For this ACT,  Dawnrider31 shall play as Ari,  ShahrazadKM shall play as the bartender, lilmisswonders01 shall play as Ryanna, tigersblood33 shall play as Tygar the Tiger Prince and Nelo Angelo, and Kaede83 shall play as Kaede and Trillean. Other Characters will be play by whomever.

ACT II, SCENE 1 - The Last Chance Tavern - The Next Day - 9 a.m.

**A new day begins across the Forest of Fortune, the birds begin to chirp endlessly, the deer begin to frolic through the trees, and the flowers sway in the calm breeze. Arising first from her fitful slumber is Ari, the elf-half. She groans as her arms reach for the ceiling of her room, looking around she familiarize herself with her bow and arrows and the room itself. Dressing quickly, she silently creeps out of her room, not wanting to disturb a soul. Meanwhile, downstairs, The Bartender is cleaning various objects from the dirt cloud the previous night, she is humming a simple tune**

~Enter Ari & the Bartender~

Ari: *she speaks to herself as she descends the stairwell* Last night...why did all that have to happen...it makes me feel uneasy...I feel something evil is about to commence, and soon...I must seek guidance from my friends in the hills...things...just haven't been normal lastly...

Ari: *she takes out her weapon* Hopefully....I won't run into any obstacles...but if I do....I shall be getting some good practice....

Ari: *she approaches the barkeep and places ten single coins on the countertop* I thank you again, I had a wonderful rest...well as wonderful as it could be due to these circumstances...I shall be on my way...

Bartender: *she takes the coins and nods silently*

Ari: *she nods back as she leaves the tavern in a silence motion*

Bartender: *whispers after Ari leaves* Take care Ari...I shall pray for your safe return...*goes back to cleaning wine bottles*

~Exit Ari.~

**Approximately an hour later, Kaede arises from his sleep, following in a similar fashion in waking up as Ari did. He dresses himself and takes his belongings with him down to the main lounge.  A few minutes later, Trillean awakens as well but doesn't get out of bed so easily due to the overwhelming amount of elixir she had the night before, moreover, she literally falls out of bed and mumbles incoherently, still she dresses and manages to get out of her room as Kaede awaits.**

~Enter Kaede, Trillean~

Bartender: *she looks up as Kaede and Trillean as they come down into the tavern* Mornin', Loves.  Sleep well?  After a night like lasts, I wouldn't be surprised if you didn't.

Kaede & Trillean: Indeed. *both proceed over to a table where they both sit across from one another*

Kaede: *the man in black eases back in his chair* By the way, I don't remember if I have told you my name yet, well...it is Kaede.

Kaede: *he sips from his glass again, mulling over his drink nearly to hide his face*

Trillean: *she casually arranges her cloak around her and takes out her harp to tune it* That is a good name to have.

Kaede: *he smiles* It comes from the Orient.

Kaede: *calls over to the barkeep* Ari must be sleeping in late, we shall not disturb her, but please let us know if she wakes up...*

Bartender: *nods* Yes...I will... *she wipes her eyes away thinking of Ari's departure an hour ago...*

Kaede: *he goes back to Trillean* Tell me, do you remember the Great Lights in the Sky? When a hundred stars were snuffed out? The light lasted for what they said were months.

Trillean: *she nodded in agreement* How could I forget.

Kaede: *continuing* Well, they said my birth coincided with it, almost exactly a hundred years before it.

Kaede: I lost count of the years, but if you remember it, it gives you a measure of my age, I lost count so long ago...

Trillean: *Her eyes narrow as a twinkle arises within them, she smiles and begins to tune her harp once more* Interesting.

Trillean: I was not born at the time, but I have heard tales of it.

Kaede: *nodding* It was a sight to see, lights so bright, one could read even at midnight and not need a candle.

Kaede: I was too young to appreciate it then...but I can still remember, children tracing shapes in the sky where those stars once were.

Trillean: Hmm, My father once studied the constellations.

**As their talk of stars continues, a were-tiger approaches from outside of the tavern, although his footsteps can not be heard, it's becomes apparent of his presence soon after as he bashes on the tavern creating a loud 'THUD! THUD!'  Inside, Kaede and Trillean both jump out of their seats, cautiously taking our their weapons expecting the worse, The Bartender nervously ducks beneath her stall**

~Enter Tygar.~

Trillean: ...What in the...

Kaede: *raising an eyebrow, he turns and speaks towards the door* Let yourself in friend, the door is open...

Trillean: *she turned her head suddenly* Quiet isn't he.

Kaede: *he replies with a simple nod*

Tygar: *the tiger pushes the swivel door open and is welcomed with three pairs of eyes, he blushes slightly* Is my presence really that astonishing?

Tygar: *he chuckles realizes it's a tough crowd he's dealing with* Good day to you sir...good day miss...good day madam...

Kaede: A good day to you...whatever you are... *he grins*

Trillean: *she looks over to the new stranger and nods to him in greeting*

Tygar: I'm touched...*he rushes past the planes-walker* I see you have a fireplace going, please allow me to get warm, thank you...

Kaede: Make yourself comfortable, I shall return, I have some...business to take care off... *he exits off to his room*

~Exit Kaede.~

Bartender:  Hello there, Kitten, what can I get you?  Something warm to eat, something hot to drink?

Tygar: Hm, I think I found something better… *he winks at the bartender*

Bartender: *she places one hand on her hip and smiles*  Aye, you have, Kitten.  A friendly face and a warm smile to thaw your chilled bones.

Tygar: *laughs* I’m not a kitten miss, I’m a full adult...thank you very much…

Bartender: Cubs become wolves, kittens become tigers, kids become adults, but their still as cute as the dickens either way!

Bartender: My old eyes know a good thing when they see one.

Tygar: You are very wise, and very kind. I thank you for such a grand welcome...*he puts down some gold* I'd like a glass of red blood wine, please. *gets up and heads towards a stranger*

Bartender:  Here you are Kitten, enjoy your stay...

