An Undying Light

For this ACT, tigersblood33 shall play as Tygar, Trillean will be playing as Trillean, Dawnrider31 shall play as Ari. lilmisswonders01 shall play as Ryanna, Kaede83 shall play as Kaede and Elder Tassidus. ShahrazadKM shall play as Ultric, Csilla, Kaleo, and Frode. Nelo Angelo2611 shall play as Nelo Angelo. Other Characters will be play by whomever.

ACT XI, SCENE 1 - High Tower Castle - Words of Serenity - 10 p.m.

**The night calms. But the memories of what happened not long ago still becomes an increasing sign of the dark powers and the end of days.**

~Enter Csilla, Trillean, Ari, Tygar, and Kaede.~

***

Trillean: *She takes out her harp and follows Tygar to his room, determined to get through to him no matter what the cost*

Kaede: *he watches as the changeling leaves, and at that exact moment he feels a strange sensation*

Kaede: Dante...

Ari: *she gazes up at the sky, her eyes full of confusion as she looks towards Kaede* What is going on here? I demand to know this instant!

Kaede: *he sighs at the tone of her voice* I...cannot say for certain...but we believe the cause to be behind Ryanna's pendant...

Kaede: Come, let us go see Tygar, if he has calmed down...

**The two return to the interiors of the castle where they see Trillean bashing on Tygar's door after he apprantly had gone it, locking the door in the process. Behind the enraged wolf, Csilla stands behind her shaking her head...**

Trillean: Let me in! Tygar! You can't hide in there forever...you have to face your troubles head on you know, start acting like a ruler of a country for once!

Ari: *she snarls as she sees Trillean knocking on Tygar's door frantically* That's not going to help him any, he's going through a great deal of pain right now, it would be best to leave him in peace for the time being!

Trillean: *she grumbles* Fine...but...I just wish...*she shakes her head and turns seeing the full figure of Ari, her eyes glowing like trinkets of gold* I...am sorry for what I did...I was only trying to help...you weren't suppose to see that...

Csilla: *she bows to the two women as she looks at the door and sighs, then turns to to Trillean* Do you know his mother and father's names?

Trillean: I faintly remember it, but I just can't speak of it...

Ari: *she suddenly steps in* Malicross, the royal family Malicross...that being their last names though...I know of nothing else...

Csilla: *she nods* I see, and how did the father...perish...I heard that Tigera recently fell and this Lord... Malicross with it...?

Trillean: *she sighs and looks towards Ari* You explain it Ari... this is all getting too complex for me to keep records anymore...

Csilla: A simple story, nothing fancy.

Ari: Tigera was in flames the moment I got there...Nelo had sent forces to torch the place...

Csilla: Oh dear...

Ari: *she continues* The castle was...on the verge of collapsing...I manged to get most of the citizens out before hand including Tygar's father...but Tygar...we thought we'd lost him as the palace collapsed on him...I think his father may have grieved over his death...although he was very old too...still, he... didn't make it...

Trillean: *she bashes on the door of the cat's room again* Tygar! Open up, or I'll break this door down!

Csilla: *she clears her throat urging attention towards the enraged wolf* Trillean, please...stand down...let me handle this...

Trillean: *She calms herself down and says nothing*

Kaede: *he approaches from the corridor and smiles* Easy there, Csilla knows what she is taking about...

Ari: *she sighs* Poor Tygar, the dark forces decimated his own kingdom, there's nothing left there but mere memories...

Kaede: *he sighs alongside her* Yes, he is suffering greatly, but so are we all...everyone has suffered because of that madman Nelo...and his father...

Csilla: Indeed we have all suffered, I've heard rumors about Ryanna's pendant...and it's link to Tiger...tell me about it...

Kaede: *he nods* There's a chance that it's being used by the darkness against us, once a great treasure from Ryanna's kingdom, it now has been corrupted. Tygar's rage can be easily controlled by the darkness, and his emotions fuel a side of him that doesn't belong...

Csilla: I...see...

Trillean: Tonight, was the third time...he has suffered long enough...

Ari: What can you do to help him...Csilla?

Csilla: Well, you see, being half dragon, I have certain powers that might be able to get through to him and stop the evil from clouding his mind, although I can not do it unless he is willing to accept it as part of his fate...

Kaede: Impressive...that would be great...

Csilla: *She smiles* Well now, I'll see what I can do, so wait here, or go roam the castle...this could take some time...I'll do my best...

Trillean: *she nods* Thank you...

Kaede: *he nods as well* Best of luck cousin...may the fates smile on you...

Ari: *she stands there silent before nodding her approval*

***

**Trying to get away from the horror, the madness that just took place a matter of minutes ago, the elf princess runs down the hallway, tears streaming from her eyes as they quickly evaporate in the air, still she runs with all her pain bottled up within her soul, only one voice calls out to her, that of an elderly man, she suddenly stops, completely out of breath, she gets down on one knee, not looking up at anything or anyone**

~Enter Ryanna and Elder Tassidus.~

Tassidus: *from behind, the wise elder walks up to the sobbing young women, he notices that her tunic is soaked, he merely does one simple motion, he gets down on his hand and knees and tilts her chin up to face him*

Tassidus: My dear...don't blame yourself again...

Ryanna: *trying to speak, her sobs choke her voice a little, she goes into an embrace sobbing on the old man's shoulder*

Ryanna: *she releases shortly afterwards* Uncle....you do not understand....this pendant...it originally didn't come from the elves...

Tassidus: *he looks up at her* What do you mean? How do you know this...?

Ryanna: *she closes her eyes and shakes* This pendant belonged to the source of evil itself! I read about it...in a book at the library...

Tassidus: *he closes his eyes for a mere second and looks at her* The texts here do not lie...that is for certain, but still...I thought your mother gave it to you?

Ryanna: *she recalls out loud what she read in the book earlier that day* A thousand years ago...a war between good and evil broke out....

Ryanna: Species of all types, ranging from the wise Elves, to the mighty Dwarfs met at a battlefield for the fate of this planet...

Ryanna: Of course, there were seeds of evil as well...

Ryanna: *she gulps a little, her throat baring down for the next phrase of her story* In there possession...was...

Ryanna: ...This pendant...*she holds it up for the elder to see*

Ryanna: The two sides fought with great power, greater than which this world had ever seen, but when the final blow was struck, it was evil that had been vanquished...

Ryanna: ....and after the evil was slain, this pendant laid in its ashes...

Ryanna: A single elf...that of my ancestor, picked it up...

Ryanna: *sighing* He vowed to restore a shining light of power in the pendant's power...

Tassidus: *he frowns* I...see, so that is, your mother did indeed give it to you...

Ryanna: Yes...it has been passed from mother to daughter for the past one thousand years...the day of the war exactly...no one has been open to the truth of this pendant's mystery...until now...

Tassidus: Good lord...

Ryanna: *she throws down the pendant, however, with an instant black light it quickly re-appears back around her neck*

Ryanna: ...And now uncle...it has chosen me....as its shell...its body, it's keeper...

