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 Posted: Mon May 28, 2007 6:56 pm
The presence of a Goddess is near....
There is a part of the lost city, where proud buildings have crumbled down to the earth. The once tall structures are now only ruins, leaving the sky wide open for all who walk upon the solid earth to see. The plants worshiped this occurrence and began rooting themselves in cracks and wedges and sprouting upward. Their trunks and veins weaved their way through the ruins, building upwards towards the sky. This mixture of thick, natural growth mixed with the solidness of the old man-made structures created an almost impassible boundary. Should one try to go threw it and they surely would get tangled.
However, amongst these ruins still stood one magnificent building. As one walks around the boundary of the wall trying to find away around, they come across one opening. This gap seemed to be torn away as if a god had come down and pulled the wreckage off the ground and pulled the plants from it's roots. Although the path was narrow, it was clear that many had once walked down this path.
By fallowing this path safely through the ruins, one can find themselves suddenly stumbling upon a vast area of concrete. Some old, human cars still stand in the parking spots. It had been a long time since these motors had roared on. This parking lot if very busy. You find that a multitude of kimera have gathered to this place. Some seem to be resting in these old cars while others wearing bells tied around their necks with red ribbon are hustling about. They seem to be providing food and herbs to the tired and sick kimera that rest in the comfy seats of the human transportation devices. Other's of these bell carrying kimera are directing others in the right direction. Occasionally one would find a kimera wearing iron plating bearing the emblem of a red circle and a silver bell would walk by. To the right there seems to be a blocked off, open area where kimera seem to be practicing and learning combat. To the left there is a pool of water that seemed to have gathered there by a great creature ripping the concrete and chunk of earth from the ground. And then finally, far off in the distance on the opposite side of the parking lot is a great building.
This proud building has stood against the tests of time. Unlike the ones the fell around it, this building did not tower up so boldly towards the heavens. Rather, it was fairly low, with only about two stories. However, this impressive structure was very wide. Should one look from the eyes of a bird they would see that it formed a great L-shape. This building had once been a mall, a place where humans would come and trade their crisp, green money for some random objects.
Kimera wearing bells and iron plating seemed to thrive in this place. They would hustle in and out of the building, sometimes being fallowed by a non-bell-wearing kimera. It seemed that this building was the head quarts of this little haven. Inside there were many abandoned shops lied against the walls of the hallway. In some of these sad shops supplies were kept. They would be an old shop for the humans old clothings and blankets. Another for food and another herbs. There were also many other shops that the kimera who seemed to run this place found uses for. Windows in the ceiling, some of which had been shattered, were the only source of light.
One the second floor of this place, one could find the leader of this place. She was the one who found this place, and organized it to be a safe haven for many kimera. Her nest was in the second largest shop in the place. Great stairs in the shape of a upside-down Y lead you up to her den. In the center of the arms of the wide, marble staircase was an old water fountain. This round pool was filled with clear, cool water. In the center the fountain still spurted some of the water upwards. Although it's spray is not as large as it once had been, it was still strong enough to keep the water flowing and fresh. At the top of the stairs, above the doors to the shop, read a title that said "Old Navy." When one stepped inside, they would be faced with a great nest in the center of the room. This is where the great Sarlost rested at night. In they day one could see her fly out threw one of the broken ceiling windows in the hall way. The goddess would go out to hunt, or to check on the kimera that gathered. This was the keep of the great goddess Sarlost.
And now, you stand before the great wall made from ruins of this massive place. You are looking down the narrow path, the path that leads to where Sarlost rules. What is it that has brought you here? Are you a humble wander, who just happened to stumble upon this place and are looking for some food and shelter for a while? Are you a poor, injured kimera who has just been defeated in a brutal battle and are looking for health and comfort? Do you come for protection, for perhaps you just lost your dear pack or maybe you are a young child whose parents abandoned you? Or perhaps, you are a spy for Sarlost's rival, Syn? Maybe you have come for some sick revenge against the good-hearted goddess. Whatever it is that you have come for, you are now looking down the path that will take you there. Sarlost's Keep awaits.
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Posted: Mon May 28, 2007 7:01 pm
The Goddess Herself: Sarlost
This be the great goddess who symbolizes the hopes and dreams of all kimera and humans who search for peace. Be respectful to the Goddess of Peace and bow down before her.
Goals: Sarlost is on a great quest to bring peace and happiness across the lands. She hope that maybe, someday, people and kimera could live together in a peaceful community. She also wants to bring the kimera world out of corruption as well. Yes, this is a big task, even for one as powerful as herself, but maybe if she and her successors take it one step at a time they will find a way to change and save the world.
Abilities: Sarlost can fly, for she has those glorious wings of her's.
She has the ability to use telepathy to communicate with all creatures, including humans. She can choose to speak one-on-one with the mind or she can broadcast her thoughts to everyone around her.
She has empathy, which in this case is the power to feel another's emotions. She always feels the emotions of all the kimera around her, but if she focuses on one kimera she can further identify their feelings and deeper, possibly hidden emotions. This feeling she receives from other's is dull until they both come in contact with metal. Perhaps that is why she wears those bells?
Sarlost can spit acid. This toxic acid will burn a kimera's skin if they come in contact with it. When his acid comes in contact with certain minerals it has been known to be strong enough to burn deep holes into rock. It's probably deadly if eaten, but let's not test that.
Sarlost can also use telekinesis to move or redirect the motion of objects and even other kimera.
