The Battle for Dragonshore - Recovery

Tucker pants, sweating and shaky. He collapses to his knees trying to catch his breath. The room spins, blood dripping from his head.

Bonebreaker Dorokor cautiously moves forward. Her face is set and emotionless, looking at the orcs that have been stitched into the corpse. Brothers that she's had to put out of their undead misery.

Exhaling she turns and pushes her way out of the room, walking back out into the fresh air outside. The smell of rain wafts in from the door.

Atriox watches Kora go but he can't follow. Theres something he needs to do first. He walks over to the monstrositys back to where the old seamstress is. He looks sad but steels himself for what he needs to do and begins cutting the old woman out

You're able to get her free... Tucker watches, his stomach turning and his hand clasped shakily around the crystal that contained the magical essence of his friend. He looks at it, then up at Alrik.

Atriox lays her out gently. He looks at her sadly a tear going down his cheeck as he remembers the kind old lady that had welcomed him to Dragonshore. Atriox knows that resurrection is an option when someone dies but he knows she lived a full life and that she probably wouldn't want to return to this plane

He squats looking down upon her peaceful face. He closes his eyes and looks deep inside himself. Usually his fire is used to harm, but he does not wish to harm anything in this instance. He doesn't even wish to start a big blaze...........just a small flame......

Atriox takes a breath and breaths a slow flame. When he feels the familiar warmth in his mouth he opens his eyes. He's shocked speechless

The flame gently covering the old womans body is a beautiful white and gold flame. It slowly begins to burn away her body until theres nothing left but dust. As the last few specs of flame burn out Atriox swears he can see a little light leave the flame and go upwards through the ceiling

Atriox watches the light and whispers

"Fly free kind one. Let your spirit bring happiness somewhere else."

Atriox takes a bottled healing potion and dumps it out. He fills it with her ashes and puts the lid back on keeping it for later

Afterwards Atriox follows Kora out to check on her

She stares up at the brooding storm clouds in the courtyard. She senses your presence, giving a small nod in response.

Atriox stands by her for awhile before he speaks

"I'm sorry about your people Kora.........err Bonebreaker. And I thank you for your help in there. I doubt we could have did it without you."

@Aubrey Burmaster Kora scoffs. She's not sure how to take the sincere complement, and considers her words before speaking.

"You are all strong. Not sure I was of much help... But I came to avenge them. That is all. I'll gladly burn this bastion of undeath to the ground without hesitation."

****

Alrik pushes himself up and leans on Tucker, gesturing to his staff that got thrown across the floor. "Thanks, lad. You did good... reckless as all hell, but good."

The boy stumbles to get it, bringing it back to Alrik. "I did the best I could..." He hands you the staff.

"Probably saved all our sorry asses, to be honest..." he gestures over his shoulder to Etny and Oredion, then toward the front door.

"So..." he smirks, wincing at the bruised ribs and muscles from being slammed against the ground. "Mice and musty hay... wonder why those are your magic traits..."

@Chantry Williams Tucker manages a half smile, struggling to stay conscious through the pain. He looks embarrassed at the style of his magic. "Y-yeah, funny thing, that..."

He tries to walk toward the exit, his legs feeling numb. There is a definite look of discomfort. "I couldn't stay with Trundle... Thought you might be dead. You... risked everything for us. I couldn't bear that."

Oredion still enraged, but calming down quickly with the death of the undead monster walks over to Etny. He tries to force his flames to go out to show he is no longer angry, but they stay lit. He places a gentle helping hand under Etnys elbow and helps her to the front door carefully to not upset her opened axe wound. He feels a pang if guilt at the wound he has caused her.

Etny let's herself be helped to the door, walking out, gripping her open wound. "You fought bravely, elenn...I am envious of your rage, in some ways. I wish I could throw myself at my enemies with such ferocity, but alas, I am a huntress, not a warrior," she smiles ironically.

Walking out with Oredion to the courtyard, she spots Alrik, the young boy, and Atriox with the orcish woman. She approaches Alrik, and gives him a pat on the shoulder. "I will say, Oros-Udunta, I would not want to be in any creature's place on the receiving end of your storm magic. You fought well."

Etny, departing from the storm mage, slowly, respectfully approaches Atriox and rests a hand on his shoulder knowingly.

Kora quickly shuts up, stepping away as Etny and Oreidion walk over.

Etny says sincerely, "You fought mightily, Prince. I wish...I wish I could have done more, but as is the case, I am simply a huntress. Despite...despite the losses we have suffered, you have led us to great victory. You...you have given us all hope, despite despair. I thank you, and I name you again Dugairon--my chieftain. I would follow you into the fires if the Nine, if you so lead."