Ryanna: Tassidus....my fate is set...and there is nothing...I can do...to change it.....

Tassidus: No...fate shall not guide you this time, together we make our own decisions, fate merely smiles down on us every step of the way...

Tassidus: *his eyes look closer at the pendant as he sees a familiar battle taking place inside of it...the battle for the Elf Capital*

Tassidus: *seeing the vision, he places both of his hands on the side of his hand, almost going into an enraged state, but he quickly comes out of it* N...no...it's not possible...C-could it be that this single relic was the reason behind my nephew's madness as well as that of the witch, Arshes...*he ponders the thought for a while and shrugs it off* No, it's can't be...

Ryanna: *she frowns and looks at him again with teary eyes* It's not certain...it could have been a number of things...but...I...

Tassidus: *he nods placing a hand on her shoulder* Let's not speak of this tonight...but we must speak this to the mages of this place...surely they know something more...and perhaps a way to...lock the evil inside this pendant so it cannot further daunt the mind's of others...

Ryanna: *she nods back* You...you are right my lord...this tool of darkness....must be destroyed...

Ryanna: The Eye of Evil...Nelo Angelo, and his father, they are returning...and they wants me...along with my gifts...but most importantly... *she holds it up again* This pendant...

Tassidus: I share in this fate too, as does my nephew, Kaede...remember the Lotus Poison?

Ryanna: *she closes eyes and starts shaking with emotion* How could...how could I possibly forget...

Tassidus: *he nods* Then you know that we have it in our veins too...what happens to you...happens to us...

Tassidus: We share the burden brought by the poison.

Tassidus: But, because you were chosen for this, this pendant of damnation ...it serves some purpose...thus with it in our possession we can use it to our advantage...

Ryanna: *she sighs deeply* Perhaps...

Tassidus: *he continues* Let us break the pendant into thirds...a piece for each of us...

Ryanna: *she looks at the pendant* But...I do not wish to divide the burden upon you and Kaede! I've already done enough damage!

Tassidus: We shall share this burden, but it will not cause evil in our hearts, it will make us stronger...we shall learn to adapt to it, but only the mages could perform such a task, and...I do not know for certain if they alone can do it...we must seek their assistance at once....

Ryanna: *She sighs not replying*

***

**The door creaks open as the young high marshal steps in, her head peering from the doorway. A bright smile comes across that of the high mage-tress as she enters the room of the tiger prince after using her powers to unlock the door with the mere touch of her hand**

Csilla: *her robe glides across the blue carpet as she eyes carefully the tiger who is sitting there on his bed, not making a sound, merely glancing at a book with questionable doubts*

Tygar: *speaking out loud as she skims across a certain page in the book* Queen Nathesa Jadel Malicross was once a great ruler of the Southern Plains...until she caught a deadly illness spawned without a remedy at the youthful age of 37. Sadly, her highness died within the same day, leaving behind her husband, Lord Tryska Malicross, and only one son to follow the legion of rulers...his name...

Tygar: *he looks up as he sees the high mage approaching, her smile ever so beautiful, he reads out loud the final three words of the sentence as he shuts the book*

Tygar: Prince Tygar Jytryska Malicross...

Csilla: *she sits down on a nearby chair and smiles ever more beautifully* A beautiful name.

Csilla: With such meaning, too.

Tygar: *he lowers his head mumbling* Sure...if you say so...

Tygar: *he groans recalling the painful events of his past* I should have found a cure for the disease...she may have lived...

Csilla: Tygar. Please, come and talk with me. *she stands up and glances over him, then sits on the chest at the foot of the bed, her focus shifts from a different viewpoint*

Tygar: *he looks over to her, his eyes different from before, almost gentle-like* Did you know her...? Did you know my mother...?

Csilla: My mother did.

Tygar: What about my mother...?

Csilla: *again the mage smiles gently* She was...very beautiful.

Tygar: I miss her so...I wanted to be with her...I thought death was the doorway...

Csilla: *she shakes her head* No, death is not the answer.

Csilla: Your mother loved life, so very much, as should you, no matter what happens to cause it grief...

Tygar: I know...she did...

Tygar: But...now my parents are both dead, I am the last of their descendants...

Csilla: So end such a proud line with suicide?

Tygar: Why not...if it reunites me with them again...it would end my long suffering once and for all...

***

**Meanwhile, outside the room, three figures wait patiently for the end results of Csilla's conversation with Tygar. Trillean sighs as she leans against the door**

Trillean: I just know this is going to be awhile...

Ari: *she laughs a little* What, did you expect it to be that simple?

Trillean: *she sighs* I forgot...this is the fuzz-ball we are dealing with... I shouldn't have had my hope kept up so high in the first place...

Kaede: *he laughs* If there is a way to comfort Tygar, Csilla will find it, but she's always been know to take a great amount of time...*he stands up and stretches* May I suggest we go eat? I am starving..

Trillean: Yes, I suppose so.

Ari: *she looks at him suspiciously* How can you eat at a time like this?!

Kaede: *he laughs* I dare not question my stomach, when it wants something, it's best to feed it or suffer it's wraith...

Trillean: Oh yeah...

Ari: *she snarls lightly* Well...you two can do whatever you want, I'm staying outside this door until things are looking better with Tygar...

Trillean: Suit yourself!

Kaede: Come milady, let us go...

**The two exits leaving behind Ari, who continues to wait for Tygar and Csilla to come out.**

***

**Csilla continues her talk with Tygar, the room becoming cleansed simply from her words. Tygar shifts uncomfortably ever now and then.**

Csilla: *she shakes her head* Bringing death upon thee is no way to vanquish pain, it will only increase it's burden on thyself. And...you'd miss out so much on life's treasures...

Tygar: *he looks confused* How so...

Csilla: You are of a proud and noble blood line, a blood line that has...a gift.

Csilla: According to legends and things I have even seen myself...when one of your kinds dies, their soul is made a Protector.

Csilla: A guardian spirit that watches over all things.

Tygar: I am no guardian, but just a lonely coward with no honor...

Tygar: I do not deserve the right to rule over my country...

Csilla: *she continues* Their mortal counterparts are Guardians...that is what I am, and what my mother is.

Tygar: Are you saying that in a way...we are connected....

Csilla: *the high mage smiles brightly* In a way, you could say we are.

Tygar: I was thinking that...when we first arrived... you reminded me of someone I knew... it was hidden in your heart, but I could see it clearly...

Csilla: Tygar, you may not know this, but I can...communicate with them.

Tygar: *he stares at her confused, almost trembling* What did you say?

Csilla: *she grins* Protectors and Guardians must speak to one another to do their jobs well.

Tygar: I...never knew of this...

Csilla: *the high mage smiles and shrugs* In this world one needs 'tangible' evidence to believe anything, so it would seem.