Tygar: *bows slightly as he heads over to the fireplace, passing by Trillean, he greets her* Good evening maiden, old man winter is ravaging out there...I thought it was raining here yesterday...

Trillean: *she smiles looking up to the tiger* It was, interesting how it changed so fast...but no matter, I am used to winter.

Trillean: The winters here are nothing compared to the ones that I left in my homeland.

Tygar: *he sit downs* Fire...oh blessed fire...*his tails bounces*

Bartender: *watches his active tail* It won't be so blessed if your tail gets in it, be careful.

Tygar: *chuckles at the bartenders comments and turns to Trillean* So, where might your homeland be?

Trillean: *she chuckles lightly* My homeland is a place called Viraikale, where cold men are born and made, and women bare the frost of their iron hearts.

Trillean: Where is yours?

Tygar: I am not accustomed to winter, I come from the southern plains of Tigera, where Tigera Castle stands tall and proud.

Trillean: So you are a feline from the southern plains, where the jungles are fabled to be the most beautiful in the world?

Tygar: You mistaken my home for jungles, alas the plains can certainly be tall like trees.

Tygar: *he takes off a set of darts from his wrist*

Trillean: *She eyes him warily* Why are there darts in your wrists sir?

Tygar: It be my weapon, fair lady...

Tygar: We call them "Dart Claws"

Tygar: Indeed the weapon may look strange, but it is no stranger to those who have felt it's power...

Trillean: Hmm, is it poisoned?

Tygar: It can be, the claw tips can be posed with any element, poison being just one of them.

Trillean: Hmm, interesting little trick.

Trillean: *smiles* And you need not address me in such a proper manner, I am a bard after all.

Tygar: 'Tis not a problem milady, it is our country's law to address all outsiders to this courtesy.

Trillean: *she nods* That is a good law to have.

Tygar: *he olds up hand* Allow me to demonstrate my "Dart Claws" for you.

Trillean: *she nods hiding her excitement* Be my guest.

**The feline gets up from his seated position and takes out a set of blue claws that are frozen to the touch. With a quick jerk and a click, the claws are inserted into his claw sockets**

Tygar: *looking around the tavern* Is there anything around her that I may of shoot? *grins*

Tygar: *sees a empty bottle of wine and points* Perhaps that bottle of wine over there?

Trillean: *she smiles* Just watch your aim.

Tygar: Indeed, I shall...

**The feline were-tiger, Tygar, slowly begins to lift his right paw focusing his aim directly at the single wine bottle placed conveniently on the bar countertop. Stretching his left paw a bit, he places it over his right paw in a left over right motion. After taking a deep breath, the cat extends his claws outward and fires a single claw...The claw hurries like lightning at the wine bottle and in just a mere second, all that remains are shattered glass shards all over the floor**

Tygar: *he grins happily and blows on the claw sockets with delight* Ah yes, I've still got it....

Bartender: *she chuckles lightly* Nice shot, Love.  The broom is in the closet.

Tygar: *snarls playfully* Alright...

Trillean: *she turns the pegs of her harp, experimentally plucking the strings.*  Are all your people gifted with this skill?

Tygar: *sweeping* The only elements I don't possess are curative elements...

Tygar: Not all possess this skill...a few are better at it than others, it's take months to perfect it and even then, it still isn't perfect.

Trillean: Nothing is perfect.

Tygar: if I was perfect, I would have nothing to practice on...*smiles gently*

Trillean: *she shrugged off her cloak letting it fall to the floor.* What is the use of becoming a warrior if there is nothing to work on or learn.

Tygar: You read my mind exactly, love...

Trillean: *she smiles and puts a hand over her mouth* Love, one of the better things I have been called.

Tygar: *finished with sweeping up the glass shards, he puts the broom back in closet, afterwards, he takes his dart claws off and sets them on the table* 

Tygar: Hm? Not all treat you this way?

Trillean: Certainly not all.

Tygar: *sits himself down in a chair across from her* I am sorry...

Trillean: *She shrugs* Why be, I am not.  I love what I do and I do not believe in regret.

Tygar: Please stay seated, I shall go freshen myself up, I still am feeling the effects of the snowstorm...

Trillean: *she reseats herself by the fireplace, allowing the flames to warm her*

Trillean: Wait... *she raises her hand to stop him*

Tygar: Hmm? Something wrong?

Trillean: *she throws a bag of coins at him* Get me a drink would you?

Tygar: *laughs* Of course...

Tygar: *throws bag back* but I can pay for this with what I've got, consider this a token of my appreciation, for our conversations...*he smiles*

Trillean: *she returned back to her tuning, catching the bag in the air without turning away* Alright than...

Trillean: For buying my drink, I shall play for you, what would you like to hear?

Tygar: Whatever moves your heart, I shall like to hear it...

Tygar: Any preference in drink? I prefer red blood wines...if you insist I can get us two of them...

Trillean: I prefer a good spiced mead myself with hazel nut.

Tygar: Then it shall be done...

Bartender: *speaking from the counter* I can always spice the wine for you, Loves, won't be a bother.

Bartender: Then, you get the best of both worlds.

Tygar: Thank you Miss, *takes a glass of red blood wine and a glass of spiced mead with hazel nut and sets them down on a nearby table*  Here you are...

Tygar: *he nods affirmatively, and goes into a private room to freshen up*

Trillean: *she begins to play a slow sweet song that consisted of low vibrating notes, her voice rising to a high soprano*

Tygar: *takes off golden armor, freshens up hair and clothes, and comes back looking more handsome than ever*

Trillean: *she smirks, and stands* Not bad, but I have seen better.

Tygar: *his face drops at the comment* Ah well...I tried didn't I? *he chuckles lightly as she joins in*

Bartender: *chuckling* He's a handsome lookin' fellow, you got to give him that much, Love.