[Sarlost posts in bold red]
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Posted: Mon May 28, 2007 7:05 pm
Map of the Keep
I plan on drawing a map sometime and putting it here with descriptions of certain areas and everything! Trust me! I just need time and a scanner and I'll get it done! Just wait....
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Posted: Fri Jun 01, 2007 8:31 pm
Followers of SarlostMany kimera have looked up to Sarlost with respect for her courage and ideas. They have gladly fallowed her, willing to reach that dream for peace. A dream that they now all share. The Leading FourThese powerful kimera were some of the Sarlost's original fallowers. They only take orders from the goddess herself and are respected by everyone else in the keep. They are all strong believers in the fight for peace. Ariabod  Ariabod is the leader of the knights. This battle scared raptor has faced many conflicts between other kimera and humans. He once lead a pack of his own, but joined Sarlost after he saw the need for peace across these lands. He is very familiar with the ways of war and is very strong. All knights look up to him. [Ariabod posts in red italics] Yepa  Yepa is the leader of the messengers. This arnulf has traveled far and wide across the lands before she met Sarlost. Her role in the keep is to nominate and lead messengers. If a member of the keep should go missing she, or a hand picked party of messengers, will set out an seek for them. His a very dedicated member of the keep and can often be found flying in and out of the keep walls. All the messengers look to her for command. [Yepa posts in green] Shyam  Shyam is the leader of the spies. This hebisune is very cunning and mysterious. He doesn't talk too much and no one is sure why he fallows Sarlost. But one thing that is certain is that he is very dedicated to her and her dream of peace. When he first met Sarlost and the small group of fallowers, before Sarlost even made the keep, Shyam warned them of danger and saved many lives in doing so. To this day, he continues to do that same. He has developed into a great leader and is very good at reading others. He knows a good spy when he sees one. Shyam posts in brown Zeroun  Zeroun is a wise old griffin who is the commander and teacher of the healers. He knows of thousands of different herbs and their uses from the top of his memory. He he a brilliant leader as well. He was once the alpha of the same pack that Ariabod was a part off, and in time nominated the raptor in his place. So when Ariabod fallowed Sarlost, so did he. Zeroun healed Sarlost of an injury when they first met and since learning of her message has become a dedicated follower. Occasionally he will set out on runs to gather more herbs, but he spends most of his time in the keep. He usually oversees the care of the most injured kimera and nominates new followers as healers. Zeroun posts in grey. The List(Of course, there are many more kimera than the ones on this list, but these are Sarlost's fallowers that are role played by you. ) 1. Avani (Faunia) 2. Kometto (Xia) 3. Zeroun? (Storm) 4. Roy Mustang(Faunia) 5. Ade (Faunia) 6. Halor (Zactura) 7. Onan Taki) 8. Teshi (Faunia) 9. Haruki (Storm) 10. Amita (Storm) 11. Suoh (Faunia) 12. Artemis-Pending (Storm) 13. Hitori Reikon-Pending (Shukaku) 14. Kuma (Taki)
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Posted: Fri Jun 01, 2007 8:46 pm
Roles
Certain jobs require certain skills. After a kimera joins Sarlost they are tested to see what role they should play to serve Sarlost and run the keep orderly. There are four different job titles someone can have. One kimera is allowed to have a maximum of two roles (but no more than two!)
Knights: These kimera are very strong warriors who know the ways of combat. They are keen minded and now how to act appropriately on the battle field. They are very loyal to Sarlost and rarely stray too far from the keep. Their job is to stay here and defend the keep so that the kimera who seek refuge here will be safe. However, their are times when a squad of knights must go beyond the keep to track down a kimera who may be harming others and causing corruption or a kimera who is a follower of Syn. This is a very honorable, but very demanding job.
Messenger: Possibly one of the most important jobs, messengers set out of the keep and into the world. Their job is to tell other kimera of Sarlost and their dream for peace and possible bring back new Sarlost followers. These kimera must have a vast amount of knowledge about humans, the keep, Syn, and of the basic lives of other kimera. Messengers also tend to find weak and injured kimera while on the road. It is their duty to bring these sick kimera back to the keep for help. While on the road these messengers may stumble upon trouble with a follower of Syn, a rogue kimera, or simply a kimera who is frustrated and wants to attack you. This is why messengers are required to have basic combat skills. Flying is a very good ability to have for this job. This is a rough job that allows the keep to continue expanding and developing.
Spy: Kimera who take up the role of a spy must be keen minded, swift, cunning, and sly. They need to know how to travel silently and have an abundance of patients. These kimera must also know how to maneuver themselves around and out of tight and/or sticky situations. They are like the guards of the keep. Spies of a high rank are able to travel through the thick wall of plants and ruins and still not be heard. This is where they watch for anyone who enters the narrow passage way and raise the alarm if it is anyone of a threat. Lower ranking spies will monitor the keep outside of the walls or even watch for anything suspicious within the walls. Sometimes spies will be sent out if a messenger sends word of a group of Syn members traveling or something of the sort. Spies are then sent to track these target kimera and gather as much information as possible. Basic combat skills and minions are recommended for this job.
Healer: It is the work of healers to take care of the sick, injured, tired, and battle worn pets that Sarlost has taken under her wing. This is possibly one of the busiest jobs around. There is always something to do. Some of the basic care of healers includes gathering herbs, distributing food and medicine, finding what is harming a kimera, and other basic keep care needs. Helping take care of a pet who comes into the keep may include tasks such as giving food to a tired traveler to saving a kimera's life. This role is the heart of the keep.
