of the helm, turning his torso slightly sideways in a wary, defensive stance as the greatboar's cloven hooves gouging the earth as the other riders simply observe in a professional silence," Careful whom you address, merc," Boar Rider growls gruffly-

" Do you or do you not have the trail?"

"And who might I have the pleasure in addressing," Zod said in a vaguely sarcastic, but mostly dry tone.   He his guard into a more relaxed state.

"Yes," he replied simply, and viciously. He did this not towards his speakers, but that he relished in having the opportunity to kill another one.

He wondered how Hakon fared, now realizing his affair took well over an hour.

" That is none of you business swine-!" The man snapped, causing the boar to squeal and toss its large head, tusks seeming to grow more... Prominent. The beast began to move slowly toward him, the man snarling," You shall address me as-"

" Corporal Phyr," a familiar, gravely voice interrupted sharply. The massive armored Theocog appearing from nearby. The helm upon the Major's head made it rather hard to identify her- alas, it was unmistakeable as to whom was speaking.

The large Theocog paused beside Sod, massive ehad swjnging toward him, clearly examining him as the Major murmurs idly," No need to pick fights. We shall have one soon enough." She turned toward him as well, the helm tilting gently," Do you, in fact, have the trail?"

His attempt at intimidation would've worked, but the pun that the man created, caused Zod to grin widely. Looking down at the boar somewhat ironically. His presence was immediately greeted by a familiar one.

Looking up to his companion, he smile grew even wider. He gave Corporal Phry the triumphant look of a bullied child, saved by the parent. Looking at the beast she rode with awe, he scanned it up and down. Its beauty inspired him beyond words. A seemingly once mythical creature, appeared before him in the flesh and blood.

He looked into one of the beasts great eyes, and attempted to give off a soothing aura. Turning his back to the Corporal, he shifted immediately to her. "Of course I do," he began to walk closer to their goal. Looking down, he noted patch of blood left by the 2nd mage. "This trail of blood probably leads directly to their camp. I struck one with a knife as he fled."

As they walked, he watched her great beast with keen interest. Moving his glance to her, he continued ,"The trail of the beast leads straight towards them, at least for the time being anyway."

The great Theocog seemed to flicker its ears slightly in acknowledgement to his attempts to give a tranquil air- its bright blue eyes flickering back to the wood beyond the gathered group. The Major nods faintly once more, offering him her hand-it seemed with the armor on, her body had grown nearly twice the size with the layers upon layers of protection.

" Then come, we must be sure to meet them and interrogate your quarry. If this is simply more mages rebelling wantonly we have nothing to fear. But drawing closer to Serendipity makes it more likely our enemies may wish to sway influence," her voice grated through the helm, steel seeming to add slight vibrations to each word and lead off into an echo.

" Up now. I'm afraid we do not have time to simply walk."

Hakon noted the blackened state of his armor, the new flesh that pinkened upon his exposed skin- behind the faceplate she frowned unconciously and could not help but feel a slight twinge of fear- not of this man before her but of the fear of this man's abilities to spike the unit's tensions. Any mutations were frowned upon but tensely accepted, this was not to say that there was not discrimintation, alas. With the war raging, biologically different individuals were becoming the target of more and more hate crimes- people always feared what they did not understand...

Looking back at her with amazement and fear, Zod hesitated. "Funny isn't it? A man who can heal is afraid of riding horse." He said this in a low tone, so that the others would have a harder time hearing him. Time was of the essence though, and could not be wasted on simple fears.

Cursing to himself, he griped her hand. Through the metal of her gauntlets, he could still feel the tone and definition. For stereotypically being "dainty," this women had more muscle and in her hand than most, if not all he had met thus far, including himself. He thought of their previous conversation, and how she told him women lived in fantasy worlds. Did she? He doubted it, imaging her plunging the pole arm deep into the chest of those who opposed her. Nothing fantasy about that.

Using the weight of her massive armor, he swung himself up and onto the horse. He did this clumsily, clearly never attempting such a feat before. His hand naturally shifting in hers slightly as he moved, inadvertently feeling her calluses, feeling the years of hard work that accompany such a feature. As his body was lifted into the air, his gaze avoided her armor, now shining and glittering from the sun overhead.

As he settled onto the back of the great beast, his previously held notions of sexism crashed into the ground he had just left. He was never sexist himself, but did nothing to change or challenge the quo. Zod would rather have Hakon fighting at his side, and fight along hers, than give one more drop of sweat to some far away sod he typically worked with.

Sitting directly behind her, she was now bigger than he, due to the near impenetrable fortress that covered her body. Swords, arrows...hell, even magic would have a hard time finding its way in. He motioned towards the direction of the scent. It still headed south, but meandered marginally to the west.

It still surprised her that he held such fear of mounting a steed, though understandably, a Theocog should not be considered a particularly kind introduction to riding. Purgatorio shifted slightly, clearly a bit peeved to have another added to his back, but even more so by simply scenting the man's anxiety. This of course, caused the great beast to immediately begin to fidget, turning in tight, excited circles as if just testing to see if he would fall off or not.

It took several moments for the Major to bring the great horse under control once more, muttering a couple curses in the process before answering in a near whisper," At least that means, shiuld you slip off- you will be able to get on much more quickly-" clearly attempting to lighten the mood with humor. The slightest movement of her legs caused the armored horse to move forward at a walk, signalling the party to follow suite.

The Corporal Phyr seemed less then pleased with the circumstances but simply did as he was ordered, the unit forming into a spear-headed formation- weaving through the trees with practiced ease in a wall of shining steel. Heading South as he directed.

