Mah story

Of Magick and Men
A BRIEF OVERVIEW

Magick has always existed in this world, as natural as the trees and grass. Never benevolent nor malevolent; for Magick is naught more than a tool, shaped only by its user. In the Olden days Magick was plentiful, even the lowliest slave was gifted with some small form of Magick. We lived in harmony side by side. Lycanthropes and Vampires could freely walk the Earth- we were friends with the Demons and Angels.
Over time Magick began to recede, residing in those who lived on the fringes of society. We grew afraid of our friends. Afraid of the power they wielded. Power over nature, over death, even over our very souls. We drove them off, killing them, calling them Witches, calling them evil. Vampires, Lycans, Demons, Angels. We painted them as cruel monsters and they began to withdraw into the shadows.
Some stayed and intermingled with humans, rarely, if ever, revealing what they were. Children began being born not knowing what they were. Some could handle the non human side of them, while others pushed it down. Hiding it in the darkest corners of their beings. They lived their entire lives not knowing what they were and because of this they sometimes went mad from the beast inside.

Over time technology grew in leaps and bounds. Humans grew smarter. They kept the images of the vampires and werewolves alive, but they portrayed them horribly. They were mockeries of the real beings they tried to portray. The few who still practiced so called "witchcraft" were not shocked by these portrayals. Humans were fools, good for almost nothing.
Technology continued to grow as the years went past. Alliances were forged only to be stabbed in the back. Over and over again. Nations grew and fell, Magick stayed hidden in the deepest corners of the world. Humans cast aside images of vampires, of shape changers and demons, of angels, dragons, and those who were almost Gods. Millennium went past, humans forgot them, believing that they were too far advanced to believe in these creatures. Until the day they had a rude awakening.
Not everything in the past, chooses to stay in the past.

Prologue:
A Rude Wakeup Call



The date is 7650, the 20th of DawnFire. The President and Generals of the United States are hunched over a three dimensional map. It shows soldiers as they are dying, and gives the ability to move troops when necessary.
"Mr. President, sir I believe if we muster the troops here we will have the best strategical advance to crush Aciremas' army." The President is an old man in maybe his mid-hundreds. A short white beard is immaculately trimmed, and despite his age clear green eyes sparkle with vigor. His bald head is completely tattooed with runes, and symbols, inked in dark blues and purples. His clothes are modeled after the old "business men" of the 21st century.
"Mr.President?"
"Hmm. Yes I was listening. Merely thinking. Perhaps if we moved them here-"
The door is suddenly slammed open and a young girl sprints in. "Mr.President, sir! I have some thing to show you in the control room, sir!"

"What is it?"
"Sir, it would be better if you came with me, sir. I don't think you would believe me, sir."
"Girl if it is something I would not believe then get out! I do not need your foolishness here!"
"But sir-"
"OUT!" Ah the foolishness of man. He believes only when something is shoved into his face.
"But sir we really need to-" It is not her fault that the man would not listen, but those are to be her last words. The roof is torn open by a monstrosity made of night and hell fire. In a single movement mortals fly through the wall, leaving only the President standing, trembling. Time seems to slow as he gazes upon this monster.
Her scales are made of the darkest ebony, seeming to absorb the light. Her eyes are two dancing fires, void of any emotion. A gaping maw opens, showing fangs the size of a man.
"Hello little mortal." That voice will haunt him for the rest of his short human life. An enchantingly beautiful voice,yet only promising death. "Is the little mortal afraid of me? No? You should be." The final sentence turns into a snarl and in one fluid movement the President is snagged by a single claw then thrown into a wall. He quickly scrambles up and sprints for the door.
"Yes, run little mortal! Run!" A gout of jet black fire demolishes part of a nearby wall. Claws rend ornate pillars, soon leaving only a smoldering pile of ash where the White House once stood. Foolish little humans, thinking that they could easily overcome this monster, after all it's a just an animal right?

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"I don't know why I should consider agreeing to this."
"Because if you don't, we ALL die. It is the simple matter of the fact. " The rulers of two once glorious nations stand across from one another, each mirroring the others cross armed stance. "Besides, it is just a dragon. My people know how to handle them."
His "people" being Vampires, Agramon is...shall we say strange? Even among his own kind he's rather odd. His skin is a pale white like that of newly fallen snow, his blue eyes are encircled by a thin ring of red. His clothes are brightly colored and sewn with multicolored threads, a cloak of black and red sits delicately on thin shoulders. A small smirk rests on his blood red lips and as he tilts his head, a multitude of sliver ear rings jingle. His hair of black, blue, red, and green falls slightly in his face."So do you agree? Or will I be forced to have Silas escort you out?" His voice is smooth as velvet.
The president briefly looks at the muscular Lycanthrope then back to Agramon, "We have an agreement."
"Hahaha. I knew you'd see my way is best. Now come let us see to your little army, come along now Silas."

Little army is an understatement of epic proportions. "So this is what passes for an army now? A ragtag bunch of villagers thrown together with only a few guns between them? Never had I expected to see the United States fall so low."
"When the dragon attacked-"
"Yes,yes,yes I know all the excuses. I've been around for over a thousand years child, I've seen and heard all of this before. I suppose we should get started before Annabelinda brings back her egg mates."
"What!? You know the dragons name!?"
"Yes,yes, I've been here over a thousand years. Do you really think this is the first time she's come here? She's come plenty of times before with her sisters and brother. You really didn't think all those tornados, tsunamis, and earthquakes were natural did you?"
"Of course they're natural! What else could they be?"
"Hsssss don't speak so loud mortal, my ears are sensitive you know. And no those "natural events" are most certainly NOT natural. Why don't I just tell you this as I'm addressing your army. And I use that term very very loosely." With a quick turn on his heel the Vampire Lord walks over to a hastily put together podium. "Can I have you're attention please little mortals?"
"What's that thing doing here?"
"What is it?"
"Not natural is what it is."
"Again can I have your attention? Oh by Nosferatu! SHUT UP! Let me speak!" An instant hush falls over the crowd as the Vampire yells. "Thank you. I suppose I should start with who and what I am. My name is Agramon. Not that any of you fools would know that name, too full of yourselves to believe even for an instant there is something out there other than you. Like I said I am Agramon and I am a Vampire Lord. Of course none of you even remember what a Vampire is. A Vampire is an immortal forced to forever walk the Earth. There are also psychic vampires but I consider myself just a bit more superior. I drink blood unlike my psychic cousins, see superior, much easier to terrify people."
"A Vampire Lord is a Vampire who has lived on this Earth for a long time, thus becoming superior to all others especially you little mortals. Albeit even the lowliest Werewolf is more superior than a human, though not by much. Oh hush your snarling Silas! It was a compliment! Ugh werewolf men, can't live with them can't live without them. So you little humans have literally no chance against Annabelinda. Although a Vampire might have a small chance. So now I ask, who wants to be a Vampire?"
Silence. Dead silence. Then, "Are you insane? I'm not agreeing to that!"
"Hahaha. You don't have to little one, all I'm saying is you'll have a better chance this way. For all we know I can't turn you anyways," In one fluid movement he hops down and stands in front of the boy, "Hmmm. Silas, come over here boy. Do you think he's one of yours?" The boy visibly pales as the massive wolf lumbers over.