And without waiting another moment, Etny kneels before the Prince of Skyhold.

Kora looks uncomfortable with the honesty. She wants to give some space now. However she can't help overhear and see the scene play out nearby.

Atriox looks at the huntress now kneeling before him. He's surprised at this course of action

He looks at Etny then up at Kora and lastly Ore and Alrik trying to get a read on his freinds reactions to this.He finally looks back at the huntress

"I accept huntress on the condition that next time you find fault with me, you let me know before challenging my honor infront of everybody."

Oredions eyes burst with flame and he quickly looks away. He knows they have made up finally, but he is annoyed to see her kneel again after making such a fuss last time. He turns his gaze to the limping Tucker and decides to go join them in conversation.

Tuck sees Oredion approach and tries to smile through his pain. He sees how badly beat up you all look and does his best to appear tough and strong... He wants to be a hero like you all are.

There's a moan from the room. Tucker looks between you both, then over his shoulder at the still form in the corner of the room. Leonar Axemage.

"A condition," she replies, "that will be fulfilled to its fullest." She rises and looks the Prince in the eye, and extending a hand, speaks, saying, "Truce, then, my good Prince? For good this time? If mayhap the good Prince will see this lowly huntress as an equal, and I swear on the dead of my tribe that I will fulfill--to its fullest--the condition you have set."

She smiles genuinely at Atriox. "You are a good leader, and an honorable Prince, Atriox-Dugairon. I respect that, and honor that."

Atriox nods with a smile and shakes the huntress's hand.

"Deal Etny now I would like to go check on the blacksmiths son excuse me."

and then he walks over to the Axemage boy

Etny shakes his hand and relinquishes him, and turning to her own, she comes to Oredion, and kneeling down, gives him a deep embrace.

"Elenn, thank you for saving a lowly huntress...again! Oleah, but you are good at that!"

Oredion not used to Etny being more open with him gets a little flustered. His cheeks turn red with embarrassment.

"Erhmm. It was nothing Et. You would surely do the same with the positions reversed."

Oredion turns his gaze away quickly trying to avoid the huntresses eyes.

Atriox, you find him laying on the ground, a mess compared to when you first met him in the town square. Even then he seemed a little standoffish but... now he is almost starved, with sunken cheeks, sallow skin and thinning hair. He's pale, covered in sweat and blood, most of which is not his own... And the shadows have finally left his body. He seems only partially conscious, his eyes swimming and far off as you walk up to him. @Aubrey Burmaster

Atriox grunts. The boy is clearly in no shape to be interrogated and Atriox doesn't think he'd get much out of him anyway. It can wait till the boy has recovered some. He picks the boy up and puts him over one shoulder. Ordinarily the boy would have some weight to him but in his current condition it's not overly hard to carry him. Glaive in his other hand Atriox looks to the others

"Are we ready to leave team ? I'd say some down time is in order."

He looks at all of them including Kora with a smile

Kora grunts in agreement, not very talkative at the moment. She starts to head down the mountain, keeping a guard up against any other threats that might assail you.

Etny stands up, releasing the dwarf and smiling at him. "Come, elenn. We must be off. There is so much to be done to repair everything. There is...something else..."

She hesitates, remembering the shadowy snake-like tendrils that would heal the golem; that came from the grates in the floor; that had come from the necromancer; and that had come, she remembers seeing once, from the dragon Tyranus into Atriox. She must ascertain what this strange essence was.

"Those shadowy snake-like tendrils of power....do you have any clue what that could have been, elenn?"

"I've no idea lass. All I know is that I hate them with a passion."

Oredion stalks off following everyone's suit down the mountain.

Etny follows, heading down the mountain as well, wondering...worrying...

Alrik hands Tucker a healing potion and follows the rest of the crowd.

Taking the horses, you all ride wearily back down the mountain and through the forest. A light rain drizzles over the plains of the battlefield, washing away the scent of blood and death. The rain stings against your scales, Atriox, and you see Dorokor looking rather miserable. She puts on a resilient face nonetheless, and you focus on keeping Leonar Axemage steady on your horse. In his delirious state he wavers quite often, his sickly countenance worrisome. You have no idea how he came to work with the necromancers, but you imagine you'll have answers soon enough.

