An Undying Light

For this ACT, Ari shall be played by Dawnrider31, tigersblood33 shall play as Tygar, Trillean will be playing as Trillean, lilmisswonders01 shall play as Ryanna, and Kaede83 shall play as Kaede. The editor has added additional lines for Nelo Angelo. Other Characters will be play by whomever.

ACT V, SCENE 1 - Tolamba - The Eastern Hills - Escaping the Madness - 3 a.m.

**Plummeting from the heavens, a large ball of fire slams into the earth's crust in the direct heart of the Elven City setting it's path in ablaze. The populace scatters in a unified terror as the city becomes a scorching flare. Beneath the insanity, an young elf's body lies resting in lace sheet and drapes. A closer look reveals it to be Ryanna who now mumbles incoherently at the quick intake of smoke. Slowly opening her eyes she groans at she looks at the ceiling, again she smells the smothering fog as her senses become high on alert**

~Enter Ryanna and a Healer.~

Ryanna: *she slips out of her bed in a white sleeping gown*...What....what has happened? *her thoughts are clouded as she looks to her right at the approaching healer*

Healer: Ryanna! Are you alright? You have been unconscious for a few days milady...

Ryanna: *she looks at the healer with questionable eyes*...I have? *she sighs* I feel alright now, I guess, but what of Kaede and the others? *her mind races as she hears another blast from outside* What's happening?

Ryanna: *she looks upon her bandages, her tone becoming more demanding* Please, tell me!

Healer: Your friends departed from here a few days ago, they didn't exactly tell us where they were going or what they hoped to accomplish...

Healer: But right now...we must flee this place! The city is in flames from the Apocalypse! The sky rains with fire and the dark army shall be here any minute!!

Ryanna: *she pulls off her bandages and gets up* Well, I'm not going to just sit around here, I'm going to find them! Despite the lurking dangers!

Ryanna: *she quickly gets on a new set of clothes and gathers her belongings from a nearby table*

Healer: Please, Miss Ryanna, don't exhort yourself to walking yet, you've only just regained consciousness, it's unsafe! I'll have a medical team carry you...

Ryanna: *she pulls on her bow and arrow, sheaths her sword in it's place and grabs her necklace putting it on quickly* I'm sorry, I cannot stand around while I know my friends are in danger, I need to my part...if they are out there, I will find them, don't worry...

Healer: *sighs* Alright, I won't stop you, but please, take a few potions along, just in case...

Ryanna: *looks at healer and smiles* Thank you...I will...

**Ryanna exits her room, with the healer now far behind. Following the pure screams down the hallways, she quickly escalates to high speeds down the hall rushing past the escaping elves. At that moment, the ceiling from atop her room begins to collapse inward as a meteorite crashes into the floor completely demolishing the room. She looks back quickly in horror at the fire knowing full well it could have been here in there had she delayed any longer than she had...*

Ryanna: *she goes down a flight of stairs and exits a door, running into the stables*

Ryanna: *looks around and sees a stable boy, speaks in elvish* You there!

~Enter the Stable Boy.~

Ryanna: *walks up to the boy* Where is my white mare, Raine?

Stable Boy: Milady Ryanna? 'Tis good to see you in good heath again, the villain Kaede rode off with her...I am sorry...but you may use on of our excess horses to flee this place...

Ryanna: *she nods and pats the boys shoulder* Thank you very much...

**That exact second, a familiar nay roars from the entrance as the steed of Ryanna, Raine rushes to her master's side with glee. Ryanna strokes the veteran horse's nose as she quickly mounts the fair stallion and rides off through the burning city not wasting a single second**

Ryanna: Come Raine, we ride fast tonight!

**The horse rides with a steady gallop as it channels through the city, having to jump over debris several times at will, the gates quickly become a site for sore eyes as she glares once last time back at the once-colossal city, which now is a scene of pure hell, and exits into the forest disappearing into the early morning sunrise**

Ryanna: I hope they are safe...

***

**Meanwhile, from the training room of Tigera Castle, Prince Tygar is practicing his clawmenship, when suddenly, a sudden eruption from outside shakes the palace foundations violently. Holding his standing position despite the large tremors, the royal feline looks out his palace's main window overseeing the town and its citizen in a panic**

~Enter Tygar.~

Tygar: *his eyes show great concern as he puts on his armor and grabs a pouch from his desk* Something is up...I should go check it out...

**He runs outside of the palace, seeing men, women and children screaming with terror as a meteorite lands right in the middle of the town center**

Tygar: *he curses to himself* It's the end of the world...as that sorcerer foretold...

**With a loud roar, the tiger issues an order to the soldiers to gather all the citizens and to take them to the cellar where they can be safe from the terror outside of the castle. The cellar is large enough to hold at least half his kingdom, yet, he also advises the others to take rummage into their basements if they have one... He also gives a command to his troops to assault any incoming fireballs with ice claws and ice energy blasts**

Tygar: *he shakes his head in disbelief* So many questions, but not a clue where to find the answers...

Tygar: *he calls his horse, White Wind* Come girl, we have to go for a little trip...

Tygar: *mounting the steed quickly, he races out of the city onto the open plains via his steed* There is only one group I can turn to in these desperate times, I must find them at once! *he motions his horse to speed up the pace as they fly over the blistering plains*

***

**At the sight of the now ruined Dark Fortress, masses of dead soldiers from good and evil lie dead on the soaked ground and raining fireballs continue their assault, Elder Tassidus furrows his eyebrows as he lays the unconscious Arshes on the back of his dragon mount**

~Enter Kaede, Elder Tassidus, Trillean, and Ari.~

Tassidus: Go my friend, to the great sky fortress, the one farthest from here, where we shall marshal our forces...go with care...

Tassidus: *the dragon roars once, raising its wings, and flies off into the horizon with the girl strapped to his back*

Kaede: *glaring at the falling fire from the skies...* This is truly a nightmare... *he gets on a stray horse and quickly dodges a small rock of fire*

Trillean: Let's get to the north quickly!

Ari: *she dodges more debris* This is insane...

Ari: *calling to Kaede* We have to go! *again her horse dodges a small meteor* Now!

Kaede: *he nods, kicking his stirrups as he motions for Ari to lead the pack*

Kaede: *nods at her* Lead the way Ari...

Trillean: *She mounts and prods her unicorn horse along to match the pace of Kaede and Ari*

Ari: We need to find a more direct route to the north, these meteors don't look like they're going to stop anytime soon...

Kaede: Well, another dragon mount shall come to us soon...perhaps it will help us find our way...in the meantime, we can only follow the hills as they lead us up into the mountaintops.

Kaede: *nearly getting knocked off his steed from a ball of fire, he cries out a barrier spell to protect the party temporarily * Enough of this madness...

Tassidus: *raising an eyebrow, he sneers at the barrier* Kaede, where did you steal that trick from?

Kaede: *remains silent, marching his horse onwards*

***

**Back in Tigera Plains, Tygar's steed White Wind is galloping across the plains, while Tygar stares at the blood sky, not taking one eye off of it's color**

Tygar: I never thought I'd see this day come...it's too horrifying...

Tygar: *he spots a large formation of rock approaching* Shit...White Wind, go right!! *the large meteorite slams into the earth on the left*

Tygar: *another meteor hurdling fast* LEFT!!

Tygar: *another meteor braces for impact* RIGHT!! *the impact is felt as the horse comes to a halt and reaches for the sky in fright* Whoooa...White White...easy girl...

Tygar: *unable to hold on, he falls off his horse...* Ugh...damn it all...

Tygar: *thunder and lightning fill the plains, the sounds send a horde of feathered birds across the red skies in a panic* Ok...that does it...

***

**Riding further north, the changeling Trillean sparks an interesting debate on their desired destination**

Trillean: Does anyone know where any dwarves are?! It would be best if we went underground in this calamity!