Hakon glanced back as much as the great pauldrons would allow her, chiding," Should worse come to worse and you feel more comfortable fighting on the ground, your best bet is to slide off the haunches... No need to fling yourself to the side."

Zod cursed harshly and rapidly, quickly putting seafaring men who held a reputation for such language to shame. The sudden movements surprised him, although he felt stupid for not expecting such an obvious result.

Large hands quickly fumbled around the shoulders of the major, using her fully armored weight to stop himself from tumbling to the ground, although barely. As the horse began to stop circling, he put an easy hand against a tuft of the horses rough fur. "Easy there," he tried to calmly speak. What came out seemed like a gentle voiced plea more than anything else.

He gave a hearty laugh, "By the maker, I hope so." He said this in a light voice, but a shade of uneasiness could be heard, especially by perceptive ears.

Their training clearly apparent, the horse gave a sudden lurch forward. While an onlooker could easily the skill and speed, his lack of experience made every motion and command seemed like the Theocog's intuition. His hands cusped the thick armor around her hips. He held with a force similar to that of his attempt at strangulating the entity.

His shaggy hair flowed into the wind. Reaching speeds he only dreamed of, he relished every moment of this travel. He was still nervous, more than the major could possibly know, but no longer having to deal with the threat of falling off opened him up to enjoying such an experience.

Weaving and bobbing through the trees, their speed increased. The scent grew stronger with each powerful movement the beast gave. The air pungent with stench, dirt, and grime that had long intertwined with the robes the mages usually neglected to wash.

He gave her hip a soft tap, but with enough force to knock against her armor and get her attention. "We grow close."

The knight jerked a bit in surprise as he tapped her hit- she was either used to utter stillness or a blow hard enough to vibrate the entire suit, nonetheless- the Major turned slightly," How close?" She inquired so quietly that her voice barely seemed to slip past the helm let alone the thunderous thud of the beasts' foot falls.

She held up her right hand, closed in a fist- the advancing line halting briefly- Corporal Phyr seemed to shake his head impatiently, the boar he sat upon already busily stuffing armored snout to the ground to look for truffles or roots to munch on while they waited.

He gave her a nod to acknowledge her question, and began to slow his breathing. Most people wouldn't have been able to hear, or at least coherently. Zod was not most people however, being cursed with the blood of a beast.  He listened for what he could, but the air was uncomfortably still. He brought in wafts of the air, smelling past the boar, and listening past the scoffs of the Corporal.

"That can't be right," said Zod suddenly but calmly. Not giving explanation of himself, he slipped off the back of the great Theocog and onto the ground. He walked ahead of the formation, and kneeled down. A wall of stench had now covered the whole forest, and began to seep towards him.

"Major, we have a problem, and a big one. There are hundreds, if not thousands of them coming directly this way. It appears, as though we've stumbled directly into a counter attack, attempting to flank the main army." How much time they had was unknown. Zod could smell them, but not hear them, or at least hear them well. Hauntingly, the scent he tracked could be had among the smell of the other mages and mercenaries.

"How do you want to play this," he asked drawing his sword.

The scouting party grows noticeably tense but remains steadfast, the Major meanwhile seemed to fall still, as if listening even though it was clear she coud not hear the approaching army even without her helm. Turning the great white charger about, she motioned for him to again mount," We meet up eith our main force. If they wish to throw the ocean against the rocks, we will choose our own battle ground."

He jumped up on the Theocog, this time slightly more graceful than before, although still very clumsy. Feeling as though he failed, he began to meditate on the nature of what exactly they were up against. Something didnt feel right at all. Something beyond just an army of mages coming in their direction.

Still, it was too late now. The pair began to turn around and head back towards the way they had come. The forest seemed to block out an uncomfortably big portion of lght on this particular day. Perhaps there were clouds in the sky, but the trees were also thick. The sound of the encroaching army grew quieter as they rode, but it still lurked within ear shot.

The troop soldiered on in stony silence, picking up the pace to where the massive beast's footsteps created a low thunder. It was rather impressive only 6 beasts altogether created such a sound, to imagine an entire battalion was quite preposterous until it was seen. Alas, this was heavy cavalry, meant to directly engage the enemy with brute force and god-like power. A deity's hand was no small matter, after all.

Hakon focused upon navigating back toward the column of her men, her mind abuzz with fury and confusion. How had so many mages appeared from over the mountains? It had to be interference from Serendipity, which would immediately mean this civil war had become a full out conflict. If she was wrong with this assumption but reported it, it could leave to the unneeded demise of thousands if not millions of people - extinguished because of suspicion.
On the other hand, if this was correct information, and she should die in battle, an entire army of a foreign power could sweep down from the North and devour the Connlaothan's weakened forces already spread throughout the land.

Her breathing had quickened near hyperventilation. Ansgar- Ansgar give me strength. Steeling her will, she motioned for the platoon with her to move on as the Theocog slowed to a trot and then a complete halt. the scouts soon disappeared with not even a comment, but a glance back in worry.

Slowly, she took off her helm as the forest fell silent, resting it upon the saddle horn of the armored beast. White wisps of hair flew freely now in the breeze, she stared sightlessly ahead before speaking quietly," Zod..."

Zod began to hear his companion's breath start to speed up. He was concerned, but remained silent. He wanted to ask what was wrong, but held his tongue. How foolish a question that would've been. Zod's heart also pumped strong, his breath beginning to lose grip of its previously steady cadence. He had been in few battles, at least not in his proper state of mind.

Thats exactly what he was worried about. His heart burned to be able to take out the beast that seemed to stalk them, and every last mage who had harbored it, was it, or did nothing to prevent its existence. The more he had thought about it, the more it seemed to kindle him. He had to try and keep calm, for when enraged who knows that could be done. But with that beast present, how could he? His mind circled, attempting to calm itself, but firing up at remembering the reason why he knew he couldn't be.