***

**Strolling down the seemingly endless hallway, the warrior comes across the scent of food, his stomach growls intensely as he follows his nose to the food**

Kaede: This way... *he motions with his arm*

Trillean: *nodding slightly, she follows him into a room filled with the most wonderful aroma* Something smells good!

Trillean: *she mingles her fingers closer to a piece of raw meat but Kaede playfully slaps it away*

Kaede: Not so fast, we cannot dine until the council gets underway...

Trillean: *she groans* When will they start this council meeting?

Kaede: *he laughs* Ah...even that I do not know, but I sense our troubles need time to settle...they are very knowledgeable in such things...

Trillean: How can humans be so knowledgeable?

Kaede: *he laughs* These aren't normal humans...in fact, I'd go so far as to call them a different kind of people all together.

Trillean: Kaede, I grow worried.

Kaede: *he nods* As do I Trillean...as do I....

Trillean: We are all divided.

Kaede: *he nods, standing* I have a feeling that will change soon...very soon...

Kaede: *he turns to her* I just realized...where is your brother?

Kaede: Has he contacted your father for help yet?

Trillean: Probably so. But don't expect miracles nor an army from him at times like these...

Kaede: Even the smallest of help can decide the war...

Trillean: Well, don't expect a miracle from that blockhead...he's more trouble than he may appear to be at first glance...

***

**The young elf, Ryanna, looks at Tassidus and gives off a light laugh as she blushes slightly to his comments, she begins to playfully tease him**

Ryanna: You are too good to me Elder...I am not worthy of this...ahhh....

Ryanna: *her thoughts suddenly become clouded as she begins to lose her balance and falls to the floor, her necklace all the while, glowing a dark red, almost that of the color of dark blood, she begins to sweat heavily and her eyes begin to twitch harshly*

Tassidus: *he shouts* Ryanna!!

Ryanna: *her complexion begins to go pale* Tass...idus...

Ryanna: *the pendant drops as she staggers a bit, her consciousness dropping at the same time*

Tassidus: *he grabs the pendant, incanting a spell about it...in a counterattack, the pendant suddenly jolts him backwards*

Ryanna: Help...me...

Tassidus: *he looks on at the girl with eyes of confusion, but also with determination, he recites an ancient call and a faint hue of light surrounds Ryanna, the pendant attempts to reject the light by countering it with dark energy*

Ryanna: *she gasps as the pendant drains her own energy to fight again the holy attack, yet, somehow beneath the pain, a warm light shines brightly as it suddenly fills her with newfound strength*

Ryanna: *with all her might, she rips the bracelet around her neck and the pendant falls to the floor, no sound, no light exuberating from it*

Ryanna: *her pain eases, her figure returns to a light tan, still, she falls back against a wall for support from the rapid loss of energy*

Tassidus: *he covers the pendant with a white tapestry* I must take this to Frode at once...maybe he can split it...

Tassidus: We dare not waste time...we must split it soon...

Ryanna: *she slides down to the floor and covers her face with her hands*...I do not mean to burden you with this uncle...I do not intend to.......

Tassidus: *he lifts her up with his free hands and carries her like a newborn in his arms* Hush now my dear, I shall find you a place to rest...

Ryanna: *she blinks a few times to recoil her thoughts and then briefly smiles as all her thoughts go black*

***

**Confused, hurt, and feeling a mix of emotions, the lost prince leans into Csilla's arms feeling a warm feeling surround his soul completely for the first time in eons**

Tygar: I'm so very sorry....I almost brought death to your castle grounds...I was blinded by this accursed power...

Csilla: *she smiles and hugs the tiger while stroking his fur lovingly* It's okay. Fear is a powerful force, when used in the right manner...

Tygar: My father....he wouldn't want me dead, not until I had done everything in my power to bring peace to this world...

Csilla: Ah yes, that is what your lordship told me.

Tygar: He must have told many people...

Tygar: *a single tear falls from his face* This...rage...I sometimes can't control it when the pressures within get too intense...it's part of the dark powers...yet a part of me at the same time as a tiger prince...

Csilla: The powers that Nelo gave you?

Tygar: ...Yes...but how did you know....did someone tell you....

Csilla: *she smiles* Your mother watches over you and protects you. Why did you think Trillean's song affected you so?

Csilla: Trillean has GREAT powers and alone, her powers would have saved you.

Tygar: It...it's the same song as my mothers...

Tygar: I often relax when I hear it, just as I did...back when she was still with us...

Csilla: But your mother helped her with the words, with the tune...just enough to make it feel...right.

Tygar: ...Really? *he sighs looking down, then look back up at her*

Tygar: What must I do...now...?

Tygar: I'm a threat to my friends...to everyone around me...

Csilla: *she chuckles lightly* You are no more a threat than I am.

Tygar: *his eyes twitch* What...do you mean Lady?

Csilla: There are many things about me that few know and little understand...including myself. Something is coming that will link all of us together in one final show of glory and might.

Tygar: I know of this event...it's the Apocalypse.

Csilla: The end is uncertain, but it draws near. It is an inevitable part of the fates, but...we alone, have the power to stop it, under the line of the alliance...

***

**Ari yawns as time continues to pass by like an endless dream. Finally, the waiting period forces her to rethink her options to prevent herself from going insane. Recalling the direction Kaede and Trillean were going, she decides to check on them.**

**Meanwhile, Kaede and Trillean receive two unexpected visitors within the dining hall.**

Kaede: *he perks up his ears, sensing the presence of two figures approaching* Oh my...I do believe we have company...

Trillean: *She turns around*

Tassidus: *he hails, tension easily foreseen in his eyes* Kaede, a word nephew...

Kaede: *he blinks several times* ...What did you call me?

Ryanna: *she remains silent resting on a nearby bench outside the dining room entrance, yet her ears still tune into the conversation catching bits and pieces of it. Soon after, she just wakes up and observes the group*

Tassidus: *he shakes his head* Kaede, I have hated you since the day you were born...very little has happened to change that...but now I have another feeling about you....

Kaede: *he nods* Truly?

Trillean: *listening inventively, she speaks* And that feeling would be?

Tassidus: *he continues* I respect you as a man...*he pauses* ...And that is all...

Kaede: *he nods* I...thank you...receiving such gratitude from you, even in this manner, is always a pleasure...

Tassidus: *he shakes his head* Do not...I would just as soon see you die for your crimes, but you do have a worthy purpose, I can respect this in enemies as well as allies...

Ryanna: *she continues to observe*

Kaede: *he nods again* And what do you wish of me now?

Trillean: *she acknowledges Ryanna with a simple nod*

Ryanna: *she nods back*

Tassidus: *he raises the pendant* Do you know this?

Kaede: *he nods* Of course, it's Ryanna's pendant...

Ryanna: *she hugs herself tightly shuddering at the comment of the pendant belonging to her*

Tassidus: While that once was true, it is not anymore...I have stabilized it's power for now, but we must split it...do not ask why...we must...and then I will share this burden of evil...and I ask you to as well...

