Abyss Guardians

[Dragonfly77]

http://i925.photobucket.com/albums/ad96/KatieElisa/Fiesta/AGSiggySm-1.png

Chapters

It Begins
Chapter 1 (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2270378&postcount=2)

Just Another Crazy Day
Chapter 2 (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2281299&postcount=13)

Ignorance Is Bliss
Chapter 3 (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2382488&postcount=27)

Spying on your own Guild
Chapter 4 (Part 1) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2436606&postcount=37) Chapter 4 (Part 2) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2436607&postcount=38)

Secret Meetings
Chapter 5 (Part 1) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2472297&postcount=55) Chapter 5 (Part 2) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2472299&postcount=56)

Love is In the Air
Chapter 6 (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2519667&postcount=89)

Unit 5729
Chapter 7 (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2519854&postcount=93)

Blood Thirsty Killers
Chapter 8 (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2520506&postcount=97)

Undeniable Power
Chapter 9 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2539925&postcount=132) Chapter 9 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2539927&postcount=133)

Out and In of Trouble
Chapter 10 (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2544823&postcount=139)

Trouble Again
Chapter 11 (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2576391&postcount=181)

Battle in the Abyss
Chapter 12 (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2593835&postcount=219)

Visions of the Future
Chapter 13 (Part 1) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2607916&postcount=262) Chapter 13 (Part 2) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2607917&postcount=263)

Heartfelt Betrayal
Chapter 14 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2677743&postcount=303) Chapter 14 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2677746&postcount=304) Chapter 14 (Part 3) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2677748&postcount=306)

A Bloody Mess
Chapter 15 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2683085&postcount=319) Chapter 15 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2683086&postcount=320)

Warning In The Skies
Chapter 16 (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2692270&postcount=339)

Politics and Flowers
Chapter 17 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2709318&postcount=362) Chapter 17 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2709322&postcount=363)

A Crossing
Chapter 18 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2774408&postcount=389) Chapter 18 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2774410&postcount=390)

Painful Memories
Chapter 19 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2800642&postcount=400) Chapter 19 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2800643&postcount=401)

Transporting?
Chapter 20 (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2823418&postcount=420)

White To Black
Chapter 21 (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2827090&postcount=431)

Tangled Mess
Chapter 22 (Part 1) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2853201&postcount=501) Chapter 22 (Part 2) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2853207&postcount=502)

The Keepers' Story
Chapter 23 (Part 1) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2928297&postcount=575) Chapter 23 (Part 2) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2928298&postcount=576)

Dream Interpretations
Chapter 24 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2986484&postcount=588) Chapter 24 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2986485&postcount=589)

Noob
Chapter 25 (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3053390&postcount=602)

Maghis
Chapter 26 (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3057630&postcount=607)

Vision Of The Future
Chapter 27 (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3191592&postcount=627)

Layers?
Chapter 28 (Part 1) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3215558&postcount=638) Chapter 28 (Part 2) (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3215560&postcount=639)

The Real Medallion
Chapter 29 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3247308&postcount=645) Chapter 29 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3247310&postcount=646) Chapter 29 (Part 3) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3247311&postcount=647)

Cleric's Hall
Chapter 30 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3368890&postcount=714) Chapter 30 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3368893&postcount=715) Chapter 30 (Part 3) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3368894&postcount=716)

Kinemortophobia
Chapter 31 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3435328&postcount=752) Chapter 31 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3435332&postcount=753)

Turning Points
Chapter 32 (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3508939&postcount=777)

The Gilded Gauntlets
Chapter 33 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3516518&postcount=784) Chapter 33 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3516521&postcount=785)

Wind and Water
Chapter 34 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3638874&postcount=807) Chapter 34 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3638875&postcount=808)

Power
Chapter 35 (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3664662&postcount=812)

Meeting the Dragon
Chapter 36 (Part 1) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3769422&postcount=839)Chapter 36 (Part 2) (http://outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=3769423&postcount=840)

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 1

It Begins



“Coming at ya!!” the fighter yelled as he ran down the tunnel, pulling a train of Phinos behind him. The wooden puppet monsters were all too frustrated with the armored intruder to pay any attention to where he was leading them, and his strange dialect made no sense to the them anyway. “Get ready!” the fighter yelled again.