"No. Not one of my breed."
"Ah well, would have been fun to have another little wolf around." Little wolf? Calling Silas little is like calling a mountain an anthill. He tops out at 6'8, which about three inches of that height is his black hair that he constantly spikes up. Jade green eyes stare out of a gaunt, pale face.
"Agramon stop scaring them already. We have work to do."
"Of course Mr.President,sir." With a brisk turn Agramon stalks off to a nearby tent, "If anyone wants to survive you'll meet me here." Each looks at each other nervously, none wanting to volunteer as the first Turned Vampire in millennium.
"Oh my goodness! I'll go and prove this isn't so bad." A young girl of maybe twenty races off after the Vampire Lord. "Wait!"
"Oh? The little one wants to be first hmm?" He stands off to the side of the tent holding open the flap, "Ladies first then." She lightly brushes past him into the tent and looks around.
"Dang that's a lot of color."
"What can I say little one. I like colors, now make yourself comfy on the couch or bed or somewhere. Silas! Out you annoying wolf!"
"Why do you treat him like that?"
"I swear with that little head tilt of yours you almost make me interested in girls. Almost. Well not really, it's not a choice you see."
"Ummm you never answered my question."
He waves his hand slightly, "Oh, yes of course your little question. All you need to know is Silas owes me a favor. Now sit still and I'll try to make this very quick," He brushes the long, blonde hair away from her neck and tilts her head, "Now keep your head right here little one."
"Will...will it hurt?"

"Hmmm? Oh no. Just a little pinch, then you'll feel very cold. After that you'll presumably fall asleep. Now seriously sit still and let me work." He leans close to her neck and slides out small needle like fangs. He quickly bites her neck and she lets out a tiny sigh.
"Ohhh I feel.. kind of.....weird. Really sleepy...." Her body sags and Agramon lays her down.
"Just sleep little one. Just sleep." She closes her eyes and Agramon finishes his work. She grows deathly pale and her chest rises and falls slowly. Rise. Fall. Rise. Fall. Her last breath is a tiny sigh, as her heart stops beating, her lungs stop working, everything inside of her stops. "Just sleep rema, you'll wake up soon enough."
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"No fool! Like this." He takes the sword from her hands and demonstrates the movement. "See? Easy. Now do it again, correctly this time." The Newly Turned Vampire tries the move again, getting the form mostly correct.
"Can I please be done here now? I'm exhausted."
"Fine Sash. Go feed and rest." A stiff bow from the waist and then Sasha runs back to her tent.
"Hey Sash. Why back so soon?" She says this without even glancing up from her book.
"Oh hey Leslie. I conned Agramon into letting me leave practice early." She flops down next to her Lycan companion and sighs. "Man I'm tired." Leslie scoots closer to Sash and moves her brown hair away from a tan neck. "Uthhhhh. There is no convincing you I can eat a rabbit is there?"
"Hehahe. Nope. You and I both know that human and Lycan blood tastes better. Now hush and feed little one."
She mutters underneath her breath, "I'm not little. I'm the best warrior to ever live."
"Come on Sash. Just feed already." A small, quick bite is all that is needed. "Mmmmm. I swear I will never get used to that feeling."
"You don't have to do this if you don't want to."
"I know that but-" But what? If only little Leslie could have time to finish her thought, maybe a profession of love? Or perhaps she only wants to say it is her job. Alas little Sasha is never to know that, for at this very moment we are to meet one of Annabelindas' kin.
"Dragon!"
"Get the guns now!"
"Hurry up!" The monster lands on an outcropping near the minuscule camp and tilts it's bird like head.
"Come now little humans. I only wish to speak to you." Her voice is as smooth as silk, beautiful, enchanting, sorcerous. As one the humans drop their weapons and stare in awe at this beautiful monstrosity.
Ocean blue eyes stare out of a head that is almost hawk like, pink and blue feathers lay over delicate white scales. A snake like tail is wrapped around her front paws, and she lazily stretches out wings as large as she is. For an Air dragon like herself she is rather large, landing in at two hundred fifty feet in height.
"You wished to speak to the mortals Echo. Now speak."
"Ahhh Agramon. How good it is to see you again. Tell me how have you been doing little traitor?"

"Just tell them what you want to Echo. You and I have no business." In one fluid movement Echo jumps down and lands lightly in front of Agramon.
"Ohh but we do have business together. You see your mistress sent me to collect you. If you behave and come back nicely then my remakash won't be forced to kill you. If you don't then I'll just have to kill everyone here. Including your little pet. Sasha I believe is her name?"
"Echo. Get on with it. Relay your message then Run home to Annabelinda with your tail between your legs." A low growl resounds from deep in her chest.
"Fine. My message for you little mortals is this: surrender yourselves to us and we will let you live as slaves. If you chose to fight, we will slaughter all of you slowly and painfully. Any of you who wishes to give yourselves over now may do so. Lay down your arms and we will not hurt you, fight and you will die."
Foolish little humans, they should have just give up fighting now, but of course they won't because that's what little idiotic mortals do. They think they can win a foolish war against a beast they haven't seen in millennium.
Quick hands, a neatly aimed shot, and now you have an extremely ticked off Air dragon. Not exactly the most pleasant thing in the universe. A small swipe of her paw and ten men go flying, in one snap Leslie is bitten clean in two.
"Leslie!"
"Idiot! You want to get yourself killed too?!"
"I'll kill her! Leslie!"
"Idiot! Stop. Fighting. Me!" The dragon shreds through tents, sends men flying, by the time her rage has cooled only a handful of commoners, Agramon, Sasha, and the former president are left.
"Tut-tut, I told you this would happen little ones. Now will you continue to fight or will you come with me willingly?"
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"Are you sure this is a good idea?"
"This is the worst idea I have ever had, but what other choice do we have?"
"I still can't believe Leslie is gone."
"Oh would you shut up about her! She's gone, get over it!"
"At least you didn't lose someone you actually loved!"
"You have no idea how I felt about Silas."
"I'm pretty sure I can guess. You treated him like he was nothing, like he was barely fit to be in your presence."
"Thats how I had to treat him. In case you haven't noticed his kind and our kind are not exactly allowed to get together."
"Wait...you're....gay?"
"Idiot. Are you simply that blind?"
"Shut up!" A hush falls upon the small band, and each finds somewhere else to look. Sasha pulls at the chains binding her slender wrists. I wonder if I can....nope that won't work. What about....nope. How about I....no again. What were we thinking listening to Agramon?
The Vampire in mention is busy looking for flaws in the Dragons defense. With a sigh he realizes it is too futile to even attempt an escape plan. Useless is what I am. I served the dragons for a thousand years and yet I can't even find a way around their defenses. Albeit most of our guards are the ones I trained.
"Well,well,well. Look who's fallen so far. How have you been Master Agramon?"
"Hello Shaleez. I have been well. And how has my most excellent Apprentice been?"
"Hahahha. I have been most excellent considering whom it is I serve now."
"And who is that?"
"Annabelinda."
"What? You, a two faced, dull scaled, worthless lizard. You serve Annabelinda?"
"Now, now Agramon. No need to resort to name calling." Agramons insults could not be farther from the truth. Shaleez is what is known as an Anthropomorphic or Anthro for short. His small, delicate scales are of the darkest blue; like that of the sky at midnight. Gold eyes stare out of a slightly thin face. Heavy gold rings adorn delicate head frills.
"I'm not name calling, I'm just stating the facts."
"Come now Agramon, once upon a time you loved me. Of course I didn't feel the same, but it was rather fun to lead you on. Oh look we're finally here." 'Here' is not exactly the most amazing of places. A virtually barren desert with only a few scraggly trees.
"Hmmm and yet you claim I am the one who has fallen."