Ari: *sigh of relief* Caves...*coughs*

Tassidus: *he comes swooping down low atop his own dragon steed* I hear you asking about a place of majestic caverns created by dwarves...I've only heard of rumors... of the caves to the north, wondrous caves they are...Dwarves could not resist such a place...

Kaede: *turning to Trillean and Ari,* You know these lands as well as I, better even...do you know where such caves could be?

Ari: *she shakes her head* I stay above ground.

Trillean: *She nods* Just beyond that ridge to the north.

Kaede: *he nods his thanks* Then let us go...

Trillean: Yes, but, what of Ari and Ryanna? Full blooded elves aren't welcome by dwarves.

Ari: *speaking in a nervous tone* Can't we go somewhere else?

Kaede: I'm afraid not fair maiden, if we do not seek a fortress of stronghold, we may as well kiss our existence goodbye...

Trillean: *sighs* I will have to do some serious diplomacy, alas I see no other option available.

Kaede: *shaking his head* They are more accepting of half-breeds and changelings...and pariahs of humanity...but I will find us a way...

Ari: Still, can't we go nowhere else?

Kaede: *shaking his head* We need as many allies as we can get...I am sorry.

Kaede: The undead show no mercy...not even for those they knew in life.

Ari: Well then you can go inside, I'll wait in the open thank you.

Trillean: Just don't act like a high elf Ari and the dwarves will have no problem with you...

Kaede: *he turns to Ari, looking her in the eye with concern* What troubles you so Ari?

Ari: *turning away from Kaede* I simply don't like being underground...

Kaede: *he softens his eyes* Listen...I'll make sure you are alright...I'll stay with you...will that suit you?

Ari: Hmph. Either way, I'll be outside when we get there. At least I'll have some protection from the chaos.

Tassidus: *he shakes his head* Ari...please...don't make this harder than it already is...

Trillean: If you don't Lady Ari, there is every good chance you will be crushed to death...would you rather die than possibly have a chance to live?

Ari: *she blows a light snort* That's better than suffocating...

Tassidus: *he raises his hand* Hold...I sense we are not alone...

Ari: *stops her horse* What is it?

Tassidus: *furrowing his eyebrows, he turns to them* Move ahead...I shall stay behind...for my mount, as well as another of our party...

Tassidus: Already my city is being evacuated to our other keeps, they should be safe for the moment, but Nelo's forces probably got the best of my militia...either way, if they die, they shall die with honor...

Trillean: You fool! You don't understand... Nelo's army comes from the darkness within Nelo's heart, he could just as easily spawn one more at the time one is slain, it's a never ending cycle, and your team will be on the losing side...

Tassidus: Aye, that may be...but at least it will allow us more time to gather our forces and perhaps find a way to prevent new armies from being spawned.

Ari: Death, oh how it must feel to know that your death is merely more than a part of something much greater...

Tassidus: My people knew...they knew that one day this event would happen, they have been preparing for it for ages past. They will not be slain so easily, so we mustn't worry about them...

Kaede: *nods* I understand... but, now, will you be able to find us?

Trillean: There may yet for hope for you two...*she chuckles*

Tassidus: *he sniffs* I have been tracking since before you were a gleam in your cursed father's eyes Kaede...now, do not worry about me, move on...

Kaede: *sneers back* Very well...

Tassidus: *he takes off with the dragon roaring a cry, he would then smile as he sensed a present of one friend, and on that would appear to be part of Kaede's group, he nods* Ah...Tigera's prince comes...and Ryanna too it seems...

Tassidus: *The dragon flies over the hillside, dodging the meteors, and he backtracks towards the Forest of Fortune...*

***

**Back in the Forest of Fortune, meteorite after meteorite tumbles down igniting tree after tree as the smoke begins to poison the forest and all it's inhabitants. Ryanna gallops southeastward towards the Last Chance Tavern, hoping her friends are there...it doesn't take long before it's structure comes fully in view, she leaps off her horse and looks around in desperation...she curses**

Ryanna: Blast, they aren't here...well then, I shall wait, I'm sure something fortunate will happen soon enough...

Ryanna: *slows Raine down in the middle of the open field and jumps off, she begins to look around*

Ryanna: *suddenly feels a minor sharp pain from her shoulder, she unwraps a bandage and looks down at the would, seeing that it is not fully healed, she sighs to herself* I probably should of stayed...

Ryanna: *ignores the thought and grabs Raine's halter as she starts moving toward the tavern entrance*

Ryanna: *she walks into the tavern and notices it completely deserted* Nothing...

***

**Gathering a enormous amount of energy into his paws, the powerful tiger prince prepares to discharge his power into that of a massive beam, sweats swamps from his forehead as he roars in fierce determination**

Tygar: Flare Beam! *a wide, intense, orange beam flings forward towards the sky directly into the heart of the meteor where it shakes violently as it splits apart into a million pieces of dust and ash**

Tygar: *he gets back on his horse and issue his path of desinty* Ride...White Wind...to the tavern at once!

Tygar: *the horse obeys as it races through the tall plains...not before the tiger fires another beam destroying another meteor from impacting*

Tygar: *the stallion prances over a hill, as he spots the forest in sight as he fires yet another flare beam at another meteor* This is insane...I can't keep this up...*he wipes away a rush of sweat from his forehead*

Tygar: *comes into contact with a heavy band of rain as he navigates White Wind across the forest*

Tygar: Tavern...where is it....I know it's around here somewhere...*he suddenly looks up* Oh god...

Tygar: *he spots a faint hue of red approaching his position in the forest, soon, branch after branch begins to snap, the insanity getting louder and louder...* Damn...if that comes near me...I may as well kiss my life goodbye...

Tygar: *feels the impact of a tree falling behind him onto the ground, soon, all the trees behind him begin to topple over like dominos behind him* Faster! Faster White Wind!!

Tygar: *a fallen trees cross his path* Jump White Wind jump! *the horse jumps over the fallen tree with ease and dodges another that threatens it's path*

Tygar: *in his thoughts* White Wind, everything you pull something off like that, you simply amaze me, I'm proud to be your companion...

~Exit All.~

***

ACT V, SCENE 2 - Tolamba - The Eastern Hills - Onward North! - 8 a.m.

**Nearly eight hours after the terror began, a burning black sun rises into the skies, yet it seems to fuel the persistent of the meteorites even more, Ari shakes her head in disgust as Tassidus is nothing more than a mere memory having departed the group for now...**

~Enter Trillean, Kaede, and Ari.~

Ari: Stupid old man. Why does he not let down his pestering?

Kaede: *whispering to Ari* He has his reasons High Elf...for now I am content that he is on our side...

Trillean: I trust not that arrogant old Elf...

Kaede: *spots a dragon as it approaches the group, he can tell by it's eyes that it is one with his uncle* Well...the Elder kept his promise about sending a mount...

Trillean: *nods* Alright then...Should we wait? Or press forward now Kaede? *she leads her horse into a slow trot*

Ari: I think we should, We have no reason to wait, they'll find us...

Trillean: They always do... *She smiles*

Ari: *sighs* It seems so...

Kaede: *nods* Let us go...my Uncle is a good tracker, aside from his skills at healing.

Ari: And insulting you...

Trillean: *she laughs* That is common among High Elves.

Ari: In the males at least.

Kaede: *he shakes his head* No, his insults are especially for me...must be the long memories elves have...*he laughs*

Ari: *smiles, strained*

Kaede: *laughs at Ari* Lady, I am half elven...please...lighten your heart...

Trillean: Come let's ride to the dwarves! . *She puts her heels to the horse and makes for the ridge*

Ari: *moans* Yes, the dwarves...

Kaede: *nods* Let us go on...I shall leave clues for my Uncle...all the same...*he allows the stray horse to rush off on it's own, as he mounts the dragon before taking to the skies*

Ari: *sighs* Fine...