Suddenly the fighter stopped and turned, bringing his sword up in an arch, and furiously slashing at the phinos as fast as he could. This irritated the phinos, and they slammed their balled wooden fists against his bronze breastplate, trying with all their might to topple him over.

They were much too distracted to see the rain of arrows that scattered into the mob, striking them down with shattering force. A few tried to tear out of the mob and chase down the young archer that stood in the distance, but the fighter’s sword slashed into their wooden backsides before they could run. They fell one by one, dropping to the ground with helpless little squeaks.

“Oh ya!! We rock!” the fighter shouted gleefully, punching the air after all of the phinos had been turned into piles of scrap wood. The young archer looked intently at the treasures that the monsters had dropped. He smiled silently, trotting over to his partner. “Think we can go for a bigger mob?” the archer asked timidly, picking up the rare dusts and dividing it between himself and the fighter.

The fighter nodded, smiling as he surveyed the cavern. “No one else is in this part of the map, so I think we’re safe to load up on monsters.” He swung his sword around, admiring the swish of the crafted blade. “Come on!” he called back, leading way deeper into the cave.

The archer hesitated before following the fighter. “M-maybe we should just stay in this part of the caves,” the archer said. “I mean, the deeper we go the stronger the monsters are, right?”

“Psh, don’t worry,” the fighter said, with a proud wave of bravado. “Stronger monsters also give us better training and better loot. We’ll be fine.”

“O-okay…” the archer hesitantly replied, walking behind the fighter. His eyes jumped back and forth, searching the dark shadows for any signs of trouble. They walked into a narrow tunnel that curled into a dark crevice, leading them into the back passages of the abyss. “Hey…” the archer stopped in his tracks, grabbing the fighter’s arm.

“Yeah? What?” the fighter asked. He glanced at his friend. “Did you see something?” he asked.

“I think so,” the archer answered, retreating back out. “What was it?” the fighter asked, dropping his voice to a whisper.

“Something in the tunnel,” the archer replied. “Too tall to be a phino.” The two of them quickly ducked behind a large rock that jutted from the cave wall.

“Ok,” The fighter whispered. “We can do this. There’s two of us. We can take it on, whatever it is.”

The archer nodded. His blood was pounding in his veins, not making it any easier for him to relax. “What did you exactly see?” the fighter asked.

“I-I think…it was a person…” the archer replied after some thought. “I saw a sword, so it must be a fighter. But...he looks kinda tall for a human.”

“Big deal, a tall fighter.” his friend muttered, peering around the edge, the fighter tried to make out the outline of the person in the shadows. “You think it’s safe for us to call him out?” he asked.

“Please, come on. Let’s just go back,” the archer pleaded. “Forget it.”

“No! We can do this!” the fighter answered in a harsh whisper. “That sword is a one hand, and he doesn’t even have a shield. We’ll be fine.”

“Listen, this is what we do,” the fighter continued. “I’ll call him out, and tell him we just wanna pass by. If he attacks, I’ll take him, and you just keep shooting at him. Ok?”

“That’s your plan?” the archer asked skeptically. “You go up and attack and I stay back and attack? He’s gonna expect that!”

“Well what do you wanna do? You wanna be the one that goes up and attack him in close-combat? Be my guest.”

The comment made the archer turn rigid in fear. “N-no…!”

“Then come on! You scairdy-cat!” the fighter stepped out of his hiding place and strode over to the stranger. The archer hesitated, muttered something along the lines of thick-headed fighters, and followed behind.

“We see you, and we aren’t interested in a fight,” the fighter shouted out. He stood in the middle of the hall, sword in hand, ready to strike if necessary. The archer behind him crept closer, nervously gripping his bow. “Come out of there where we can see you.”