Tygar: *smiles at the bartender, then turns back to Trillean* That song....I feel as though I have heard it somewhere before...

Trillean: *she stops her playing for a second to answer him* It is a common lullaby.

Tygar: Perhaps that's why....hmmm...

Trillean: Probably.

Trillean: What are your people called?

Tygar: We don't really have a name...

Tygar: You could call us the Tigerase.

Trillean: Hmm and I assume this is from the tiger like tail and insertion of the claws?

Tygar: Take a closer look milady, I am a tiger. *chuckles*

Tygar: *meows playfully*

Trillean: *she smiles, and a growl comes out from under her lips.* My eyesight is not that good, but I thought I smelled a cat.

Bartender: If you two promise not to snitch the wine, I'll leave you alone in peace, while I restock the the hard stuff.

**With that, The Bartender smiles as she heads towards the storage room and out of sight**

~Exit the Bartender.~

Tygar: But by all means, I am not rough and I am not vicious...well when I want to be that is...

Tygar: Perhaps you can tell me how you learned some amazing skills on your ...instrument

Trillean: *she pushes her hair back only to have it fall in her face again.* My brother taught me, it is a called a harp..

Tygar: *lifts hair from her face and smiles* Hair...troublesome at times I know...

Trillean: *she blows it up out of her face again* Sometimes.

Trillean: But you only have fur don't you?

Tygar:  Yes, that is correct. *scratches chin* 

Tygar: But, unlike other felines, we don't really like water all that well...we use a special technique that pools the water within our bodies to hydrate and cleanse ourselves.

Trillean: Very unusual...so basically you wouldn't need to take a bath with that technique.

Tygar: Well...it works to a point...but, it also drains a bit of our energies, so there comes a time when a bath is necessary. 

Tygar: Snow, is another matter, we have no problems with it, but we are not used to it.

Trillean: *she grins* I myself like the warm waters near your homeland.  Snow is much different,  I am assuming you have never lived around it much?

Tygar: Not at all, I was surprised to come up here and seeing nothing but the white stuff on the ground...unusual weather we've been having as of late...

Trillean: Since you're a feline, do you like this? *she walks up standing on her tiptoes and scratches him on the head*

Tygar: *grins* Ooooh,  you found my weak spot....

Trillean: *she smiles and stops moaning a bit* Weak ankles, can't stand that long on my tip toes.

Tygar: *frowns* Aww...

Trillean: So what is your name?

Tygar: You can call me Tygar.

Trillean: Alright than, a pleasure to meet you Sir Tygar.

Trillean: Have any family?

Tygar: Just my relatives in Tigera...

Trillean: And those relatives would be?

Tygar: That I cannot tell you...I am sorry...

Trillean: *she looks at him suspiciously, placing a hand on her hips* And why can't you tell me? 

Tygar: *he frowns* If I told you....I would feel like an outcast....

Tygar: Word would get around fast...you see.

Trillean: Alright than, I will not prod you any longer, but I am sure the day will come when we will have a better understanding of each other...

Trillean: So tell me why did you leave home?

Tygar: I'm on a journey...I just happen to run into this place on my way to the mountains...

Trillean:  *she stands and crosses her arms* Oh I see, quite a secretive fellow aren't you?

Tygar: *sighs* Alright, if you insist I will tell you, but you must promise not to tell anyone else...

Trillean: I promise on bard's honor.

Tygar: I'm really...a prince...

Trillean: *she shrugs* That's all?

Tygar: You must understand, things like these don't go well with outsiders....things spread fast..

Trillean: Yes, yes of course, I understand.

Trillean: I am royalty myself, you see...

Trillean: They spread like fleas through hounds.

Tygar: Hmm? You are? ...I am surprised my lady...

Trillean: And why is that?

Tygar: *sighs* I didn't think you were, most royal member have a trademark about them, that is easy to spot first hand...as for you, I could not tell from first glance that you were royal...my apologizes.

Trillean: *smiles* It is alright, I prefer it be a secret anyway...

Tygar: *smiles back* We have much in common... I shall be back in a short while, I sense uneasiness in the air...

**The feline sniffs the air around him, sensing a disturbance. He quickly returns to the room that contains his armor, slips the barrier back on and with a swift bow and nod, he exits without a word**

~Exit all.~

***

ACT II, SCENE 2 - The Last Chance Tavern - The Arrival of Evil - 4 p.m.

**The morning quickly becomes afternoon as the travelers take it easy within the walls of the tavern. The air remains stale with only a brief wind whisking by every now and then. Trillean is lost in thought, recalling the events of last night and comparing them with memories of her own. Kaede is still upstairs now dreaming. Ryanna now awakens finally as the drifts of sleep leave her side. The Bartender is now shuffling bottles in a mysterious order. Tygar still has no returned from whatever it was that he left to do...all remains quiet... **

~Enter Ryanna, the Bartender, and Trillean~

Ryanna: *the elf walks in from upstairs and looks around the tavern, re-familiarizing herself with the place, covering herself at the sight of stillness*

Trillean: *she sips the mead that Tygar had gotten for her, it still holding the unique taste that still holds a punch even after all the time has passed*  Strange characters they truly were, I wonder...could it be...? Nelo Angelo...that name intrigues my thoughts...

Trillean: I have dealt with mages like him before, it is impossible to understand the nature of them. *she sips the drink again* If only Kaede's eyes had been sharper...he might not have received that injury...

~Enter Kaede.~

Kaede: *walks in from upstairs unnoticed* Indeed, your eyes were sharper than mine last night.

Trillean: *her eyes wandered over towards Kaede and she slowly recomposes herself* Greetings, did you sleep well? Even, if it be late?

Kaede: *he raises his glass that he had just picked up from the countertop* Indeed. Almost too much...

Trillean: *she waves Ryanna over to sit with them* Come join us, it is a cold morning.