***

**Rushing into the tavern, she finds it empty and curses feeling suddenly alone...until that of a faint dragon cry distinctly proves her wrong**

Ryanna: *her eyes widen a little as she whispers slowly to her mind* By the gods.....It's Nelo...

Ryanna: *the elf waits inside the tavern for the evil to come, prepared to fight to the end if necessary*

***

**At about the same time...Tygar also hears the cries of the dragon and shows a feeling a concern in his eyes**

Tygar: What is that...*his mind turns to the vision of a madman* ...Nelo...

Tygar: *he urges White Wind to slow a bit, his eyes jolting around for a pickup on the evil's location*

Tygar: *catches a faint light coming from in front of him, it's so close, but yet so far...he rides towards it*

***

**The dragon mount turns signaling his master towards the Last Chance Tavern...Tassidus shouts into the air, his cry reverberating through the lands...as he and the dragon land in the open field next to the tavern...**

Tassidus: *he sniffs, seeing the tavern, portions of it smoldering and broken...*

Tassidus: *he walks up to tavern, calling out the name of Ryanna...*

Ryanna: *her ears perk up* That voice...

Tassidus: *he calls out her name again* Child, it is I, Elder Tassidus...

Ryanna: *she winces as the door opens revealing none other than the elder, her eyes begin to sparkle with happiness as she runs into his chest sobbing light tears*

Ryanna: Tassidus....thank goodness...

Tassidus: I have been searching for you, why did you leave the city? *he shakes his head* Now is not the time for idle barter...You have your reasons I am sure, but I must ask, how fare you child?

Ryanna: *she deeply sighs* I am sorry, I feared for the sake of the others as soon as I saw the crimson fire raining down on our world...I...just was searching for the others...to make sure they were alright... I thought they might be here, *she suddenly holds her shoulder and winces in pain slightly as a surge of pain jerks within her body*

Tassidus: *he shakes his head* You leave, and this is what you get...but no matter, let me see it...the wound...

Ryanna: *she sits down on a tavern stool as the elder inspects the wound*

Tassidus: *he acknowledges the wound* Ah... It has opened again...I shall have to heal it once more...

Ryanna: I...I'm sorry M'lord...I just...couldn't bare to stay in that place any longer, every minute that passed, I felt that I could have done something to help...

Tassidus: *he begins to enchant a few words as a green light heals the wound* Child, how can you help us, when you can not even help yourself...

Ryanna: *sighs* Tell me my Lord, where be Kaede and the others?

Tassidus: *he grimaces slightly* They make for the caves of the dwarves...

Ryanna: The caves of the dwarves?

Tassidus: *he nods*...Though why you want to find Kaede is beyond me...the bastard...

Ryanna: *she smiles and shakes her head in amusement* Help and strength comes in all sizes and species my Lord....you of all...should know that.....

Tassidus: That be true...minus the exceptions of scum like Kaede...

Ryanna: *she shakes her head as she passes Tassidus and walks out the door returning to the disaster outside*

Ryanna: *with a intake of air, she exhales a whistle, as she watches Raine come towards her* It's time we headed to the Dwarves Cave, Raine...

**The young elf jumps on her faithful companion as she grabs the halters, preparing to embark at that exact minute, but the Elder rushes outside to her site to seize her movements**

Tassidus: Child...you don't know everything about him...hold a moment...

Tassidus: I say this because I care for you...

Ryanna: *she lowers her eyes down at Tassidus*...I know my Lord, you of all have been a father to me...since mine died so long ago....

Ryanna: ...And I thank you so much for that...but, with this time of darkness coming, I must take my place again and protect the remainders of all the elves....

Tassidus: *he nods* ...And do you know how is responsible for it Ryanna?

Ryanna: *she closes her eyes as she clutches her necklace with one hand* I must not cower anymore....I do not deserve to protect my people....but I will...no matter the cost...

***

**The Prince of Tigera enters a narrow pathway with trees stalked on each side in the deep brush, but quickly it thins out revealing the monument of spirits...the Last Chance Tavern. Over by a pair of trees near the entrance, he swears to have heard a pair of voices speaking to one another, he rides faster towards the tavern, hoping for the best in whatever the disturbance is lurking there...**

Tygar: By the gods...could it be...

***

**Miles away, the grass withers away revealing a hard bedrock foundation within the ground. The faint sound of pick axes can be heard as the dead trees begin to disappear leaving in their wake a large ridge of stone**

Trillean: Do you hear that Kaede? Ari? The picks in the mines below our mounts?

Ari: *she grimaces nervously* Y-yes.

Kaede: *he nods* Aye... *The dragon stands on its feet, flapping his wings*

Trillean: *She smiles as she points* Do you see those two crossed boulders?

Kaede: *he nods again* Those aren't plain old boulders are they?

Trillean: *she grins at him in reply* But of course not...

Ari: Is that where we will enter?

Trillean: *she nods*

Kaede: I shall...but only if you come Ari.

Ari: *snarls* You go on, I'll be fine out here...

Trillean: *She increases her pace eagerly, she begins to speak in a sing song voice of old Dwarven*

Kaede: *he shakes his head while smiling* I trust you know how stubborn elves can be as well? I am not moving without you...

Kaede: Wouldn't you agree Trillean?

Trillean: *The boulders shake and rumble, then stand upright showing a path that leads deep into the earth. The sound of cursing, the smell of ale and mead, and of course the flickering of crystals fills the air from within the cavern*

Trillean: *she turns around* W...what?

Kaede: *he shakes his head chuckling* I was asking if you were in agreement with me...

Ari: *glares at him* I'll not let you put yourself in danger over my illogical fear.

Kaede: *he smiles licking his lips of dryness* So...you admit it then?

Trillean: *She laughs* Buried alive, come, the dwarves are not so stupid as to let that happen... at least not unless it's on purpose.

Kaede: Come Ari...I'll make sure the dwarves don't get any ideas...what do you say?

Ari: *she looks away* No. But that's what you want to hear, is it not?

Trillean: Be prepared for the glory of the underworld...

Kaede: *shakes his head* I don't...I want to hear what you feel...

Ari: It has nothing to do with the dwarves. I'll not be buried alive...

Kaede: *chuckles* Buried alive? Nay...if it comes to that...I have some alternatives in store...

Ari: *she stands firm in her current position* I'll not go in there, you'd have to drag me, and you wouldn't dare. Now go, or I'll shoot you both!

Kaede: *he nods sadly realizing it's going to take something physical to get her to come along* Well then, I will regret having to do this, please, forgive me...

Kaede: *With a dashing burst of speed, he takes a hold of Ari* Now come on...

Ari: *enraged* Don't touch me! *roaring, she attempts to block his every attempt but fails*

**The warrior pulls out two pieces of rope from his pocket and proceeds to tie her hands together as well as her legs, all while Ari growls with anger threatening him with a curse after curse*

Ari: You are so dead Kaede, these ropes won't hold me for very long, and when I get free, I'm going to let you have it!

Kaede: *he chuckles* Well Trillean, let's go before Ari here gets impatient...

***

**As the skies begin to finally show a break in the action, Tassidus and Ryanna continue to discuss their future plans, but are soon interrupted by a familiar victory roar cry**

Tassidus: *hears the cry and looks back startled, then looks towards Ryanna* We have company...

Ryanna: *she smiles hearing the roar* It is the Prince of Tigera...

Tassidus: The Tiger? Aye...he comes...just like I saw in my visions...*he calls out to the approaching feline* Over here!!

Ryanna: Tygar!! *she finishes his sentence*

Tassidus: *chuckles* Things are starting to look up...

Ryanna: *looking back at Tassidus, she continues her view on her burden*...I cowered and ran while my people died and burned in a fire of hell and pain...*feels a tear fall as she wipes it away with her fingertip*...Now I must redeem myself...by doing this deed...

Tassidus: *he turns back to Ryanna* Child...you were not yet ready...what could you have done? ...had you fought...you'd have died...