The figure made no response. Then in one fluid motion it leaped forward, and dashed straight for the fighter.

“Dammit, he’s gonna fight us! Get ready!!” the fighter instinctively threw up his shield in defense, but as the first streak of light from the torches fell on his assailant, his eyes widened in horror.

The first blade crunched through his shield, and penetrated deep and into his breastplate. Blood spewed out from the wound. The fighter fell to the ground, screaming in agony as the second sword ripped through his shoulder, tearing off the shoulderpad. In the back, the archer was firing his arrows as fast as his shaky hands could string his bow. But his unsteady aim only whizzed past the killer.

“RUN!!!” the fighter coughed up the word, staring at his friend one last desperate look before the darkness closed over his eyes. His assailant looked up at the archer, right when a lucky arrow nicked him on the check. He didn’t even flinch at the miniscule attack.

He leaped up from his position over the dead fighter's body and came barreling down the tunnel. For a split second, the archer stood frozen in fear, before he found himself and scrambled back down the tunnel. He opened his mouth to scream, but the sharp piercing bladestabbed through his leather shirt, cutting off his cry. Another stab at his back brought him down to his knees. The crimson blood ran down the green leather, staining it a deep brown.

The killer yanked out his two swords from the dead elven body, not at all amused as to how easy it was to kill these two adventurers. His cold eyes surveyed his surroundings. Short black crew-cut hair was tied back with a white bandana, like most members of the Karasan Soldiers of the abyss. the soldier returned his blades to their sheathes, and strutted out of the tunnel, disappearing back into the darkness.

[Hipposaur]

I like it!! It's well written, and I can really relate to it.(:

[T3h_SyN]

I like. *stamps mark of approval*

I'll be watching this thread for my cameo *awsm fayse* don't let me down.

**Reader #2**

[forty3phers]

O.O OMG! Awesome :D MOREEE MOREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE!!!!!

[delta-16]

that was awesome :D

[saku_mao]

Athy <3 that is awesome! i can't wait to read more >.<

[Kaxak]

Omfg, i loved it, keep going Two Thumbs Up!

[twiztedcriminal]

that was great. i'll be sure to read the next 1

[Daevor]

Uhm, where's chapter 2?!

[oyaccount]

Aweeesome! ^^
Cant wait till the next chapter!
Keep going! :]

[oyaccount]

We want chapter 2! , We want chapter 2! * Sings & bangs the table! * :D

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 2

Just Another Crazy Day



“You think you’re so strong? You can’t even hold that axe properly!” I taunted, keeping a good safe distance from my opponent. I twirled the little purple braid of hair that dangled next to my face, my green eyes darting around the room while I surveyed my surroundings. I grinned, running my thumb over the trigger of my crossbow, eager to use it soon.

My opponent Oya smirked at the comment, boldly brandishing his weapon. “Look who’s talking, waving around your toy crossbow like that!" He called out. His long cornrow hair was tightly pulled out of his face. "This fight will be as short as you, little archer!!”

“HAY!! Call me short one more time and I’ll turn you into a pincushion of arrows,” I shot back.

“You want stars and moons floating over your head, Athemis?” he retorted back.

“That’s just your way of saying I’m stunning.” I said, sweeping my arms and making a brazen bow. “Besides, you’ll turn green with envy from my power!!” I smirked. “I can do that easily with a good poison shot to your head!”

“Blah blah blah,” Oya answered, rolling his eyes and imitating the gesture with his hands. “I still pawn you.”

“Sooo…” Kaxik muttered. “When are you two actually gonna start fighting?” Kaxik was decked from head to foot in regal blue dragon armor. Some of our other friends were sitting around, seemingly bored, lazily spending the afternoon in our favorite hangout, in front of the gates that lead into the Hallway of the Abyss. Love was busy polishing her axe, making the enhanced weapon even more shiny. Pino, another fighter, sat next to her with his back against the wall. Next to him was a cleric wearing a fanciful red and white outfit. Her hammer and shield were laid next to her. “And not verbal fighting, but real fighting...” Kaxik asked, looking at the Oya and me.