The horse began to slow pace, and came to a sudden stop. Concerned, he gave Corporal Phyr one last glare as he disappeared into the woods.

"What is it Major, is everything alright?"

" We will face this as Ansgar's Hand, on our terms in the valley below us," she began quietly, gazing at him for a moment, smiling weakly as she looked at him from the corner of her eye," But I do not want you to participate, if you are correct on the number of Mages that are coming... We will be destroyed, but not before letting them feel our power."

she turns as much as the armor let her, gazing at him fully, calculatingly," I would like you to stay within the shelter of the forest, and search for any indication that the body of our foes are of Serendipity origins. If they are, please rush to the Reajh do not wait for any of us, alright?" she smiles weakly. Hakon's armored hand lightly rested upon Purgatorio's arching neck, looking down.

" If this is an invasion, they must know."

He slipped off the back his friend's great horse, feet hitting the ground. He chose to remain silent. He slowly walked to get a view of his companion, and speak with her face to face.

"Major, if you do not wish me to participate with you, I can accept that," began Zod. He was hurt, as he had taken this as her not viewing him as competent enough for battle. Showing her none of this, his face seemed to be made of stone as he continued, "But you cannot stop me from joining the fight. Until that beast is dead, I shall continue towards it and kill any mage in their way."

He turned to run back towards the forest, but stopped after a few short steps. The sounds of the encroaching army were gone. He listened further, but only only hear the snorting of the Thecog, and the chirping of some birds...

" Zod!!" She called after him but fell into a stunned silence. She was shocked at first that he would simply leave, this was quite possibly the last request she would make before her demise. Yet he had not even acknowledged it. She felt a knot of grief tighten around her throat, but rage quickly bashed that away, grasping the helm, she secures it over her head before turning the Theocog and urging the massive beast into a full on gallop- distant thunder fading as she rode toward her unit.

It took nearly a half hour to reach her unit at the Valley's floor, they had returned to the illage, the farmlands outside it were large enough to create a suitable range for Ansgar's Hand to churn under massive hooves. She had positioned her Theocog at the center of the field, always the Major took the very tip of the spear. Now was the wait- still Hakon fumed in silence. She couldn't spare even one man if it was as bad as Zod- no... The mercenary had said.

He listened for a few more seconds of silence, "I don't understand, they must've gone into an ambush or.." Zod stopped as he turned to where Hakon was, but was surprised to see her gone. His rage grew further yet, not at her, but of his own stupidity. He was fast, but not enough to catch up to her.

He turned and swore loudly, punching a tree and splitting the bark away as his fist drove into the wood. He angrily looked down to see bone exposed from the impact. Quickly, the sounds of violent snapping echoed across the forest, his bones correcting themselves. He could feel skin slowly crawling over his knuckles, and could figure the rest out.

He looked up, and in an dead sprint, took off towards the direction opposite of her camp. His speed continued to increase, as did the anger at his chest. He wasn't as fast as her Theocog indeed, but he easily surpassed the speed of that wretched, vile, and disgusting boar the corporal had used in the hours before.

He stopped after a short bit, to catch his breath. Still fuming, he listened again for any signs of an army, mages, or beast. Yet, he was once again greeted to the sounds typical to that of a forest. He couldn't even hear a single sign of the major's army either, just the haunting serenity of a mountainous forest.

Still, they waited- Ansgar's Hand waiting for the index finger to point to the enemy so the entirety could crush it. But still, no sign. It had taken several hours for them to prepare, enough for an army of a thousand to be here within an hour. Where were they?

Purgatorio reared slightly, prancing to and fro while gnashing flat teeth together, turning tight circles. This energized the other animals enough for them to be distracted from the slow passage of time, so Hakon did not bother reigning him in, simply moving with his motions, watching the forest with gathering unease in her belly.

" Where are you..? Where are you..?" she chanted in a soundless mantra.

And answered she was.

Arrows began to fly out of the forest, and towards the front line troops. Some of them were struck down instantly, but the majority raised their shields and took the barrage of arrows. As soon as they stopped, mercenaries and mages alike burst through the clearing. They all began charging the frontline, but the troops were ready.

The mob clashed into the frontline, killing a few of the troops instantly. The lines further down, away from the front, started pushing towards the front in reaction. For what seemed like a brief moment, the spot seemed contested. But as quickly as the skirmish started, the well trained troops were able to repulse their attackers from their rank, and quickly closed the remaining gaps in their defense.


Meanwhile, Zod's mediations were broken by the sounds of a distant clash. He arose, to a painfully familiar scent, now close to his vicinity. With fear, he grasped his sword. His eyes darted around, searching for possible danger. The whole air was wretched, but as quickly as the scent came, it vanished...

Of course, the arrows and frontline only hit the mercenaries. Otherwise what was the point of having a heavy cavalry if they could be felled so easily? Hmph- The Major couldn't help but sneer beneath her mask, this was almost insulting!

She strapped her shield to her arm, drawing her scimitar before pointing it forward. The Theocog began to move, and like a great curtain being drawn upward, the line of heavy Cavalry fell in to an arrow shaped formation, each rider locked shoulder to hip with their partner. An assortment of weapons were drawn, all flashed eerily in the dimming sunlight.

Hakon watched the surviving mercenaries begin to fall back at the Charge began to move forward, picking up speed until the entire battalion of Ansgar's Hand roared across the field with a sound akin to a continuous nuclear explosion (if they knew what that was, exactly). Of course, the Mages and their mercs followed their retreating allies, but soon realized why the men seemed to be splitting in opposite directions.