Tygar: *trots towards the two figures, still on his faithful steed*

Ryanna: *looks at stars* I know my Lord but still... apart of me died that day...and I have yet to find the other half of myself...

Ryanna: ...And by doing this...by protecting the world from destruction...by protecting the children of this world...I will prove to my people I still care for them...and even if I die doing this...I will except my fate...

Tassidus: As do we all my dear...as do we all...but do not blame yourself, it was not YOUR doing...

Tygar: *he approaches Ryanna and Tassidus* Ryanna it is good to see you again....*he looks towards the Elder* And...who might you be sir?

Ryanna: *she glances at Tygar and nods* And to you dear friend, it has been far too long...

Tassidus: *he bows* I am an Elder, far into the mountains. Please just call me Tassidus, it is indeed a pleasure to be in the presence of the Lord of Tigera.

Tygar: *he grins showing a hint of rose in his cheeks* Please, I may be of royal blood, but I still dislike formalities, just call me Tygar, and it's a pleasure to meet the greatest healer alive.

Tassidus: *he turns to Tygar, smelling an odd scent from him* You have been near Kaede? Have you not?

Tygar: *he looks at him surprised* Not recently sir, you smell the scent of the plains at the hour of doomsday...

Tygar: *his eyelids begin to droop a bit showing his fatigued self* I...got here...as fast as I could.....where is Kaede and the others?

Tassidus: *he nods* Ah...I thought I smelled the cur's blood on you...in which case I would have had to thank you...

Ryanna: *she looks at the road leading towards the dwarf mines*...I must join Kaede and the others and help them....*once again, she looks down at Tassidus* I know you wish for me to heal, but I must prevail in these dark times...thank you so much for everything......

Tygar: *he looks them confused* Caves...of the...Dwarves? Is that where they are?

Tassidus: *he nods* Child, you shall not face this burden alone, I shall come with you... at any rate...we make for the Caves of the Dwarves...

Tassidus: *he mounts the dragon, and begins to pace the beast through the forest...*

Tygar: I will join you both...that's my intention...I'm the last ray of hope from the plains...I will not run away...Nelo must pay for his evil deeds, now, please...lead the way...

**The determined elf child smiles widely as the elder mounts his dragon and takes off for the skies leading the two towards the Cave of The Dwarves**

~Exit All.~

***

ACT V, SCENE 3 - Baradun - The Dwarf Mines - Unwelcomed Guests - 3 p.m.

**As Ari fumes with rage upon her situation, Kaede and Trillean nod at each other as they prepare to enter the Great Cavern of Baradun**

~Enter Trillean, Kaede, Ari and Elder Tassidus.~

Trillean: Come Kaede. Now is our chance.

Kaede: *he nods, hoisting Ari over his shoulder as she struggles forcefully* You'll hate me for this...but it is for your good...

Ari: *she curses* I already hate you for this...

Trillean: *As she makes her way towards the spiraling staircase, a heavy set dwarf with a red beard steps out carrying an axe*

~Enter the Dwarf.~

Dwarf: Yo ho! Who be thee?! *he holds his axe in front of him*

Trillean: *She steps forward bowing* Come now, you know who I am Corvan!

Corvan: *The dwarf squints his eyes* Are ye that changeling child?

Trillean: Yes, but of course.

Ari: *her emotions become increasingly tense as she begins to kick and scream from her surroundings* The walls...they are closing in on me!

Kaede: Ari, please be silent...

Kaede: *apologizing to Ari* Listen, I have no regrets...even if you gut me in my sleep...but if we DO come to dire straights, and
what you fear comes to pass...I'll make sure I offer you the chance to kill me before it ends.

Ari: *moans* You better half-elf...

Corvan: *hearing the word 'half-elf' he grumbles loudly* These be elves, why did you bring them here changeling?

Trillean: You have nothing to fear, they are friends of mine. Now may I speak with the Lord to have passage of your tunnels?

Kaede: *he turns to the dwarf after getting Ari to remain quiet* We merely seek refuge, honorable sir...the skies rain fire and the end of the world is Nye.

Trillean: *The dwarf rubs his beard, thinking* Even if what you say is true...we still cannot offer shelter to elves...now leave or I shall feed your carcasses to the wolves... *He turns around to enter from whence he came*

Trillean: *She tosses out a bag of gold* Will this change your mind? Oh fairest one of the great caverns of Baradun...

Corvan: *He stops and turns around taking the bag and eyeing each piece* Alright ye may pass but don't have them elves searching anything...

Corvan: *he disappears down the tunnel fiddling with the bag of riches*

Kaede: *he smiles at Ari as he starts to carry her down the narrow tunnels* It is said that the dwarves have done some wondrous things to these caves....they are not so dank and congested as you think...

Ari: *consciousness fading* You think I care...I'm still thinking of the many ways in which I could kill you...

Trillean: Don't go too far, I must speak with Corvan and tell him of our situation...I know him well, so things should go fine...I shall return shortly...

**She follows the caves that are lined with stone carvings, some even with twisting knots jewels that make up the eyes of animals, whilst fire stones decorate the ceiling**

~Exit Trillean and Corvan.~

***

**With time dwindling fast. The competition heats up as the three forces of light make their way north. In the air, Tassidus is searching for hints of Kaede's scent and following accordingly, down low, it's a mere race between the stallions of the elf princess and the tiger prince**

Tygar: *chasing after Ryanna* Wait for me Lady Ryanna! *he calls out to White Wind to follow Raine*

Ryanna: *leans forward slightly and Raine speeds up, running at full speed*

Ryanna: *smiles and looks over her shoulder* Come on Lord Tygar!

Ryanna: *looks forward again and turns onto a forest road*

Tassidus: *he nods, searching the signs*...They are not far from here...let us quicken the pace...

Tygar: *follows at a slightly slower pace, feeling the effects of the plains wither on his body*

Ryanna: *turns a sharp right corner and gallops at full speed, exits the woods heading into the hills*

Tygar: White...Wind...I promise...I'll give you a double dose of your favorite food if you can keep up with her, deal? *the horse nays loudly in response as she picks up speed almost catching up to Raine, the two gallop in equal strides*

Tassidus: *looks down at the two horses and their riders* Wow, this is better than first class seats at the coliseum...*he chuckles as his dragon dodges a sudden meteorite*

Ryanna: *she grins and whispers into Raine's ear, shortly after the mount speeds up and passes over a large stone bridge*

Tygar: *passes over the same stone bridges seconds later*

Ryanna: *the trees diminish as the rolling Hills of Tolamba take over, the scenery isn't pretty as many sections are scared with holes from the meteorites*

Tassidus: *he looks to the ground, seeing tracks lead to crossed boulders, he calls for the dragon to swoop low as it cries signaling 'This Way'*

Ryanna: *she signals her stallion to follow the tracks and the cries of the dragon*

Tygar: *sees Ryanna pulling away once again* Good lord, she is quick...White Wind...faster...faster...yaaahhh!

***

**Back in Baradun, Ari's fears soon get the best of her as she once again panics, her whimpers become acts of hysterics**

Ari: We're still underground... *her mind becoming hysterical*

Kaede: *he reaches into his pocket and takes out a blindfold which he brings to her eyes* Hush...

Ari: *she snarls as her vision is darkened* Yes, because making it dark makes it better...

Kaede: *he strokes her hair, speaking soothing words to her, and brings a scented cloth to her nostrils* Breathe this...it will calm you...

Ari: *snarls* Why y...o...u...*she breaths in, calming only slightly*

***

**Arriving at last, the familiar boulders of the entryway to the caverns appears before the three as they get of their mounts. Upon further inspection, the boulders have been forced aside as the view into the caves is clear for all to see, Tassidus approaches the ridge first**

Tassidus: *raising his hands, he calls to the opening of the cavern* HELLO! FOLK OF THE MOUNTAINS!!! I SEEK SANCTUARY, AND OFFER FRIENDSHIP!!!