Ryanna: *pulls up a chair and sits down on it* Thank you...

Ryanna: *leans back in it and looks out the window not speaking a single word*

**The tranquility of the air becomes staggered in an instant as the roar of the wind takes over from a now open-door. There stands the proud feline himself, Tygar, covered in snow as the blizzard howls outside like a pack of wolves.**

Tygar: *rushes back in while covering his armored body* BRRRRRRRRRR!!!

Kaede: *glances at the door, still swinging from the fast entry*

Trillean: *she laughs* Tygar...always wanting to make a grand entrance.

Ryanna: *grins and chuckles a little* That is his name I presume?

Tygar: *wipes away icicles from his whiskers* It's freezing out there!

Kaede: *he lets out a trifle nod towards the newcomer whom he now truly looks at for the first time* So you are Tygar, correct?

Trillean: *she covered her mouth to stifle a yawn*

Tygar: *shows claws* I shall let these speak for themselves yes? *grins*

Tygar: *places claws down*

Kaede: *nods to the speaking tiger, eyes squinting in jest*

Trillean: *she waves her hand towards the tiger while speaking to the others* Don't worry about him, he's a regular house cat.

Kaede: *sniffs* Rather large for a house cat...

Ryanna: *leans back and crosses arms* Where is Ari?

Kaede: *whispering to Trillean* More like a house lion cub...

Kaede: *turning to Ryanna, he blinks, as if thinking* She's not up yet? I'm sure she will soon enough...no worries...

Tygar: *overhears Kaede with his comment about him and a lion* Please do not confuse me for those weak lions...

Trillean: *turns to Tygar* Weak? What makes you call them weak?

Tygar: *snarls* If only you knew...

Trillean: *she places her harp upon the table, and began tuning it as always* It's a never ending cycle tuning this thing.

Tygar: They may think they are king, but they are a bunch of ruffians...

Trillean: *she puts up a finger* Ruffians, but intelligent ones.

Ryanna: *nods back and looks out the window* The sun is a very haunting color this afternoon within this blizzard....I wonder if it's a hint as what is yet to come...will more blood be spilled today?

Kaede: *nods to Trillean* I learned many a lesson from the Cian cat people in the mountains to the East.

Trillean: *she turned towards Ryanna and stared out at the sun* Blood is always spilt here...it seems.

Kaede: *nods to Ryanna* Aye, I agree with you milady, we shall have to remain on guard...

Tygar: As long as it be not my blood, I shall prevail...

Trillean: *she suddenly become serious as she looks the tiger in the eye with concern* Did you find any trouble nearby, you were gone an awfully long time...

Tygar: *he shakes his head* Nay maiden...nothing rummaging around these parts...Perhaps my nose got the best of me this time...still, it's too quiet...eerie I must say...

Kaede: Aye, it is very quiet...I rephrase what I said earlier, we need to stay on guard...after those thugs from last night...t'would be a shame if we were to be defeated now...

Trillean: *she puts her hands to her chin in a dream like state of mind* I hope we have a clear night tonight, compared to last night, I would like to see the moon again...I love the moon, so calm and beautiful.

Ryanna: *continues to look out the window* Yes blood is always shed somewhere....and somewhere today...a child is mourning for the loss of a parent...

Kaede: *he leans back in his chair, remembering the attack of the several clothed men from last night*

***

**Again, the entryway blows open, this time to a newcomer, dressed in a black cloak, the darkest black ever seen. A sense of darkness shrouded from his presence. He holds a mysterious book, his yellow eyes glow like a corona and his face is literally hidden within his robes along with a blade shining with darkness...all screech at his presence.**

~Enter Nelo Angelo.~

Kaede: *narrowing his eyes, the young man carefully watches the dark figure, as his lips continue to move to the conversation around him*

Tygar: *eyes the shining weapon of destruction underneath the black cloak of the dark figure*

Ryanna: *turns to the figure and watches silently, face still hidden within her own cloak*

Trillean: *she turns her head towards the new stranger* Seems he stirs quite a presence.

Kaede: *turns up the collar of his overcoat, pulling the long brimmed hat closer about his brows, covering the pale skin*

Ryanna: *nods slowly and then proceeds to get up*

Nelo Angelo: *He would walk towards the bar counter and take a seat. Not looking at a person in the room he would sit there and take out a medallion and began to fiddle with it in his hand, not replying to the barkeep.*

Bartender: May I help you stranger? *she speaks to the dark wonderer*

Tygar: *he begins to sharpen his claws carefully as he gives the stranger the look of the tiger*

Kaede:  *sharply intakes his breathe, nodding slightly*

Trillean: *a smile crosses her face, things were getting far too dark for the bard.  She gets up and crosses to Tygar, she tugs at his ear in an act of play.*

Kaede: *stands up, excusing himself, moving to smoke a pipe, just outside the tavern doors*

Ryanna: *turns and walks to the tavern door with Kaede feeling uncomfortable with her surroundings* 

Tygar: *his eyes keep focused on the dark figure, yet his feels the touch of the maiden, yet he doesn't give in to her playfulness as he is all seriousness*

Nelo Angelo: *Gazing at the inscription on the medallion, he grins and puts it away. Sitting there, he would begin to tap his fingers against the counter of the bar. As if he was waiting for something to happen*

Trillean: *she puts her hands on her hips and walks towards the dark figure.  She gingerly takes a seat beside him, she pays for a drink and shoves it over towards him*

Bartender: *speaks to the pair* Sometimes a drink can begin everlasting friendships... *encouraging the dark man to speak*

**The stranger does nothing, only starring at the gold medallion that plagues within his hands, it's symbols glowing within the inscription... Meanwhile, we shift gears towards the outside of the tavern, where the blizzard has now stalled to mere flurries, yet the cold air makes clouds of the hot air that Kaede and Ryanna breathe...**

Kaede: *he begins to scan the cloudy skies, as he leans against the walls of the tavern, allowing himself a small sigh*

Ryanna: *looks at Kaede* The night is far from over my friend....tread cautiously....for who knows what beings lie in the darkness....*nods and walks to a tied up horse*

Kaede: *nods as he smokes his pipe*  I thank you, but might I ask where you intend to travel Madame? Surely the blizzard has only stopped temporality...