Kaede: *he sharply intakes his breath at the rush of words and responsibilities*

Tassidus: It is the only way to save Ryanna, so that she may help us, in turn...

Ryanna: *she speaks up from her seated position* Wait...

Ryanna: Tassidus....wait please....*she gently grabs his wrist* Do not trouble Kaede with such a request...it's not worth it...

Kaede: *he looks at Tassidus, and then towards Ryanna* Very well... *he gets down on one knee* I hereby promise to do all that I can to share the burden which has been laid before us...

Ryanna: *she turns, looking down at the warrior speaking the words of promise* Kaede please...*she stumbles back into her chair*

Ryanna: Why do people risk their lives for me? I am nothing but a threat....*she whispers softly*

Tassidus: We will have to be vigilant, the break will bring us closer together, but we must heed it's power does not enrage us to the point of madness...

Kaede: *he walks over to Ryanna, laying a hand on her shoulder* Ryanna...I have watched over you since you were born, and failed you a few times...I wouldn't trade you for anything...my fate is set...

Kaede: *he backs away, smiling* Besides, you will be able to help us yet...

Ryanna: *she appears confused at his words* How....how can I be of help? I am nothing but a peril...a plague upon this world....

Ryanna: A mere puppet for evil.....

Ryanna: *she looks at the floor* I'm a threat....

Tassidus: *he shakes his head* You have kept the forces of that pendant at bay for your whole life... only now have they started to really misbehave...

Tassidus: You are a savior Ryanna...yet you do not admit it...but that is fine by us for we know...

Ryanna: *she remains silent*

Trillean: *she looks up and grins* Alright, it's chow time! *she grabs a piece of raw meat and tears into it with her canine fangs* Better hurry, or you'll be stuck with scraps... *she chuckles*

Kaede: *he turns to speak and then decides not to despite the council not having showed up yet* Well, we can't wait forever, and the rations are getting cold...so... *he takes a piece of meat and bites into it* Let us feast!

***

**Csilla stands across from Tygar just a few feet away, she continues to explain to him the role he will play for the planet, as well as unlock things in his heart that once were kept isolated.**

Csilla: Trillean is the first person I have ever met to be aided by the Protectors and not know it... *Thinks* Well, maybe she does.

Csilla: The trick to winning is to follow your heart.

Tygar: My heart is uncertain to me...

Csilla: Or, in your case, take a moment to listen. Enclosed within the whispering wind...is your mother's voice.

Csilla: She'll help you...if you let her. And your father is there, as well. He is proud of you, because you are his son.

Tygar: My parents...they will always live in me, and their memories I will cherish...

Tygar: I'm...his son....his own flesh and blood....

Tygar: I hold the keys to a great legacy...

Csilla: *the mage smiles and nods* That you do...

Tygar: I've been entrusted with this duty, if I am to fail....then...

Csilla: Think not of it as a duty, Tygar, but a blessing...

Csilla: There is a reason Nelo Angelo wanted you as a partner, it is because of your legacy, your strength, and your power.

Csilla: But those are the things that can save you from his dark intentions.

Csilla: That...and your friends.

Tygar: *he nods* You are right... ever so right...

Tygar: You have shown me much Lady, and I thank you...

Csilla: Tygar...there is one more thing I'd like to show you...

Csilla: *the high mage-tress holds out her hands and there is a faint flash of light*

Csilla: *When the light dies, there is a crystal suspended from a chain in her hands*

Csilla: Wear this. It will help you to listen...and give you the strength and the courage to fight proudly...

Tygar: *he takes hold of the necklace and looks confused* This is...?

Csilla: It was your mother's. *she smiles as she sees his surprised reaction*

Csilla: The good thing about magic, is you can summon objects from one place, the Relic Room in this case.

Csilla: To the place you are currently.

Tygar: *he looks carefully at the crystal seeing an engraved NM engraved on the underside, he looks back up at her* How did you get this?

Csilla: Your mother gave it to the High Tower Mages the day you were born...she said you might need it one day.

Tygar: *he takes the chain and marvels at the sparkling stone in the center* It's so pretty...like she was...

Csilla: *she nods* Tygar, that day has finally come, the time when you must focus clearly on the road ahead, and know that not all is lost until the light completely fades...dreams may be shattered, building may fall, but...as long as the races exist, new dreams can be forged, new buildings can be constructed...

Csilla: But, hope always lives on...you must never forget that...your parent's are depending on you...and I know...you will not disappoint them...

Tygar: *looking up at her, he begins to sob again* You have shown me much Angel, I would have killed myself and not known of any of this, a monument of treasures and memories, all lost, because of my foolish greed to die...

Csilla: *she hugs the tiger once again, calming him the best she can*

Tygar: When...Tigera...is re-built...and I....we save the world, I'll be sure to have my people construct a statue of you...for all to look upon...

Csilla: *she laughs, a hint of magenta appearing in her cheeks* You don't have to do that...

Tygar: *he smiles* I want my people to feel the light of you and my mother...

Csilla: *she blushes towards the prince's kind words as she is speechless, but soon after, she is embraced into another hug*

~Exit All.~

***

ACT XI, SCENE 2 - High Tower Castle - The Decisive Meeting - 12 a.m.

**The strident sound of chomping, slurping and just plain passing of food can be heard from the dining halls as the band of light warriors eat to their hearts content. Ari suddenly walks in as looks on Kaede, Trillean, Ryanna and Tassidus are lost in conversation munching away on tidbit of leftover food**

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

***

Ari: *she is speechless at the annoying sound of manner-less beings devouring food like a pack of wolves*

Kaede: Ah, Ari! Glad you could join us...we were wondering if you were going to come in or not...sorry, you're a little late for the food...it's pretty much gone...

Ari: *she snarls* Well, what would you do if you sat outside a door for nearly an hour... *she looks on at the plates* Meat, I should have known, where can one get some vegetables around here... *she spots a kitchen and makes her way over*

Tassidus: Kaede, I hope you realize that there's no more food for Csilla and Tygar either, they will be displease, well, have you nothing to say?

Kaede: *with a chicken leg in his mouth, the man attempts to speak* Whhaafff?

Trillean: Manners Kaede!

Ryanna: *she giggles lightly sipping on some lemonade*

Tassidus: Well now, if you are all satisfied, I think it's about time we informed the mages of our plans with the pendant...

Kaede: *he wipes his lips with a nearby napkin* Well then, let's go find Frode...

Trillean: Lead the way Kaede, I would expect you'd know where he's at?

Kaede: Of course! *he gets up from his stool and leaves the room, while the others follow*

Ari: *she comes back with a stash of fruits and vegetables, she drops them on the table and growls* Now where did they go?! Dammit!

***

**Sitting outside watching the red moon shed it's pink light down on the tower gardens, the high mage sighs deeply as if the sphere was telling him of it's fate right now, suddenly he hears the cry of a young women approaching from behind, he turns around to see...**

Ryanna: Frode!