“Good question,” answered Pino, leaning back against the wall. Red auburn hair fell over his eyes brown eyes. “I'm bored. We already scared off the pkers.”

“I’ll fight Athe once she comes within reaching distance of my axe,” Oya replied, hefting the gigantic weapon. “But nah, she’s too scaaared…”

“Tch, you just don’t wanna admit that you can’t run fast enough when I kite you.” I blew a raspberry at him.

“Shut up you two and fight!” Love snapped, looking up from her polishing. “Or I fight both of you myself!”

“Fine..” I muttered. “Olympian, you ready with revive?”

“Don’t worry Athemis.” she replied, leaning back on a nearby boulder. “The minute Oya kills you I’ll revive you,”

“Jeez, I’m touched by the fact that you are ready to leap up and save my life because there is no doubt in your mind that I’ll lose this duel…” I muttered, not bothering to hold back the sarcasm.

“Fight already!” Love snapped. “Or else I-” she raised her godly enhanced axe to accentuate her point.

“Ok ok!” I said. I shot a look at Oya. “Eat crit!” with that, I swung the crossbow toward his direction, and unleashed an arrow tinged with green.

He took the hit full force, and the green arrowhead pierced his shoulder spreading his poison into his veins. He grunted, ignoring the pain, and ran full speed toward me, raising his axe to land a devastate stun. I quickly fired a diseased arrow and immediately ran off. The axe slashed sideways, but I ducked under the blow, flipped to the side, and leaped back up. “Ya missed me!!” I taunted, shooting a piercing arrow.

The attack clipped him on the knee, and blood started to trickle down his leg. He dug his hand into his pocket, and red glitter surrounded him for a brief moment, healing his wounds. But all this time my attacks didn’t slow him down. He raised his axe again, and slammed it down with shattering force. The earth around me exploded with debris, and I slipped from the uneven ground. I fell to my hands, but quickly pushed back up, flipping out of the devastate trap. I twisted and turned in mid-air, and released another powershot before landing on my knees.

This time Oya was ready. He crossed his arms in front of him, blunting the attack from the rest of his body. Then he swept lengthwise, catching me off balance with the head of his axe. My sturdy leather armor blocked the cutting blade, but the attack was still forceful enough to push me to the ground. I took a deep intake of breath, and fired another energy-induced arrow, before leaping up and quickly running off.

Oya pursued. The cries of cheers from our friends were silenced to me as I concentrated solely on kiting. I turned around a fired three arrows simultaneously; piercing, poison, and disease. Oya took the attacks head on, relying on his armor to blunt out the sharp tips of the arrowheads. Then he leaped forward, and crash his shoulder into me. The force took me by surprise, and he followed with a wide swing of his axe.

“Look out!!”

Oya’s eyes darted upward, only to be smacked in the face by the hammer of a goblin. Arkedge, yet another fighter, came running into the room, swinging his large sword to attack a goblin mage. “I got jumped back in the room I was grinding in, and lost the mob!” Arkedge yelled out, trying to cut down as much goblins as he could.

Gil came running out of the room, trailing a pack of smelly goblins behind him. He side-stepped out of one of their swings, then raised his bow to the roof and scattered a multitude of arrows. They flew straight up, and came barreling back down, striking both goblins and non-goblins. Arkedge followed up with circular slash of his large sword. In the confusion, I fell to the compacted earth, blindly trying to dig out a healing stone from my pocket. Arkedge raised his sword and slammed it into the earth, erupting a large devastate shockwave and breaking the earth. I gasped in pain as the blunt of the attack hit me. I struggled to get up, and aim my crossbow to the roof to release arrows onto the mob. But with the overwhelming goblins, arrows, stun, and my prior fight with Oya, a swift goblin landed a solid blow to the back of my head, and I heard something go crack before collapsing on the ground.