Ryanna: *unties the white mare, jumps onto the saddle and looks at Kaede* Perhaps, but I dare not extend my stay...I must return to a place...a place....I long wish to forget....

Kaede: *nods again* I well know the feelings.

Kaede: A fellow pariah might you be?

Ryanna: *nods* Yes...but also...a hunter....

Kaede: *he smiles* Are you mixed as well?

Ryanna: *looks at the sun as it begins to set* Let us just say...I am a person in this world of chaos and life...that is seeking...peace.

Kaede: *he puts his pipe away* As do we all...

***

**We shift back inside the tavern, where Trillean is trying to get the newcomer to speak. Tygar becomes uneasy and starts to walk towards the tavern door as if he were leaving...**

Trillean: *she eyes the stranger trying to get him to break his silence, she attempts to start a conversation* Tell me, milord, may I have the pleasure of knowing your name?

Nelo Angelo: *he slowly turns around. His cold eyes turn towards the bard and his mouth would finally open. He would finally break the silence that beckons his figure* The name's Nelo Angelo...

Trillean: *she nods in response* Tell me, why do you exude such a presence?

Tygar: *heading for the exit of the tavern, he suddenly turns back towards the bartender, giving his warm smile again* Miss, would you happen to have a dart board on which I may practice my skills on, rather than using your bottles, like before...*

Bartender: *her eyes light up with excitement* Why, yes, I believe I do Kitten, I shall check the closet for you... *heads towards the storage closet* 

Tygar: I thank you milady. *he sits down waiting*

Nelo Angelo: *Grinning* Tell me, what is it that you people fear? Is it the fear of death, or the one that brings death...

Trillean: *she clears her throat, shocked at the tone of his voice* Everyone fears death, and fears it even more when it has a face.  Are you that face?

Bartender: *goes over to Tygar with the acquired dart board* Here you are Love, please aim carefully and true...

**The tiger gives an affirmative nod as he takes the dart board from her hands. Placing the object on a nearby wall, he eyes an imaginary line, loads his dart claws with regular darts and begins his focus exercises, all this as Nelo prepares to deliver a shocking message to Trillean**

Nelo Angelo: *chuckles* I'll tell you what I am... I'm the one that haunts you in your deepest darkest dreams. The one that you hope that you will never have to meet. The one who will end mankind. *looks up at her with tensed eyes*

Bartender:  Oh my... *she turns around pretending that she is pre-occupied with an arrange of cleaning duties, yet she continues listening intensively on the conversation*

***

Kaede:  Come, it is a wretched, cold evening to travel by mare, join me for a cup and perhaps we can get Ari out of slumber, yes?

Ryanna:  *nods and pats the horse's neck*...I think I shall....Raine here rode much yesterday getting here....she deserves a rest....and speaking of Ari...

Kaede:  What about her? *scratches head*

Ryanna: (outside) I heard her leave...early this morning...I have no idea where...but I'm sure it is nothing and that she can take care of herself...still I'm worried...

Kaede:  *smiles as he places a hand on her shoulder* I am sure she will be fine...she fought quite a battle last night, yes?

Ryanna: I suppose...you are right...

Kaede: *nods* Raine...that is a beautiful name, you are acquainted with the elvish folk?

Kaede: *he walks to the horse, gently patting its flanks*

Ryanna: *she reaches up to her cloak and takes off her hood* Yes I am acquainted with them....I am an elf myself.....

**Kaede takes a good look at the lady before him seeing a familiar trait that he too shares. The long-pointed ears of the elf. He merely blinks in silence before taking off his brimmed hat again revealing his own heritage once more, again, the long-pointed ears are present. Ryanna's eyes rise in surprise as she nods affirmatively at him**

Ryanna: Kaede...I...I did not know...forgive me...

Kaede: There's nothing to forgive...for once...I am pleased to meet another elf...it's been far too long...

Ryanna: *she chuckles lightly as she takes the reins of her horse and walks off into the nearby stables behind the tavern, she enters a stall*

Kaede: *following the elf, he takes a bag from his belt, once again rubbing the mare's flanks, he places the item in front of her stall, to the side*

Kaede: *nods* Yes...it's been long since I was welcomed by any of the Fair Folk.

Ryanna: *taking off Raine's saddle and halter, she smiles and speaks in Elvish tongue* Rest tonight well my friend... *she turns back towards Kaede* I shall be with you shortly...I have some practicing I wish to do...

Kaede: *he nods heading back towards the tavern*

***

**The air in the tavern now has been infected by a variety of emotions. The shadow of a man begins to stir things up as he levitates his drink into the air, all begin to marvel at his little trick**

Trillean: *Her eyes widened, but returns to normal in an instant* Well than, good thing I am not human...

Tygar: *eyes grow red as he eyes the death bringer even more than before, begins to growl lightly*

Kaede: *he re-enters the tavern scanning the room for trouble...he stares at Tygar seeing his paw raised and pointed at the newcomer*

Nelo Angelo: *Laughing* For what is soon to come...No one shall be saved. *He would slowly turn back around starring back down at his medallion*

Kaede: *rushes hastily sensing death drawing close in the tavern, he steps in front of Tygar and places a hand on Tygar's right paw*  Peace friend, you have uncanny accuracy with your claws, he is speaking that of lies I'm sure...

Bartender: *looks at the dark figure showing a small sign of fear in her eyes* Sir! If you insist on hostelling around my establishment, then I shall ask you to leave...

Trillean: *She stands on top of the bar, taking up a violin, attempting to drive off the tenseness exhibited in the tavern* Anyone care for music?