Alas, by then- even with bolts of lightning, fire, shadow and other elements tried to put a dent in the line, the blessed armor upon both riders and steed took the brunt of the useless attacks.

Then. They hit. From an aerial view it wound have been line watching a hot knife cut through butter. And oh what a beautiful dance it was...

The calvary crashed into retreating enemy. The screams of the dying grimly filled the valley, and the vast majority weren't of Hakon's forces. The pitiful attack was repulsed almost as quickly as it had started. The mercenaries on Connlaoth's side watched in awe, as the various bands of mages were quickly mowed down. The calvary shot up and down the battlefield, cutting down pockets of resistance.

A band of mages quickly formed together, and attempted to block the calvary and the rest of the army, by creating a massive wall of fire. The flames stretched not to attack the riders, but to simply prevent them from advancing any further, or attempting to at least. A faint attack whistle could be heard, as long range mages appeared from the woods, attempting to shoot bolts of various elements across the flames and into the enemy. Long bow men appeared next to them, replacing the dead short bow wielders. They attempted to shoot into the crowd, but dared not aim for the riders. An unlikely shot that was unlikely to do real damage, to the rider anyways...

The Major pulled up the white Theocog just short of the flames, quickly signalling to several bowman of her own to begin to sweep the barrier. Forming a unit of their own, they put down their melee weapons and rode their beasts parallel to the barrier of flames, carefully aiming for the Mages summoning the flames as pointed out by the other riders who carried shields between them and their enemies.

Hakon paused and cut down a Mage who attempted to take a strike at her steed's leg, the beast quickly turning to crush the offending robed one. Her eyes shifted to and fro frantically, with excited delight. She felt utterly drunk with bloodlust. Already her captains taking units to glank the fires as it began to die.

She turned to face those behind the flames, pointing her scimitar toward them and roaring," Come on, bring your demons, bring your angels, bring your fake Gods and FINISH us!!" The last word came out as a defiant scream. if they could see those eyes, they would see... They would see fury brought from years of training, of be oppressed, of pain, rage, an entire life crashing before them to feed upon their blood.

Alone, and in hunting mode, Zod's watchful eyes adjusted to the coming darkness. With but a final burst  of light, the sun now dipped below the horizon. Crouching, he snuck along the forest floor and to the rear of the valley. This part was in nature, being apart of the woods that hadn't seen permanent human contact in years, or perhaps ever. The path lay in sight, but Zod swiftly crept through nature surrounding it to stay hidden. As he left the battle, a sudden feeling of relief went through his body. it mattered not, for a single life form couldn't be detected save the birds sleeping in the trees far above. He approached the boarder, and jumped quickly into the road. Not a soul. With haste, he turned towards the direction of the battle, and started to run as stealthy as he could. As he ran, a chilling feeling began to creep back upon him

He followed the scent to a small camp, a tiny fire glimmering just ahead of him. He peered around the tree, and saw a group of 15 or so mages/mercenaries gathered around the fire. He could attempt to crush the mages between him and the calvary, or at least leave them no where to run.  Drawing his sword, he charged two siting closest to him with their backs turned. As they crumpled down, he growled, plunging his blade into a third assailant. He yelled and prepared for battle, charging to meet a 4th head on...


The mages were utterly terrified of the display before them. They had the ability to conjure magic, but the might of the gods were no comparison. The early attack tried to muster what it could, but it was easily cut down and completely annihilated. As the major grew more into the swing of the battle, her troops rallied behind her, fighting with more and more skin with every successive mage/mercenary death alike.

As it became more and more obvious the mage forces were being routed, she did everything in her power to make sure they absolutely could not flee. This is what Ansgar's Hand was most famous for, complete and under annihilation. Several units disappeared into the forest to herd fleeing mages back into the field, others continued to slaughter those who were left.

The Major now had her massive warhorse walk idly through the carnage, kicking aside corpses as she calmly looked about, quivering with utter primal pleasure as the adrenaline coursed through her veins. Soft laughter bubbled from her lips as she tilted her head back in bliss...


Before he could reach the 4th mage, alas, a sudden weight slammed into him. Pinning him on his stomach on the ground. It felt as if a massive hand was crushing his back- and that was not far from the truth. Instead it was a large claw, sparse white-gold fur popping from bare skin as the lycanthrope beast loomed over him, saliva dropping from its great maw as it squeezed his back.

It briefly looked down at him with feral eyes, nostrils flaring once before it suddenly launched off him, shredding directly into Zod's former quarry. The sight was... Something to make bile rise from the stomach...

The major looked upon the destruction around her. The wounded combatants tried to crawl away, as they looked upon the face of a women clearly enjoying their pain and death. As her laughter bounced along the valley, it was received by the sound of marching. A two square formations broke out over the horizon, slowly coming towards the calvary. 40 men each square.

Zod was mostly wrong, in the fact that the marching wasn't the sound of a thousand strong army, he merely misjudged their approach. It echoed, making it sound as though many more men were to be seen. Hakon could make out the heavy armor that accompanied each man. Although not as heavy as the one she wore, they are clearly a step up from the shoddy armor the typical mercenaries wore.

Zod tore through the first couple enemies, he felt the lust for battle and killing. He wished he could've gone back with her, to the main army. He wished he could've clashed head on with the mages, instead of trying to to track some ridiculous beast. What a waste of time that was...

With the these words, he was thrown into the ground, dust kicking up around from the impact. The claws dug into his back painfully etching its marks. He could hear sniffing, before the animal used Zod's weight to jump, further shoving him into the ground. Angrily, he got up and snarled. He wanted to tear everything he saw limb by limb. He ran towards a mage opposite direction of the besat, and ducked. A fireball sizzled past, as Zod's sword met the assailants neck.