Frode: *he turns to face the young lady.* Ryanna? What are you doing here...*he notices the others coming by as well* Greetings all...

Kaede: *he walks up, looking on as Ryanna speaks with Frode*

Ryanna: Frode we need your help, immediately!

Frode: Is something the matter, my Child?

Tassidus: *he nods holding up Ryanna's pendant* We need you to split this pendant...

Frode: Split the pendant? Whatever for?

Tassidus: It is slowly working evil, driving us apart, but split between myself, Kaede, and Ryanna...it shall do the opposite...

Kaede: *he speaks up from the back* And if that doesn't work...then we share the burden of evil together...

Ryanna: it shall draw us closer together...and help ensure our hope...even if the chance of us getting infected by the evil is high...

Tassidus: It is within reason to do so...and may even prove to be our salvation.

Frode: Hmm, I see...you believe that your righteous hearts can block the evil influence of the cursed charm...very intriguing idea....

Frode: Very well...only one item can split a tool of evil...Kaede, go to the Relic Room, it's in the basement, there you shall find a Hammer of great light, enough light to purge even the greatest of evils.

Kaede: *he nods, running swiftly back into the castle*

Frode: One of you, get Lady Csilla!

Trillean: *she perks up* Leave that to me...*she races off back into the castle*

Ryanna: *she watches as the changeling runs off*

Tassidus: Now what do we do? Wait?

Frode: Just you watch...*his tone changes considerably* Kaleo!!!

~Enter Kaleo.~

Kaleo: Sir?! *the apprentice speaks looking down from the balcony*

Frode: Assemble the MAGES!

***

**Holding up the chained pendant, Tygar is marveled by its sheer beauty, he brings it around his neck where he hooks it up at the back, there he let's it settle and gives an almost blushed feeling wearing it.**

Tygar: *he smiles* Perfect...

Csilla: *she nods* Just like their son.

Tygar: *blushes* No...I'm not...

Csilla: Well then, you have at least one admirer if nothing else. Now, wear that pendant, and your mother will always be watching you...singing alongside you for all time...she's very proud of you Tygar...

Tygar: I cannot even begin to repay your kindness milady, thank you ever so much...

Csilla: Anything, for a dear friend. *she smiles*

Trillean: *a light knocking comes from the door as a familiar wolf-ling enters* Csilla...Tygar...you are needed for something very important...

Csilla: *she gets up releasing herself from Tygar's hand* Well then, shall we be off?

Tygar: *he jumps out from atop of the bed and lands near the door, he opens it* Ladies first... *he winks*

***

**Frode ushers Elder Tassidus and Ryanna to follow his movements as they prepare for a great event.**

Frode: Now then, Elder Tassidus, Miss Ryanna...let us make way for the High Hall...there, we shall conduct this meeting...

Ryanna: *she nods, and begins to walk towards the castle corridors bidding farewell to the outdoors*

Tassidus: *he follows the young elf and Frode*

Kaleo: *the mage races to the Main Entrance and pulls a large cord. A sharp bell rings out across High Tower Castle.*

Tygar: *he follows Csilla out from his room, spotting Trillean right away, he acknowledges her, but then looks down to the floor quietly*

Trillean: Tygar! *she begins, but eases off* It's great to have you back again...*she smiles gently*

Csilla: Now, what is the matter, Trillean?

Trillean: Frode requests your presence for the splitting of Ryanna's pendant, but we must hurry...time is of the essence!

Csilla: *she hears the bell ringing across the castle* We are gathering all the mages I see...this is going to be interesting...but now, why are we splitting her pendant?

Trillean: Please, no time to gravel...let us go...

Tygar: Lead the way Trillean, we shall follow...

Csilla: Allow me, to the Great Hall! *she begins to run down the halls, Trillean and Tygar right behind her*

***

Ari: *from the dining room, the half-elf's ear rise up at the sound of the bell, she spots a mage racing towards her, she attempts to draw his attention* Umm, excuse me? But, what is going on?

~Enter a Male Mage.~

Male Mage: The sound of that bell means we are conducting a ceremony of some sort, all mages must report to the Great Hall immediately!

Ari: *she watches as he races off and shrugs* At THIS hour? *she follows him swiftly*

***

**Kaede comes upon the Great Hall, and gasps, reveling in it's beauty and richness, with the Hammer of Luminosity**

Frode: *coming from behind, he places a hand on Kaede's left shoulder* Didn't change a thing after you left.

Ryanna: *she enters the great hall and marvels at its radiance*

Kaede: *he turns back to Frode* Here is the Hammer...

Frode: *he nods and heaves the Hammer onto his shoulder*

Ryanna: *she slowly stops in the center and speaks to Kaede, not looking towards him in a direct manner* Kaede....when we share this necklace.....this means that...you will hear the voices too...see the images of death....hear and feel the pain of the elves...

Kaede: *he takes in the rich marble, the flying buttresses, the colored curtains, the silver hearth...then looks towards her* I know it Ryanna...but it will not be nearly as bad... not nearly as bad as the worries, as the incomplete dreams...as the pains I've seen you go through...

***

Csilla: Come! We'll take a shortcut! *without further delay, the high mage-tress without warning leaps over the balcony, landing gracefully at the foot of the steps*

Tygar: *he stares at her for a quick second as she runs off, he looks towards Trillean* For a high mage, she sure is agile...

Trillean: Let us go, we have no time for idle barter... *she leaps over the edge and lands just as gracefully*

Tygar: *he lets out a victory roar and leaps out in the same manner, he races after them towards the High Hall.*

***

Ryanna: Kaede....there is something I must tell you...

Kaede: *he nods* Go on... *suddenly he receives a minor push from a familiar ally*

Csilla: Excuse me, Cousin. *she apologizes as she races past Kaede and looks onward towards Frode*

Csilla: Frode? What is it we are scheming?

Frode: This little pendant is the source of the trouble they believe, My Lady. It needs be destroyed.

Csilla: I see you already have the Hammer of Luminosity...well then...only one can perform this task...*she glares down*

Ryanna: *she continues* The source of this new evil...it has chosen me...as its shell...

Tygar: *he enters the High Hall, he sees his comrades but cannot bare to look at them just yet*

Trillean: *Her eyes land on Tygar and she stares at him for just a moment before taking out her harp and fixing her eyes on it*

Tygar: *he looks back at Trillean and eyes the harp and smiles, something he hasn't seen in a long time*

Kaede: *he nods* I know...but you are not it's only pawn...

Tassidus: *he enters the hall* ...And now Ryanna...you are not a pawn at all...

Ryanna: Even if we succeed in this....and we split the necklace....there is still a chance...I can still be taken...

Ryanna: ...And all of you....as well...

Csilla: *she looks towards the entrance as The Hall beings to fill with Mages and Apprentices, all shouting, trying to figure out why they have been summoned. *

Kaede: *he grins, this is something Nelo never would have expected...for with the split we gain power as well, power of foresight, power of speed...*

Tassidus: *he nods* We will be fine, as long as we stay together... and as long as we have others to care about, to rely on...