Ryanna: *she takes hold of a touch and without thinking it over, decides to enter the cavern* I'm going in....

Tygar: *he calls after her* Hold Ryanna! Let's not be so hasty...

Ryanna: *she doesn't listen, as she walks in, her cloak flowing behind her*

Tassidus: *he turns* PLEASE! DWARVEN FOLK! HERE MY PLEA!!!

Ryanna: *she starts walking down the stone steps disappearing into the shadows of the cave*

Tygar: *shakes head* The girl has no patience...we can not wait here forever, sir...

Tassidus: I dislike this...entering the cave without permission, but we have no choice... COME TYGAR!

Tygar: *he turns on night vision as he walks into the cave*

***

Ari: *she mumbles to Kaede* I can hear your uncle from here.

Kaede: *he nods* Should we pass a hall of beauty, such as what the dwarves can make, I shall show you...it should dispel any fears you may have...

Ari: He's awfully loud, isn't he?

Kaede: *he shakes his head* Only when he wants to be.

Kaede: *he laughs* But he can sneak up on a fox if he has a mind to...

Ari: Shouldn't we wait for him?

Ryanna: *grins and looks at Kaede from a distance*

Ryanna: Well sir, you looked rested....*smiles*

Tassidus: *he covers the entrance with the boulders, and proceeds, following Ryanna's and Tygar's course...*

Kaede: *with widened eyes, he turns to see her* ...Ry....Ryanna?

Ari: Can you un-tie me now? I want to walk for myself...

Ryanna: *nods and speaks in elvish* Who were you expecting? You didn't think I'd miss out on all the fun did you? And what is this? *she giggles as she catches site of the bound Ari*

Kaede: *grins genuinely for the first time in days* It was the only way to get her in here...well, I suppose I can trust that you won't be running out of the cave, hmm Ari? *he drops her and begins to untie her bonds*

Ari: *takes off blindfold and then stands and brushes herself off* Well there goes any pride I had for the day...I won't forget this Kaede...I'll spare you for now...

Kaede: *chuckling* You are but too kind high elf...and my sincere apologies for having you go through all that...

Ari: *glares at Kaede* You expect me to believe that....

Kaede: *shakes his head* Not at all...

Ryanna: *she places the torch on a wall as she turns to Kaede again* It is good to see you my friend...

Kaede: *nods* Alas, it is good to see you are well again Ryanna...

Kaede: *looking at the wound on her shoulder* So...I see Tassidus healed you? He does good work...

Kaede: *he squints at Ari through the corners of his eyes, apologizing to her again...*

Ryanna: *remembering her wound has not healed fully, yet she shows no sign of emotion and nods* Yes, I am healed...

Kaede: *nods* 'Tis good news...but I sense...discomfort?

Ryanna: *shakes her head* Not at all...*squints* Well...maybe a little...

***

Tygar: *he suddenly gets down on one knee...* Ugh...still feeling the effects of the fall upon that meteor blast...go on sir...I'll catch up...my nose is great, I can follow anyone within miles...

Tassidus: *grins* Sorry proud feline of the plains, it is not in my blood to leave a friend behind...

**The elder picks up Tygar, as if he were a bag of wheat, and throws him over his shoulders, carrying him along the path breathing heavily along the way**

Tassidus: What do your folks eat Tygar? You weigh a substantial amount for one who looks so thin...

Tygar: *he chuckles a bit as he aches in the side joints* Only the freshest meats money can buy...sir...I shall have to treat you to a feast for your thanks...

Tassidus: *he shakes his head* No need sir, I seek only allies against what is to come...

Tygar: *hears the voice but does not realize others are present in the room, his mind begins to fade a bit*

***

**Trying to calm herself, Ari begins to hum an old tune, while breathing rather heavily**

Kaede: Ari...worry not, I feel fresh wind...we come upon an atrium soon...then you may breathe freely

Ryanna: *she follows the group as he squints every now and then*

Trillean: *coming out from the shadows up ahead* Corvan has gone to the main hall, things didn't go well I am afraid, but we still must inform the lord of the catastrophe...*she greets Ryanna* It is good to see you again Ryanna...now come...*she walks with them silently before turning to the right at a fork in the path* If I remember correctly the high hall is this way...

Kaede: *nods* 'Tis good to see you again Trillean...I feared you...

Kaede: *looks down as he walks* It is evil times that befall us...

Trillean: It is always evil times somewhere...just not one such as this...

Ari: *she follows Trillean tensely* I hope you're right Trillean.

Ryanna: *nods* Yes....evil once again rises to shed its shadow of fear upon this world.....

Ryanna: But I'm not about to stand by and watch our world be destroyed...

Kaede: *nods* Come...let us go...we have much work to do...Trillean, lead the way...

Trillean: *grinning* Oh don't worry, the worst that could happen is that ten thousand pounds worth of boulders trap us and we die of injuries or starvation...

Ari: *she stops cold* Wh...What?

Kaede: *he sniffs* Trillean...that isn't funny...

Ryanna: *she looks at her necklace as she speaks softly to herself following Trillean*

Trillean: *she laughs* Don't worry...Elves are so uptight sometimes.

Ari: *becoming mad* What?!

Kaede: *he smiles at her* Don't worry Ari...not even earthquakes could shatter the work of dwarves...

Tygar: But the end of the world...that's a whole different story...

Trillean: There has never been a collapse of a dwarven hall...

Ari: *she takes a few cautious steps* But, there hasn't been falling meteors for one thousand years either...

Trillean: *she shrugs* Good point...

Ryanna: *she looks down the hall* Are the halls usually this...quiet?

Trillean: *She races down the hall making various turns* Hurry or you'll get lost!

Kaede: *he nods, straining to hear sounds* You have a point Ryanna...

Ryanna: *races after Trillean*

Trillean: Well most of the mining is done one the top layers of rock.

Tassidus: *hearing voices ahead, he picks up the pace despite having to carry the tiger* We are nearing them...

Ryanna: *her ears listen attentively to the sounds ahead*

Ari: *she follows quickly* I can't believe I'm doing this...

Trillean: Don't worry...

Kaede: *brings a hand to her elbow* Don't worry, we are all here together Ari...

Ari: I'm warning you...*she growls*

Kaede: *chuckles* Alright...touchy thing aren't ya?

Ari: *she shorts* Hmph...

Ryanna: *she shakes her head and keeps up*

Trillean: *signals* What you are hearing, are the loud cursing and obnoxious dwarves, sort of like Tassidus. *There is stomping and drunken songs as well.*

Tygar: *he gets back into consciousness* Please...Elder, this is too much trouble....let me down...it's just a simple sprain...

Tassidus: *he nods, as he lowers Tygar and wipes her brow* My thanks sir...I was getting a bit tired...

Tygar: *sees a heal potion in his bag* If you don't mind... *he drinks it* I'm starting to feel better already...

Trillean: *There is a bright flash of light at the end of the tunnel, above the ceiling are arched jewels that look like stars hanging, the light shines onto the ceiling revealing what appears to be life size warriors carved into the likeness of the wall*

Ryanna: *she turns to see two familiar bodies, one elvish and one a feline* Tassidus! Tygar! About time you slowpokes showed... *

Tygar: *moans* Sorry...to keep you...all waiting...*he holds his injured part*

Ryanna: *she turns to Tygar and looks at him* You are injured...where does it hurt?

Tygar: It's nothing....really...

Ryanna: *she nods and turns, walking back towards the others* Wait up you guys!

**The group approaches a grand room, tables hundreds of feet long line the vicinity along with hundreds of dwarves, all with axes at their belts.**

Kaede: *he stares in awe at the hall of the dwarves...*

Ryanna: *she looks around becoming intimidated by her surroundings*...By the gods... I had forgotten just how well the dwarves were in the arts.....