Tygar: *speaking in a tone of surprise* You play the violin too?  Thou art skillful in all of music...

Trillean: I play anything I want too at the moment...*she begins to play, the melody of the stringed instrument filling the room with it's tune*

Kaede: *seeing that Tygar has calmed down, he returns to the outside to check on Ryanna. He stands bemused,  hearing the clatter of glasses in the bar, yet the emptiness from the cold night being displayed outside. He watches the elf with eyes of curiousness*

**The elf takes out from beneath her cloak a sturdy cross-bow. At one point she becomes lost within its textured appearance, it's marveled shapes and unique texture. Slowly she takes out a quiver from her keep, places it within the projectile of the bow and fixes her eyes on a nearby tree off in the short distance. Her gaze becomes narrow as she concentrates on her target...all seemingly set, she frees the arrow of it's burden, letting it soar through the hazy air of snow...and as quickly as it began, the arrow's journey ends making direct contact with the dead center of the tree, she lowers her bow satisfied with the results. From behind her, Kaede claps with astonishment, widely impressed with the young maiden skill in archery**

Kaede: Very impressive milady...wherever did you learn to shoot like that?

***

Trillean: *sighing deeply, she puts down the violin as she reaches into her tunic* I cannot stand this act of quietness, I am leaving...Tygar care to join me? *she winks*

Tygar *he shakes his head as he carefully continues to watch the silent figure as he fiddles with his medallion some more*

Trillean: *She takes out a deep bow and jumps off the bar, she goes to the table and reclaims her cloak along with her sword, she slashes the deadly blade several times into the air, then with a stiff nod, she hooks on her cloak and walks silently out of the tavern calling back to the feline* Suit yourself...'till we cross paths again...

Tygar: *his focus on the stranger diminishes as he attempts to go back to his game*

***

**Ryanna starts stalking towards the tree attempting to reclaim her arrow when suddenly, from out of no where, the elf sees a memory flash in her mind. Hollow screams cry out in pain, a dark hued sky plagues the event as several bodies are lying on the ground, suddenly, everything becomes silent, with the exception of the still wind...the moon begins to descend forth upon the heavens as the evening arrives**

Ryanna: *her eyes widen at the memory as it ends, however, she merely shrugs it off, trying to hide it from the man who watches her from behind, she calms down and pulls out the arrow from the tree*

Kaede:  *his eyes twitch as he feels a shift, something...unexplainable...*

Kaede: *he shakes his head, trying to drive the feeling from his thoughts* 

Kaede: *coughs* Ahem, I'd forgotten...how skilled your people are with those...

Ryanna: *looks at Kaede, speaking in elvish* My people have long been the masters of archery....and my father...was among the best...

Kaede: *smiles* Ah, the ancient tongue...now that I have not heard for a long time...*he looks up as the sky becomes darker and a slight sparkle of snow begins to fall once again*

Ryanna: *nods, as she resumes her speaking in elvish* It is good to talk in the ancient ways....it reminds me of what joys I have had...and also...what pain I have seen....

Kaede: I should like to have met your father... *suddenly his mind becomes fluttered with a strange, yet familiar memory, he puts it out of his mind* Yes... it is indeed a task to excel above other Elves in that for which the Elves are well known.

Ryanna: *again she hears the screams enter her mind, louder and more terrified then before...but once again, they die down, she stands emotionless*

Kaede: Is something the matter? 

Ryanna: It...it is nothing...

Kaede: *looking to the skies, he blinks* I have said this before, and I will say it again, this snow carries with it the burden of memory.

Ryanna: *looks at snow clouds* Yes they do....they bring many memories back...many I no longer wish to have.....

Ryanna: *puts bow and quiver down against the tree*

Ryanna: My father....is no longer among the living....he perished 600 years ago...in the midst of battle...a blizzard such as what was happening earlier...

Kaede: *he sighs* I am...sorry...

***

Nelo Angelo: *He silently begins to laugh at himself as if something were very amusing.* Soon enough....*He would say to himself and begins to read from a Diary of some sort from his cloak pocket.*

**The feline prince once again prepares for another shot on the dart board, his mind this time becomes cluttered with evil ambitions, his right arm twitching as she tries to stabilize it from a sudden feeling of uncertainty. He repeats the same prep motions as before, but not in as smooth of a fashion, once again the dart flies...and lands in the upper right portion of the board...far, far from the target**

Tygar: *breathes deeply and roars in digust sending chills down the spine of the bartender*

Bartender: Tygar? What...what troubles you kitten?

Tygar: *the tiger suddenly calms down as she wipes a layer of sweat from his forehead* Where was my aim....? 

**Outside meanwhile, the snowstorm once again begins to increase in strength, but only for a minute as it calms slightly. Trillean is desperately searching for any hints or leads of Ari's whereabouts. The snowstorm once again begins to pick up in intensity as a mass load of the white stuff falls on top of her from the treetops**

Trillean: *She shakes her head, the laughter of Nelo reaching her all the way out there in the midst of the forest* Damnit! I can't pick up her  trail due to this blizzard, and where have Kaede and Ryanna ventured off to?!  I do not like this at all...

Trillean: *she searches through the woods, finally giving up, she turns back around and heads back towards the tavern*

***

Kaede: *again, his eyes twitch, feeling something amiss, did he just hear...whispering laughter? Looking back, he notices that Ryanna has vanished, but quickly catches on to her track before they are covered by the endless snow*

Kaede: Ryanna, stay put...the weather is no pushover...

Ryanna: I enjoy the snow...let me enjoy this moment...

**The two begins to walk through the thick forest, the snow slowing their pursuit by foot. Kaede changes the subject and begins to ask questions or the lady's origins**

Kaede: So, now, what brought you to these parts, so far from your people?

Ryanna: *continues speaking in elvish* I am the few remaining survivors of the great Elf capital...which now...lies in ruins...