"Shut up. Sabeth, open the Gateway."
"Right away, sir." A young Elf steps forward and traces burning sigils in the air. The air shimmers slightly as if it is a mirage. Ever so slowly, the Gateway appears. Twin arches looking like they are made of ebony, vines made of silver wrap up and around them. Between the arches hangs a swirling mass of blues and silvers. "Just step through and you'll be in the hall of the Council."
"Prisoners first then." The guards move the line of chained prisoners through the portal. "Hope you have a fun trip! Hahahahahahahah!" Going into the portal is an experience similar to walking into a tornado. The winds throw you every which way until you finally land at your destination, in this case the destination is the hall of the Dragon Council.
The floor is made entirely of mahogany, the walls go up and up and up. The ceiling is made of magic lined glass;impervious to any attacks yet letting the mid day sun inside. Marble pillars line the walls and between each pillar is a stand with a glowing orb upon it. Upon closer examination it is seen that inside each orb is a single red will-o-wisp. From the door leading to a large Dias is a blood red rug. Upon the Dias sits the Dragon Council, in their human forms.
Terra, the Earth Elemental. His height is six feet and four inches in this form. Eyes like molten silver peek out behind green hair, tipped in grey. He has a somber, serious look on his face. Even in this form he is heavy and muscular, but not overly so. He wears a suit of chain mail armor and a broadsword is propped against the back of his chair.
Nymph, the Water Elemental. She is larger than Terra in both this form and her Dragon form, but only by five inches or so in this one. Her eyes are the color of the ocean at sunset. Nymph is slender and willowy, beautiful unlike her other form. A broad smile adorns her thin face and with her hair of blue, pink, and green streaks she almost looks like a teenager from the Before Times. This look is completed by a long sleeved pink T-shirt with a turtle on it's back saying "Well this is awkward," and faded blue jeans.
Echo, the Air Elemental. She is two inches smaller than her sister Nymph, but is far more dangerous. Like her sister she is slender and has bright blue eyes, but the blue in her eyes is more like the sky on a sunny day. A small knowing smile sits on cherry red lips, and she blows a strand of blue hair tipped in pink out of her face. She wears a simple blue dress and black high heels.
Annabelinda, the Fire Elemental. She is the largest of all; topping out at seven feet. Her eyes are a deep dark red and because of her snow white skin she looks almost like a vampire from one of the Old Times books. Her hair falls to just past her shoulders and is a deep dark black, shot through with red and tipped in white. She wears a tight black shirt and matching cargo pants with combat boots.
"Well, well, well. Look who has decided to drag his worthless self home."
"And a good morning to you as well Annabelinda." Her eyes narrow to blood red slits and her mouth contorts into a snarl.
"I am your Kash and you will address me as such."
"All right such." A smirk rests on Agramons lips as he watches the Dragon barely control her anger.
"RemaKash ignore this little fool. He has been away from us for so long I think he has forgotten how to behave, don't you almost feel pity for our poor little slave?" Echo, kind to her subjects yet still not a Dragon one would want to serve.
"Slave? I am no slave, you will not be able to control me now."
"Annabel why don't we just get on with it? I am impatient to be moving again."
"Of course Terra, of course...these are our terms. You will let us completely control this world and we will let you live. As our slaves of course, we will erase any and everything making the Dragons seem....evil. Any who spread theses tales will be eradicated instantly, are we understood?"
"Why should we serve you?"
"Mr.President please-"
"Because darling, you can either serve us or you will die a most painful death. Your decision." The former President looks thoughtful and shares a look with Sasha and slowly nods.
"I agree with your terms. Just let my people live."

Chapter One
Naught but a number..

"No! Hold the swords like this! Fool.." I let out a long growling sigh and shift the swords into their proper positions; the left held straight in front of me at roughly the height of an enemies throat and the other held behind my head. I hold this position for what seems like an eternity until finally, "Alright 20-00. We're done for the day, hit the showers and Daemon will fill you in on some information." I cross the blades in front of my heart and bob a quick bow. In one fluid movement I sheath the twin swords in a sheath on my back and take off at a jog for our quarters. My unshod feet rhythmically hit the grass as I shift into an all out run, past other initiates, teachers and dragons in their mortal forms.
Our Compound is small compared to the others; fifty miles in any direction from the center to the walls that create a perfect circle. The wrought iron walls rise hundreds of feet in the air effectively blocking us from the outside, it is here I have lived my entire life from the day my parents died and left me a ward of the dragon Annabelinda. My parents were assassins of the highest regard and I hope to follow in their paw-steps. I stop in the center of our compound, only a short ways away from where I was training, to admire the giant cherry blossom tree. There have been many days where life was simply so tiresome that I snuck away here to read and write. I lightly run my paw on the bark of the tree and then resume my run back to my quarters.
My quarters are rather plain compared to some things, it is in the style of what was called a boarding school back in the older times when the Dragons allowed humans more free rein. I pull the oak door open and run down the empty hall into the space where I sleep with other initiates, luckily none of the boys are there so I quickly shed my plain black training clothes and slide my sword under my bed. I wrap a towel around myself and hastily pull a brush through my hair. After making sure the others are still gone I run to the showers, hop into one and lock the door.
"20-00 is that you?" My heart briefly stops and then starts again as I recognize Daemon's voice.
"Oh Dae it's just you. Yeah it's me, I was just about to take a shower. Can you catch my towel?" I stand on my toes and dangle the towel over the side of the door, I let go once I feel Daemon grab it.
"Hmm now how do you know I'm going to give you this back after you're done with your shower?"
"I know because if you don't you're getting beat up, we clear on that?" His deep throaty chuckle is the only response I get. "...idiot..."

