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 Posted: Tue Jul 03, 2007 9:37 am
 Physical Description: Towering over most men at 7'4" Eddard's height is just one of the many traits that takes his physiology out of the bounds of mundane human standards. The troll blood that flows through his veins has blessed him with great physical prowess, but cursed him with an unnatural appearance. The mark set upon his eyes has been apparent since his birth but was initially dismissed by doctors as an aesthetic defect as it did not hinder his sight. Indeed the doctors were correct but all the same, Eddard was cursed with eyes so blue that the pigment contained in the iris has bled out over the whites of his eyes, dying them a lighter shade. This was only the first of several marks that would manifest. Adolescence would trigger the blood that lay otherwise dormant during his childhood. His skin adopted the light blue color similar to that of his troll ancestors. Originally blond, Eddard's hair underwent gradual shifts in color till it came to rest on a constant gray akin to storm clouds. Lastly, his growth spurts became radical. He quickly reached 6' and was as strong as any man by 15 years of age. Though his growth will never really stop resulting in growing strength, his radical spurts have ceased. Background: In a modern 20th century world in which humans turn a blind eye to the various forms of magic that surrounds them, many of the old magical creatures, now known to some scholars as changelings and chimerical beasts, are growing extinct. Changelings are the spirits of magical creatures such as Knockers(gnomes), Sidhe(elves), Boggan(Tolkien Halflings), and similar beings bound to a human body, suppressing the native soul. These Changelings have difficulty fitting into human society, the residual magic that slowly fades still impacting there life so much that they often times see things that are not perceivable by normal means. The sights witnessed by the changelings is nearly a world apart in which the changelings hold medieval courts, enacting a caste system, and interacting with the whole host of chimerical creatures(Dragons, unicorns, etc.). Eddard's grandfather contained the spirit of an ancient member of the noble clan of trolls. This particular spirit was strong with magic and as a result, made possible the birth of a "kinain" or halfbreed. Generally speaking, kinain don't have the strong marks of their ancestry but are privy to learning changeling magic and Eddard is no exception. The changeling court took pride in Eddard, a pillar of proof to all that magic was still around, and eventually knighted him for his numerous exploits in cause for the court. One of the most influential figures in Eddard's life was Barlo, a changeling troll who practiced the art of swords play and blacksmithing. Barlo would act as a father to him, bringing him up in the ways of trolls and changelings. Barlo would come to be the one to push for Eddard's acceptance into the court, eventually taking him as his own squire and teaching him the way of the knights. Barlo's fighting prowess and chivalrous perspective of life wouldn't be the only thing that rubbed off onto Eddard, but also the skill of blacksmithing. Eddard would perfect his craft, making superb weapons and armor for himself and his friends in the days to come. Eddard's inexplicable situation would draw the attention of many powerful groups. Secret government organizations and human mages alike would hunt for Eddard, drawing him and the changeling courts into the growing conflicts that would lead to Eddard's transportation into the past. With the aid of human and changeling magics alike Eddard and his friend Evelynn, an old superstitious woman unwittingly steeped with human magic, would set out to attempt to change the past by preventing technological advancement and the spread of Christianity that fueled the rejection of the old ways. Eddard and Evelynn would part ways within a year of their arrival, Eddard focusing more on the changelings of old who still maintained their fae forms. These fae, many of which were old beings and couldn't perceive the passage of time in the conventional sense, were already drawing back into their fae realms. In doing this, the humans and the fae were mutually turning their backs upon each other, an activity that would be the fae's forced transference to changelings and eventual undoing. It would be Eddard's job to prevent this and bring the two back into contact with one another. However, traveling in and out of fae realms can be dangerous, and it was only a matter of time before one who makes the journey frequently would find themselves lost and accidentally stranded in the Umbra, the plane of monsters and god like beings that is supposed to border on every other plane of existence. Magic: Eddard has learned both changeling and human magic. Though he is no great magician, his spells are practical and have aloud him to survive in a world that would see him not exist. The art of Wayfare can be considered his magical specialty. This changeling art contains spells centering around mobility, four of which Eddard has learned that allows him to move and act at increased speeds, jump extremely far, open portals through walls and other objects, and teleport. Eddards other changeling art is Metamorphosis from which he knows two spells, one that allows him to hide more effectively in shaded places like forests and the other that allows him to augment his appearance, allowing him to hide his troll heritage from the mundane humans who have never accepted him. Lastly, Eddard has learned two spells from the human domain, Prime. His first spell allows him to see coalescing magical energy in places, people, and things that maybe there in, while his second allows him to channel said energy if possible. Skills: Eddard has learned his share of skills like most people. He has expert proficiency with the longsword and in the craft of blacksmithy. He is competent in skills relating to stealth as well as lore and mythology. He is practiced in the areas of horseback riding, etiquette, and cosmology. Lastly, he is a novice of several things, including first aid and meditation.