Alrik, the ride back is painful with each jostle of the horse. It makes your side and ribs ache terribly. Tucker rides with you, passing out often with fatigue and pain. Despite the rain he seems to have a fever and sweats profusely. The drizzle is at least some solace to you, soothing your cuts and burns... a gentle caress numbing the terror that fills your mind when you close your eyes. You've taken out the necromancer that kidnapped you weeks ago, that took the others.... but.... There were more out there.

Etny, you have relief now that the battle is over. You try to maintain your balance on your horse, your injured shoulder bleeding steadily over the miles traveled. You feel light-headed, but despite this you feel a euphoria from the hunt. A feeling of contentment. You've helped slay the master and the beast he controlled. The pendant around your neck swings as you ride, and you can't help but admire it from time to time. It feels reassuring... of both the present and the future.

Oreidion.... you are utterly exhausted. The fact that you don't sleep on the ride back feels like a minor miracle in and of itself. You poured everything you had into that battle on the field, and then moreso against the monstrosity up in the fortress. Whatever happened earlier... during the fight with the orcs... you've never experienced such a power before. Gruumsh seemed happy enough about it, although it didn't feel like his power. It was something much more... feral. With a glance at Etny, you feel a twang of conflicting feelings. You remember your dream... But you remember your promise.

You arrive back near the break of dawn. The pale light of sunrise glistens over the mountains through the parting storm. Mayor Cere, Lieutenant Donovan, Ferrar and Olohand all come out to meet you at the edge of town. Despite the despairing losses of the city, there is overjoyed celebration at your return. Ferrar unashamedly breaks down in tears, sobbing as he takes his son into his arms. Along with some of the healers from the temple, they carry Leonar Axemage to Petvin. Olohand and Cere shakes each of your hands, and Donovan claps Alrik on the shoulder, helping him with Tucker. He scoops the boy up easily. "I'll get him back to Trundle. He's been looking for him... he'll be able to help break the fever."

The mayor steps forward, sincere gratitude on his face. He looks at each of you in turn. "You have all saved us, saved Dragonshore, from a terrible fate! If you brave adventurers had not come to our fair city... I shudder to think of what may have befallen us. You have our sincerest gratitude. On this day, forever forward, it shall be known as the Festival of the Luminaries. You shall each be treated as heroes for the light that you brought us! the hope with which you have filled us! We will always welcome you to our port. This will always be a home to you, or so we will strive to make it."

He looks somber but touched at your generosity, your kindness and your resilience against such evil on behalf of Dragonshore. Cere and Olohand bow their heads to you all in respect. "We will help with your wounds and talk later of what has transpired... A celebration shall be in order, but that can wait until things have settled. Rest now, wherever you feel most comfortable."

"Thank you... from the bottom of our hearts."

"Ara malak denal, magrehtu, oron.
Sala halal machdil diran
Shohoth charach morag holon.
Sirach gobran salal igran.
Ata-Morri serech mirar odrin."

Etny blesses the victorious dead of the battlefield and of those who were taken by the necromancer against their will.

She weeps then. Her violet eyes fill with large tears as she sings praise to the All-Mother.

Oredion walks over to Etny and places a reassuring hand on her shoulder. He speaks in a calm saddened voice.

"We lost many good men and women today. They all fought hard until the bitter end fighting for a place they believed in. It may be sad now lass, but when you look around you'll see what they were fighting for."

As Oredion speaks that last words he points around. Yes there are still many weeping and praying for their lost loved ones, but there are also those who survived and returned to their family. Children are spotted running around having fun and playing tag. Oredion turns back and looks Etny deeply in the eyes.

"For all the life we lost, look at how much we saved."

Etny takes the dwarf's hand in hers, and plants several small kisses on it, cherishing his reassuring words.

"Oredion-elenn, you are an incredible friend and companion to me. Thank you..."

Oredion slowly pulls his hand away. His face turns red and he turns away flustered. He starts walking off while waving over his shoulder muttering to himself.

"I'm going to go have some drinks. This day has been way to much!"

Etny, seeing her dwarven friend leave, heading into town, decides to at first follow him at a distance. Suddenly, however, her injured shoulder throbs, and, her clothes slick with her own blood, her vision begins to swim. Her steps waver and her knees begin to grow weak and buckle. She about falls over with how much blood she has actually lost. Falling to her hands and knees, her vision swimming perilously, she hoarsely cries out, "H-healing! I need...healing...!"

She attempts to get up, but fails miserably, as her legs feel like wobbly noodles, and her knees will not support her weight. *Shiza! I hope this wound isn't already infected!*

(Total 20 medicine check to stop the bleeding, make sure the wound isn't infected, and 21 Con saving throw to keep from passing out!)