Kaede: *he points* See Ari? I told you...there is no way one can feel congested in such a hall...

**There is a sudden hush over the crowd as the new strangers enter, a awkward presence filters the cavern's air**

Kaede: *he begins to notice the dwarves and tugs on his armor near the neckline a little* Um, why are they staring at us like that.. Oh....

Ari: *she glances around nervously, starting to become very uncomfortable with the slanted eyes of the dwarfs* They've been expecting us it seems...

Ryanna: *she looks at the dwarves silently and scans the crowd*

Tassidus: *he nods, walking up to the others, raising his hands in greeting*

~Enter a few Dwarfs and Lord Halbern.*

Dwarf #1: *the dwarf stands with his axe raised* How did you get here High elf... *he points at Tassidus*

Ryanna: *she narrows her eyes a little*

Tassidus: *he grins, walking up to the dwarf* I have my ways...

Ari: *she backs up into Tygar, her shoulders become tense a little as she turns to apologize to the prince* Sorry, I...

Tygar: *he feels the push and chuckles lightly glancing at her* No trouble milady...

Dwarf #2: *another dwarf stands* He disgraces our halls Lord Halbern! *the other dwarfs grumble in agreement as they begin to chant with the base of their axes meeting against the table*

Tassidus: *he turns to Trillean, acknowledging her, and steps aside*

Trillean: *She nervously steps forward and bows* Milord, dwarves are craftsmen's of the underworld.

Tassidus: *he turns* I mean no gesture of disrespect, but I was not greeted at the opening, which was left wide open...

Tassidus: I know you have faith in your abilities, but I covered the entrance all the same...

Tygar: *he whispers into Ari's ears* Are you uptight about something...you don't look well...

Ari: *Glances at him* I'm fine... *she lies weakly*

**The Dwarfs stand angrily gripping their beards and raising their axes, as their cups of Meade are flung at Tassidus*

Tassidus: *he turns, catching the cups in midair, but the Meade covers his hand, however*

The Dwarves: *They all glare at him like hungry dogs*

Ryanna: *she turns to Tassidus tugging on his robes* Umm...Elder...

Tassidus: *he looks with disgust at his stained shirt sleeve* Ah...I shall have to replace this...

Tassidus: *he grins, crushing the metal cups in his hands, then throwing them aside* It looks like you all will have to replace the cups...

**A huge voice booms from the dark front of the hall, out steps a 5 foot tall dwarf with a thick black beard and grim gray eyes, he raises a hand and speaks gruffly to the band of travelers*

~Enter King Halbern, Lord of the Dwarfs.~

King Halbern: What do you intruders want with us dwarves?

Tygar: *he whispers to the group as he stands behind Tassidus observing the royal dwarf* I don't like what's playing out here...

Kaede: *he walks to the front, his hands raised...* Hold friends...I have some words to say...

King Halbern: *The dwarf king spits* Friends?

Ryanna: *she backs up to the rear of the group, becoming enclosed within the shadows*

Halbern: Since when did Elves call Dwarves friends?

Kaede: *he grins* Have you not noticed what I am? *he lifts up his headgear to reveal the trademark of an elf*

Tassidus: *he sneers* He is a cur...

Ryanna: *she stands forward answering the king's question bravely* Longer than you have known mighty Dwarf King.....

Ari: *Feeling the room as it seems to be closing in on her, she turns to run, but finds Tygar in her way* I'll just be slipping past...

Kaede: *he nods to his Uncle* Thank you Uncle...

Tassidus: *flaring in anger* DO NOT CALL ME THAT BOY!!!

Halbern: *The dwarf's brow furrows* See what I mean they shun their own kind.

The Dwarves: *The dwarves respond loudly by banging more Meade cups on the grand table*

Ryanna: Tassidus!! Kaede!! *she places a hand on each of their shoulders trying to uphold the peace*

Tassidus: *he turns, seeing the throng, and calms down...nodding*

Tygar: *he stares at the husky dwarf king as he knees down on one knee* SIr, might I have the pleasure of knowing your name?

Halbern: *he clears his throat* I am Halbern, Lord of the Dwarves of Baradun, you now answer to no one but me!!

Kaede: *he turns to the dwarf king* I just want you to see one thing...

Kaede: Will you allow me?

Halbern: What is it that you wish half-elf?

**The armored fellow Kaede pulls out a long sword from his sheath, a grand piece of iron, it shines brilliantly even in the dark caverns. Even the dwarfs have to cover their eyes from the holy light that is displayed from the claymore. Kaede grins slightly as he hands the blade to the Dwarf King**

Kaede: Tell me, do you realize its make?

**Lord Halbern strokes his beard and studies the blade closely, the gleaming light from the blade shining even from his eyes, he tests its weight slightly and nods affirmatively**

Halbern: Yes, I do...

Kaede: *he grins* You should...it was forged by one of your kinsmen...and one of mine...

Tygar: *he lifts his claws under his robe without anyone seeing, or so he thinks*

Trillean: *She puts a hand on Tygar* Do not attack... yet...

Ryanna: *she begins to feel uneasiness as she turns to Tygar, shakes head slowly at his actions*

Tygar: *he nods as he lowers the claws to his side*

Kaede: *he continues* I trust you heard of the ancient Elven Capital...?

Ari: *she attempts to slide past Tygar again, but to no avail*

Halbern: Yes but what is the consequence of this?

Kaede: I believe quite a few dwarves stayed there...

Halbern: Yes, but they were prisoners rather than guests!

Ari: *to Tygar, begging at this point* Will you please let me pass?

Tygar: *whispers* Hold on...let's see what plays out...

Ryanna: *she hears the word Elven Capital and feels memories come rushing back*

Kaede: *he shakes his head* Perhaps...but not all did...

Halbern: *he snarls* Not all...? And who would this not all be?

Kaede: Look at the crest milord...

**Halbern begins to examine the crest of the blade, twisting the piece of steel in every direction so the light can fully-display the insignia, he looks back up in surprise at Kaede and the others**

Halbern: Why, it's none other than my cousin, Helcarn.

Kaede: He was one of the more respected of the Dwarf smiths, correct?

Ryanna: *she leans against a pillar and sits in the light, next to Tygar and Tassidus*

Kaede: ...But, now look at the other side...

Tassidus: *he shakes his head* What is he doing?

Kaede: It is a different crest...right?

Halbern: *he examines the other side* I see, it is Elven, I care not, my dwarves have a thousand swords that are just as good.

Halbern: Do not try diplomacy for the Elves on me youngling.

Kaede: *he grins* Oh really? Do you know how highly dwarves pride their work?

Halbern: Yes, almost as much as they pride their looks.

Kaede: *he laughs lightly*

**the dwarves laugh through out the whole dining hall, the group looks on in shock as the negotiation seems to be working somewhat**

Ari: *she sits on the floor hugging her knees* The room is not closing in, the room is not closing in...

Kaede: Why would they mix their arts with that of an elf? In this day IT IS UNHEARD OF!

Kaede: This sword was not made in enslavement milord...but in friendship...look carefully as their are words on both sides, each for the language, one for Dwarfs and one for Elves...

Halbern: *he reads out the words on the dwarf side* "Bless this sword with the combined friendship of Dwarfs and Elves, may their friendship last for an eternity..."

Halbern: *he looks up at the group and smiles* You speak the truth...this is my cousin's inscription...I am the only one who can recognize it...

Halbern: *he laughs as he clasps hands with Kaede in a warrior's grip* You have proven yourself a worthy diplomat half-elf...

Halbern: *He holds out his hand* We shall remember this day as the day of friendship for all elves and dwarfs, please, come feast with us...

Tygar: *he looks down at Ari as the dwarfs begin to grunt cheerfully at their king and new friends* I can tell you were lying about that comment you made earlier...

Ari: *she looks up, her gentle eyes becoming inflicted with annoyance* I was not...

Kaede: *grinning* I thank thee...but I cannot dine without my comrades...