“Shoot!! Athe!” Arkedge yelled out over the gargled cries of goblins. “Gil! Behind you!!”

A mage and fighter came running down the same passage that Arkedge and Gil had just emerged from. The mage raised his hand and threw a ball of electricity at Arkedge, who yelped in pain ast the energy jolted through his body. The fighter ran up to Gil and slammed into him, knocking him to the ground. He raised his axe and slammed it back down, cutting through the layers of the leathered shirt.

“Hey! Back off!” Oya yelled at them. He turned from the onslaught of goblins and faced the mage, hefting his axe and slamming the bladed tip into the mage's arm. The mage screamed in pain as the blade cut through his robes procuring blood. At the same time, Arkedge finished off another goblin with a tripled slash, and stabbed his sword toward the fighter that attacked Gil, who was still on the ground.

Gil scrambled up, gripping the spot where the fighter had cut him. He quickly absorbed red stone before ducking from another goblin. Kaxik leaped into the fight, hacking back more of the goblins and littering the floor with their dead bodies. Pino went straight for the fighter, and teamed together with Arkedge, they fought him back against the wall. Oya chased the mage that had fled the battle area, but one good swift cut on his back brought him down on his knees. At the last minute, the mage furtively raised his staff and threw a large burst of energy at Pino, who buckled from the attack and collapsed against the wall, gripping his chest from the magic effect. Love ran up and angrily sliced at the mage, cutting off his life.

Olympian slammed her shield against the goblins, quickly chanting healing spells to cure pino’s wounds, before she pointed her hammer at Gil and channeled her energy to heal him as well as he fired arrows at the goblins from behind Oya.

Arkedge, who was still fighting the opposing fighter, finally saw his opening and plunged his sword into his opponent’s stomach. He yanked it out, spewing blood everywhere, and the fighter fell down on his knees before collapsing with a thud.

Love whirled around before digging her axe deep into the ground, and releasing a large amount of devastate shockwaves. The goblins were stunned before the arrows released from Gil's bow struck them, and they collapsed into heaps.

There was a moments of silence after the fight, with only sound of heaving breathing from the adventurers, accompanied by the soft cackle of the torches.

“So, uh…can I get a revive here please?” my disembodied voice asked from above my still body. “I feel the dark pulling! Hurry!”

“Athemis! I’m so sorry!” Olympian rushed over to me. She formed a cross with her hammer, and raised it upward.

My life force was thrown back into the world, and I snapped my eyes open, feeling the cold chill leave numb my body. I blinked, trying to adjust to the light of the torches.

“You guys ok?” Pino asked, helping Gil up. Love looked around, nudging the mage’s dead body with her foot. Oya helped me stand up, walking me over to a place to sit down.

“Come on, let’s get out of here before that mage and fighter respawns, bring over their friends, and this erupts into a war.” Kaxik said, already starting for the ring of light on the ground, the portal out of the abyss.

I sighed, rubbing the sore spot on the back of my head. “And I’m heading to Healer Avon..my neck hurts...ouch…” I gritted my teeth.

Pino knelt down next to the fighter, and looked at him in the dead eyes. “I don’t think they wanna talk,” he said. “Shall we just leave them?”

“Gangers..” the dead fighter's voice muttered. Pino shrugged and got up, dusting his armor. “Say what you want," he answered to the dead body, "but if you come here attacking people, expect to get attacked.”

“It was two on two!” the mage's voice shot back. His body flared a yellowish light for moment and disappeared. He respawned next to the portal, heavily battered, robes torn, but alive once again. “You’re lucky we didn’t pass…over...” he said, panting a bit.

“We don’t kill to the point of passing,” Kaxik answered, gripping his axe. “If we did, you wouldn’t even be able to death-talk.”

Arkedge rubbed a sore spot on his back. “But you guys were killing for passing, even when we had a huge mob on us.”