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Posted: Fri Jun 01, 2007 8:50 pm
Rankings
Just as there are in normal pack, there are rankings which determine who has more authority over other members. The members of Sarlost's keep have a simular hierarchy divided by what role you play. They higher up you are on the rankings list, the more respect you have and the harder the work becomes.
1. Sarlost
Of course, Sarlost has the final say in everything. Her word is law which all members and followers must respect. Of course, she appreciates advice, but no one can override her decisions.
Knights
2. Ariabod
3. -name goes here-
4. -name goes here-
5. -name goes here-
Messengers
2. Yepa
3. -name goes here-
4. -name goes here-
5. -name goes here-
Spies
2. Shyam
3. -name goes here-
4. -name goes here-
5. -name goes here-
Healers
2. Zeroun
3. -name goes here-
4. -name goes here-
5. -name goes here-
Work hard, and your name may appear here. If Sarlost or one of the Leading Four acknowledges you for over coming a challenge in a wise, noble manner then your rank will move up. Note: You can only move up for your role. For example, if you are both a messenger and a healer and you find a location filled with a rare herb, then your rank as a healer will go up. However, your messenger ranking remains the same. But it is possible to have a high rank in both (this, however is very unlikely).
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Posted: Sat Jun 02, 2007 4:57 pm
Foes of Sarlost
Anyone who disturbs the peace by igniting violence or inflicts upon the well-being of another (excluding survival and survival only) is an enemy.
This includes:
Syn and any of his followers who contribute to his violent cause.
Any kimera or group of kimeras who display unneccesary and reckless violence.
Any human or group of humans who display unneccesary and reckless violence. (However, it is rare that a member of the Keep runs across such humans.)
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Posted: Sat Jun 02, 2007 4:58 pm
How it Began
Told from Sarlost's Eyes
Part One: The Sweet Beginnings
In the beginning, I felt an impulse of great pride, pride that was not my own. My small head was pressing against the inside of the shell wall, my efforts slowly prying it open. My newborn body was exhausted by this, but I continued onward, pushing myself so that I may be free and see the world. Of course at the time, I did not what this desire was. It was pure instinct, pushing me onward. As soon as my head broke through that shell I felt the cold of the lab table’s surface, which shocked me. Surly the earth upon which my egg had rested was warmer? It surely had felt warmer from inside my egg at least. It was at this point that the faint, but great feeling of foreign pride overcame me. At the time, I did not know what this strange feeling was. I knew it wasn’t mine. My eyes pried open, trying to see what sort of world I had gotten myself into. I found myself staring at white lab coats. I took a moment for my eyes to adjust, but once I did I remembered that only my head was out at the moment. All that work and still I was not done. More time passed as I flapped my feeble wings and kicked my talons, trying to uncover myself from this shell. Finally, after much effort I was free to move. Of course, I was too tired to do so. I lay across the lab table, panting heavily from my efforts. That feeling of pride was now a roaring flame; dull, but a flame all the same. What creature could be feeling so proud, so accomplished? I looked back at the white lap coats, trying to gain my bearings once again. I was then given the sense to look up, and in doing so I found myself gazing at two humans. There were two scientists, one with dark hair and the other with glimmering glasses. Both were wearing a wide grin as they gazed down upon me. They had been muttering sounds before, but they had not made sense. I studied them now, and soon I found that I was hearing and understanding them. But this was not with their voices, but with their minds. Of course, speaking requires some thinking, so I eavesdropped on their minds as their conversation and praises roll on. “Just look at her!” the one with glasses exclaimed, “She’s marvelous! Absolutely marvelous!”
The dark-haired man reached out to the other, offering a hand shake. “Good work, my friend. We’ve accomplished our goal! We’ve succeed! She shall be truly be the best kimera created thus yet! Project 7275678-Sarlost is a success!”
The glass-wearing one shook in agreement, still beaming, “Yes! She shall most certainly defeat that blasted Syn and his creators! Come now, let us celebrate!”
With that, they gingerly placed me in a cozy little cage with warm blankets. Once my door was shut and locked, I was left alone while they went off to celebrate with drunken merriment. And so I was born.
These two men were the closest thing to parents I ever had. In time, instincts told me to obey them, to learn how to survive from them, to look up to them. If these were the creatures who were keeping themselves alive, created me, and still keeping me alive, than why should I not trust them. For these two humans I had nothing but respect. Life was so simple and plain. I understood nothing about morals, love, or hate; just survival. That all changed when she came.
It was early morning and the sun’s heavenly rays were just beginning to shine into the lab room. The light forced me to open my eyes and to see the fluffy blue blanket upon which I slept in my little cage. I remember taking a deep breath as I stood and stretched my wings of gold. It was not until I looked out through my cage bars that I even noticed her standing there.