Oredion turns to see Etny on the ground after hearing her yell help. He curses at himself for somehow forgetting how hurt she was. He rushes over to her quickly and scoped her into his arms and practically charges to the priests temple yelling for people to get out of his way.

Oreidion, you make it to the temple before your arms give out, utterly exhausted. Etny is swimming in and out of consciousness, both out of exhaustion and blood loss. Petvin comes over to guide you both to his office where there are extra beds pushed against the wall. "Put her here, put her here... there we go, she'll be just fine after some rest. Feels like deja vu, doesn't it?" He chuckles, tired as well with bags under his eyes. "Get some rest as well, brother. Please." He smiles.

Etny settles into the bed, falling in and out of her own consciousness, her vision going from pitch black, to blurry, to pitch black again in no particular order. She falls immediately to sleep, the exhaustion finally taking its toll on her. Above all, she feels her shoulder wound throbbing painfully throughout her intermittent and often delirious dreaming. What those dreams are, she will never know...

Oredion starts to stumble a bit and feels his body growing heavy. He looks over at Petvin tiredly, but thankfully.

"Aye it sure does bud. I think the last time we were here it twas she who was helping my sorry butt. I think ima gonna stay here a bit doc at least until she wakes up."

Oredion pulls up a chair beside the bed. He takes Etnys hand and holds it in his own. He leans back in the chair and fills his exhaustion hit him like a ton of bricks. He feels his eyes start to droop closed as he slowly drifts away into a much needed sleep.

****

Alrik leads Tucker away from town, heading to the temple. "I don't know about you, but I got some injuries I need looked at... and since Breeh- er... The Enigma... isn't around, I figure Petvin and his priests will do."

Tucker nods wearily. He refused to go back to the orphanage, wanting more than anything to stay with his mentor. To show he was strong. It's hard for him to talk but he follows after Alrik. He just keeps putting one foot in front of the other, hoping it'll do. Clutching the crystal in his pocket. He wasn't strong enough before, but he would be now.

He makes it about half way there before he collapses unconscious.

You hear a tinking sound as the crystal slips from Tuck's hand, bouncing across the cobblestone. Turning, you see him stumble and collapse to the ground half a second later. Going up to him you try to move him, but his dead weight--even for a scrawny teenager--is too much for you in the state you're in. You feel a twinge stab through your ribs like fire, wrapping around from the front to the back. It's definitely not working well.

You spend some time trying to lift him over your shoulder--half dragging him along. You stumble, your own eyes beginning to swim in the early morning sunlight. In a way it felt so familiar being at war again. Unpleasantly comfortable. It wasn't all that long ago that you were, albeit in the deserts of the Komodori... You didn't expect to see battle again so soon. With children this young. With orcs... again. The memory of the orc captain that fought the monstrosity alongside you still sits ill in your stomach somehow.

You barely make it to the temple. Tank spots you as he steps outside. "Oh Alricky!" He chortles, helping you lift the boy's body with ease. He almost lifts you up with him, supporting you on one arm. "You look dead, come in please. Was going to help get others here. You do the hard part for me. Here, come find a bed. Sit, sit!" He lays tucker along a pew in the back of the chapel and covers him with a blanket. You have had very few interactions with Tank before, and most of which have made it seem like he's quite the thugish sort of fellow, but... at the same time, it's hard to peg him as such doing what he's doing. You spot the aarakocra, Zeed, resting with his eyes closed a bench away.

"You doing ok? Healers seeing lots of people. Anyone you want me find for you, Al?" He levels his dark eyes to yours, trying to make sure he's talking slowly and clearly enough. He seems to think you're delirious.

Alrik smiles faintly and pats Tank's arm. "Take... the boy in to get help... I'm going... to catch... my breath."

He sits down on a bench outside, thinking he'll head inside shortly... but instead, he ends up slipping out of conciousness, slumping over on the bench

****

Atriox shakes the mayor's hand trying his best to smile. This is a momentous day but the night that lead into it was a long and sad one, that left its toll.

"Mayor. Thank you for your help in the battle and thank you for all the support you have given us. It made a difference believe me. Now I believe we have many many things to discuss but I also believe after last night those things can wait a few days I think you'll agree? Though it will be awhile before anything is considered back to normal at least a few days will give everybody a chance to rest up a little."

Atriox finishes up with the mayor and goes over to Kora. He looks at her for a minute before speaking.

"Please follow me. I would say were overdo for a drink........or ten. Let's head to my place and get out of the way of prying eyes."