Kaede: ...The Elf Capital? You were there for it's downfall?

Kaede: *while continuing his stare at Ryanna, he repeats his last phrase* You were there when it fell? Answer me!

Ryanna: *overcome with emotion, she stops in her tracks in an open field, takes out a long sword and begins to look at it as the snow melts upon it's radiant light*...Yes, I was....

Ryanna: I remember it well...I remember the screaming...the flames of hatred rising and consuming everything in its path, leaving nothing but despair behind it....

Kaede: *stops and looks away*  Then perhaps...you remember a woman, dressed in blood red silk...Hopelessly beautiful and terrible...

Ryanna: *slashes the sword downward and stops*...Yes....I remember an elf like that..... vaguely....but I do remember her.

Kaede: *he would wince slightly* She was no elf, she was an Atlantean...Masquerading as an Elf...until it no longer mattered.

Ryanna: *looks at Kaede* Oh yes...the visitor...

Ryanna: She arrived a day before the attack....there was a dark coldness around her.....

Kaede: *he heaves a long sigh* Ah, she had an intoxicating gaze... *he would then shake his head*

Ryanna: *she narrows her eyes* She perished among the fire too...

Kaede: *a thought entered his mind, unbidden, and he grimaced at her in response to it* Think you so Ryanna? Think you so?

Ryanna: *she looks back at him, her eyes questioning the man standing in front of her, his words*

***

Trillean: *she walks up to Tygar as he is playing his game of darts*

Tygar: *talks to himself* I cannot concentrate...what is...this feeling...?

Tygar: *tries to fire the second dart, but it flies far low of the dart board...he clutches his head intensely*

Trillean: *looks toward Tygar with upsetting eyes* I do not trust that stranger.  He is either bluffing very well, or is completely insane.

Tygar: *he stutters between words* His words...they are affecting me...in more horrible ways than I could even begin to imagine...

Trillean: I think perhaps we should look for Kaede and Ryanna. They have now gone missing, and in such harsh weather conditions, I dare not let them freeze to death... *she gestured for him to follow her as she leaves the tavern once again and trails off into the woods once more*

Tygar: *he looks outside at her as she descends into the forest, he slowly follows*

Trillean: *she runs through the woods heading northwestward, trying to pick up a scent. She put her nose to the air catching a small scent, as she follows it walking into a clearing where the two stand*

Tygar: *loses track of the maiden as he collapses into the heavy snow, his paws nearly frozen*

Nelo Angelo: (from inside the tavern) *he would continue to read from the book* Ah here it is...... *He begins to speak out loudly in a language that's of pure terror. Reading a passage from the book. He would stop and grin* Thus it is foreseen...

Tygar: *he meows loudly to the rising moon*

***

**The wind begins to pick up gusting well over a comfortable breeze, Kaede begins to explain to the young elf Ryanna his remembrance of that dreaded day the Elf Capital fell...**

Kaede: Ryanna, she alone was not there, I too was THERE, and it wasn't just the fire that killed her...nor was it just ambition which brought her to your capital, both are my burden to bear...

Ryanna: *she looks at the ground, her voice slowly rising in intensity* Burdens huh? Burdens. You think I know no burdens?!

Kaede: *more light flashes before his eyes, as he continue to blink the sensation from his mind*

Trillean: *she turns to see that the tiger had not followed , but ignores and taps Kaede on the shoulder surprising him* Sorry to interrupt, but, we may have some more trouble.

Kaede: *he turns slowly, toward Trillean* It's him...isn't it?

Trillean: Who else could it be...

Ryanna: My father was slaughtered right before my eyes....my mother tortured....*she stops holding back tears*

Kaede: * turns to her* I am sure you do know pain Ryanna, but it was not your fault the city burned, it was mine...

Ryanna: My people.....gone right before my eyes....*feels a tear falls down*......No it was my own....

Kaede: *he looks at Trillean with sad eyes...*

Kaede: *whispering*  I told you my love and I were separated by death...

Trillean: You know when it will happen, I think you should stay close to the tavern and get her mare out of the stables. *She returns his sad glance* And, I am sorry for that.

Ryanna: *continues* My father was ruler of the capital....and I was suppose to take his place......

Ryanna: ...But like a coward I ran....ran from my fear, when I should of fought it.....

Kaede: *whispers to Trillean* It is because I killed her, after she slaughtered that girl's parents...

Trillean: *she took a step back appalled* What exactly did you love Kaede?

Kaede: *smiling sadly* An Atlantean...but I knew her before her change, the...lust for power consumed her...

Kaede: I was too late to stop her, and foolishly expounded on the city of my uncles.

Ryanna: *looks at the moon*......I am the lost heir to the capital.....and yet....I do not have the right to claim it....

Trillean: Power consumes all....come we must find the tiger, I fear he's lost his way trying to follow me...

Kaede: *nods, then looks back at the women sobbing from a distance away*  Ryanna, Will you join us? We have much to speak on.

Kaede: Time may yet return to you your birthright.....and I may yet see to your revenge.

Ryanna: *adjusts her cloak, sheaths her sword and puts on quiver while picking up bow* I have a task, I must handle first...and then...I shall join you.....

Kaede: *he nods*  Tarry not overmuch, the woods feel disturbed this evening, same with the blizzard...

Ryanna: *whistles loud into the air as my white mare comes out with saddle and halter on within minutes*

Ryanna: *runs up to the horse and jumps on, looks at Kaede and Trillean*....Till we meet again....

Ryanna: *turns horse and gallops off*

***

Nelo Angelo: *He would put the book away and walk out of the tavern toward a small pond and stand there, the darkness following his every move*

Nelo Angelo: *standing by the pond he would take out the medallion he had fiddled with at the tavern. Talking to himself* 
You were wrong very wrong.....you can't prevent what is meant to be.  *he would then throw the medallion into the pond and grin* 
It is time.