Halbern: *nods* But of course, they are welcome... except for the High Elf Elder...

Tassidus: *he glares at his nephew, beginning to feel a sense of bewilderment...*

Halbern: My men do not trust him. He may feast after we have.

Tassidus: *he groans* I thought as much...

Ryanna: *she stands up and shouts* My Lord Halbern, please wait!!

Kaede: *he shakes his head* I bear the responsibility of him...I will share my provisions with him...

Halbern: *A grin crosses the dwarf king's face* You will not get special treatment here High Elf.

Tassidus: *murmurs towards Kaede* From now on...don't do me any favors Kaede...

Halbern: You may share your food with him but not your table.

Tassidus: I beg none from you Lord Dwarf...

Kaede: *sighs* Uncle?

Ryanna: *she sighs towards the elder as she seats herself at a table*

Halbern: *The dwarf nods and then turns back to his throne* Let the feasting continue!

~Exit All.~

ACT V, SCENE 4 - Baradun - The Dwarf Mines - The Great Feast of Friendship - 6 p.m.

**The once stale and questionable air, now becomes replaced by that of excitement and roaring, as throughout the whole room, the ripping of meat begins along with the passing of ale**

~Enter Ryanna, Trillean, Kaede, Ari, Tygar, Elder Tassidus and some Dwarfs.~

Tassidus: *he shrugs* I was not expecting silk bedding...but then, I don't suppose the Lord Dwarf cares to show me how his kind is more hospitable than mine?

Tassidus: *he grins at the dwarf lord, almost jokingly in challenge*

Trillean: *She walks up to Tassidus* Do not insult him Milord.

Trillean: You are lucky to keep your head.

Tassidus: *he turns* Enjoy yourself Kaede...I shall leave you...for now...

Ryanna: *watching as the festivities continue, she sighs as she rubs her head, a slight pain exhorting from it. All at once, she silently makes an exit from the dining tables, she turns to a tunnel and walks down the corridor, disappearing into the shadows once again*

Tassidus: *watching as the child leaves, he scampers after her*

Kaede: *he turns to Trillean, giving her his thanks as he sits down* Many thanks to you Trillean...*he begins to stock his plate with large quantities of food*

Trillean: *She bows and turns to a table, starting to moan a bit in aloneness* Will no one come to eat with me?

Kaede: *he turns to Trillean* Come with us friend...

Kaede: I could use your merry music...

Kaede: * smiles, as he is beginning to eat while walking* I shall enjoy hearing all those songs you could not play earlier...

Trillean: Where are you going Kaede?

Kaede: *he simply shrugs* I am simply finding a place to rest and eat in peace...

Tygar: *grabs a peace of meat and bites right into it* Now this IS a feast! *he bites into it violently*

Trillean: *She nods and laughs at Tygar as she takes a seat next to him and begins to feast*

***

**Away from the feast, a troubled Ryanna is walking down a long tunnel where there is a faint pink light at the end. Many questions lay deep within her soul, most of them un-answered. Her past lingers within her mind, many painful and troublesome memories. Behind her, Elder Tassidus quickly walks without being traced from the young women**

**It doesn't take long before the elf princess reaches the end of the hallway. What awaits her is a burning wasteland. She becomes emotional as she steps out into a high perched balcony high atop a mountainside cliff. Grabbing the sides of the wall, she stares blankly out into the open mountain country, a scene right out of a fantasy but starting back at her in pain. Tassidus too arrives on the scene as he cannot believe his eyes as he looks across the mountains at the destruction, he quickly turns to Ryanna, seeing her face all red**

Tassidus: What is it child?

Ryanna: Lord Tassidus...*she looks at the ground* I fear I have kept something hidden....from my comrades...and you....

Tassidus: *he follows Ryanna's struggled steps...* The healing...it has not completely run its course...I knew about that already...

Ryanna: *she breathes a heavy sigh* It is not the healing my lord.....

Tassidus: *he looks at her with concern* Then what?

Ryanna: *again she sighs and walks to the end of the balcony, looking over the edge*

Ryanna: My mind...has been troubled...

Ryanna: It is new to me....but I seem to have...visions, if you want to call them...of a possible future...

Tassidus: *he nods* Ah...I feared this...As has mine...come...what aches you?

Tassidus: *he begins prodding her gently,* When did this start?

Ryanna: ...Before the time I met Kaede and the others...my Lord...these visions...are no ordinary ones...

Tassidus: I knew you had the gift of foresight in your veins...if it pleases you...that is what saved you at the burning of the capital..

Tassidus: *he nods* But, go on...

Ryanna: *she looks at the sky, whispering in a dead tone*...I have seen it...

Tassidus: *he continues* The fall of the undead scourge upon our lands?

Ryanna: *she slams her fist on a cement block in front of her* I did not ask for this power! I...I don't deserve it...my Lord...I don't even deserve to be alive...

Tassidus: *he shakes her by the shoulder* No...no...no...you mustn't say such things...life is precious...

Tassidus: *he stares her in the eye* You do not question what fate gives you my child...you make what you can of it...

Tassidus: *he smiles sadly into her eyes, and hugs her close to him...rocking her back and forth...*

**Not able to hold onto the gaping emotions any longer, Ryanna collapses into the elder's arms, a vile sobbing escaping her thoughts as the tears begin to flow, Tassidus begins to caress her highlights as he too begins to sniff a bit*

Ryanna: *she backs away, a warm smile displayed on her lips* Thank you...*she speaks in elvish*...Father...

Tassidus: *he grins as he hasn't grinned for a long time* Ah...I rejoice to hear that...

Tassidus: Your father was a kind man...one who I can only aspire too...

Ryanna: *she smiles and stands up* I know...though I was only a few centuries old...I remember him well...

Ryanna: *she sighs and looks down at the hall* Now if you'll excuse me my Lord, I shall got something to eat...

Tassidus: *he smiles down at her* Yes...eat well child, then get some rest...you've earned it...

Tassidus: *his eyes become harsh for a bit* But please...stay away from Kaede...

Ryanna: *she sighs and slowly nods*.....Yes my lord.....*she heads back into the caverns leaving behind Tassidus to overlook the landscape*

***

**Trillean becomes disturbed as she senses the absent of a certain High Elf at the table, she scans the crowd in search of her but finds no results, she lets off a curious smile**

Trillean: Where is Ari?

Ari: *As if on cue, the elf stands carefully, walking into the hall to Tygar, Trillean and Kaede* May I sit with you three?

Trillean: *She nods* You are most welcome too.

Kaede: *nods to Ari* Please...I was fearing for a moment...

Ari: *she sits next to Trillean and Tygar* I'm... fine...

Trillean: *She holds up her hand and a piece of raw meat is thrown to her. She catches it and rips into it*

Tygar: *he extends a piece of meat for the High Elf to take, he offers his million dollar smile* Take a bite of this, you'll feel better...

Tygar: Food calms the nerves...

Ari: *she glances at it and shakes her head quickly* N-no thank you.

Kaede: *he grimaces in jest* That redefines 'off the hoof' Trillean!

Trillean: *She laughs* I prefer my meat raw, as do most predators.

Trillean: *She nods towards Tygar* Isn't that right my fine feline friend?

Kaede: *he nods* I suppose so...although I fear my constitution is not up to it...*he laughs*

Tygar: Indeed, but, watch what you say...you may be my dessert...*he laughs sarcastically*

Trillean: *she giggles throwing him a suggestive eye* Is that a challenge?

Tygar: It could be... *he replies with a sly grin*

Trillean: *She smiles* Do not challenge a wolf, remember we hunt in packs.

Tygar: *sweat beats down the side of his face* Eh...yes...I seem to have forgotten that...

Kaede: *shaking his head, he chuckles at what is going on before him* Oh...this cannot end well...but it SHALL be interesting...*he smiles at the two*

Tassidus: Perhaps a spar after dinner?