@Aubrey Burmaster Bonebreaker Dorokor stares at you. She gets a cheeky, smug sort of smile. Although she's tired out from the battle, she doesn't show it as much as the others.

"A drink or ten, huh? Fine by me. I'd rather not be here if it starts raining again."

She follows after you, bloody and battered and drawing a lot of eyes around town. People see her with you and don't question it. You did also notice a strange look from Cere as you left with the orc mercenary, but he did not argue your point about discussions coming later. He looked ready enough for bed himself, with a long morning ahead of him of work to do. Leading a city isn't easy after all.

(Where are you headed? You have a few places XD)

@Aubrey Burmaster As you approach the Velvet Fang Kora gets a funny look on her face. "This smells like... Hm. Like that girl. This is where she was from wasn't she?"

She raises an eyebrow, pausing at the door. "You said this was your... place? A bath house?" She chuckles. A very, very odd noise for her to make. It's almost startling when you hear it. "Interesting... Lead the way, Mr. Unbreakable."

Atriox grunts and stops with his hand on the front door. He looks at Kora

"I said a pleasure house actually. But there are baths here yes. Among other things. And yes Kora........she was an employee here."

He leaves that hanging in the air and goes inside. The place is mostly abandoned except for some of the girls, a handful of guests, and the old matron. Atriox walks over to the bar and takes a full bottle of the good stuff and heads to the baths waving Kora over

Dorokor strolls in behind you, invited... and watching your movements. Taking in the environment around her. She passes over the strange symbol on the floor by the door and eyes it with interest. Upon seeing you pick up the bottle she almost looks displeased. Opting to step into the kitchen for a second, she relieves the very short-staffed--and surprised--head chef of an uncooked steak.

Following after she looks at the water with some disinterest. "Very fancy place you have here, dragonborn."

@Aubrey Burmaster

Atriox saw the weird face Kora gave him when he picked up the alchohol but decides to ignore it......for now. Instead he replies to her last comment

"Indeed.......I suppose certain life styles come with being a prince after all. Are you paying a compliment or stabbing a insult home I wonder dear Bonebreaker ?"

He goes over to a changing area coming out wearing a robe still holding the bottle of alchohol he walks closely by Kora and into the pool. He sits looking at her

Kora watches you sit there. Her face is an unreadable mask. As you enter the pool, you feel it's... not as relaxing as you once remembered. The water almost stings your scales after a few minutes of soaking. She carves off pieces of raw steak against her axe and takes a bite. Chewing thoughtfully, she continues to observe what you do.

"How's the water, prince?"

Atriox sits there for a moment stewing as she watches him and eats. Finally he growls in irritation. He just wanted to relax after the battle but so far that's not going his way either

"Why does water no longer comfort me as it used to ? Is this something to do with my..........recent change ?"

@Aubrey Burmaster She takes another bite of meat, thoughtfully chewing.

"Yes."

Finishing the steak, Kora grabs a towel from one of the nearby racks and dips it in the water. She begins wiping her face and tusks clean, then her arms and armor. "Certain natural things will steadily become more... uncomfortable. We are the unnatural." Her eyes meet yours for a long moment. "I won't apologize. I was honestly trying to kill you. Not turn you."

Atriox growls and snaps

"Did I ask for an apology? I'm aware this wasn't done intentionally Bonebreaker!"

He quickly and grumpily cleans himself and then leaps out of the pool his wet robe hanging loose. He quickly goes and tells a staff member where his gear is and that it needs cleaned. Once back he picks up the bottle and gestures to it

"What about this huh ? I saw the way you looked at me earlier when I picked it up. Is it going to taste like poison burning down my throat or something? Hmmm ?!"

She raises an eyebrow. Taking the bottle from you, Kora pops the cork and takes a long pull from it. She keeps eye contact the whole time.

Breaking away with a slurp she pushes it back in your hand. "Not poison. Doesn't burn. It's just... Ashy. The flavor is never as good as... Well..." Her eyes shine red for a moment before she leans back in a chair.

Atriox looks at bottle now with new disinterest. He sets it down with an irritated grunt and looks at Kora

"That thirst is entirely different I've already found. I'm going to need to figure something out when it comes to feeding. In combat and war its different I can just drain my opponents. Here in the city where I'm responsible for these people's lives........ it's not right Kora."

She shrugs. "You don't have to feed here. Though I will say you get an ample supply of fresh blood from the docks...no one would know." Kora scratches her chin. "Animals are... Second best. I guess..."