A blade sliced into his chest armor, sticking into it. He kicked the man's knee as hard as he could, hearing the bone shatter. As he hit the ground, Zod drew is axe in his other hand, and swept downwards towards the man...

She paused in her reverly, instantly calling out to her men to form up again, the armored cavalry flocking together like great steel birds as they wheeled about the field to face the incoming enemy. Yes, Zod would likely feel the anger of the surviving unit for exaggerating and causing much panic. That was, if they still survived. Ansgar's Hand was originally over 200 strong, now about 170 men and beasts were left. Not bad due to most of the casualties being mercenaries., but not particularly good either.

The wolf in turn seemed busy wreaking havoc at its own cruelly slow peace, the screams of its victims piercing the night air as it seem to relish in the slow torture of its prey. The clearing began to empty until only the wolf and Zod remained, slowly it turned toward him, hunching over as it stood on two legs easily- massive forepaws supporting its great torso as it gazes at him with a small sneer.

The two squares met, and fused into one. 80 men strong, they began to tauntingly and rhymically bash the weapons against their shields. They waited, not wanting to lose their defensive advantage and strike out. These men were the closest thing to well organized the blue army had, but then again, it wasn't even blue army. Mercenaries mad from earlier humiliation with the Connlaoth army and the Hand alike.

As Zod's blade savagely decapitated the last mage on his side, he turned to face the beast head on. He was breathing heavily and sweating a fair amount. He was near at the limit of his rage. He gave the beast an almost inhuman yell/growl as he prepared himself. He would wait to see what the beat would do next..

The Hand wheeled about the field in a fluid arch, allowing soldiers to reposition themselves upon their galloping steeds and look over damaged armor before focusing upon the enemy again. The Major - in battle her name meant nothing - the heavy cavalry locking shoulders much like the opposing force. 10 beasts across and at least 17 deep moved as one to charge directly into the opposing line, in unison screaming their one calling for all this blood and destruction: "CONNLAOTH! CONNLAOTH!! CONLAOTH!!


The white wolf's rubber black lips curl back, jaw working slowly before words begin to form,"... Li... Listen- Listen, you can hear her if you listen close enough." It dug its wide knuckles into a ruined corpse, allowingg the flyids to squelch grotesquely as it stared at him unblinkingly.

Though the men were versed in anti cavalry tactics, they had not actually had the chance to practice them. There isn't much can do to prepare themselves for repulsing such powerful and great beasts. The horses clashed into the opposing lines, cutting down many of the men. The mercenaries were able to tag a few horses, but nearly as many to cover the losses they had suffered. They closed the gaps created by their fallen comrades. With unnerving tenacity, they waited again, bracing themselves for another attack.

Through the great distance, he heard faintly heard voices screaming in unison, but could barely make out what they were saying. Not sure if he was imagining it, he swore he could hear Hakon amongst the voices.

The two started intently into the others eyes, Zod wanted to make a move, but could he? This didn't seem to be another demon, but rather a poor sod who as trapped as a beast. Was this person REALLY any different than himself. Could he strike down someone, knowing he was practically the same? He continued to stare at the person, looking into their eyes, looking past the beast, and attempting to see the person behind them.

Again those of Ansgar's Hand broke free after runing through the men, wheeling about and regrouping a second time. It was clear they would use this tactic until no more were left. Fist of steel. Fist of God.


The wolf slowly shrank, until there was a man, dressed in black leather and fine silk towered before him in a slightly hunched stance. He looked very much like Hakon, sam eyes, same hair, but there was a hysterical energy and roughness to him that spoke of animal madness," You live... Because I allow it. You have known her have you not?" He growls, voice as chaffed as sandpaper, staring at hum unblinkingly.

" How have you known her." It was more of a command then inquiry, large hands clenching and unclenching slowly.

He backed up slightly, giving the man room to breath upon his transformation back. The man's clothing looked oddly archaic, but he seemed familiar. Zod struggled to wonder how, before he was instantly reminded by the man's words. His whole face and aura stanched of bloodlust, but he questioned it not. The man hadn't attacked him for the time being.

Hakon. His words brought his mind back to her. He thought of her safety with concern, and then returned his mind to what was before him. Feeling no particular reason to lie, he said,

"Hakon was my employer and is my friend..." He mind paused, thinking of how Zod had left things with Hakon. A feeling of dread and weight lifted in his stomach,"hopefully," he added at the end and quietly,

" Hopefully?" the man repeated and released a laugh, the sound oddly pitched and far too enthusiastic as he turned to some invisible audience and sneered," He doesn't even know- and yet-" he locked his dark gaze upon Zod again, slowly advancing," You have been closer to her then most, hm? Held her much more closely-" his smile had faded and the words transformed into a low, horrific snarl.

The man now stood no more then a few feet away, but he seemed to loom over Zod like a falling tower. It was now clear to see the his body was somewhat oddly proportioned. The flesh in sight seemed stretched and awkwardly placed beneath the skin as if to massive hands had pulled his form to make him so unusually tall.

" Tell me now... Where is she?"

As the man approached him and mocked his last word, Zod's demeanor shifted. As his eyes locked with Zod's the main was met with cold blue-grey eyes. Completely devoid of human emotion he watched this giant man took more steps towards him. He didn't look fearful, angry, or hateful, but his eyes might as well be made of stone.

He asked of her location. With little explanation, hatred began to grow inside of him, joining alongside his mistrust. While this man was clearly taller than him, Zod watched his body's odd contortions and expanded skin. His first thought was skin walker. Skin walkers usually didn't have the patience to have a somewhat civil conversation though.