"I heard that 20."
"I don't know what you're implying." I drown out his answer with the sound of running water. The cold stings briefly as I readjust the temperature to just barely above lukewarm. "Ahhhhhh..." I slowly undo my braid and drag my fingers through my long, thick hair. "Ahh.." It's always nice to relax after intensive training. I shampoo and conditioner my hair then set to work on massaging body wash over the rest of me. All in all it takes maybe half an hour, after I shut off the water, "Daemon Oni you'd better be turned around or I'm going to kick you so hard." I slowly open the door and Daemon's back greets me.
"Ya might need this." Hooked on one of the talons of his wings is my towel.
"Thanks little brother." I bend down slightly to kiss the back of his neck, and ruffle his hair. "So the BladesMaster says you have some news for me. Ah don't turn around yet, still adjusting my towel! Okay now you're good."
Daemon Oni. My little brother, my confidante, my guide and dare I say it...maybe my crush. His hair is a vibrate red that always seems to be hanging in his face, yet somehow not obscuring perfectly mismatched eyes. One a deep, dark, mysterious red and the other a beautiful gold. His skin is a dusky grey and his wings give the appearance of being made of shadows. They almost remind me of bat wings that I saw in a picture book once, the only thing is I don't think a bat would ever have, "A piercing? Did you really put a silver ring in your wing?"
"Yes, what's the big deal? It's not that bad, I mean not as bad as the tats." Ah yes his tattoos, a tribal lion adorns his chest and a coiling snake rests on his right arm.
"I don't know what's wrong with you sometimes Dae." I brush past him and he falls in step behind me.
"Oh come on little Sister, you should consider getting a piercing. Why not one on your lip?"
"Ahah one I'm not your little Sister, you're only five feet eleven inches and I'm six feet five inches. And two...I'm not insane enough to ever get a tattoo or a piercing. Now what exactly was...." I stop dead in my tracks at the foot of my bed, "No. Way. You're just punking me right? This is a joke right?"
"Hahaha. Nope you finally get your name 20." Every initiate is brought to their Compound at birth, and are assigned a number. If the initiate proves themselves worthy then they will be able to get a name and after that they get their assignments. Annabelinda...she rules over the so called Assassins. We are not only that, we also serve as guards for those of the other Compounds but that is very rare. I don't know how the others do it but if I am to become a fully fledged ShadowSister then I will have to face a BladesMaster and fight him...to the death. If I survive then I will be assigned a job and train with far more experienced teachers.
"Do...do you know if they've decided my teachers yet?"
"Right here 20-00." He holds out a small scroll and pulls it away as I reach for it."Dress and then you get this."

"Gah! Fine, just shoo so I can." He goes to one side of the room and stares at the wall as I drop my towel. I turn to my mirror and look at myself as I have done many times before. As always I start from the bottom and work my way up. My feet are those of the common wolf and because of such I find it hard to wear most shoes. My calves and thighs are slender with a small gap between each leg. My hips are narrow and my long tail moves slowly back and forth, almost but not quite brushing the ground, my stomach is flat and my ribs are almost noticeable. I am not small but not large in the chest and I am fine with that, I desire no man nor woman. I run my hand slowly along a prominent collarbone and finally I set about looking at my face. As I tilt my head so does my reflection, I am not a pure blood. My face shows small traces of German Shepard mixed in with the wolf, not enough to be obvious but just a tiny bit noticeable. My hair is jet black and falls to my waist, on the right side is a small rebellious red streak. My eyes are a deep dark blue. I am 20-00, but today I become something more.
I turn my attention to the clothes lying on my bed, first the pants. They are simple black cargo pants, and are low cut to accommodate for my tail yet somehow don't show off my butt. Like most of my pants they are cut off at the knee. The shirt is plain black like the pants and comes just down to my ribs. It is sleeveless and a leather cord wraps around my neck to keep it in place. My new shoes are custom made to fit my wolf feet, they are made of a dark leather and come up to exactly where my pants end. Then the part I've been dreading....a collar. For some odd reason it is standard in all uniforms that Wolf and Dog Anthropomorphics wear a collar. This one is made out of thick, silver chain links and has a small lock in the back so it is able to be removed later. Now for my own personal touches on the outfit. A black biker glove adorns my right hand and I slip on my amulet. The chain is made of delicate gold links and the medallion is apparently in the symbol of the pack my family once belonged to long ago. Two interlocking crescent moons, both facing away from each other.
"You done yet 20?"
"Yep, I'm dressed." Dae turns around and walks up next to me,then starts playing with my hair.
"You might want to put this up."
"Mm that's the plan lil bro." I brush my hair back and begin braiding it tightly. "So can I see the list now?"
"Why don't I just read it you?"
"Mmm okay."
"Class number 1 Rouge Bradshaw on some math and sword fighting. Class number 2 Zachary Dietrich on Magick and science. Class number 3 Anastasia Webb on archery. Class number 4 with Lost Angel on the darker side of Magick. And finally Class number 5...well aren't you just a lucky little Wolf? Seth Lasic on everything else fighting and surviving wise, basically."
"What does that mean?"
"The others are good but Seth is...well you know Seth. The others will help you along but he'll be filling in every gap, more or less." Seth...Seth...Seth..I know of him but I do not know him. "So ready to go?"
I look at myself once more in the mirror, "Yep, let me just get my blades." I pull my blades from under my bed and strap them onto my back.
"Come on then." I follow him out the door and down the hall. I hear murmurs from the Initiates that we pass.
"How is it she's advancing?"
"...must be rigged...."
"...too young."
"..only thirteen..."
"Please...it's just a joke.."
"Awesome."
"Ready to see the Captain?"
"Nope. But let's get it over with anyways." Daemon raps sharply on the Captains door.
"Enter."
"Good luck 20." With a slightly shaking hand I open the door and enter the room.
"Hello 20-00. Take a seat." I sit across from the Captain and as she looks at my papers I take this moment to get a good look at her. Her hair is a long, falling almost to her waist and is bleach blond. She is deathly pale and on her neck I see two small scars, the Captain is a Vampire. Her emerald green eyes have a small ring of red around them and she looks up into my own eyes. I blush under my fur.
"Sorry." She gives me a small smile revealing long fangs.