Ryanna: *she nods back in understanding* Yes...that much...I understand now...

Kaede: As long as we don't lose ourselves, our own love and emotions, the evil cannot take us...

Csilla: *she motions for the The Hammer, Frode hands it to her*

Csilla: Make me do the hard part. *she smiles teasingly*

Ari: *nearly out of breath she follows in a crowd of mages, looking over their shoulders for any signs of familiar faces, then she spots her friends* Kaede! Trillean! Ryanna! Tygar!!

Kaede: *they all look back at the high elf who has now approaches them after fighting her way through the crowd* Glad you could join us Ari...

Tygar: *he glares at her for the first time in nearly two days* Ari! Are you alright? You look...exhausted...didn't you get enough sleep?

Ari: *she smirks trying to hold back her sarcasm* First of all, I've been getting way more sleep that you all! Second, I have been up and down this place more times than I would have liked! Don't leave me again! *she then glares down Kaede* I still haven't forgotten about our little deal at the Dwarf Cavern...*she grins evilly*

Kaede: *he tucks open his collar feeling the sweat pour out from within* Oh yes...how could I possibly forget...

***

**The Great High Tower Hall is composed of rows up rows up theatrical seating, almost like an auditorium. Down on the main floor, there is a large plinth with two tables on both sides. Chandeliers graces the ceilings, each lit by a series of electric-lightning spheres, the noise of the gathering begins to echo across the great room**

Tygar: *he begins to walk down the main aisle, staring at Csilla's appearance, he chuckles* A chick with a hammer, this I have got to see... *from behind, he gets a playful swat from Trillean* What?

Csilla: *she walks down the isle with the hammer in hand as she prepares for her great task*

Tassidus: *he edges his way to an empty seat, he notices something strange of a foot blocking his path*

Trillean: *She smiles back up at him putting her foot out in front of him*

Tassidus: *he laughs* Trip me, and I'll rot you in hell!

Csilla: At the head of the grand room, the high mage-tress takes her place upon the pedestal*

Frode: *he takes his place to her right*

Csilla: *she lays the Hammer down beside her and shouts to everyone* Everyone, please be quiet!! Settle down, please!

Kaede: *he quiets down*

Tassidus: *he follows suit*

Ari: *she hushes quickly*

Ryanna: *she stands down*

Tygar: *he becomes silent*

Trillean: *she hiccups, covering her mouth, settling down*

Csilla: *The Hall falls silent. Mages of every age turn to face their leader, a half-breed.*

Csilla: *she clears her throat* I hate to admit this...but I have no clue what is going on...

Csilla: *The Hall is filled with laughter, one coming from every single mage, but the group looks on in confusion*

Ari: *she quirks an eyebrow, feeling slight tension*

Kaede: *he looks upon his cousin in confusion*

Kaleo: Old Mage joke. *the young apprentice explains to Kaede*

Kaede: *he stares back at Kaleo* She sure know how to make one feel uncomfortable at times... *he chuckles lightly*

Tygar: *he looks unasserted* She's got a hammer, and she doesn't know how to use it?

Trillean: Well what is more frightening for you Tygar is that she has that hammer and knows how to use it.

Tassidus: *he laughs at Tygar's joke*

Tygar: *gulp* Let her use it on me any day *he gets swapped again* Ouch...quit it...

Csilla: Ryanna, take the pendant from Frode, please...

Frode: *he rises from his seat and lays out the pendant*

Ryanna: *she rises from her seat, strolling down the isle toward the elderly mage, she slowly takes the pendant from this hands*

Trillean: *gazing at Csilla, she turns to Tygar whispering* So did she finally get through to you Tygar?

Tygar: *laughs* What do you think...

Trillean: *she grimaces* I hope so...

Tygar: *he smiles back* I hope so...too...

Csilla: *she looks down from her position* You want this idea destroyed, correct? Please state your reason in front of the entire band of High Tower...

Ryanna: ...Because my lady...things are more than they appear...

Csilla: *she nods*

Ryanna: *she raises her voice* This pendant...is not the legendary item it once was to the elves...we thought we knew...but it has been possessed by an evil one thousand years old...

Csilla: And what have you found it to be?

Ryanna: *she hands the pendant to Csilla, all the while her eyes narrowed* Nothing more...than a plague of evil...

Kaede: *he turns to the procession, nodding sagely*

Csilla: *she becomes all serious as she takes the pendant*

Csilla: *The Hall is filled with whispers...among the words is 'Dante'.*

Ryanna: A mere tool...to poison the mind of its beholder....as it did to my mother before me....

Kaede: *he looks towards his friends, all of them standing one after another from left to right, he eyes Trillean who is next to him* You know...for the first time in my life...my insides...are aflutter...

Trillean: *She looks up watching things warily* I do not trust this.

Tassidus: *he glares at Trillean from afar giving her the eye, as if saying 'I don't either, but I'm still here...'*

Kaede: *he shakes his head* I trust Csilla, she is like a sister to me...

Tygar: I don't either...say...do you think with everyone here, the food in the dinning hall isn't guarded....mmm....meat...

Kaede: *he laughs* Stay put Tygar...we need you to be here...

Ari: *she glares at Tygar and whispers* Nothing left but scrapes...tough luck...

Trillean: It is not her that I am worried about, things have far too peaceful around here...

Ari: *she looks at Trillean* This is only the calm before the storm my friend....

Trillean: I fear the storm comes soon...very soon...

Csilla: For the reference of everyone else who partakes in this meeting...this is none other than the Elf Pendant. It's a relic well over a thousand years old...

Csilla: *she continues* A great battle took place one thousand years ago...the great legions of the world took up arms to fight off the scaling evil that was amounting....

Csilla: The last day of the war, evil knew it had been defeated, so it intended to make it's reign last forever, so that one day it could return with revenge...

Csilla: It imbued it's powers into a single pendant...*she holds up Ryanna's pendant for all to see * THIS exact pendant that I show before you all...

Csilla: Of course, we didn't know about this for quite some time, well over nine hundred years to be exact...until it was discovered about forty years ago but a scholar here at the Castle.

Frode: *he stands up taking the floor* We weren't sure of this scholar's sermon, but we weren't about to question it as well...so we told him to add the knowledge to our library, thus he wrote a book.

Ryanna: Then...that means...?!

Csilla: Yes...from what I've heard on your end Ryanna, that's the exact same book that disclosed these tragic events... it seems that the theory has become a reality...

Frode: The suggestion has been made to smash the pendant into three pieces, one for each of it's possessor that wish to face the challenges ahead...

Csilla: Is that what you wish, Ryanna?

Ryanna: *she nods* My friends...they wish to share the lumber of weight that had originally been bestowed upon only me...

Csilla: *she acquiesces* Very well...

Csilla: Ryanna, you and your friends take a seat up here alongside us...