She was the smallest living thing other than an insect I had ever seen. She was like my two caretakers, only it seemed that she was the adorable, female, blond-haired, pig-tailed, mini version. She could not of had more than ten years upon this earth. This little thing just stared up at me as I awoke from my sound sleep, the little thing’s blue eyes wide with amazement. I could slightly sense its emotions, but not enough to distinguish them. As I looked at it I gave a short snort and swished my tail. I didn’t like the way it smelled. The scent of it’s plumb grubby hands reminded me of something sticky and fruity, like apple juice. I hated it. Well, maybe this thing wasn’t too bad…Maybe if it fed me I could accept it. I moved up to towards the bars of my cage, my glimmering eyes looking down upon the human child. She was completely fascinated by my presence. I looked her over, pondering weather she had a rat for me in that coat pocket of hers. Suddenly, a fleshy hand stuck through the bars, right towards my face! I reacted instinctively and bit one of the child’s fat little fingers. Startled the child pulled its hand back, but I held on, even when my snout hit my metal bars. This was the moment that changed everything.
There was a pause, during which we were both shocked. As my nose pressed against the bars and her little finger tried to pull her finger, both of us had come in contact with the metal. Suddenly, I could very clearly feel these other being’s emotions. She adored me for my beauty and my ability to bring join to her family. But then there was another part of her which was absolutely terrified by me. This struck me cold, for never had I felt another’s emotions so well.
Why would she fear me? I wondered, feeling guilty as my teeth held her hand in place.
Suddenly the girl’s eyes grew wide and she jerked her hand back. “I fear you because Daddy said that I need to respect you because you can be dangerous but now I haven’t and now you are going to eat me! I’m sorry, I’m sorry! Please don’t hurt me Sarlost!”
My eyes grew wide with surprise. Had she really understood me? She must have, for she had answered my question perfectly. How did she understand me? Could she read other’s thoughts? No wait, it could not have been the human, for they only communicated with words. This was my way of communicating. I could speak with my mind. The thought was so puzzling I became dazed, but still held the girl. She was growing more and more terrified of me, until the point where she couldn’t take it anymore. She parted her pink lips and let out a terrible holler as tears ran down her face. Shocked by the sudden noise I released her and pushed myself against the back of my cage.
Soon the dark-haired scientist came in, a worried expression across his face. “Tamah what’s wrong?” he asked as he picked her up. Tears still streamed down her face as she held up her little finger, my teeth marks clearly inserted into the flesh. “Sarlost bit you?” the scientist exclaimed as he rushed her to the sink, where he washed her hands with a special solution. “You need to be careful sweet-y, her bits toxic.” Finally when her cut had been cleaned and a band-aid wrapped around her finger she stopped wailing and the man placed her lightly back on her feet. I let out a sigh when he and her left me to the silence of the lab. Peace at last.
The day continued as normal. I was fed at my regular time and had by health recorded at the usual hour. It wasn’t until it was night that I say little Tamah again.
Curiosity had brought her back to me. I had begun fixing up my blankets and preparing to sleep when I saw the child peep its little head in. Its blond hair was no longer pined up in that strange fashion and she was not dressed in a long night gown that she nearly tripped on as she walked in. In her hands she clutched a teddy bear. My eyes narrowed as she approached, but I was glad to see her. I wanted to figure out what had happened earlier that day. I moved towards the front of my cage. She stopped and stood before me. I could dully feel her powerful wonder about me.
I gathered my thoughts, trying to figure out how I had spoken to her earlier. I found it surprisingly easy. All I had to do was focus on the child and think my thoughts out aloud.
Hello human. Do you hear me now? Is it true that you could hear me earlier?
Tamah’s eyes grew wide again and she nodded. In the moonlight she seemed somewhat pale.
What else should I say? This is what I came up with: I’m sorry I hurt you. I just do not understand you humans or your intentions. All I knew of you before is that it was creatures like you who somehow brought me to this world and that you give me the needs of life. Please, child, I have never with spoken with another before. Do tell me your strange ways.
Obediently, as if my fear had trained her like a dog, she obeyed. She talked in a soft voice, but the things she spoke of were so interesting that it kept me awake. She spoke of why I was so unique and special, and explained why her father and his friend were so proud of my existence. She spoke of the human past, and I learned how their species had nearly destroyed the entire earth, and about the once great New York city. She told me of the battle between man and kimera, as well as Syn. Little Tamah told me many things, and I absorbed it all. That night, this little girl had painted a vision of a tainted world of which I never knew. She would have continued talking, but suddenly the lights in the hallway flickered on and she had to leave in a hurry before her father found her. As she left I thanked her telepathically and when the hallway lights turned off once again, I was left alone with my thoughts.
All of this information came to me as a shock. Before that night, I had known nothing more than this lab and the drive for survival. Now I knew, however, that there was an entire world out their. I had been brought into a terrible world filled with conflict and despair. This terrible realization upset me, and made me weep. Sadness had gripped me, although I am not sure why. Perhaps this was my first realization of the power behind emotions of others. How hate and anger and result in sadness and lose…But the explanation of why my birth was such a joyous thing gave me hope. These people took care of me because I was a creature that carried their hopes and dreams. They hoped that I would become a powerful force that would obey them. Yes, they saw me as a slave, or rather a pet, but they wanted to use my powers to bring about peace. I was born to give goodness to the world. As pleasant as a thought that this was, it was overwhelming. There was no way I could bring about peace and goodness to all of this world, or even this city, could there? How was I supposed to do that? All I could do was hope that these humans had a plan that would guide me.
Time passed over us, and as I grew I continued to learn the ways of the humans as well as the ways of the world. Tamah was the only one I spoke too. I don’t believe that she had told her father or his companion of our ability to communicate with one another. As she grew up into an elegant lady and I developed graceful wings and powerful talons, she would tell me the things that she learned of the world. Over time, we became life-long friends, growing up together in a world of chaos. Even so, we were both happy. It seemed that within this lab the terror would never reach.