Atriox paces a little while he talks

"I would disagree......I'd say others of our kind would be second best. Your not so bad yourself Bonebreaker."

He stops and gives her a sly smile. His fangs slightly descending and his eyes flashing red. He chuckles

"No matter.......a problem for tomorrow. Come follow me will you ?"

Atriox heads torwards the steps that lead to his room.

@Aubrey Burmaster She shrugs, following after with her axe over her shoulder. She takes in the surroundings, eyeing the few patrons you pass with mild interest.

Atriox walks upstairs with Kora behind him. He cares not for what he supposes are now his clients so he just ignores them. They walk down the hallway to where his rooms are. He opens up the one that used to be Alriks and holds it open for Kora and follows her in. He let's her look around before saying

"You can stay here. It will be safe for you. I dont want to take the chance of a townsman attacks you. Undoubtedly you break them but still. Tensions are high. In the morning I will help you figure out what we will do with your remaining men."

He stands waiting for her response. He also looks her over admiringly. He might be a warrior prince but he definitely has his weaknesses and uniquely beautiful woman would be one of them........

Kora looks around, hefting her axe up and leaning it against the wall. "Sleep is another of those... Natural things. But it would be nice to recuperate some." She doesn't seem to notice your staring, or perhaps doesn't care much one way or another.

"I'll try to be... Civil... and not eat any of your guests." She turns, her eyes glowing slightly red. "Or your employees. I appreciate your help with my men."

Atriox doesn't stop looking for a few moments but then responds

"Think nothing of it. I take care of my own. They will have to work even harder than the kobolds to earn this town's trust. But all well it'll get done. As for you restraining yourself I deeply appreciate it Kora......I know that's a lot coming from you. Perhaps we can go hunting soon ? Find a criminal or some bandits to drain."

She turns her head and raises an eyebrow. "Noble... Whatever helps you sleep at night I suppose."

She walks past the window and pulls the curtains closed a little tighter, the room now peacefully cool and dark. "But a hunt does sound entertaining. I'll let you choose the meal."

Kora is quiet for a moment. Her voice is smooth and calm.

"You'll learn quickly the freshest blood is the most intoxicating. The screams add to the euphoria." Her eyes flash slightly. "The dead have no pulse. It's like drinking mud. Monsterous beasts and animals taste sour... Bitter... You'll learn when we hunt."

Atriox thinks over her words with a neutral expression. In truth he still doesn't exactly know how he feels about all of this. Finally he looks back up and says

"I'm looking forward to hunting with you. Undoubtedly I could learn much from you Bonebreaker....... no matter there's no point getting excited about it this moment."

He makes to leave but pauses for a second

"Do you need anything more cheiftes ? Anything that would make this easier for you or something you want?"

Kora stares for a long moment... She seems contemplative. "I admit, the company of another intellectual is pleasant. And moreso, someone who won't die so easily should I lose control... That's been an issue many times before." Her eyes narrow a little.

Without waiting for an answer to that she walks over and closes the door, leaving you in the room with her.

Atriox looks from the door to Kora with slighty squinted eyes but flashes a mischievous grin

"Alright Bonebreaker.......I can also appreciate intellectual conversations. I'll take that tid bit about me being sturdier than most as a sincere compliment. You yourself can take a good hit or two...."

Atrioxs smile widens as he uses his tail to gently stroke Koras leg where he impeded his glaive

"So what shall we start with ? I'm sure you got questions or something to say. You dont strike me as someone who just keeps silent. I think you observe much and have a very healthy sense of curiosity though you've probably learned to outwardly curb it in front of your men.........they were fools to not trust in their leader just because your very smart and ask questions before blindly running in. I can admire that......"

@Aubrey Burmaster Kora raises her eyebrow, glancing down at your tail brushing against her leg. "Well... I suppose you're not wrong." She wanders over to a chair near her axe and sits beside it, taking out a whetstone to sharpen the blade. She works it with a rather affectionate care, the metal gleaming a red in the light of the dim room.

"I suppose I'll ask a question first. Perhaps we've touched on the subject before... You have a... aura. A taste to your blood, part of your life force." The axe makes a shink sound as she works the blade. "No other dragonborn I've bitten has the taste. It's a powerful something, that reminds me of what the young kid had with him.... Or the man that hired me. It's not just you. Do you know what it is? Have you come to know it?"