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Posted: Wed Jul 04, 2007 6:47 pm
Eddard crouched low in the bush, trying to keep his cover. He peered out, looking all about the area trying to locate the beast. He couldn't hear anything though, aside from his own beating heart, the links of his chain shirt as they quietly chimed with each expansion of his chest, and the screaming. How he had come to hate the sounds of the birds in this accursed forest, their calls similar to that of a suffering child. But it was not these that had Eddard hiding in the bush, for though these birds sounded horrifying, they were generally not a threat providing one maintained a safe distance from the bulk of the roosting flock. He ran his hand through his hair, only now taking note of his condition. His normally thick, long, and unnaturally gray hair was now matted uncomfortably to his head. He began to ponder cutting it off, but then noticed his hands. There was dirt tightly packed under each fingernail, and both hands were so terribly soiled that they dulled his normally blue undertoned skin to a pasty, dingy gray. How long had he been out here, been out traveling? He remembered his reasons for entering the fae realm, how he had sworn to talk to his kin folk on behalf of the humans back in the hamlet somewhere in the British countryside. He couldn't put his finger on exactly where the hamlet was unfortunately, Eddard being all to anxious to help the mundane folk of that area put aside there hatred for the vengeful fae kin of the forest and their growing reverence for this new religion known as Christianity. It was his true goal to return the people to the old ways, reminding men of the pacts they once held with the fae kin, his blood. Eddard, or Ned as his few friends had come to call him, was not truly fae, not even truly from the period in earth's history known as the Early Renaissance. No, he was from the Twentieth Century where mankind was so far plunged into its own mundane sciences that the fae kin of all the world were growing extinct and humans even had turned a blind eye to those of their own kind who practiced various forms of magic. Only a handful of fae compared to their original numbers survived by binding themselves to humans, the corporeal body housing both the spirit of the fae and the human. Eddard was descended from these "changelings," an odd bastardisation resulting in what was known as the fae marked. He was human in all biological respects, but for the marks he possessed. Not only was his hair and skin a sign of his heritage, but so to was his size and eyes. Being descended from the noble Troll Kith, not only did his skin gain a tinge of blue and his hair turn to an unnatural solid gray during puberty, but he grew larger and stronger than the common man and continued to do so as the years passed even though he had come of age more than a decade ago. And then their were his eyes. Two orbs with irises so blue that the pigment seemed to overflow their natural limits and spill out into the whites of his eyes. He had hated his eyes up until puberty, they being the only apparent mark from birth and caused him much trouble among his peers during childhood. Now however, he was proud of who he was and where and when he came from. Eddard's mind continued to drift. He remembered how High King David of Concordia, the remaining remnant of the surviving changeling kingdom in North America, had appointed him and his compatriot, Evelynn, an old human woman who practiced magic, to be sent to the past by human mage and changeling magic alike inorder to stave off the encroaching technological advances of mankind and rebuild the dwindling relationships of man and fae kin in the face of the growing Christian religion. He and Evelynn had long parted ways some time after their arrival in the past deciding that she would focus on dealing with hindering the advancement of technology while he dealt with fae and human relationships. His mind stumbled further back into the events of his life. He saw the image of Barlo, the changeling Troll blacksmith who not only taught him the arts of medieval blacksmithing and swordsplay, skills Eddard had perfected, but who had also been a father to him. He silently reminisced how he and Barlo used to spend their evenings in the shop gathered around the heat of the forge, Barlo telling him stories of valor, honor, and courage, many of which are responsible for the ideals that Eddard came to hold so dearly. Lastly, his oldest friends, Ely and Ren, two changeling Knockers who he had apprenticed beside and who taught him so much about changeling life, society, and magic. The loud sounds of branches a good deal up in the forest's canopy bending and breaking brought Eddard's mind back to the present, his right hand unconsciously reaching back over his shoulder to rest on the handle of his blade. Was this it? Had the beast finally caught up with him? Eddard closed his eyes briefly allowing his ears to do the searching, full knowing that relying on multiple senses in this accursed forest would be his undoing. He waited.