"It's quite all right. I remember when I met my first Vampire...he was an odd fellow. I believe he still works here...But onto the matter at hand. You are aware of why you are here?"
"Yes, Daemon Oni told me."
"Good. Have you given much though to your Name?"
"Yes ma'am. I have narrowed it down to three names, Ebony Lycaon, Kashara Sandalio, and Erindale Arahas." As I say each name she nods slowly.
"All are good names, I'm not supposed to voice my opinion but I believe Kashara would be a good name for you. Now do you know how we decide if you are worthy of a Name?"
"Yes ma'am."
"Good. Now follow me to the Arena." In one fluid movement she gets up from her chair and opens the door. I follow just a step behind her and I realize how tall I am in comparison to her, she must only be about five foot four. She walks with a faint limp as if from an old injury, but she gives off an aura of power. Once outside she shifts into a slight jog in the direction of the so called Arena. It is a large building similar to drawings of the coliseum in Ancient Rome. From what the books I have read have said, Rome was built in the time long before the Ancient Ones. The Ancient Ones lived in the twenty first century while Rome was built many centuries before that. The books were not clear but apparently the coliseum was built so gladiators could fight against monstrous beasts called Lions. Now it has a much more dignified purpose.
There is a rather small building attached to the Arena, it is here that I follow the Captain. The doors are made of mahogany and have gold laced in it. On it is a simple good ring that the Captain uses to pull the door open. I follow her inside and then down a long dimly lit hallway. The floors are made of simple wood and the walls hold no ornaments which I find rather odd, the Dragons typically love to decorate their buildings. Well unless it's our quarters of course. At the end of the hallway is another door and we step into a rather large room. At one far end of the room is a massive door, presumably to allow Dragons to easily enter and exit, which I believe is the entrance to the Arena. At the other end is a similarly large door where I see a young man leaning against the wall.
His hair is a deep, dark black like the feathers of a raven. He is pale, but not extremely so, and from this distance it is hard to make out his eye color. I cannot discern which Dragon he serves under, but from his build I guess he serves under either Annabelinda or Terra. Unlike most men I see he is not so muscled that it is disturbing, from this distance I'd guess he is about six feet seven inches and as for weight....no idea I'd take an educated guess around two hundred and sixty, all of it muscle. It is odd, I find this man attractive. In a slightly mysterious sort of way. I then notice something odd about him and my brow briefly furrows. On his left arm I can see what might be a white bandage peeking out of an also white glove. I turn to ask my Captain if she knows who this man might be when the door to the Arena opens and a Minor Dragon steps out.
On Nogard there are many types of Dragons but they are separated into two main categories, Minor and Major. Major Dragons are larger and more skilled with fighting and Magick, they are often used as guards or as soldiers when needed. Minor Dragons are of course smaller and less skilled, they are commonly used as teachers for skilled Anthros, Demons, Angels, etc.
This particular dragon is about oh one hundred feet in height and maybe sixty feet in length. Her scales are a deep red color and her talons are an equally dark black. She reminds me of Westerns Dragons I had once read about. When she breathes out I see small wisps of smoke and I know she is a Fire Elemental, rather common.
As I have said before there are many different types. Dark, Light, Fire, Water, Earth, and Air are the main ones. They do not have to have a mate among the same type of dragon as they are, so there are many different hybrids with many different talents. Annabelinda for instance is a Fire Darkness Elemental, so when she breathes fire it's black and she can also manipulate both Darkness and Fire. I see a small shape emerge from behind the Dragon and I look closer to see whom it might be.
She is a humanoid, to be more specific a half anthro cat. She posses only the ears and tail of a cat while the rest of her is human. Her skin is light in coloring and is complimented by black hair that falls to her waist,when she tilts her head I can see her hair is actually a deep purple color. Her eyes are the color of amethysts and as she catches my gaze my heart skips a beat. She smiles softly and walks over to where me and my Captain are standing, much to the annoyance of her Dragon. She smiles softly at me, "Hello there. May I ask your Name Sister?"
I stammer slightly and under my fur I blush a furious crimson, yet again I am thankful for it, "I-I-I uh I uh I don't have um my Name yet my lady. May ah, may I ask yours?" Her smile never wavers.
"My Name is Aria Trueblood." I mentally kick myself for being so stupid as to not have recognized her sooner. Aria is an Anthro of remarkable ability, she was taken at a young age by Echo due to her ability to incapacitate others with her singing, I believe she is similar to what is called a Siren. I quickly drop to one knee and bow my head.
"Forgive me my lady I did not recognize you. I beg your forgiveness." She kneels in front of me and tilts my head up gently.
"I don't need to forgive you because you did nothing wrong. Truly I do not like others bowing to me all the time, please can we be friends? I do not have many because of my status, and....I feel like I've met you before. Though I can't quite place why..."
I rise and help her to do so as well, "I would be honored to be your friend Aria. After I have received my Name I will find you, this is swear."
"Of course you will Sister. Go now, you don't want to keep the Dragons waiting. I do not know much of your Trial but I bid you luck."
She turns to go and I call after her, "Wait! May I ask, what was your Trial like?"
"Oh it was very easy. I had to charm quite a few soldiers, I got them to dance like ballerinas. It was very amusing." She smiles at me over her shoulder and I smile back, she follows her Dragon out the door and I notice that the mysterious man I had seen before has vanished. I presume he left while I was speaking to Aria. The door to the Arena opens once more and another Minor Dragon approaches me.
"20-00 I presume? Follow me, Captain you may return to your quarters." This Dragon is similar to Aria's in virtually all but coloring and gender, he is a deep blue like that of the ocean. I follow close behind and narrowly avoid his swinging tail. Finally we enter the Arena.
On both the inside and the outside it appears to be a coliseum, rows upon rows of seats seem to go upwards forever. The Arena is deserted except for four Dragons. There is a large platform of sorts in four spots, each with a member of the Council on it. On the North side Annabelinda, East is Echo, South is Nymph and Terra on the Western side. My legs shake slightly as the Dragons sit in silence merely watching me. The Dragon who had lead me in turns and exits the Arena.
"She's so small Sister."
"Her stature is of no matter to me. The only thing that matters is how she handles a weapon."
"But still Sister. Surely you don't think she can truly fight?"
"Silence Nypmh." Annabelinda lazily gestures with a paw and on the far side of the Arena a large door opens, out of it comes yet another Dragon. This one looks like a so called Chinese Dragon and she shifts easily into her other form. Her armor is simple chain mail and she carries no weapons, her walk is easy and confident. Following her lead I walk to the center of the Arena and stand roughly two feet from her. I briefly turn my head as I see Annableinda gesture again and the next thing I know I'm flat on my back, and I see black spots swim before my eyes. I hastily get up and draw my swords, a smirk sits on her lips and I faint to the left then lunge to the right. One of the blades rakes down her side as she tries to doge. We circle each other slowly and she lunges for me. I hastily sidestep, grab her arm and force her onto her knees. I twist the arm up almost to it's breaking point.
"Yield to me."
"Oh did they not tell you? You have to kill me." My chest tightens and my heart skips a beat. It is my job to kill, but to kill a Dragon in service of the council? Unheard of. I glance at Annabelinda and she nods ever so slightly. I release the dragons arm and bring my blades up forming what looks like scissors. I shove the handles together and her head comes clean off, blood slicks the blades and pours out of her neck. Her lifeless body slumps to the ground and blood continues to pool beneath her, it is a shade of crimson I can scare describe and my stomach turns over slightly. I turn to the dragons and they observe me silently for a few moments.
"It was a good kill. No remorse, no mercy, and quick. I think she'll be a god addition to your group." Annabelinda is silent, and merely gestures again. I brace myself, expecting another trial. A sea green dragon emerges from the door I had came in.
"Follow me Mrs.20-00. I'll be taking you back to your quarters. With shaking legs I follow the Dragon back to my room and I swear I saw the mystery man out of the corner of my eye but when I look he is gone. Once in my room I fall gratefully into my bed and have an unrestful night.
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"Ready?"
"Nope. Let's do this anyways." I push open the wrought iron doors and step inside, my robes brush softly against the marble floor. My heart hammers in my chest and I'm certain that my Captain and Annabelinda can hear me. The room is bare except for a stone bowl on a podium in the middle of the room with a small table next to it. On hone table is a small jeweled knife. I stop maybe five inches from the bowl and try to calm my breathing.
"Hello 20-00."
"Hello Captain. Greetings Lady Annabelinda." My Captain wears her armor and Annabelinda wears a simple red robe. Her lips colored in black turn upwards in a small smile.
"Warmest greetings to you 20. You are aware of what you must do?" My mouth is dry and my stomach turns slightly.
"Yes." The ritual is symbolic in all regards. The knife is made from part of Annabelindas' claw, in cutting myself I literally give her my blood. I offer her my life and swear myself to her. Her head tilts slightly towards the knife and I pick it up with a shaking paw. I put the edge of the knife against the inside of my wrist. In one smooth movement I cut my wrist and the blood drips into the bowl. "I offer you my blood Mistress. I offer you my life in hopes you will accept me. I will serve you in any and every way." My legs shake slightly and I feel faint.
Annabelinda smiles and takes the knife from my hand. She closes her eyes and slowly licks the blood from the blade. She purrs softly and opens her eyes, "Of course I accept you little one. You'll fit right in with the others. Little....?"
I hesitate, "Kashara Sandalio."