Atriox grunts at the question. He wondered when this would come up again. He turns to look at her as she sharpens her blade

"I knew you'd ask about that sooner or later. I'm afraid I don't have much information to give you. I have no idea what it is or when It got inside me. All I know is that it has power......it's kept me alive at times, given me strength, held back death even. It left me once to try and take over a dragon named Tyranus but after we defeated the dragon It came back to me. It's even spoken through me a few times."

Atriox paces a little around the room as he thinks about it

Kora is quiet as she sharpens her blade. She feels the bite of the metal after a minute to test it.

"I guess I felt like asking again now that you are not my prisoner or dinner. But I guess you really don't know after all. It's fine. You are you now, that's what matters I suppose."

"I just know this... Other.... Thing seems strong. The boy couldn't handle it. The other men respected it. You seem to command it. Sometimes." She smirks.

Atriox chuckles

"I don't know about that. I thinks it more along the lines of mutual self preservation."

He goes over and sits looking across the table at her

"What to talk about next huh ? I could think of many many things to ask. Your ans Orc cheiftes that values knowledge and questioning things as well as a vampire. That's one hell of a story I'd imagine."

She looks up, her red eyes meeting his for a minute. Then she looks back down and continues sharpening her axe.

"I've been alive for a while... It gives me time to question. To think. Knowledge was inevitable. Even if some of my own clan dislike the idea, I cannot help what I am or what I know..." Kora tilts her head, looking at her axe. She tests the bite again. "I've been a vampire for a few hundred years. I've honestly lost count. I rejected it at first, but have come to accept it's who I am now."

"What about you?" Kora glances your way again. You feel her eyes searching you, prying into your emotions. "Do you already accept it?"

Atriox tilts his head looking at her and pondering the question. After a minute he gets a grin

"I told you I don't really care what life state I'm in. All I care about is that I'm me and that I can still achieve my dream. Besides I'm sure theres a cure out there should I ever wish to change this.....not that I do at the moment that is. Theres a cure for anything out there if your willing to dig deep enough and long enough to find it. So yes to your original question I accept it."

She looks thoughtful. You know she's asked you these questions before but most definitely in a different set of circumstances. It is much more relaxed now. It's surprising to think of how different things were in the last 48 hours.

@Aubrey Burmaster Kora cuts her hand when she tests the axe again. With a satisfied sneer she puts the whetstone on the table. Licking the blood dripping from her fingers, she leans back in her chair. "My axe, Wound, is from my tribe before I turned. I don't remember much from back then. But it has been a constant companion... He's taken on an essence from my existence I think."

Twirling it slightly in the dim light of the room, Kora seems reminiscent. "One of the earliest memories I have of using Wound was to cut the head off the bastard that turned me." She smiles. "I've grown less violent since then."

Atriox snorts blowing some steam out of his nose while squinting his eyes

"Have you ? I've fought you twice. Both times you seemed to enjoy yourself a good amount Kora. And I don't imagine you became cheiftes by being peaceful."

She laughs coolly. "No, I suppose not." Her short, pointed tusks poke out further with her smile.

"I took over a tribe... I have to assert dominance sometimes to maintain power. Up and coming hot heads."

Atriox laughs as well. He finds himself feeling pride at the fact that he was able to make her smile and laugh

"So if you dont remember much does that also mean you cant remember where your from ? Who you were before this ? Not that I think theres anything wrong with who you are now. Your a survivor and I can respect that."

Kora seems thoughtful. "I don't remember a whole lot. Pieces. Like fragments of someone else's life. From what I'm aware, Gothmog of Udun now rules over the areas of the Komodori Desert where my people were once from. My old history, my old tribe... virtually all gone. The city reclaimed and rebuilt over half a dozen times over."

She shifts in her chair, adjusting herself as she crosses her arms. "It is possible to lose your humanity to the curse, though. To lose... who you were. Who you are. Some become mindless feeders. Vicious, like animals. Others clever. Some blend in. Some try to keep their history... their old lives intact." Her eyes gleam. "Time has stripped some of my past from me... but I've come to terms with it."

"For example..." She leans back, thinking. You can see her trying to recollect something, her eyes far away. "As a child, I loved a fruit from the desert there. It grew on the coast by my home. My brother would bring them to me until I was old enough to find them myself. We would call them "Rakakyk" in orcish... Had to smash them open with something strong. It was a fun game."

Kora smiles a little, staring off. "It was a simple memory... But a good one. I can somewhat remember the taste, but more so the emotion and experience of eating it. How it made me feel." She sniffs, brushing her nose. "I found some later, after I turned. Food is... different now. It made me vomit." She smirks.