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Posted: Thu Jul 05, 2007 7:19 am
Golgi was cranky. He had not hunted anyone across his territory in the vastness of the Umbra in some time. Generally speaking, such activities provided a degree of pleasure, but this hunt was wearing on his patience. Never before had he, the Great Maw, been evaded for so long. He could sense the presence of his quarry in his realm still, the different magical energy of the prey operating like a scent, one powerful enough to leave an easily discerned trail. Golgi, jumping through the tree tops of his Umbral home, came to a sudden stop, his large claws and gibbering maw covered body digging into the trees, keeping him steady. The trespasser was below him, he could feel the foreign magic as it coalesced in a bush. Golgi dropped to the forest floor, the grass immediately under and around his feet quickly rotting, turning into a sludge mixture of mold and plant material. Golgi's sour mood quickly turned to surprise and then excitement as his prey stood up straight in the bush and walked out, one of its funny little hands resting on what had to be a weapon strapped to its back. How futile, Golgi thought, never had any prey turned to face him openly in this fashion. However, Golgi doubted his opponent's skill, completely aware of the fact that in this area, he was as strong as any god in its home. He would make quick work of this one, and for its insolence, make sure its soul remained trapped here in his area of the Umbra long enough to endure due punishment. Golgi advanced his charge. Oddly enough, his foe just stood there, hand clasping the weapon at its back. Golgi was so close now that the magic energy inherent in this being was trapped in his many mouths enough so that he could taste the essence. He would soon taste the flesh, blood, and magic of this one more strongly. The hunt, though long, would now be worth all his efforts. As Golgi's mouth came to close on his soon to be meal, he noticed out of the corner of his eye the prey pluck one of its own little hairs from the flesh that constantly covered an uncovered its eyes. With a quick exhale, his foe blew it off the edge of its fingers. A couple mouths caught a bit of tattered cloth that had hung over the prey's back, but that was all. Golgi continued to gnash his mouths together but managed to bite only nothingness. Golgi let out a series of angry roars, resonating in such a way that even the strongest beings in the Umbra would have felt a shiver up their spines had any been within earshot. Golgi spun, attempting to located his prey. It took a moment, but Golgi locked on to the presence of his wily meal. His quarry had gained more ground than it had had the entire hunt. Golgi again allowed roars to escape his many mouths, this time, a bellow of disappointment. He continued his hunt, slipping into a berserking frenzy. He rushed after his lost meal, hot on its trail, disregarding the fact that his intended target was already exiting his territory. He came to a grinding halt, temporarily shaking away his anger. The trail had suddenly gone cold and Golgi was perplexed. This did not last long as Golgi's rage welled up once more. He lashed out at the trees in his vicinity, tearing them asunder and destroying the ground at his feet. As he did so, the Umbral terrain of his home territory bent and shifted from a lush forest to a gnarled wood, the effects of his extreme emotion.
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Posted: Thu Jul 05, 2007 1:02 pm
Eddard's heart was in his throat as he ran. He had just barely managed to perform the casting bunk that activated his changeling teleportation spell as the beast's several sets of teeth closed in on his body. Coming to his senses, he realized that he had put a good distance between he and the monster but couldn't take anymore chances. Performing another bunk, Eddard plucked a feathered dandelion from the ground and blew into it, sending its seeds drifting on currents of his breath. Eddard felt the changeling magic take hold of him again, this time increasing the speed at which he ran. As he ran, he could feel the expenditure of his changeling magic taking effect, making him feel tired and drab. He had to carry on though for he heard the beasts resonating roars of anger and disappointment and knew that it wouldn't make the same mistake again. He closed his eyes briefly, this time summoning the small bit of human magic he had acquired on his travels. His eyes flashed open, casting forth a subtle, blue glow. Eddard could now see his own magical energies, prismatic as was the custom with fae energies, contrasting with the black, blue, and gray undulation of the Umbral energies. In his haste, he knew he wouldn't have time to pick an appropriate thinning, just knew that he had to get to one and quick. As the terrain began to shift from green forest to haunted wood, no doubt a product of the beasts mood, he found a place in the hollowed trunk of a dead tree where the Umbral energies were thinner, allowing the white energies of a material plane to seep in. This was his escape he thought in relief, yet somehow maintained a degree of apprehension knowing that thinnings were almost always one way. Would this thinning take him home, and if so would it be the same timeline. If he returned to the 20th century, how would his actions in the past change the future? He hadn't the time to ponder this further as the spell that granted him the ability to see the magical energies also allowed him to sense strong concentrations as well. The beast was closing, the time to escape now. He plunged into the hollow tree. The terrain shifted and changed again, but this time not by the will of a magical entity. As Eddard's sight spell wore off, he could see that white energies of the material plain all about him. He found himself in what had to be a mundane forest for he could now here the common sounds of such a place. The birds chirped songs of both allure and warning and Eddard was all too familiar with the common scents in the area. He wearily walked now, trying to keep on the alert. He had to find some sort of civilization, some sign as to where he was. He came to the foot of the forest finally, how tired he was. He could see in the distance a modern city. He was curious as to where he was, but the confirmation of a civilization was all he desired right now. He slumped his back against a tree as he pushed his heels from beneath him, his back sliding down the trunk till his rear came to rest on the forest floor. As he did so, he drew his sword and rested it over his lap. Slumber rushed up and took him. 