His heart began to pound inside his chest louder, from the battle but also from his mild annoyance and confusion. The anger was beginning to surge inside of him, but he let on no signals of this to the tower that stood across from him. He was grateful for this ability he possessed, still waters run deep and he would never show anyone this if possible.

"Perhaps," he suddenly said, breaking the purposeful pause he created. He took a breath in, clearly ready to continue, but intuition and understanding struck him. He stopped and gave a wicked smile, unfazed by the man's seemingly attempt at intimidation, he walked closer himself. Although he was shorter, Zod's body rippled from muscle tone and a larger frame with broader shoulders.

"You heard her voice as well as I," said Zod in an amused voice rippled with tones of mockery.

Zod's counterpart bared his teeth faintly, hunching slightly to bring his face closer to Zod's the movement seeming painful even though the man barely blinked - the mere mention of the Major seemed to set the man's more feral side off," I did -"

he stopped short, a low laugh bubbling up from the man's throat," But then I saw you, so meticulously cutting down the mages here. But why would you have gone so astray?"

another pause.

" A better question perhaps is... Why were you so near her?"

"I plan on cutting off the mages escape route, and taking down any of them I see along the way," said Zod honestly. He was incredibly wary of the towering figure in front of him, but he also needed to return back to the trail, and destroy any hostile pockets he encountered.

"Now if you'll excuse me, I've got a battle to win here sir!" He warily started to back up, still poised in case the seemingly feral man tried to attack him or do anything else.

The man easily strode forward with him, staying unnervingly close as he spoke in a low voice," Then I shall assist." his words conveyed that argument would be unwise, more of a command then a friendly invitation to fight a similar foe. His green-grey eyes remained upon Zod unblinkingly, long arms folded behind his back.

Whatever was with this man, this skinchanger, it was very clear it was very dangerous... And very patient.

Surprised by his sudden urge to help, or what seemed like that, Zod seemed relived to not have to fight the scores of mages alone. He was also simultaneously more wary, as he wondered about the motivations behind such an action.

He did not have the leisure time to causally consider this though, as he needed to do what was entrusted to him. Zod figured this was the "beast" he had been sent to track. Apparently this man knew Hakon though. He thought it a very strange coincidence and it alarmed him. Did Hakon know this man in return? Snapping himself from what could easily turn into a night long of reckoning, he came back to the here and now.

Wordlessly, Zod continued down the trail, but leaving himself open to perceive both the man, and the trail ahead.

The man soon strode beside Zod, staring straight ahead as he did so- the movements were oddly graceful and awkward simultaneously- ad if his muscles and bones did not quite work in unison. Alas, this did not seem to deter the Skinchanger as he slowly hunched, shifting rather smoothly into the monstrous wolf.

His bright fangs flashed in the dimness.

Zod watched the man walk beside him, and then turn into a wolf right before his eyes. He sometimes wished he could turn into a beast himself, instead of simply having remnants scattered throughout his being. He gave the man a slightly concerned and judgmental look, as his skin and bones snapped and crunched to meet their new iterations.

Shaking his head slightly, he continued to walk forwards towards the next mage camp, sword brandished at a guard to the side of him. He increased his pace to a slow jog, being able to pickup speed with still retaining a bit of stealth.

As they continued down the path, the sounds of Hakon's unit grew closer, but still was a decent distance. The pair of enhanced senses could pick up faint sounds of battle/a congregation of people, but Zod was certain a normally perceptive person could not detect it.

A group of 25 or so mages stalked the path, attempting to creep the couple mile journey to the battle, and reinforce their numbers on the front line. Sword brandished, he sprinted the formation and quickly hacked down the first one he saw, others now turning to face him.

As Zod ran into the fray, his shady companion had all but vanished. Had he been abandoned? The possibilities were endless- but even so, such betrayal wpuld have to wait as the mages ganged up upon him. A blast of flame and another of lightning screaming toward him from the crowd of assailants.

Hakon gazed up at the mountains from the midst of the battle, sweat streaked clean trails down her face as she wrenched her sword from the corpse of a massive abomination. Her trusted Theocog standing nearby calmly as the battle began to swirl to a close around them- they had held the valley- but at great cost.

" Zod..." the mercenary's name rose to her lips and surprised even her, she could see small bursts of light in the high forests- she knew in her heart of hearts it was him... She would go- but why did her gut twist with such dread?

Flames scorched Zods shoulder as fire slammed into it. The adrenaline kept Zod going through the pain, and his axe quickly relived his assailant's entire arm. As quickly as that thought entered his mind, lightning struck into his chest. He felt his heart shudder as it fought off the electricity that tried to alter its rhythm. He body helplessly remained frozen in place, but his limbs jerked around with each bolt that passed through is spine. His sword and axe helplessly clanged to the ground.

The mages did not let this opportunity go to waste, they surrounded and circled Zod, bombarding him. His bones cracked ice, his heart shuddered from the lightning, and his scorched skin painful reminded of flame. He crumpled to one knee. Grunting, he struggled to regain his footing, but with a blast of wind all he met was dirt. 

"You've got spirit, I'll give you that. But every merc responses to money or the threat of his life," A light and frail voice shrilled out. Zod looked up to the thin hobbling figure standing over him. An elder mage. Realization struck him.

"You're using me, as leverage," said Zod.

"Do you really think she will come for you? Do you really think she views you as one of her own? It matters not, for now we have the means to find her," as the old man said this, he gazed back into the darkness towards something or someone Zod couldn't make out.