Chapter two
Kashara Sandalio

"Come on Kashara, you have to go to class." I growl softly.
"Just one more page. Okay, okay I'm putting it down, jeez." I stretch my arms above my head and my back pops. "Ah okay who's first....Rogue Bradshaw. Wanna come with me or...?"
Daemon shakes his head sadly, "I've got work to do, have to see to some new initiates." It's only been two days since I became a real assassin yet it feels like forever. I pull myself to my feet and brush my pants off. "Don't worry though, I'll see you soon." I bend down slightly and kiss his cheek.
"I never worry. Better hurry, you know how wild initiates can be." I watch for a moment as he jogs off and I turn then run towards the barracks. Once there I poke my head in slightly, "Hey, I'm looking for Rogue Bradshaw? Anyone seen him?"
"Out by the wall. North side." I smile and run back out. The North wall isn't too far away and I take my time getting there. Initiates wave to me and I wave back. I pass more than one Dragon but I'm used to them now, they are coming very frequently for some reason. But it's not my place to question it. Soon I'm at the wall and I see a man I presume is Rogue.
Like Aria he is a half anthro, lion in this case. His hair is short and a natural red with a bright red stripe wrapped around his head. He seems to be about six foot three inches and is a bit stocky. From the paleness of his skin I presume he is a day-walker, they are vampires with the ability to go out in light without needing to feed every day. A plain shirt of black and matching pants is what he wears, his feet are unshod. He appears to be meditating and I lightly poke his shoulder, "Um, sir?" His eyes snap open and I see one is bright blue and the other cats eye green.
"Sticks are pointy."
"Uh what? I'm sorry sir but I don't understand-" he quickly bounces up.
"Hmm? Oh nothing. Just meditating. Did I confuse you little pup?" His voice is a melodic purr.
"Ah, a little. My name is-"
"Kashara? Yes I was told about you. I'll be your mathematics and sword fighting mentor. Have you met any of your other teachers? No? Silly pup, you meet the teachers and in a few days we will begin work. Come, come, come. I'll introduce you to my Brother Zachary Dietrich." I trail behind him and we soon come upon Zachary.
His legs are crossed and a small ball of fire sits in his palm. His skin is a pale white like Rogue's and is stocky like him as well. He is slightly barrel chested and his hair is black with a few silver streaks in it. He wears robes in ebony and a silver cloak sits upon his shoulders, like Rogue he is barefoot. He looks up as we approach and I see his eyes are red like wine. He smiles and I see small fangs. "Hello there! You must be Kashara, yes? Hello Rogue, you mangy old cat."
"Old cat? I'm only twenty seven, that's like a baby compared to your one hundred three years of life." He looks only about twenty to me.
"Come, sit down old one. You too Kashara. Tell me, what do you know about me?"
"Uh not that much. I'd guess you're a Vampire like Rogue..."
"Correct! But Rogue is a day walker and I'm a Demonic Vampire. You know used to be a Demon, bitten by a Vampire. Oh you'll have such fun with us two! You'll have to come visit our caves sometime."
"Caves sir?"
"Yes. Me and Zachary both prefer to dwell in caves. We're what you could call eccentric."
"So who do you need to speak to next?"
"Anastasia Webb. She's my archery teacher."
"Anastasia. She's an old friend of mine and Zachary's. You'll love her, come along we'll take you to her." I follow behind the men and come to the West wall soon enough.
I see a young elvish woman shooting at a target oh maybe sixty feet away, her skin is white like fallen snow. I wonder why everyone is so pale here...she is of average build and stands at about six foot seven inches. Her hair is a bright orange red and is tied back in a simple braid. She wears a smile brown shirt and black shorts, her feet are clad in leather boots. She turns and smiles, "Hey guys, oh you just be Kashara! I'm Anastasia." I shake her offered hand, "So how good are you at archery?" Her voice is so soft.
"Oh pretty good I suppose, I can always get better."
"Even Masters of their art can always improve, and even they can mess up on occasion. I remember this one time when Zachary was trying out some new spell and he accidentally set his hair on fire! Had to wear a hat for months until all the hair grew back."
"Hey! We agreed to never speak of-I mean, that never happened! Don't listen to her Kashara, she's crazy."
"Lies! We all know it's true!" We burst into laughter as Zach turns red. He eventually laughs along with us.
"All right, all right. Maybe it happened. Maybe."
Anastasia is the first to mostly stifle her laughter, "So Kashara, hehe, who do you, hehehe, have to talk to next hehe?"
I pause for a moment to think, "Ummm. Lost. Is that his real name?"
"That's the name he prefers, he doesn't really talk much about where he's from. Real secretive type. He'll be teaching you the darker aspects of Magick; you know necromancy, bending someone to your will, twisting a mortal into a monster, that sort of thing."
"Sounds....fun. Like the kind of twisted thing I could see myself enjoying. Where is he at?"
"Mm not sure. I'd check around his quarters. Come one I'll show you where he's at, and don't you boys have work to do?"
"Maybe."
"Possibly." They give us matching smiles and run off to wherever it is they're needed. I easily match her stride and grow confused as we near the gate. It's a monster of a thing, made of twisted iron. "Umm doesn't he have his quarters in the Compound?"
"Hmm? Oh no he doesn't much like being near the others. Besides this way you can get some time out of the compound." She nods to one of the guards and they swing open the gate. I feel so small in comparison to it. A brick path lead out of the compound and seems to go on forever until I presume it goes to another gate in the wall surrounding the city. The compounds are arranged like wheels on a spoke around the city. Anastasia walks off the path and I follow behind her gazing at my surroundings. Far,far,far off in the distance stands a mountain, closer is a small grove. By closer I mean only maybe two or so miles away.
The grove is not like most I have seen in books, this place is darker. Yet it does not give off a sense of dread or foreboding, it is more mysterious than anything else. Inside of the grove it is slightly colder and there is less light. There are dark green vines growing on the trees with small blue flowers along them. I see many small bushes with black leaves and bright purple flowers shaped like stars.
"What are these?"
"Oh those, they don't have a name really. Don't touch them! They are very poisonous." I quickly withdraw my hand but still continue to admire this beautiful grove. After maybe five or ten minutes of walking we come to what I presume is the center of the grove. A young man meditates by a dark blue lake.
His hair is pushed back from his face and from here it's hard to discern the color. His skin is fair and I would guess he is around twenty. Ever so faint a smile touches his lips and he opens his eyes, his eyes are a mix of silver streaked with blue. In one smooth movement he gets up and opens his wings fully. The feathers are colored in silver and raven. His robes swish softly against the ground as he steps near us. He is maybe six foot eight inches and he crosses his arms as he examines me.
"So you're Kashara Sandalio." His voice is smooth like velvet yet holds a hint of coldness and arrogance. "I am Lost, you will address me as sir or Master when you speak. You are the first apprentice I have had in a long time, many of the others failed me. You will obey every command to the letter, do I make myself clear?"
My heart hammers in my chest so loudly I think he can hear it, I find him both amazing and terrifying. "Y-yes. Um Master." That faint half smile returns and he waves to Anastasia.
"Leave here, I would like to speak to her alone." She nods and walks out of the grove. Lost extends his hand to me, "Come. I will introduce you to some of my creations." His hand is slightly cold and he leads me deeper into the grove. After a few more minutes of walking I see a small wooden house. Standing outside of it is what I can only call a monster.
It stands hunched over slightly and appears to be covered in green scales. Small wings sit on it's back and spikes run from the base of it's neck to a rat like tail. It's maw is filled with razor sharp fangs and it growls upon seeing me. "Calm yourself Sazik. She is my apprentice. Girl this is my slave, Sazik." He stops growling but glares at me. Lost pulls me past Sazik and into the house. The room is sparsely furnished and yet another monster lies in the floor. "This is Fenrir." He looks like a wolf but no normal wolf has black bat wings and bright blue fur. His eyes are a deep purple and his claws are abnormally long. Lost gestures to one of the chairs in the room. "Sit."
I oblige after Lost sits in a chair opposite to me and Fenrir sniffs my feet, I suppose he believes I am no harm because he turns then lies on the right side of Lost. As he strokes the massive beast I notice his nails are painted black with silver tips. They are filed into small, sharp points. He regards me for a few moments. "What do you think I will teach you?"
"The darker side of Magick, sir. Necromancy, bending ones will, making creations like Fenrir."
"You would be correct. Try bending Fenrir's will."
"But sir I don't know-"
"Now. Disobedience will be severely punished." I am beginning to regret coming here. I turn my attention to Fenrir and attempt to reach into his mind. I'm a natural telepath so I suppose it can't be too much different than reading thoughts. Once inside his head I had expected to sense an animals mind, but I realize he is very intelligent. I can also sense the hold Lost has on him. I see it in my mind as chains wrapped around Fenrir and I slowly try to ease the chains off. Instead I feel someone else take control of my own will. "Perhaps this will show you how it's done." His voice is so cold and he makes me get out of my chair and kneel on the ground. I pull against his control as hard as I can. Finally I break it and end up panting on the floor. "Strange. Not many mortals are capable of that. Try again." This time I easily take control of Fenrir. "Good. You are dismissed for the day." I bow stiffly and quickly exit the house.