One day, that all changed.
Years had passed, and I had out grown my little cage long ago. Now my den was a large, spacious cage that was large enough for me to fly about in. It was absolutely massive. I was surprised that it could fit so nicely behind the laboratory. I had fallen in love the out doors. I loved the open sky in which the sun and moon would dance across. I loved the cool breeze and the warm sun. I even loved the rain that would sometimes fall. From my human friends I had been taught how to fly, hunt, and even accurately spit my acidic saliva. My ability to sense their emotions and use telepathy became much stronger. These humans had become by companions and I truly adored them all. Life had still been good to me.
It had been another lovely day. The sun’s rays effortlessly reached down and left thin shadows upon the cage floor, for no clouds blocked it in the sky. A light breeze blew by, bringing the pleasant smells of spring. The day had start out so wonderfully.
Suddenly Tamah walked up to my cage which resided in the lab’s backyard. She was looking terribly pale, and her blue eyes seemed wide and alert. Of her emotions all I could feel was fear. What is it? Is something wrong? I had asked her.
Tamah swiftly moved towards the lock which dangled for its chains and kept my door shut. “Listen, you know how my father and his friend created your DNA?” The lock clicked open as she said this and she bite her lip in a nervous manner, “Well, it was illegal for him to create more kimera species, especially one as powerful as you. Law enforcers are coming to take us away…And to destroy you.” She thrust my door open with more power than necessary. I could now feel frustration and sadness rise up in her. I stood there before her, completely shocked. My jaw had dropped and all I could do was stand before her completely aghast. “There will be here any mom-”
As if confirming her words we suddenly heard some aggressive words being shouted from the front of the lab. “You are under arrest. You have the right to remain…” They had already found either Tamah’s father or the other scientist.
“Sarlost, I have to let you go, before they find you!” she whispered in a rush as she looked back to me.
What about you? I asked, feeling very terrified.
Tamah let out a soft sigh and glanced away for a moment. “Don’t worry about me,” she murmured, “I will just face them and hope that justice will see us through, for we did create you to help humans.” I noticed her fists clench as she tried to hold back the tears. She was afraid. “But Sarlost, your life is at stake! You need to flee! Now go, before they find us!”
I hesitated. How could she just expect me to leave her? Tamah began rummaging through her pockets and revealed a tiny, shining bell. This she tied to around me neck. I was somewhat perplexed, but saw it as a meaningful and kind gesture. “Sarlost,” she said finally, her voice very soft. “Don’t forget, that you are important. You carry the hopes and dreams of me and my family. This bell will remind you of me, and this place. Don’t forget why you are in this world…Please.” I was touched. I did not want to leave her.
Suddenly the back door burst open. “Don’t let the experiment get away!” the men in the blue uniforms called out.
Go! Tamah shouted at me with her mind. I don’t know how she as a human did that.
But I wondered why I could stand and fight? I was strong right. I flew out of my cage, but not away. I flew up in the air, thinking of where I should strike. Suddenly there was a boom and a blast of fire-like pain struck me in the leg. My eyes grew wide in shock and terror. Now I knew why I couldn’t fight humans. They were armed. I did not know what it was, but when more booms began filling the air I realized I had to flee. I changed coarse and flew away faster than I had ever flown before. I headed for cover in the trees, trying to get as far away from them as possible. It wasn’t until I heard my bell ring against the wind that I realized this was my first time leaving the laboratory, my home. I knew I could never return, for those armed men would be trying to find a way to track me down, and returning to that place would risk everything. I also knew I would never see those good people who had raised me ever again. I was leaving everything I had known and loved behind me. I did not look back.
Part Two: Looked Upon as a Goddess
That night was terrible. I felt so cold and alone. The bullet in my leg was causing more pain that I had ever felt before. I believe and hope that it had just passed through my leg and left me with the pain, for if not than it is still in there. For the longest time I couldn’t walk. I could only fly about, even if I just wanted to move a few feet or so. I felt pathetic and hopeless. No matter how much that bell around my neck rung, I could not feel a surge of hope or inspiration that would make me look forward to the next day. I had been raised by caring, loving humans. Now, suddenly, I was living in the corrupt world of the kimera.
So meeting Cora was the best thing that could happen to me at the time.
I was soaring over head, lazily searching for food. I did not feel much like hunting, but my stomach had demanded that I did so. The trees cleared slightly and I came upon a rocky out crop by the edge of the abandoned city. This was not the best place to hunt, and I began to turn around. I realize now that if I had been any farther away, I would not have felt her wave of emotion.
It had been the first time that I had felt the emotions of another since I had left the lab. A great feeling of foreign worry and despair swept over me. Puzzled, I looked below me, trying to see if this was just my imagination, or if there was really someone below my who was in distress. Soon my golden eyes spotted something, and I slowly began to spiral downward towards it. As I grew closer, I could hear the beings heart-wrenching cries. She had not seen me yet, and I could hear her praying aloud, “Oh please, may the gods above send someone to help me! Oh please, if there are any gods they would not let me go through this pain. Please, oh please, someone help me!”
She was a light green serpopard with clay red fur. I could identify her species because Tamah had showed me pictures and drawings of many kimera species. As I passed by her line of sight I remember her suddenly overwhelming feeling of hope. This hope, it had come so easily for her. Just a glance at me and hope had sprung from the depths of my hearts. I looked at her more closely, and as she looked back at me from behind watery eyes I knew I had to try to help her.