"Do you really think she cares about you Zod? To her, you're just another tool to finish her job. Even IF she comes, it'll only be for herself. Yes we're using you, but you have no choice."

"Yes I do," said Zod through narrowed slits. A hidden dagger manifested, and drove through the heart of the the young mage holding Zod up. The elder seemed surprised but with an effortless flick of a wrist unleashed a barrage of lightning. Still standing, Zod shuffled forward. Earth smashed into his hip, ice shattered his collarbone, fire scorched his calf, and wind blasted at his back. He crumpled to the ground, but the elements did not relent.

"Don't come Hakon. Please don't come, its a trap", thought Zod desperately. 

Hakon watched light explode on the mountain side, pupils dilating considerably to adjust to the searing light. Reaching out a gauntleted hand, she grasps the reigns of Purgatorio, swinging up upon the horse and quickly kicking the Theocog into a run. Her voice booming like thunder beneath the eagle-shaped helm, soon, a small patrol of five other cavalrymen ran at full tilt along with her. Armor screeching, hooves and paws pounding- quite literally the Cavalry had arrived... Again.


An ear-piercing scream erupted and abruptly the barrage of elemental attacks lifted from the Mercenary's battered body. The Skin changed hovered above him, towering above him with the broken body of a rather sizeable mage in his jaws. Even without magic, one could sense the pure darkness rolling off the 'man's body, if one could even call him that any longer.

He opened his maw and allowed the mage's remain to crumple before Zod's face. It seemed the mage had all but been turned inside out as the beast stood over him,"... Now that I have your attention." the stranger's low, rasping voice chuckles dryly, his head swaying downward to gaze at Zod," It would be wise for you to allow me... To take control of this operation." he seemed to be addressing both Zod and the mages. How had such a monster appeared so quickly, wrought such destruction and quite literally taken command of the battle in a few seconds?! Who knew- but it was clear- this was not an opponent to be messed with. Idly, it placed a twisted paw upon Zod's head, forcing him to the ground.

" The Major, will come. But you will all die." it rasps vaguely, nonchalantly. A defiant bolt of lighting snaps the naked flesh of the skin-changer, but audible gasps sound- it seemed unaffected as it continues," You are all to weak... For an Adhara. Even one. Kill the followers. Allow me the Major. Is this understood?"


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Zod awoke to the body of a mage toppling before him, face still seared with a look of utter terror. The magical beating had him in a state of delirium. He felt internal bleeding, and attempted to refocus himself. He was too weak to look up, and could smell a familiar scent approaching. Strangely enough, the scent of the great beast smelled too familiar, but Zod could not place it. He attempted to bring himself into a mediation to heal his wounds.

As the beast spoke, Zod said nothing. He grasped the ground with both hands, and tried to push himself off the ground. The beast shoved one paw into the back of Zod's head, and forced him into the ground. Rage fumed inside Zod. This was no simple bag and tag of mages anymore, but rather this reflected a trap, and a plot to trap Hakon. This beast had power, but it seemed to lack in anything more, thought Zod arrogantly. He must have planted himself near the battle, and leached himself into the situation.

Too weak, Zod needed to stall until his wounds healed enough to fight. He needed to turn the mages against the wolf. He allowed the wolf to finish speaking with the mages, lightning bolt soaring over his head with cracking energy.

"That sounds like a great choice doesn't it?" Inquired Zod to the mages. "Leave and be hunted by this leach, or stick around and be mowed down by his query. I hate to be the bearer of bad news, but even if you do succeed, do you not think this man will cut you down the second the battle is over?" Asked Zod. He was on his feet now, staggered by injury, but still standing.

The skinchanger's paw idly slipped off him, allow him to rise. Though as he spoke, its long, ruined and talonned fingers slowly slid up his back and wrapped about his neck. With a low sigh, it wrapped it fore- and middle fingers about his mouth to stifle him, chortling," My, you are an obnoxious hostage to say the least, aren't you?" its grip upon his neck tightening as it pulled him to his knees with a sharp tug.

It focused its sharp, bloodshot eyes back upon the mages, rumbling," Hide yourselves, prepare for the true enemy,"


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Zod bit down on the retched fingers that covered his mouth. With a tear, he attempted to rip the fore finger off. While this hunter might still have the upper hand for the time being, Zod was rapidly healing his wounds, and far from completely helpless.

"Let me show you how obvious I can be," said Zod. He would make the beast's life as difficult as possible. He gave a rapid and sharp whistle through his teeth. If surviving the wilds had taught him anything, it was how to use the forest to your advantage. Even if his mouth still remained muffled, the whistle was loud enough. In the trees, jays began to repeat the alarm whistle, and scatter from their various trees and into the sky. The entire area was filled with the obvious calls of birds fleeing into the sky. Whether or not this would help Hakon remained unknown to Zod, but he tried.

Suddenly, the beast pulled him in. Instead of resisting the grab like expected, Zod quickly shifted his weight towards his attacker, and allowed himself to be pulled in. Zod then attempted to use the generated momentum and roll, reversing the hold on his opponent.

The large, naked wolfman watched the mages reluctantly follow his lead, melting into the shadows as the man beneath him writhed and squirmed about. His efforts were all very trivial to Bahamut, all very petty... But for the ear piercing whistle. Now that caused some anger, the high pitched sound sending searing pain through the monster's mind. Utterly a low snarl, the beast slammed Zod to the ground," SILENCE.[/b]"


Hakon slowed and hissed for silence as the birds from all around the forest suddenly sprang to life. Anxiety rose in her chest as she frowned deeply- what did that mean? Was that Zod? Could he be warning them of something?