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Posted: Thu Jul 05, 2007 1:47 pm
Sh'khin clasped the clawed jewel in his fist, and clenched his teeth, unsure of what to do next as he leaned against a large tree trunk. He'd spent several days exploring the area around the Pantheon, looking for one who would be a suitable host for his Lord's most valiant protector -- the one who would stand by His side regardless of which form he took.
But he was having problems with his search. Most who saw him instantly averted their eyes, unhappy to have the god of Plague in their sights. He was not the most beautiful of the Pantheon, it was true, but he assumed most would be able to look him in the face. Unfortunately, his assumptions had not been correct. Most avoided looking at him entirely once they spotted the mottled green skin that seemed as if it was infected with something terrible. He had not yet come across anyone who would be considered a follower, and part of his irritation seemed to be coming from that very fact. No one wanted to follow Plague, who now seemed to be one of the most unfortunate of the new Pantheon.
But it wasn't just his lack of followers and the disdain of the people that had him upset. It was the expectation that he had to live up to as well. Destruction expected much from him, he knew, and he had no desire to choose a weak host again. The first was terribly unsuitable, it seemed -- a mere girl who had not the strength to take on a Dragon King. If he were to bring back another like her, he feared the punishment he would receive. His thoughts remained solely on the best interests of the Twin Crown. He would find the right one with enough searching, he was sure of it.
He'd met many unsuitable hosts. Hosts that were too brash, too weak and too cocky. He needed a knightly sort, one who would devote his whole being to protecting the dual nature of Creation and Destruction. Whoever the host would be, they would need to be loyal. After all, they would be the pillar -- the emblem of the Twin Crown. They would have to appreciate the duality, and be accepting of both of Harmodius' realms.
Frustrated with those he had met on this particular day, he sat down under the tree he had been leaning against, and made an attempt to enjoy the shade on the breezeless, warm day. Normally, he was a night owl, but this search needed to be performed at all times of day. One never knew when an appropriate host would come waltzing out in front of him...
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Posted: Thu Jul 05, 2007 2:41 pm
Eddard woke, unsure of how long he had been asleep, and saw the city before him. The sun was on its descent into the western horizon he noted, and decided now would be a fine time to rustle up some grub and do a little hunting of his own. Unfortunately, Eddard had never been great with a bow, even good, preferring his attacks from a distance to be propelled by the strength and skill of his throwing arm and not the sureness of his sight and the steadiness of his breath and hand. Such things took a stillness that Eddard could not always muster, and so it was, Eddard fairing better with throwing a spear or hatchet. He traipsed through the forest, gathering appropriately sized sticks. Within a short amount of time, he was sitting against another tree, a dagger procured from his boot eagerly whittling spear points at the tips of the five branches he had acquired. Soon, he was on the hunt for small game, his stomach rumbling hungrily. The sun continued moving closer to the horizon, yet Eddard still remained as hungry as when he had awoken. The daylight was beginning to fade and he knew he had to get something before it grew to dark. Before the sun could touch the land, he happened upon a clear, shallow creek. He noticed that the creek didn't flow from the city so much as towards it, a fact he took comfort in, knowing that water flowing away from any city during any period in time was seldom potable. Eddard went about the banks of the creek quickly double checking the environment for evidence of contamination. He found the creek to be free of pollutants as far as he could tell and commenced to spearing fish. Eddard found luck there, spearing 2 fair sized crappie and an undersized bass. Eddard hoped he wasn't breaking any game laws as he made his way back to the edge of the forest. He built a small fire doing his best to conceal the flames from eyes that may be watching from the city that was now well lit in the distance. As he ate his fish, Eddard began to wonder what the inhabitants of this area were like. Are they human? Likely, but he had seen many strange things and didn't feel it was his place to assume the local inhabitants' race of any location he had visited yet and didn't want to start now for he was barely human himself. His thoughts turned toward what the evening and morning may have in store for him.