I landed before her, flinching slightly from the pain in my leg. Her voice rang with a joyous sing-song voice. “Oh I am truly blessed, for a Goddess has heard my prayers!”
I looked at her somewhat puzzled. When I spoke, it was with my voice, for I knew that other kimera could understand each other in away that humans could not. “I hate to disappoint you, but I’m no goddess. But I will try to help you if I can.”
The serpopard’s eyes were still glimmering joyously. “Oh thank you, you kind kimera!” She paused, and I let her gather her thoughts. Finally she explained, “My mate and I were out hunting when some of the boulders shifted and…” Tears began swelling up in her eyes as she continued, “I can’t find him! I know he is buried somewhere in the soil here but…I don’t think I could dig fast enough…I don’t even know if he’s alive!” Hot tears flowed freely down her face. I felt bad for her. I could dully feel the grief gripping her heart.
“Don’t worry,” I murmured, trying to comfort her, “I’m going to help you.” I said that like it meant something. I tried to think of what I could do. Finally a plan hatched in my head. “Please, can you tell me your name and your mate’s name?”
She looked up at me and sniffed. “My name is Cora and my mate’s name is Bram. Why do you ask?”
I did not answer her question. Simply showing her would be easier, and it would be quicker too. Time was of the essence. I closed my eyes and focused on Bram. I repeated his name over and over again and could feel my mind’s awareness stretching out across the rocky out crop. Then I had found him. He wasn’t too far, just a little further up the slope. Bram was alive and conscious, but somewhat in shock. He did not know what was going on and the lack of oxygen was clouding his mind. I flew to the spot where he was, for my leg was still a pain to me at the time. When I could sense his mind strongest with my telepathy I landed. Then I forced my self to take one large step away from him. From there, I spat down at the ground that was next to him. My acid reacted quickly with the elements in the rocks and soil and the minerals seemed to melt before our very eyes. Cora watched with wonder, her expressing longing to know that her dear Bram was okay. Finally, when the acid was deep enough it stopped. I jumped down the hole and winced when I landed on my hurt leg. From there I used my telepathy to locate him again. He was at the bottom of this mound, right before my feet. My acid had been amazingly accurate, for one swipe with my talon and the soil moved away and revealed a tuff of fur. I continued digging until I realized that only a few inches above Bram was a boulder that would fall if I kept digging. I paused, pondering what I should do now. Right not it seemed like Bram could get out of the hole, but not with me holding onto him. If he had had full awareness he would have been able to slip out. I felt myself grow frustrated. If only there was a way I could move him without touching him…When I opened my eyes, I suddenly felt like I was holding something, but not with my talons. It was with my mind. I then realized that Bram was moving slowly towards me, but it was clearly not him. I was moving him. I could use telekinesis? Hope spread its wings within me as a knew plan hatched. I flew up the hole and landed up on the surface. I could not look at Cora, for she was biting her lip an I her eyes began to well up in tears when she saw I was not carrying him. I focused on Bram, and on bringing him up towards the surface. Then I felt it, that feeling of holding something with my mind. Gently, I eased Bram out from under the boulder and lifted him slowly out of the hole. The boulder shifted once I moved him, along with more of the ground, but fortunately it did not cause another landslide. Although it did make Cora and I jump.
When Bram was lifted up into the air Cora’s expression was indescribable. Only tears of joy streamed down her face as she saw her precious Bram. I landed him gently by her. He coughed, his lungs finally freed from the pressure of the earth. His eyes fluttered open as he looked at Cora. “Cora?” he murmured, his mind recovering from his daze.
Cora beamed as she embraced him. “Bram you’re alright!” He moaned from being bruised as she held him close, but a smile was on his face. Watching it all lifted my heart. Cora turned to me and said with winged words, “Oh thank you Goddess! How can I repay you for you kindness?”
I grinned, pleased to have the ability to lightly feel the emotion of others. I felt nothing but joy from her. “Please, I’m no Goddess. Just call me Sarlost. And honestly, you’ve done enough for me. I’m just glad I could help you.”
She beamed and thanked me over and over again. Finally when Bram was fully conscious and able to stand again I knew I had to leave. They both thanked me once again and with joy filling my heart I bid them farewell. As I flew away I could hear Cora call out to the heavens and say, “I shall not forget you Sarlost! In my eyes, you are nothing less than a goddess.”
I finally understood what Tamah had meant by spreading peace and joy through out this world. I felt that my hope was restored. This I was certain of as I flew into the setting sun.
***
I continued to fly about the city, wandering with no exact destination. My leg was still a terrible pain to me and I often felt that it was slowing me down or holding me back. It was the lingering pain that still fallowed me after I ran away from the lab.
One evening, after much flying and an unsuccessful hunt, I searched for a place where I could simply rest. I felt so tired, and my leg throbbed. It was a wonder that it had yet to become infected. Finally I found a fair spot, it wasn’t the best heaven I’ve ever spent a night in, but it would do. It was a tree whose trunk had grown in a strange arch. The very top branches of this tree nearly touched the ground. I noticed that the trees around it were bent as well, but not nearly as much as this one tree. I flew below it and found that beneath there was a comfy bed of moss. Although I was tired, my leg forced me to stay away for the longest time until finally slept sealed my eyes.