Tygar: No thanks...we still have the fate of the world on our shoulders...I'd hate to have one of us injured...

Ari: *glances around* Aren't there any fruits or vegetables around here?

Trillean: *She scoops up a plate and hands it to Ari, it is littered with strange fruits*

Trillean: Here ya go.

Ari: *licking her lips, she takes the plate* Mmm... Thank you. *she appears to forget about her surroundings for a moment as she bites in a fruit*

Tygar: Fruits..bah...this world would be better without them... *feels his leg jolt a bit with pain*

Trillean: *She smiles suddenly* I heard word that my brother stopped by here recently...I wonder if he is here?

Trillean: If so, you may have that fight after all Tygar.

Ari: *she grumbles* Carnivores...

Tygar: I hear fruits heal wounds fast...perhaps I could get used to it sooner or later...

Kaede: *laughs at Ari's dismay* Yes, I see your point, my dear...

Trillean: Don't waste your time.

Trillean: *She gets up suddenly and marches over to the throne, a conversation goes on*

Kaede: *he looks at the tables, finding Ryanna missing...* Hmm...

Ari: *Without looking at him, she hands Tygar a particularly juicy looking fruit* Here, for that wound in your leg.

Tygar: *moaning* Ehh...well, I guess I could take a little nibble off of it, how bad can it be...*he takes a small morsel and gets a strange look on his face as the result* Eww...yuck...!

Kaede: *he looks around, catching site of Tygar for the first time in full-view* It's been a while your highness...how do you feel my friend?

Tygar: Eh, I've been better... *he tries another fruit, again his eyes begin to swirl a bit to it's unfamiliar taste*

Trillean: *She skips back smiling and places her hands on the table grinning widely* I have good news my friends...

Kaede: *looking at the smiling maiden, he quirks an eyebrow* Indeed?

Ari: *she glances up* What is it?

Trillean: We have access to the passages, the dwarfs have agreed to help us against Nelo when the time comes, and...

Trillean: My brother is here after all...

Kaede: *raises his eyebrows* Your brother?

Trillean: *She smiles* Yes, his name is Cain.

Trillean: We should meet up with him soon.

Kaede: *smiles, nodding* Indeed, I can't wait to meet him...

***

**The scent of death fills the blood skies as Tassidus shakes his head, thinking over his bickering before, turning back towards the caverns, he decides to sort out his feelings to her by talking to her directly. Quickly he makes haste down the hallways quickly catching up to the elf princess herself. He lets out a exhausted plead to her**

Tassidus: My child...please hold a moment...

Tassidus: I do not forbid you to avoid him...only you can do that...just...be...careful...

Tassidus: He was responsible for the loss of our capital Ryanna....don't forget that...

Tassidus: Kaede is a storm crow...

Ryanna: *shocked by the elder's comments, she can only stare at the walls of the cavern* I don't believe you! He has much good in him....he is trying to save this world...I don't believe you are helping him succeed any either.....

Tassidus: Perhaps...but be wary all the same...

Ryanna: *she shakes her head, giving up on his stubbornness and reluctantly giving in to his viewpoints* Yes, my Lord...good night...

Ryanna: *she turns down the hall and walks into the darkness*

Tassidus: *he turns, simply resting against the wall, pondering...*

***

**Sipping her ale, the changeling looks into Tygar's eyes as she smiles at the thought of sparring against him alongside her brother**

Trillean: Two wolves against one Tiger, this will be so much fun!

Tygar: *shrugs at the comment* But we are fast...you'd have to catch me first...

Trillean: ...We may not be as fast as tigers, but we are more cunning...

Tygar: We may be equally matched....perhaps someday we will find out... *he chomps into a piece of his raw meat*

Kaede: *he stretches* Now, if it pleases you, I would really like to take a bath...where does one bathe in this place?

Ari: *nods, eating a fruit that looks like an orange* I would love to bathe. It might...keep my mind at ease...

Trillean: *She sniffs her tunic and wrinkles her nose* I really do need to bathe!

Kaede: So, where may we go my friend? I feel like a week's unwashed yak...

Trillean: *she points* Just take the left exit at the front of the hall, than go straight down, the steam will lead you the rest of the way...

Tygar: *he looks back down at Ari* So... I hear from Kaede that you were literally dragged into here, how that must have felt...

Ari: *she snarls at him, recalling the event in her mind* I wasn't dragged, I was kidnapped...

Tygar: *his eyes jolt* Kidnapped? Explain...

Ryanna: *she enters the main hall with the feast going on, and looks around*

Ryanna: *she walks forward and leans to the table, picks up a gauntlet and takes a sip* Ah Ale, truly a fine drink....

Kaede: *he catches Ryanna's eyes, gesturing to her...*

Ryanna: *she smiles to him in reply*

Kaede: *nods his thanks to Trillean, and rises form the table*

Ari: He attacked me, tied me up, and threw me over his shoulder like some hostile barbarian...

Trillean: *She nods back, and sets back down at the table* Very true.

Kaede: *he passes Ari by, apologizing once more* A thousand pardons my dear...but I did tell you the view was worth it...

Trillean: I think Kaede is just a little over protective sometimes.

Tygar: I'm sure it was for your own good, right Kaede?

Ari: My own good... HA!

Kaede: *shrugs nervously* I care not to enter the argument again friend...

Tygar: *he scratches his chin* I shall not speak of the subject again...

Ryanna: *she drinks the ale and places the gauntlet down on the table*

Trillean: *she shrugs* Oh well... You are down here and you are safe, that is all that matters...

Kaede: *he laughs* Now, I shall make a few last minute greetings, then I shall leave you all for the baths...oh...I shall luxuriate tonight...

Kaede: *he turns to Ryanna* How does thou feel? All better now?

Ryanna: *the elf smiles a little* Yes, I feel I have eaten enough...now I am off to rest....We will need our strength in the morning...

Ari: *she stands to go to the lake, and gags at the scent of Tygar* I think you need a bath too... *she then walks out*

Tygar: *he shudders at the word 'bath' and growls* Oh...how I hate that word...

Kaede: *he turns to Trillean* I thank you again for bringing us here...

Trillean: *she laughs* No problem.

Trillean: I think I need a bath myself.

Kaede: *he turns, heading to the baths, sighing contentedly*

Kaede: Good night Ryanna.

Ryanna: *she gives a small nod towards the half-elf* Good night Kaede....*she retreats down a hall towards her room*

Kaede: *he walks down the hallways, making the prescribed turns, before coming to a spring*

Ari: *she walks, quickly finding the lake, a short minute later, she proceeds to undress behind a rock*

Kaede: *he stretches, sighing again, and dives in...*

Ryanna: *she enters her room impressed with the surroundings inside. She fits herself into her sleeping attire and snuggles beneath the covers quickly falling asleep*

Tygar: *looks towards Trillean* Better wait until the food has settled...*he winks*

Trillean: *She growls at him playfully before turning to go to bathing halls*

Tygar: *shouts back* Don't say that I didn't warn you!

**Outside the Dwarf Caverns, a lone figure dressed entirely of silver and black stands on a rock, his cloak swaying in the dead of night. He grins with pleasure as he pours a green liquid onto a small dagger. Stepping past the round boulders at the entrance with no difficulty, he proceeds further into the caverns...seeking out his prey...the insignia of darkness on his sleeve...**

***

**And on the Southern Plains of Tigera, a dark army headed by Nelo Angelo marches onward towards an unsuspecting kingdom of Tigera...where the darkness plans their assault the next day. All existence fated to succumb to the darkness.**

~Enter Nelo Angelo.~

Nelo Angelo: The cries of an entire kingdom in unison...how I can hardly wait... The Assassin should keep the alliance busy for a while, it's just the dark army on a course of death with Tigera, it's existence futile...

~Exit All.~

***

End of ACT V

*****

Continue to ACT VI