“Get out of here, you’re not welcomed,” Gil snapped, glaring at the mage. A flare of yellow light appeared behind the mage, and the fighter emerged. He glared at us, digging his hand into his pocket and absorbing a stone.

“There are two of you and eight of us..” I answered, eyeing the fighter. “Don’t even think about fighting us again.” I tensed, watching the angry glare of the mage and fighter. “Just leave.”

“We don’t have to listen to you archer!” The mage glared at me. He raised his staff, and unleashed a large orange blast of energy at me. I stepped out of the range of the attack, and instantly shot a piercing arrow at him. The attacked ripped through his robes, cutting a deep gash into his chest. It wasn’t enough to kill, but enough to act as a warning shot.

Olympian took a deep breath. “They’re not gonna run unless their life is in danger again,” she muttered.

“Then we leave,” I said. “It’s not worth the time and effort to fight them.”

“That’s right, leave you chickens. This is our place.” The fighter growled.

“You guys are technically spot claiming…” Arkedge said, raising a brow. "Which is against the-"

“Shut up!" the mage yelled. "Damn you all!”

“Let’s go,” Kaxik said. “We were leaving anyway.”

One by one, we walked over to the portal, stepping into the circle of light and warping out of the abyss. The mage and fighterthrew disgusted glares at us. “Stop giving us that look,” Love shot at them, as Oya walked into the ring of light, last one to leave.

“Oh really? What you gonna do?” The fighter answered. Love’s eyes narrowed. She turned around to step into the ring of light, but immediately swung around and slammed her axe into the fighter’s head, cutting a deep wound before ripping it out and hacking at his shoulder. The mage leaped back in surprise, and formed a fistful of fire. Love shoved the fighter’s dead body down, and tackled the mage with her axe, His dead body crumpling over the fighter.

“I could do that,” she replied with a grin, turning around and exiting the abyss.

[oyaccount]

Wohhaa! Awesomely written.
Very nice ! :) Keep it up!
I was rotting for Oya in every battles, don't know why, I just did oO, hah ^^
Again, keep it up! You're doing greaaat! :)

[forty3phers]

wooo! Awesome~ MORE PLEASEEEEEEE!!! :D

[T3h_SyN]

Moar? I want moar Ath...

[allan-armageddon]

ZOMG AllanArkedge finally makes his debut!And btw Love is so awesome XD at the end lmao

[wr3ked]

awsome!
that gil guy sounds sexy :D

[Daevor]

woot woot! *chants* We want more! We want more!

[forty3phers]

Lols! *chants with Daevor* We want more! We want more! :O

[saku_mao]

I'm totally waitin for chapter two~ <3

[oyaccount]

I'm totally waitin for chapter two~ <3

You mean chapter three~ right? ^^

[aw3som30wnag4]

looks like im in this story... ( pinogorigio AKA pino ) u know i was the best right? :D

[Dragonfly77]

Sorry guys I've been busy with real life stuff, and I probably won't get the next chapter until the end of this week. >.o

But not to worry, I'll get it up.

[KilikX]

aww, mmk, I'll wait

[KilikX]

*bump* ._. the ppl left ><


srry for double post

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 3

Ignorance is Bliss




“They were discovered at the respawn point in the abyss,” The Officer explained, gesturing to the two stretchers being carried by other guards. Bright sunlight filtered in from the crystal window, throwing a dancing display of colors against the azure blue walls. For the most part, the room was bare except for the occupants. Four heavily armored guards were carrying two stretchers, with a white cloth thrown over each stretcher. Paladin Master Keast, a short elderly woman dressed in ceremonial priestess robes, clasped her hands over her chest. Her remorseful blue eyes gazed over the stretchers. The officer that stood next to her was a fighter in his early twenties, green eyes and bright orange hair sleeked back from his forehead. His reddish brown armor stuck out against the soft bluish hue of the temple walls.