When the sun was lifted up into the sky once more, I awoke. My eyes remained lightly shut, but I ears and empathic sense was suddenly alert. I could hear the scuffling of feet around me. I could feel the tension of many other kimera surrounding me, sometimes there caution and nervousness mixed with some curiosity. There were at least ten of them, but I’m sure that there were more just out of range. My lids snapped apart, revealing my keen golden eyes that swept the deformed forest around me. But I saw nothing. I raised my head from my mossy bed to look around further. I knew they were around, even now when their feet stopped scurrying. I did not have to call out and ask who was around, however, for only a moment later a golden yellow raptor stepped out of the brush fallowed by, who I assumed to be, his fair white mate. Both of them studied me cautiously, their piecing, golden eyes trying to identify what sort of creature I was. Tamah had told me everything humans knew of pack society. These must have been the alphas. The other members were still hidden from me. The yellow male stopped with plenty of distance between me and him, his mate stopping instantly along side him. I could feel that he had more curiosity than her, for she felt caution and fear instead. Finally the male raptor asked, “Tell me stranger, who are you and why are you here in our territory?” His voice was powerful, one that demanded respect from anyone he directed his words too. He most certainly was a leader.
“Sarlost,” I answered politely as tried to stand up only to be reminded by the shock of pain in my leg that I was unable to do so. “And I’m sorry for intruding upon your territory,” I added calmly, “I was unaware that this area was your’s.”
His eyes narrowed slightly before observing the wound in my leg with one clever eye. I was an injured creature, nothing to fear. With a cunning hiss, he remarked, “It seems that you are injured. Would you like some aid?” His mate gave him a somewhat scolding look, but did not protest.
I wondered why he would want to help me, but the answer was revealed thanks to my soft emotional radar. It told me that he was very curious as to who I was and what strength I had. Perhaps he was looking for more pack members.
He glanced back over his shoulder, and as if summoned, an aging gray griffin stepped out of the bushes. His ice blue eyes showed the wisdom and knowledge he had gathered over the years. In his beak his grasped a variety of herbs. He walked up towards me, only pausing before me to bow his head politely. I stretched out my leg, revealed to finally find someone who could prevent an infection. He placed the herbs down gingerly on the ground and plucked the leaf off of one. “This may sting, but it’s a good thing if it does. That means it’s killing off the germs.” With that he used his softening talons to press the leaf against my leg. It stung badly, and I winced in pain. That was the worst of it, and the rest of the herbs he gave were things that eased the pain. This wise old griffin aided to the wound skillfully.
As he worked I noticed some other kimera step out of their hiding places. Most of them were raptors and serpopards, but there were a few arnulfs and griffins as well. They all looked at me curiously, making it clear to me that they had never seen a creature like myself. When the elder griffin had completed his work, he bowed his head respectfully to me once more and stepped back. The yellow raptor grinned at me and asked, “Shall you like to come back to our den?”
I smiled, thrilled to have such a kind invitation. “Yes, I would like that.” With that they led me back to their den, which was an old office building that still stood proudly in the sky. Although it had many broken windows and did not sheen as it once did, it made was a nice large haven for this multi-species pack. They let me stay in a fairly spacious room on the second floor. Many of them were friendly and wanted to talk to me while others were more wary and simply observed me from distance. But even those ones who doubted me at first eventually treated me with kindness. Time swept me away, and as the days rolled on, I found myself feeling very comfortable amongst this pack. I was able to learn so much more about the way of kimera life. When I healed I would join them on hunts or help watch over the little ones.
In time, I felt a bond with each kimera. But the one who always seemed to stick by me was the elder griffin, who I later learned to be named Zeroun. He told me of many ways of the world and of the packs history. In his tale, he revealed to me how he was the former of this pack and how proud he was of it. As he aged, however, his successor, the yellow male raptor, (who I learned had been the first child kimera he had adopted) took charge. I could feel some sorrow in him for having to step down from his leadership, but it was mostly masked by pride. Zeroun told me many of the ways he built up this pack, which I listened to intently.
Although life amongst this pack was a joyful one, it had swept me away from the dreams of my long-lost human friends, the dreams which I had adopted as my own. They may have taken me farther away from that pack, if they had not come that day.
Everyone was in the building. It was a quiet, lazy afternoon with a slight misty rain in the air. Everyone just seemed to relax amongst the company of the other pack members. That all changed, when one of the arnulf guards swooped down and raised the alarm. Their foes were coming. Instantly, the yellow raptor gathered his knights and they rushed into battle formation. I was completely puzzled by it all, and fortunately Zeroun found me and explained what was going on. The pack had been having a conflict with them for the longest time. Whenever the pack tried to hunt they would interfere. Then they would come with strange weapons and attack the pack. In fights like these, some of their members would be injured and others killed. Recently, he said, they had been quiet, probably planning for an attack like this. I could feel the hatred and frustration in him when he spoke of these beings. This thought startled me, and made me feel sorrow, but what saddened me the most was the idea of more of them rushing out into harms way this very moment. I finally had the sense to ask what kind of creatures they were.
Zeroun had narrowed his eyes as he hissed the answer between his beak, “Humans.”
I was greatly alarmed by this. Suddenly a flood of memory passed through my mind and I realized that I had nearly forgotten about my mission and my dear humans. How was that even possible? I did not want the members of this pack to get hurt or these humans to get hurt. Unlike Zeroun, who had seen nothing but their vengeful side, I knew the good in them. Devastated I rusted out of the building, despite Zeroun’s confusion and worry I felt from him as he watched me leave. I heard him call to me but I didn’t listen. I flew out towards where I was beginning to see the pack charge.