Ryanna: *she goes up to a chair and sits in it*

Tassidus: *he sits next to Ryanna on the right*

Ari: *she takes a seat on the left, at the end*

Tygar: *takes a seat besides Ari*

Trillean: *She gingerly takes a seat besides Tygar*

Csilla: Tygar. *she speaks*

Tygar: *he looks up at the mention of his name* Yes...

Csilla: Sit by me. *she motions to the empty seat at her left side...*

Csilla: Our feline friend is of a powerful lineage. *the high breed tells the Mages*

Tygar: *he nods nervously and reluctantly sits by her*

Csilla: A lineage we all know...

Ryanna: *she watches Tygar for a mere moment then blinks and turns her attention back to Csilla*

Tygar: *he sits next to Csilla*

Csilla: For such a task at hand, I ask everyone here in this room to combine their powers, to show unity, to show the faith that we have been brought upon. Let us join hands. Everyone...

Trillean: She takes hold of Tygar's hand and that of Ari's*

Kaede: *he extends his hands out towards Ryanna's and that of his uncle's*

Tassidus: *he takes his nephew's hand, reluctantly*

Kaleo: *the young mage takes Frode's hand and that of Tassidus*

Csila: *she completes the chain of links by taking Frode's hand and Tygar's, thus she begins to mutter in her ancient tongue all while closing her eyes, motioning for the others to do the same*

Tassidus: *his eyes glow a cool blue, just before he closes them*

Kaede: *he closes his eyes slightly, joining into the trance*

Trillean: *She bows her head and closes her eyes*

Tygar: *he enters into the trance*

Ryanna: *she looks at the ceiling and closes her eyes as well*

Csilla: Guardians! Protectors! Sprits of the Realm! ...With your holy magic this item was created....by a curse of greed it was tainted!

Csilla: As those who keep the Order of Magic in balance, we ask for a sign, that the shattering of this Hated Relic will please you!

**The Siernas begin to sing, more loudly and more beautifully than ever before, the grand hall begins to fill with the enchanting melody**

Ryanna: *her mind begins overflowing with images and new emotions as the singing fills my ears*

Tassidus: *he groans as he feels the powers flowing through him, reminding him of how it all began, enlightening him of how it may end to the favor of good*

Csilla: *Outside the howl of wolves rings out, joining the song*

Tygar: *he envisions his parents and his people as the singing enters his mind*

Trillean: *her ears perk up upon listening to the song, her mind begins to feel anew*

Csilla: *The Hammer of Light rises on its own and hovers above the pendant, which lays in front of the high mage, as she opens her eyes seeing the magical artifact*

Ari: *she feels peace enter her heart as she sees new visions, new hopes, and new dreams, a bright sun raising up over a new land*

Kaede: *he smiles as he feels his burdens lightened*

Trillean: *For the first time that day her heart is lifted*

Csilla: We hear you, Protectors, Guardians and Spirits of the Realm and we do you bidding.

Tassidus: *he begins to feel peace with himself, as the pathways of his mind are opened to new possibilities*

Tygar: *the prince feels more calm than he has ever felt in his life*

Csilla: *The half breed's wings touch Tygar and Frode's hands, to keep the link as she takes the Hammer's handle into her grasp*

Csilla: *she slowly raises it high above her head, feeling it's power, it's strength*

Csilla: *Energy fills the room. Streams of light erupt from every corner and every item in the room*

Ryanna: *her eyes shoot open as she stares at the hammer, the energy waves, and the pendant*

Csilla: Hated Relic...be...purged...at...last!!!

Csilla: *the high mage-tress brings the hammer down with a mighty roar!*

Ryanna: *her colors go black and white, almost like a flashback, the hammer coming down in slow motion, she watches as a great sanction of mystic energy erupts from the hammer...and the pendant at the same time, together*

Tygar: *the room goes silent as the pendant flies into the air slowly breaking apart...*

Ari: *a great roar shakes the great hall as an evil shadow streaks away from the pendant*

Tygar: *he nods as he smiles, feeling a new surge of light power enter his veins, his mind becomes filled with new hopes and new vision*

Ryanna: *she too feels a sudden purge of energy run through her veins, she lets out a smile, one not seen on her face in her lifetime*

Trillean: *She lets out a deep sigh of relief*

Csilla: *the pendant splits into three pieces magically, the three in all and on the table with a purifying crash that echoes across the great hall*

Kaede: *he grins at the marvelous display that was just presented before him*

Tygar: *he kisses his mother's necklace as it begins to glow a light blue hue*

Csilla: *the great black energy tries to head towards the roof...towards its master, but is caught and destroyed by the stone warriors that line the ceiling*

Csilla: *The song dies from the Sirenas, the energy fades. Things return to as they once were*

Kaede: *he becomes the first to speak about the event* Is...is it done?

Csilla: *she looks at him, as well as everyone else and smiles* It...is...done... *with that, the high mage begins to feel light headed, as she starts to tremble off her feet leaning backwards*

Frode: *he stands from his once seated position and eases her fall into his arms, he sighs deeply as he is accompanied shortly thereafter by Tygar and Kaede*

Csilla: *her eyes close, her grip on the Hammer loosens, and it goes clattering to the floor.

Csilla: *The Tower Mages rise in shock to see Csilla fall. The room erupts with noise*

~Exit All~

***

ACT XI, SCENE 3 - High Tower Castle - Aftermath - 2 a.m.

**Ryanna looks at the remnants of the necklace as it has now been tore into fragments. All three now lie before her, she slowly picks up her own piece and secures it around her neck. Kaede quickly grabs his own fragment, as does his uncle Tassidus, they both put theirs on as well. Kaede quickly rushes over to his cousin's side after her fall...**

~Enter Csilla, Frode, Kaleo, Ryanna, Trillean, Ari, Tygar, Kaede, Elder Tassidus and the Mages of High Tower.~

***

Kaede: Csilla, are you all right?!

Csilla: *her voice nearly becomes faint as her eyes are fixed at a half-way position*...Damn it...

Frode: Csilla?!

Csilla: *the mage is still but breathing...but barely*

Tygar: *he looks at her with eyes of uncertainly*

Ari: What's happening? *she looks them on with a nervous tone in her voice*

Kaede: *he slaps her face lightly* Wake up cousin...snap out of it!

Frode: *he monitions for privacy as the noise from the crowd becomes dense* Clear the Hall!

Ryanna: *she looks at Csilla*...My lady...you have done more for us than we can ever repay you....

Ryanna: *she rushes to the other side of Csilla*

Kaede: *he smiles, kissing her forehead* ...That you have Csilla..

Csilla: *she wheeze in between breathes, her tone becoming dim and cracked* Whatever... that thing was... it was powerful...this hasn't... happened... before.

Frode: Kaleo, assemble a few mages and take her to her room to rest.

Ryanna: *she gets down on one knee in respect to the hign mage's task* My lady...this I must say...when...finally the Elven Capital is restored...you have our alliance anytime...