Atriox smiles with her

"That is a beautiful memory Kora. Yes the taste may not be like it once was but it is nothing compared to memories. Memories are eternal.....they are our unspoken history........but who knows you may yet taste it again as a normal orc......if you ever were such a thing. The winds of fate are odd Indeed."

Atriox gets a far off look as he delves into his memories

"I often........wonder how I got to this point......how i became so different than my earlier self...........i wonder......Kora when did I fall ?"

After a few seconds Atriox catches his breath and looks back at her

"Not that it concerns you. I do not wish to trouble you. Do you have any other questions Bonebreaker?"

@Aubrey Burmaster She narrows her eyes, giving you a questioning look. She doesn't discount what you've said about her unnatural state, as if she may have considered it many times before... but she sets those thoughts aside.

"How have you fallen, Unbroken one?"

Atriox grunts and looks away muttering

"your a persistent one. So much for Unbroken I keep spilling shit to you"

He thinks about it for a moment tapping his talons on the arm of his chair. Finally he looks back at her

"Tell me cheiftes......do you know what the price of ambition is ? Do you know what power costs ?"

She tilts her chin up, considering the question and studying you. Her eyes flicker as if with the pulse of blood. "It can cost... everything." Kora unfolds her arms and steeples her fingers together, focused and interested in your answer. "What do you feel it cost you?"

Atriox slams his fist down on the chair arm that he was previously taping he leans forward and points at her his eyes flaring a combination of red and black....

"Exactly ! Everything ! It costs Everything ! How have I fallen you ask ? Bahhh. You know as a kid I just thought about being nice ? I thought it was what I was supposed to do as Royalty. Show the other people how to be. You know I used to love spending time with the kobold children. You know why ? Because I thought in the beginning I was being nice. Were kobolds more than welcome? Yes but they weren't dragonborn. They were always considered lesser for some reason even though they were the bulk of our traders, farmers, hunters,on and on. It wasn't fair I said so I began spending time with them to set an example."

Atriox houghs loudly sitting back in his chair once more taking a moment to breath as he swishes his tail around in agitation

"My parents were amazing,kind people........but they were weak rulers ! Our people's loss is on they're heads ! Being a ruler means being nice isn't enough ! I used to think of kindness first.......now all I think of is ambition. Even down to partner choices. I cannot afford to be kind. Skyhold will rise again no matter how many bodys have to build its foundation............I know what started my journey to the edge.......the night I watched my home burn to the sound of its people's screams.......but what I dont know is this. When did I make the decision to fall ? When did I become this ? When did I forsake goodness and kindness? I know not Kora but I promise this........I will do whatever it takes...."

Bonebreaker Dorokor leans forward. She seems very intent on listening through your entire explanation, and does not respond immediately. It is a very calculated, thoughtful expression. One that you cannot easily read, though you have found you can often read others.

"Your power is apparent, Dragonborn Atriox. You have faced armies. Demons. You've even some mastery over darkness itself it seems." She narrows her eyes again. "Kindness and goodness are pleasant platitudes, but they can be weakness. Humans and other softer races often flounder in them. You have earned my sword by our mutual understanding of power... Of purpose. Of drive. Perhaps you have not fallen, but risen."

Her eyes gleam bright red at this, and you can almost feel a connection between the two of you. Something in your mind feels some of her spiritual essence, her life blood, within your own. Likewise, you can sense some of yours in her.

She stands, hefting Wound up in her hands. She stares down at Atriox with a fierce, fiery pulse in her crimson eyes. Spinning the shimmering great axe once, Dorokor slams it heavily upon the table with a thud. A crack from the force of it is split through the surface of the wood.

"You have become something far greater... entertaining the call of the white tusks. Withstanding the blow of the fangs of the bonebreaker..." She walks over and, fangs extending, stares dead into the dragonborn's face. There is a definite authority and presence about her that is palpable.

Atriox grunts but has a smirk on his face. His eyes are still red but now his fangs are extended slightly

"I don't know about all that Bonebreaker but you have a determined look on your face. I must admit I'm slightly excited and scared as to what's going through your mind right now. Care to share Kora ?"

She gets a smug sneer on her face. "You keep calling me that name. You must like how it sounds... Unbreakable one."

Glancing at the fading light behind the curtains of the window she smiles. "Finally... night is approaching. Perhaps I'd like to reenact when I first met you. Dragonborn blood is some of the nicest I've had... And I don't often get a chance at it. It's been a rather pleasant treat. I'm sure you wouldn't mind indulging a bit together, prince?"

(Fade to black)