The humans were farmers, armed with scythes, pitchforks and shotguns. They were a fair amount of them, my mind wasn’t in the right state of mind to try and count. I assume that they were attempting to grow crops just outside of the forest area, where their were some open fields and not such a bad impact on radiation.
As the pack made their move to gallop full speed in a charge at them, the humans raised their weapons and rushed forward as well. Anger and frustration was emitted from every being. I had to stop them before bloodshed. Only focusing on the direct task at hand, I swooped down and landed with a thud right before the yellow raptor leader. With amazing reflexes he halted, along with his knights behind him. He began yelling at me, but I did not listen. As I turned my head to watch the reaction of the humans my eyes grew wide as I saw them lift and aim their shotguns and hunting rifles. I had well learned what those would do to you. Swiftly, I spun around to face them, my golden wings spread out wide. My sharp eyes focused down the barrels of the guns and when the booms filled the air I could feel my mind reach out like a great net. My telepathy captured each bullet, and when they all had come to a stop my mind let them fall to the earth where they could not piece any of my pack members. All went silent.
Some of the humans dropped their guns. I noticed their hands tremble and their faces grow pale. I could feel the gaze of the pack looking upon me with astonishment. Was I really something divine? Before any of them could flee I expanded and let my mind ring out in a booming voice that demanded for reasonable explanation. What is the meaning of this? I had asked in shock of their anger, I do not see why one of you would attack the other without reason. Your anger and hatred will not solve anything! It will only cause more death and bloodshed! I refuse to watch either kimera or human die by the will of the other species! I was raised by humans and found friends amongst kimera and as long as my heart beats I will not allow you to harm one another!
Although I could tell that the humans, and possible some pack members, were fearing me more now that ever, I felt guilt and shame sweep over both sides. Finally the yellow raptor came forward and told his side of the story, which matched what Zeroun had said. Then I asked one of the humans about this. The farmer said that they were hunting their sheep and cattle, whose milk, wool, and meat were needed to make money and provide for their families. The raptor male countered this comment that these animals were wandering onto their territory. I translated back and forth until I forced them to come to a resolution.
Finally, after much time of debating had passed, they had decided that the kimera a free to hunt any animal that was in their territory, but not safe inside the confines of a fence. Neither one liked the agreement very much, but it was the fairest thing they could do. I sent both sides home and then sent out to simply soar across the skies for a while as I let out me built up stress and let my mind unravel its thoughts. I knew I could not stay with this pack. I had to continue full filling my purpose of bring peace to this corrupt world, just as Tamah and the scientists had dreamed of me doing. That was more clear to me now than ever. I was confident now, that I had what was needed to help bring even some peace to this lost city, but the task would be hard. I was fully prepared to take accept the challenge. After I felt emotionally better and physically tired, I returned to the pack.
I spent another six days with them to make sure that neither human nor kimera would start complaining and arose the issue once more. But the farmers stayed on their land and the kimera only hunted in their territory. All I could do was be satisfied with the peace and move onward. The pack was not happy with my departure however. They too, had grown attached to me and were sad to see me go. They understood after I told them of Tamah and our dream, but I could still feel the sorrow in them.
That day the entire pack gathered outside of the den. I bid them all kind farewells and they all wished me the best of luck. Finally I took a step back from them and looked up to the sky. Just as I began lifting my wings, Zeroun and the raptor leader came forward and the younger said to me, “Whenever we come across other kimera, we shall speak of your name, Sarlost, so that you may be looked upon with respect by many. Perhaps you can form a pack someday, for you certainly have the gifted power to do so.”
I grinned fondly at him as he said this. “Thank you. I appreciate the honor you make me feel when you speak so highly of me. But please, do not just tell them of my name. Tell them of my mission, so that peace may spread to more lives.” The yellow male blinked at me before grinning and giving me a firm nod. I noticed Zeroun’s eyes knowingly twinkle with cheer as I said this. I did not have to be able to feel his emotions to know that he was happy for me and wished me luck. Finally, it was time to leave. I pushed my talons of the ground and shot into the air. As I turned away from them I could here them wish me luck and call out their farewells. But the one I heard the loudest was Zeroun, who snared the attention of my mind as he said in his thoughts, Sarlost, someday you are going to be a great leader of peace which many lost kimera will look to for hope. Someday, my friend, we shall find you again and join this grand pack of your’s. I look forward to that day.
A grand smile spread across my face as I flew with the setting sun at my back. Tears of joy played with the wind as I held his word tightly in my mind. The pack of kimera, the humans upon their farmlands, the city ruins, the powerful trees, the blazing sun, and those who I held dear in my heart: all of them looked to me as I flew across the open sky that day. I could hear my bell jingle joyfully as it blew in the wind.
((I may want to add more parts to this later, but I think this is good for now. ^^ ))
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Posted: Sat Jun 02, 2007 5:01 pm
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Posted: Sat Jun 02, 2007 5:03 pm
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Posted: Sat Jun 02, 2007 5:07 pm
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Posted: Sat Jun 02, 2007 5:18 pm
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Posted: Sat Jun 02, 2007 5:49 pm
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Posted: Sat Jun 02, 2007 5:50 pm
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Posted: Sat Jun 02, 2007 5:51 pm
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