Trillean: *She stands stiffly, and walks over to Csillia* That's not a good sign is it? This...this doesn't surprise me...we're up against a force that even we aren't prepared for...it shall bring us our dooms...

Tygar: *he looks back up to the ceiling* The darkness...it's coming...

Kaede: *he shakes his head at Trillean* She's just tired, as are we all...and yes, you are correct...we must gather further information on this imposing threat...

Kaleo: *the young mage picks up Csilla and starts to carry her out*

Tassidus: *he nods* A bit of rest would do us all good

Trillean: I do not think I shall rest much tonight.

Ari: Nor will I...but I have a good reason...*she chuckles*

Kaleo: I've got to do everything around her. *He jokes lightheartedly*

Tygar: The force of it is so great this time, not even High Tower can hold back it's plaque...

Kaede: *he laughs* You take care of her Kaleo...

Kaleo: *he smiles* I take care of everyone...

Trillean: *She goes and picks her harp up off the floor tuning it for a moment before placing it back on her belt loop*

Kaleo: *he gives a final nod and exits the Hall along with Csilla and a few mages*

Tygar: *he looks towards Kaleo as he exits* Take care of her...like she did with me...

~Exit Kaleo and Csilla.~

Tassidus: *he turns to Frode* We must leave soon, let us stay the night, perhaps the morrow...

Frode: You are welcome to stay as long as you like.

Trillean: No! Not even Tomorrow, it risks too much...

Ari: We still don't know enough about the evil plague...we need the assistance of the mages!

Ryanna: *she lets out a big yawn, * So...tired...

Frode: Until Csilla awakes, the Council can not decide to help you.

Kaede: But the Scourge will soon rise...we must amass our forces...and I'm not even sure the barrier you have placed on High Tower will be strong enough...

Tygar: We have used up more of our time, we don't have much left...

Frode: But knowing her... we probably will join, so, let's just rest on this tonight, hmm?

Kaede: Thank you Frode...

Tassidus: *he looks towards Ryanna* Come, let us head back to the Main Hall.

Trillean: *She exits first, arriving at the hall with the Seven Sirenas, she takes out her harp and begins to play , the melody calming the entire Castle*

Kaede: *he nods* Very...well...

Ryanna: *she slowly walks out of the great hall alongside the others, heading back into the corridors*

Ari: *she lets out a soft yawn as she she walks back to the Main Hall with the others*

Kaede: *he stretches* One time or another, I shall make for Dante's room...when Csilla awakens...I'm sure she will wish to speak with me about it...but...not tonight...

Tygar: *he follows Trillean* So....going to keep the darkness at bay early I see...

Trillean: I will try. Though I may not succeed.

Ryanna: *she goes to a nearby table and sits down silently, listening to the melody as it enters her ears and conjures her mind to desire sleep*

Kaede: *he shakes his head, sitting across from Tygar as they watch Trillean play the majestic tune*

Tygar: It's always worth a shot, if you know what's at stake..

Kaede: You'll succeed Trillean, trust in that...Tygar and me already do...

Ari: *she joins the crew and sits down listening as well* We all believe in each other, and look out for one another, that's what makes our bond strong, and it will continue to grow...

Trillean: *She continues to play, smiling all the way through the melody that she have symbolically created*

Ryanna: *she gently leans head down on my arms which is resting on the table*

Ryanna: I...do want to sleep...but I am so tired...

Tassidus: *he pats Ryanna's shoulders* Rest my child...I shall watch...

Ryanna: *she sighs and stands up* Ok Uncle...you win this round...I'm too tired to argue....

Tassidus: *he laughs* Good...now off with you!

Tygar: *he looks up at Ryanna and smiles* Allow me to whisk you off to sleep...it's the least I can do for your help earlier...

Tygar: *he puts a hand in front of Tassidus* Let me watch her tonight...

Ryanna: *she smiles and nods* You guys... *she then slowly begins to retreat to her room*

Tygar: *he lowers his voice, so as not to disturb the other* If I make a false move that shows danger....please...kill me...

Tassidus: *he nods* I thank you...and worry not...I will...I have my ways...*he winks as he heads off towards the sleeping quarters*

Tygar: *he smiles* I knew I could trust in you... *he then follow Ryanna*

***

**Meanwhile, outside the great chapel of High Tower, two figures discuss the future of uncertainty**

~Enter Ulric and Jove~

Ulric: *he watches as, one by one, the lights in the rooms are put out.*

Ulric: It's started, Jove.

Jove: So? *the oisin snorts*

Jove: You plan to do anything about it?

Ulric: I...just wish there was something I could do...like fight alongside them...what about you Jove? What do you plan to do?

Jove: I plan to sleep until it's over!

Ulric: *he snorts towards the oison* Talking to you was a waste of a perfectly good five minutes...

Ulric: *the mage rises and races towards the castle, catching site of the others from far away*

Jove: *the stubborn oison lifts his head...and not seeing Ulric, he leaps to his feet, and races after him* WAIT!

***

**The elf princess yawns solemnly as she walks into her room, quickly taking off her necklace fragment, she nosedives into the pillow thinking of only one thing: sleep**

Tygar: *the tiger prince walks into Ryanna's room, seeing her already half-way asleep beneath the covers* Tired...are you not?

Ryanna: I am beyond tired, my mind is so cluttered with the events of the past few hours, I can't even remember when last I slept soundly...

Tygar: *he nods to her as he notices a small wound on her left shoulder* Did...I hurt you when I slammed you away...

Ryanna: *she looks down upon the wound, then looks back up at him* No...I got it when I fell in the library....you didn't injure me...*she smiles*

Tygar: *he takes on a face of surprise* You're stronger than you look, do you still doubt in your strength, because I don't. *he winks*

Ryanna: *she playfully throws a pillow at Tygar* I still doubt in many things of myself...but...I am beginning to understand, and realize I'm not alone...

Tygar: *he moans playfully* Oh, you're asking for it... *he grabs another pillow and swing at her lightly* Take that!

Ryanna: *she takes the hit and laughs out loud, smiling brightly*

Tygar: *he tosses the pillow back at her, she places it back in it's rightful position, his tone becomes low and quiet* Ryanna....

Ryanna: *getting up, she lights a few candles on the wall*

Ryanna: *she looks at Tygar* Yes?

Ryanna: *she stands up and walks to the side of the room*

Tygar: Thank you for your kind words... and for trying to help me....I owe you much, I'll be sure to make it up to you...someday...

Ryanna: *she blushes softly, smiling back at the feline prince and shakes her head* You do not owe me anything Tygar...we are friends...and friends help each other out...whenever they need it.....

Tygar: *he smiles gently, nodding* As always, you are right. *he gives her a small kiss on the cheek*

Ryanna: Now before I go off to dreamland I need a drink of something! *she laughs*

Tygar: *he shakes his head* I'll be watching a drunk tonight, things may get tense... *he laughs*

Tygar: Don't go sleepin