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Posted: Mon Jul 09, 2007 12:10 pm
Sh'khin easily fell into a sleep-like state, dozing in and out of consciousness as he attempted to keep his wits about him while resting on the forest's edge. Surroundings like these weren't his cup of tea really, but he figured he should search anywhere and everywhere for an appropriate host.
As he came out of a sleeping period, he rubbed his eyes and noted that the sun was beginning its descent below the horizon, and he knew it was time to go. Finding his way around the forest at night would be tricky, and though he currently knew where he was, it would take hardly any effort to get lost once it was dark.
One last time, he scanned the darkening forest behind him for any sign of life. Before, there was only the crunch of twigs and the twinkling of sunlight between the leaves, but now, there was a glimmer of light off in the distance. A glimmer of light that looked much like a fire.
Could it be that there was someone there, hiding out in the forest? Normally, he wouldn't have persued such a thought, but this time, he was on a mission. Anyone worthy could become the next Dragon King, he thought, carefully picking a path through the woods that led to the flicker of bright flames. He tried his best to be stealthy, though he was untrained in such skills, snapping a twig here, and rustling a pile of leaves there. Each time he made a sound, he hoped whoever was out there had not heard him, for he wanted to make a silent entrance into the camp.
As he approached and came within ten feet of the camp, he saw a massive man crouched over the fire, eating what looked to be a freshly-caught fish. Interesting, he thought. Had he been out here for a while?
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Posted: Tue Jul 10, 2007 10:55 am
Eddard didn't notice the stranger right away, but as Sh'khin drew closer, the snapping of twigs alerted Eddard to the new presence. He cursed himself for not having his metamorphosis spell active in order to hide his fae traits, but it was too late. Not wanting to present himself as a threat when making first contact with anyone or thing, Eddard merely raised his head to look in the direction of the sound. His gaze fell upon the countenance of Sh'Khin lit by the light of the fire. He inhaled sharply, yet quietly in surprise by what he assumed to be a woman and at that moment, a look of pity was evident upon his face. He had shared camps with a variety of people on his travels, but none stuck in his heart quite as much as when shared with lepers or other similarly afflicted people. As the sad memories of past encounters washed over him, Eddard's eyes fell upon the two remaining fish he had caught and had yet to eat. His eyes came back to rest on Sh'khin in sad acceptance for surely this woman had little time remaining in this world. "Are you hungry, Miss?" he asked. He would give her both fish if she wanted, anything to ease anyone's passage, even the unspeakable act of euthanasia, mercy killing. "I have extra fish and there is plenty of light and warmth to go around," he said as he indicated to the fish and then to the fire. "I am Eddard."
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Posted: Sun Jul 15, 2007 8:21 am
Sh'khin had tried his best to be as quiet as possible, but he had given himself away long ago, and now, this mortal was introducing himself and inviting him to sit and eat. He supposed it was better this way, for he was hungry, and taking solace by the fire seemed appealing to him after a long day on his search for a proper host.
He found it strange that the man invited him to sit without averting his eyes from Sh'khin's visage. Perhaps he didn't find the god as hideous as he thought he was, or perhaps, the man was used to such things. Plague knew there were those who didn't mind the presence of his domain. It was one that had always been around, it seemed. But he had yet to meet one of them--one he may consider a follower. The rest of the world seemed to turn away when they saw him coming, but this man...this man had invited him to eat. Such kindness would not go unrewarded, he thought, moving into the circle of the campfire.
Putting on his most manly voice, Sh'khin sat down on a log that was a few feet from the fire, happy to be resting once again. His body was not used to such forest treks. "Thank you for the invitation. I am quite hungry," he said, looking up at the man, who he now saw was rather tall and stocky. "I am Sh'khin, and unfortunately, I am not a 'miss,' though I can see how you could imagine that," he said with a chuckle, stretching out his legs in front of him and leaning back on his hands to stretch a bit. "A pleasure to meet you Eddard."