" Major- we should turn back and regroup," one of the riders murmured in a low voice," Who knows just how many are out there,"

She did not answer initially before gesturing back abruptly," Three of you go, make sure everything is in order for a second assault, we will scout ahead-"

" But Ma'am-"

" Do not preach to me,"

"... Yes ma'am,"


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Zod felt the Wolf shudder, before slamming Zod to the ground. His call for silence was for naught, as the birds began to swoop the wolf man, but also the nearby mages that attempted to hide. Hakon and her men would have to be close to notice, but if she checked where the bird swooped to, they could potentially make out figures hunched in the woods. As each bird swooped towards the beast, it emanated the call right above its head.

"You damn fool, you can't command the forest like..." Started Zod, but was cut off by an earth shattering scream, Zod's confident eyes that were staring into the beasts, suddenly turned into pure terror. One single mage, a wood elf, ran into the forest and away from the group. After a few tense moments, his scream filled the ears of the mages, the beast, and Zod, along with a giant swoosh of wind. The cry echoed again, this time much closer. Without thinking, Zod imitated the cry as loud as he could.

Quite suddenly, a massive figure burst through the top of the trees. A dire hawk, that dwarfed the figures crouching in the trees. Swooping down, it attempted to drive its talons straight into Bahamut's back...

Hakon burst upon an openning in the trees with her compatriots as her vision was suddenly filled with the hulking mass of feathers and fury and flesh. Her eyes could barely make out what exactly happened with what speed it did. But the screechingg, inhuman cry of agony quickly deafened her to all. But within seconds, as the vicious battle slowed, the great black wings slumped to either side of whatever the Eagle had tried to attack as a bloodied, twisted hand protruded through a hand within its back.


With its talons still buried deep in his flesh, Bahamut idly allowed the eagle to slide off to the side, dead. One claw still wrapped about Zod's neck as he leaned his muzzle down to the mercenary's ear,"...She's heeeeereeeee." it sings in a low, gleeful voice. GOD her scent overwhelemed him, the animal's breathing growing ragged and excited as low, terrible laughter bubble forth through that twisted and corrupted body.

He idly tossed aside the giant eagle, those terrible red eyes with those lightless pupils dilating as he focuses upon the armored and horsebound figure of his dearest. His beloved. His. His. Mine.

" I've... Missed you. Hakon." The monster drawls, idly, lifting a twisted talon, pricking the back of Zod's neck until blood emerged, did it want to skin him while she watched? No. He wanted to torture everything she held near, just... To make her suffer. That was the goal, in the end, after all.


Hakon's breath caught in her throat. Pure, instinctive terror filled her. He was dead. No, he was HERE. He was... Alive, he was," Bahamut-"

Relief filled Zod as Hakon entered the killing zone. Bodies of mages and the hawk littered the forest. Coughing, he called out to his friend, "Hakon, you know him?" Said Zod forcefully, through the strain of Bahamut's claw. He grew agitated under the hold that he was in, growling with anger as he tried to rip himself free...
Before anymore could be said, the mages left hiding cast their respective elements towards the new combatants in the fray. They appeared to be even in number, as elements rushed to their targets.

At the end of his patience, he thrashed violently against the beast holding him down. He growled in pain as the blood rolled down his neck. Bahamut would suffer greatly for this. Was Hakon in on this? Did she purposely send Zod to meet this beast? Exhausted, his fatigue began to fade, as he anger grew. Having lost the energy to counter the thoughts of Bahamut, and the possibility Hakon was involved. Zod roared with fury, Griping the knife on his hip, he slashed out at Bahamut, swearing violently with each attempted stab. He attempted to grab the arm holding him down, and shift his entire weight on it, trying to brake the bone.

Bahamut was vaguely distracted by the squirming beneath him- so focused was he on his glorious, lovely little prize he had fought for YEARS to trap. That is, until the thin bone shattered like glass. With a howl of agony, the beast collapsed in a heap atop the mercenary. So strained had his skeletal structure become from the transformation that it had become increasingly frail, or so it seemed. The flesh split easily under Zod's blade, struggling to reform as it began to lose shape. He felt pain- but that would not stop the monster for long.


Hakon snapped from her stupor as the first blast of flames slammed into her and Purgatorio- quickly bringing the large shield around to redirect the remainder of the flame as she roared the commands to her compatriots who immediately leapt into the fray. Still- she felt dizzy with terror, she struggled to think- no. How was he alive? How was this possible? It- wait- she couldn't- it was too loud...


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With a frustrated grunt, Zod attempted to throw his combatant off of him, and towards a nearby tree. Zoe tried as hard as he could to surpress his rage, but the confusion of the situation, along with his rapidly healing, but ever so present wounds made that impossible.

Zods face, emotionless, sneered down towards Bahamut. Zod walked menacingly toward him. He noticed the shifters bones and skin twitching, and vaguely beginning to reform. With a grunt, he stomped as hard as he could upon Bahamuts outstretched leg, attempting to brake the bones beneath. The mages began to assault him, taking some pressure off of Hakon...

He glanced over towards Hakon, and watched for a brief moment the culmination of all the parties involved; the mages, the Calvary, Bahamut, and Hakon all stood or lay in front of him. The forest began to reflect the might of the fighters. Elemental fire and lighting having left their marks upon the great forest. A mage not wielding elements approached Hakon. Blasting miniature stars out of his staff, he attempted to bombard the cavalry...

The blast of an approaching mage quickly shook him from his thoughts, and his body language changed back into Zod's fighting form. He punched the mage in front of him, feeling her jaw bone snap from the impact of Zods gauntlet. Every strike, every takedown, empowered Zod with a deep rage. These mages and this beast would suffer greatly, and would feel the vengeance of each one of their victims in the war....