Nelo Angelo: *Still standing by the pond, He would look at the sky and says* This will be a very interesting night......*Grinning as if he knows how it shall end*

***

**Lying in the snow, nearly frozen to death by the harsh snowstorm, Tygar begins to feel an awakened power surging within his soul as he begins to glow a bright blue, t he thoughts that had run through his mind just a short while ago, begin to be replaced by an all new terror. His eyes jolt open, surging a blood red, he roars out enraged, his breath becoming intense, and the sweat begins running down the side of his face. As his rage consumes him, all the snow begins to melt around him spreading forth across the distance in a radius. All the snow falling towards him becomes evaporated instantly, never making it to the ground**

Kaede: *turning to Trillean, he would nod* Please, lead the way.

Trillean: *She quickens her pace and unsheathed her sword, she stumbles out through the woods feeling very heavy all of a sudden*

~Exit All.~

***

ACT II, SCENE 3 - Near The Last Chance Tavern - Tygar's Rage - 8 p.m.

~Enter Kaede, Trillean, Ryanna, and Tygar~

**Step in step, the man called Kaede keeps pace with the women called Trillean in front of him, almost stepping on the heel of her boots, preparing for the unexpected, he draws a cross-bow...Trillean meanwhile begins to run faster than ever before, drawing on her strength, she notices the sudden absence of snow ahead of her**

Kaede: *he stops in his tracks, centering the bow on the evil ahead* What manner of devilry is this?

Trillean: *She stopped hastily* What has happened here? *She turns to Kaede*

Tygar: *eyes begin to burn red as a fiery flame, not aware of anything that is happening around him*

Kaede: *shakes his head* Tygar? What...what are you doing?

Trillean: Something's wrong...this isn't the same Tygar we met back in the tavern...

Kaede: *he nods* Trillean, hold my bow, if anything happens, if you feel danger, shoot...

Kaede: *hands her the crossbow, his arms raised, towards Tiger*

Trillean: *sighs deeply* Great one disaster after another.

Trillean: *She takes up the cross bow and aims at the tiger between the eyes* One shot is all it would take...

Kaede: *speaks aloud to the tiger* Tell me friend, what troubles you?

Tygar: *suddenly, with a giant burst of speed, hr races towards the maiden and pins her to the ground and hisses wickedly, her bow flings from her grasp*

***

Ryanna: *feels a sudden disturbance in power and stops Raine* What the...

Ryanna: *looks back at the tavern and turns Raine around* *speaks in elvish*....Come Raine, run with all your might!

***

Trillean: *Her eyes show the look for terror, but with the slightest of ease, she flips him over onto his back in one swift motion*

Tygar: *laughs as he again hisses at her* You cannot destroy me, I am your worst nightmare...

Kaede: *his eyes flash in anger, as he draws a bag form his belt*

Trillean: *A low growl escaped her throat*

Kaede: *he empties the dust from his pouch, blowing it at the struggling figures*

Tygar: *begins to glow again as his body increases in temperature drastically*

Tygar: *curses at Trillean* You fool....

Ryanna: *observes the melted snow as she comes across the evil at hand*

Ryanna: *jumps off Raine and draws sword, standing behind Kaede watching the fight go on in front of her*

Kaede: *the golden dust emanates, engulfing the two, slowing the motion in it's radius*

Trillean: *A large set of canines began to form and her eyes turn gold, she flings a cheap shot into his eyes as she draws herself off of him* Get me away from him, or I shall kill him!

Kaede: *he walks to the circle, picks up the glowing bard and begins carrying her over his back*

Trillean: *Her vision spun* Take me to the woods.  I am changing...

Tygar: *turns around and looks at Kaede aiming his right arm at him in rage*

Tygar: In my sight, now you die....*fires poison darts at Kaede*

Kaede: *he hears the hiss of the darts approach, and falls low to the ground as they fly overhead, Trillean hanging on tight to his shoulders. As quick as he rolls on the ground, he gets back up*

Kaede: *seeing Ryanna, he makes a quick nod and rushes into the woods, he begins to run even faster than the speed of the massive blizzard carrying Trillean*

Ryanna: *eyes flash white as she attempts to speaks into the tiger's mind* Stop!!!

Ryanna: *the tiger stares her in the eye, his lips licking the side of his face in hunger, she draws a sword and prepares for any attack the beast may throw at her*

Tygar: *he flies at Ryanna slashing her across the face*

Tygar: *he sinks his teeth into her neck as she cries out in pain*

Ryanna: *screams in pain as her strength pushes the beast over her shoulders, he hits the frozen tundra hard and it instantly melts into nothingness, she jolts a small distance away from him awaiting his next move but holding her neck at the same time, her left eye narrow at the sensitivity of the pain*

Tygar: *he sniffs the air and immediately get a hit of Kaede and Trilean as he sprints after them, catching up with them in hardly any time*

Trillean: *speaking in between breaths* Drop me Kaede...

Kaede: I cannot, that beast has spotted us, if I drop you now...

Ryanna: *she speaks in elvish from a distance as she watches the tiger chase the pair* Your mind is poisoned my friend!

Tygar: *gets a bite off on Kaede and Trillean*

Kaede: *furious, he flings Tiger aside, then runs deeper into the woods, carrying Trillean

Trillean: *She slid off of his shoulder and looks at Tygar infuriated* OW! THAT HURT YOU STUPID CAT!!!

Kaede: *curses, tripping over his feet*

Ryanna: *inspects Tygar's bite he had inflicted on her neck just a moment ago, her hand comes away with some blood*

Trillean: *She runs blindly back to the tiger her eyes fixed on the moon*

Tygar: *Roars in a deep voice, foreign to that of his own* If you wish to live, leave me....

Trillean: You want a fight tiger...I'll be damned, I'll give you one...

Kaede: *gets up and stands ready with a sword, he runs towards Tiger traili