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Posted: Mon Jul 16, 2007 1:04 pm
A look of shock slid across his face followed by one of curiousity, but both dissipated very quickly. Eddard did not know what to think of his fellow traveler whose voice hinted at something beyond this corporeal domain, something obviously past his comprehension. Deciding not to make a mild jest, changing the "miss" to "misses" and inquiring about marriage, Eddard decided to apologize. "My apologies. Well met Mister Sh' Khin, I did not mean to be so presumptuous." With this statement, Eddard decided to save his pity for the ill another day, coming to believe that this visitor may not be as sick as he appears. Eddard had many questions about the place he was in, laws of the land, and a variety of others focusing around history and other features this place had to offer. Was there magic here? He brushed the thought away deciding to refrain from asking about supernatural skills such as magic and the like for later. What kind of knowledge could he derive from this supposed man and how credible was he? Is he a worthy ally? And what of his condition? Eddard was sure he'd find out sooner rather than later. Eddard watched Sh'Khin eat, deciding that he himself would eat the last fish and executed his conclusion in unison with Sh'khin. "I hope the fish is to your liking, I couldn't seem to find the kitchen, and, well, I've never been a strong cook." He smirked to himself a little, realizing that the joke wasn't all that funny, or even a joke for that matter. "So, from one traveler to another, what brings one such as yourself out here into the forest? Is this your home? Are you welcome in the city?"
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Posted: Tue Jul 17, 2007 1:07 pm
Sh'khin saw Eddard's shocked look, but chose to ignore it. After all, he was used to such looks, and hardly thought anything of it. Soon enough, he would take Iris' body completely, and look more like himself again. Though secretly he would miss the ample chest that was wrapped below his jacket, it was only there for his amusement, and served little purpose.
"No problem," Plague said, picking pieces of white flesh from the fish's bones and popping them into his mouth, savoring the flavor of something so freshly caught. "I hear that a lot actually. Though I'm rather sure you're not too surprised by that." He chuckled and finished his fish, throwing the carcass into the flames, making the sputter for a second, and then jump higher thanks to the added fuel.
He examined the tall man, who looked wizened and much older than himself, curious what he was doing out in the woods. Perhaps he lived there, he thought, wondering if he should bother asking.
"It was an excellent meal -- no need to put down your cooking skills. Thank you for your hospitality. Not many are so kind as to share a meal with me," he said, waving a hand in front of his face in a flourish. "This visage of mine tends to scare others away."
He listened to the man's questions, and found they were easier to answer than expected. Sitting up straighter on the fallen log, he wiped his mouth with the back of his hand. "Aah, what brings me to the forest? Well, I'm looking for someone...I don't usually come out here actually. I do most of my living in the city. Forests are...foreign to me and I hardly feel welcome in them. The city is not far away, but I thought it best to search anywhere, and everywhere, including the depths of the trees."
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Posted: Tue Jul 17, 2007 7:41 pm
Eddard nodded taking in the information Sh’khin presented him as he finished his meal. What could this city hold? He had to wonder in the possibilities. “Well Mister Sh’khin, is the city,” he gestured with his head, “are the inhabitants much like yourself in guise? I find myself far from home and know little of the lands I’m in.” Eddard’s travel worn mind began to prioritize his needs for the future. “Perhaps you may know where I might find a map or accessible literature on the history of the region?” And who could this Sh’khin be looking for? Eddard shrugged Sh’khin’s appearance aside, noting his own. He was helpful in most respects, but something seemed alluring about this encounter and after hearing that this fellow traveler was in need of some aid, Eddard was resolved to offer what he could. Where would this decision take him?
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Posted: Fri Jul 20, 2007 1:35 pm
Sh'khin was able to see him better now, as the flames crackled and spat embers to their feet, and he looked at him amusedly. "In guise? Heh. Do you think me in costume?"
He chuckled, thinking of the others back at the Pantheon. What would he think of them? Colored skin, and wings of all shapes and sizes...If he believed Sh'hkin to be wearing a costume, the others would look even more surprising, though probably less revolting.
"Well, I'd imagine I could find you a map of the city and outlying areas. And literature on the history of the region is most likely simple to find. You'd just need to speak to Gianfar, lord of Knowledge. I have not yet met him, but I am sure he is filled with all kinds of information and extensive history." He paused, and thought about Eddard's questions some more. "I myself am relatively new to this world, but it has satisfied me so far. I have no complaints, but am having difficulty finding the One."