In no time at all I've exited the grove and see Anastasia waiting for me. "You all right?"
"I'm fine. Better go see my last teacher, Seth." She leads me back to the compound.
"Sorry kiddo, I've got some work to do. Seth should be in his quarters." I watch her jog off for a few moments then begin to wander the compound. I slowly make my way to the center of the compound where the old Cherry blossom tree is. I remember running past it just days ago to get to my quarters, I run my fingers lightly over the bark and slowly look around.
"You lookin for someone?" I jump slightly and look around, but no one is there. "Up here, in the tree." I look up and see a young boy dangling from the branches. He is an anthro monkey, with yellow fur and blue green eyes. His voice is slightly high pitched and I'd guess he's around eight years old. "So who ya lookin for?"
"My instructor. Seth Lasic."
"Oh I know him! Come on I'll show you where he is! I'm 20-05 by the way, who are you?"
"Kashara Sandalio." He scrambles down the tree quickly and,to my surprise, he's only two and a half feet tall. His paw wraps around mine and he pulls me along.
"Come on! He's this way!" I can barely keep up with the young boy as he pulls me towards the more wooded section of the compound. We have only a few shape changers here so the forest is rather small, compared to the others, I've seen them hunting once or twice. "He's in here. You have to go alone since I can't go in there. Have fun meeting him!" The child scampers off and I cautiously enter the forest. It's maybe five miles by ten miles and it's very beautiful, it reminds me of pictures I've seen of old pine forests. After maybe ten minutes of wandering I feel like someone or something is watching me.
"Hello? I'm looking for my teacher Seth." Silence, then out of the corner of my eye I see a black wolf with blue eyes watching me but when I turn to look it's gone. "I really should find him. He is my teacher and all....hello?" Another few moments of walking when suddenly I'm twisted around and slammed into a tree. The same man I had seen in the Arena hall now has his hands pinning my shoulders and his face inches from mine. His raven hair is tousled slightly and from here I can see his eyes are a deep, dark, mysterious blue. My heart is hammering in my chest and my cheeks warm as I realize how close he is to me.
"Always check your surroundings, don't lower your guard." His smooth voice has a sharp, cold edge. "I expect better from someone the Mistress thinks is gifted." I'm still a bit too shocked to say anything and we just stand there for a moment, looking into each other's eyes. "You do realize among Werewolves it's considered a challenge when you look into my eyes so deeply. You're either ignorant or very brave, but I'd guess the first one." I hesitate before responding.
"Among my kind it's considered respectful to do so."
"So she can speak. Tell me, why does your heart beat so fast?" He murmurs softly in my ear and I swear my heart is going to beat right out of my chest.
"You're very close. It makes me nervous." He gently pulls on the collar around my neck.
"I won't hurt you, not on purpose. Unless you disobey." The grip he has on the collar tightens just enough to be uncomfortable. "But you won't disobey. Right?"
"...Right."
"Then we'll get along just fine. Hmm....how old are you? Thirteen?"
"Yes." Once he releases me I push him back a step. "I would take kindly to it if you didn't stand so close next time." Seth grabs my arm and presses me against him.
"Such an attitude. See the thing here is I'm your Alpha and I can do whatever I feel is necessary to help your training. Don't push me around and I'll respect your space bubble." I'm roughly pushed away from him. "Follow me." I follow him warily and for the first time notice he has no shirt. Thankfully he has black pants on yet no shoes.
"Might I ask, why do you wear a glove and bandage?"
"Why do you wear a black glove?"
"Because I like the way it looks. Though I would believe you wear yours for a different reason."
"That is something to be discussed between close friends and mates." We continue our walk in silence. I find it hard to hold my tongue and not say something idiotic. After maybe ten minutes of walking in silence we come to maybe the middle of the small forest. Here there is a small clear space maybe....ten feet by fifteen feet, the ground is covered in sand and seems incongruent to the forest surrounding it. Two wolves lounge on the far side of the sandy area. "Zara, Rafael. This is Kashara. Kashara these are Zara and Rafael. They're old friends of mine."
Zara looks to be rather young still, maybe thirty or twenty. Her fur is a red brown and her eyes are like emeralds. She quickly changes forms and I see a young woman with short red hair and light brown skin. A black crop top fits her snugly and she wears grey shorts. She smiles and I see small canines. "Hello Kashara. I see you've already met Seth, if he's being a grump just ignore him he's really sweet at heart." Her voice reminds me of a sister I once knew, slightly high pitched but pretty adorable.
"No I'm not."
"Yes you are! You're always so sullen around new people, he tries to come off all mysterious and cold but he's a softie."
"Shut up Zar." She sticks her tongue out at Seth and pokes Rafael.
"Yo Raf. Wake up old man."
He growls slightly. "First off I'm not old, I'm only fifty. Second I've been awake this entire time." Rafael opens one gold eye and squints at me. "Huh. This one doesn't look like much." He gets up and shakes out his long white fur then changes. His skin is a dusky black, and his hair is white. A short beard is immaculately trimmed. He is well muscled and shirtless like Seth. Why men feel the need to parade around topless I will never know...though I can't say I mind the view, Seth is rather handsome..in a step out of line and I'll rip you in half kind of way.
"I'd have to agree there Raf. She really isn't much, I ambushed her easily."
"Ah hey! Just because you managed to ambush me, which for your information I saw you before you jumped me, doesn't mean I can't fight." Seth smirks and crosses his arms.
"Oh you can? I wasn't aware of that fact. I just presumed someone who almost screamed when I jumped her would be horrible in a real fight."
"I did not almost scream! And I can beat you in a fight any day!"
"Kashara you're playing a dangerous game with Seth. If I were you I'd-"
"Oh hush Zara, he's not going to kill her."