He switched conversation topics quickly and swiftly, wondering if Eddard had caught on. So far, he seemed a rather pleasant sort, and kind to boot. Not many ignored his physical condition to see further inside.
"Where do you reside from weary traveller? Tell me more about yourself. It isn't very often I meet someone in the woods from far, far away..."
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Posted: Sat Jul 21, 2007 9:03 pm
Eddard gave Sh'khin a quick apologetic look, "No, not a costume, I'm just wondering if the features of your appearance are common traits among the rest of those in the city." He paused looking Sh'khin over once more, "I now see that you are a fellow traveler, one who shares a unique guise much the way that I do." Eddard was glad to hear that the map and necessary information were likely in easy reach. He was curious about this "Lord of Knowledge." It was interesting that one would carry such a dignified title as lord, especially in regards to knowledge. Perhaps he was an important librarian or archiver. Eddard decided to let the notion slide, knowing that he would likely find his answer upon meeting the Lord of Knowledge. "As for me, I've been many places during my travels, but I originally come from a small town near a metropolis known as Detroit. I was born there, and spent all of my youth and the earliest part of adulthood there. Once I started traveling, I never found an appropriate place to call home though there are several places that came close." A feeling of nostalgia began to grow in the back of his mind but was quickly dismissed. Eddard saw that it was dark. Though he had no problems with camping outdoors again, the draw of the city and the hope of a warm bed moved him to his feet. He looked down to his new acquaintance and began to offer his hand, "Shall we make our way into the city? It has been long since I've slept in a bed and judging by your lack of equipment, don't seem to be prepared to comfortably spend the evening out here. You can tell me all about this One you are looking for on the walk back."
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Posted: Wed Jul 25, 2007 7:14 am
Sh'khin chuckled. "No worries friend. I'm used to strange looks and commentary. Though I have to admit, not many others in the city look as I do. Most look much like normal humanity, though there are a few strange creatures here and there. They are mostly humanoid, with wings, tails and the like."
Sh'khin listened intently to Eddard's past, curious about this place he called Detroit. "Detroit. What an interesting name for a city..." he pondered, trying to imagine the place where Eddard grew up. "It's unfortunate you haven't found a place you like yet. Perhaps this city will interest you. Though currently, I think you will find it rather uninhabitable." He pointed up to the dark sky, covered in greenish-black clouds. "It is the force of Destruction that has taken this world. That is why the world is so dark and eerie."
As Eddard suggested moving toward the city, Sh'khin nodded his head. "Yes, I think it would be wise to move into the city. I, for one, enjoy sleeping in a bed. I can probably find some accommodations for you as well. But before we go, I think it would be wise to explain to you who I am...and why this world looks the way it does."
He considered his next words carefully, looking up into the swirling, angry clouds that covered any semblance of moonlight. Though if they were to see the moon, Sh'khin thought it would probably be blood red. Taking a deep breath, he decided to tell Eddard the truth. Well, the majority of it at least.
"Long ago, the people of this world, and the people of other worlds, believed in gods. Gods that served many different purposes, and gods that represented any domain you could think of. But as the years passed, the belief in the gods waned, and their followers began to forget about them. These followers began to focus on worldly things, and forgot about their Lords, who watched over them, protected them. And what is a god without followers? He is nothing. A mere wisp of belief that once was...
So the gods faded away, and humanity ruled.
But one ceased to fade away completely -- The Creator of all. The Destroyer of all. The Twin Crown. Harmodius." The words brought a shiver to Plague's spine. Just speaking His name gave him a sense of power.
"The Twin Crown collected fragments of the souls of the gods who were once powerful, trapping them within gemstones to await rebirth. He then found suitable hosts for the first gods to be reborn, and as each host accepted their jewel, the gods began to come alive once again."
He paused, searching Eddard's face for signs of confusion or fright. He hadn't wanted to scare off the man, but he knew stories like this had a tendency to frighten. Finally, he found his voice again, introducing himself once more, but properly this time.
"I am Sh'khin, God of Plague," he said, his wings fluttering under his jacket and his violet eyes sparkling with pride. "I was reborn not long ago, and have recently become what I am today, a strange mixture of man and woman, as I have begun to morph my host body to something more befitting my original self."
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