He steps close to me and grabs my upper arm. His voice is low and once more contains a slight cold edge. "You can't beat me in a fight little one. You might have potential but you're ignorant."
"I am not ignorant. If I was ignorant I wouldn't have made it past my Trial."
"Gods you're annoying."
"I am not annoying, if I had to say someone is annoying and ignorant it would be you." I hear a small gasp from Zara and I briefly fear what I've just done. In the next moment his hand is wrapped around my throat, cutting off my oxygen slightly.
His voice has completely lost all warmth."Insolent pup. If I had ever spoken to my Alpha that way I would have been beaten into the middle of next week. By all rights I should beat you right now. But I won't, know why?" Unable to speak I shake my head. "No idea? It's because you're small and if I beat you I'd end up killing you. You're annoying and ignorant and downright foolish, but I'd hate to kill you." His grip loosens. "I would advise not doing that again." He shoves me away from him roughly and I stumble a couple of steps.
"Seth...."
"She is my apprentice Zar. I'm not going to really hurt her." He turns and walks to roughly the middle of the sandy area then points to a space a few feet in front of him. "Come." Whatever happened to meet your teacher then train in a few days? "Now." I briefly hesitate and shake my head ever so slightly. "I'm not getting any younger here Omega. Besides didn't I tell you what happens if you disobey?" Either way I have a feeling I'm getting beaten today, might as well take the one that will hopefully result in less broken bones.
With my legs shaking slightly I walk to the space he had pointed to. He spreads his feet and puts his arms up, his hands closed into fists. I mirror his stance. We look into each other's eyes for a brief moment before he lunges and I barely move out of the way. When he swings for my head I drop to the ground, when I jump back up my right foot aims for his stomach. Unfortunately it never makes it there because he grabs my foot and pulls me off balance. My head cracks against the ground and I quickly try to get back up, much to my dismay he presses me down with his foot.
"How did you survive? That dragon should have killed you in a moment."
"Why...why does it...matter?" He cooly stares me down and a small smile tugs at the corner of his mouth.
"Can you ever be quiet?"
"No." I try not to smile but a faint smile forms.
"At least she's honest Seth. About the only good quality she has." Before I have a chance to say a word Seth jumps in.
"Shut up Rafael. If she had more experience and restraint she might end up being a good fighter." He lifts his foot from my chest and offers me a hand that I gratefully take. "I'll walk you back to your quarters, get dressed for dinner."
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"Hey little sis. How was your first day?" I jump slightly when Daemon talks.
"Oh Dae, you startled me. You know you should really knock first."
"Come on it's not like I haven't seen you change before." I playfully throw my brush at him.
"Oh shush you little-"
"Are you quite done yet Kashara?" I jump and hastily cover myself with my dress.
"Seth! What are you doing in here?! I'm trying to change!" He smirks slightly and raises an eyebrow.
"What does my presence make you uncomfortable little one? And just so you know, the others were wondering when you'd be finished. I came in here to check on you." His gaze slowly wanders over me and my cheeks grow hot.
"I would appreciate it if you'd leave my room immediately. I have to finish changing." That little smirk never vanishes and as he leaves I roll my eyes and mutter under my breath. "Idiot."
"What was that?"
"Nothing."
"That's what I thought." I wait until he is well out of ear shot before I speak.
"By the Moons he's frustrating, I don't think I'm going to survive here."
"Come on Shar, you'll be fine. Now hurry up and get dressed, you need to socialize."
"Why can't I just stay in my room like I've been doing?" He stands next to me and puts his arm around my waist.
"Because if you don't I wouldn't put it too far past Seth to come in here and drag you out. Besides the socialization will be good for you." I sigh and examine myself in the mirror. The dress is just past my knees and, like all my clothes, is a deep dark black. The dress has a slit up the side that comes almost to my hips.A silver studded belt fits snuggly around my waist. My collar as always is worn and for this occasion I decide to go barefoot. I'm much too tired to fight with my shoes. Instead of hiding the amulet under my shirt like I typically do I leave it out in the open. "You look nice."
"Thanks Daemon, so do you." He wears a simple black tuxedo, how he got ahold of one I'll never know. Diamond cuff links, and a plain red tie accentuate the outfit. The ring in his wing is replaced with a small ruby stud. "Though I don't understand why we have to dress up so."
"We have to look nice for the family. Come along now Shar." I rest my hand on his arm and follow him out. He smiles mischievously and steals a small kiss. "I swear Shar you're gonna have to beat the boys away from you if you dress up like this too often." I laugh and roll my eyes.
"Whatever. The boys know I'm not interested and if they mess with me I'll just break an arm or two." My thoughts wander briefly to Seth, if he decided to mess with me it'd be more than a little difficult to hurt him. He's my teacher, he wouldn't do anything like that anyways but....I can't help but to be attracted to him. He is rather handsome in a way.....I shake my head briefly, no this is wrong and I won't entertain these thoughts. Daemon shoots me a quizzical look and I smile. Unconvinced he looks slightly worried but I affectionately punch his arm. "It's nothing Dae-dae. Really."
The corridor isn't too terribly long but it is rather dark, only the occasional wisp graces the walls. At the end of the corridor is the dining hall with red wood doors. Silver inlay wraps it and gives the appearance of vines. Daemon opens the door and grins. "Look who I got to get out of bed today!" I punch him. "Oww! What was that for!?"
"Mmm for being a brat." I stick my tongue out at him and Seth waves us over. Sitting with him are the two wolves I had seen before and all of my teachers. I sit next to Seth and Dae sits across from me, Seth smiles that evil little smile and puts a hand on the side of my head then turns me to face him. With that evil grin he kisses me. I'm startled and push him away. "What in the name of the moons was that about!?"
He turns to Raf. "Told you she was shy."