Keast looked sorrowfully at the two stretchers. Gently, she lifted the tip of the cloth off of one of the stretchers, revealing the dead face of a young fighter. “Is there anything you can do to save them?” The Officer asked.

Keast sighed, placing the cloth back over the fighter before pulling off the one over the archer. “I’m afraid their lives have long passed,” she replied. “No amount of healing magic can bring them back.” She carefully closed the staring eyes of the archer.

Keast looked up at the officer. “I’ll have my clerics bring them to the main temple, where we can prepare their burial. Their families will be notified of their deaths.”

The officer nodded, gesturing for his guards to carry the two bodies back out of the room. Once they left, he turned his attention back to the Paladin Master. “What kind of monster could have killed them, where the respawn magic failed to save their lives?”

Keast hesitated. “Let us talk in private,” she answered, gesturing outside the door. “Please, to my office.”

Together, they walked down the gilded corridors. Several clerics passed them along the way, going about their business in the Cleric’s Hall. Keast turned a corner and walked down a glass staircase, before coming up to a door that was cozily set at the bottom of the stairs. She pulled a large iron key from the folds of her robes, and unlocked the door. She gestured for the Officer to come inside, before quickly locking the door behind her.

She paused for a moment, choosing her words carefully. “A person only passes from this world if their body is too weakened to support their life after respawn,” she said, turning to face the officer. “Monsters will only kill to the point of protecting their territory, so it is unlikely to be them. Even abyss monsters rarely kill for passing. Yes, those are more brutal than the ones in our outside world, but not enough to cause a such a threat.”

“What about shadows? Could they have done that?” The officer asked.

Keast thought for awhile. “It is possible,” she answered slowly. “Shadows cannot think: they only target and fight. But they are still not strong enough to cause this kind of damage.”

“So it has to be a person who killed them,” the officer concluded.

“I wish it was that simple, but their wounds do not look like they came from a human or elven weapons.” Keast answered. “I can tell it was a sword, yes, but it is much too narrow for it to be a two-handed, yet too long for a one-handed. It was a monster’s sword.”

The officer removed his helm, allowing his deep orange locks of hair to fall to his shoulders. “The only monsters that frequent that part of the abyss are Phino’s and Phinoflies. How can this be the case?”

“Either they can carry swords in their wooden hands, or a monster, like an Abyss Karasan, got in there.” Keast replied.

“Absurd.”

“I know,” she said. “But I cannot think of any other way,”

“If something in the abyss is threatening the lives of our young adventurers, I will get to the bottom of this.” The officer stated. “I will Inform my uncle, Captain Shuitan, at once.”

--

“Aak! That burns!”

I shut my eyes tight as the cleric applied more of the ointment to the back of my neck. “It will help the wound heal faster,” the cleric replied, viciously rubbing the medicine into my muscles.

“I think that medicine is worse than the pain…” I muttered, gripping the edge of my chair.

“Stop being such a nuisance,” the cleric snapped. “You came over to get treatment and this is what you get.” She pulled put a bandage and some white tape, and spread the orange smelly ointment on the white strip of cloth. She stretched the bandage over the back of my neck, and taped it in place.

“..Is that necessary?” I asked, feeling strand of my hair getting caught into the tape. “Ow..”

“Yes it is, now shush.” She muttered. “I have to go attend to another patient. Don’t cause any trouble.” She said, stuffing the rest of the tape and bandage into her pocket.

“Wow…” Arkedge muttered, staring at the cleric as she walked toward a mage with a large patch over his eye. She immediately yanked the patch off and squirted a green liquid into his eye. The mage yelped and jumped up, knocking over the chair he was sitting on. “Avon’s new assistant is…”

“A jerk?” I asked, gingerly touching the tape on my neck. A sharp pain ruptured down my neck, almost as if someone had plunged a white hot needle into my skin. “Arrgh….”

“I heard that little archer!” the cleric yelled from across the room. She was forcing the mage’s hands off of his eyes, trying to squirt more of the green medicine into them.

“Well, I was thinking more along the lines of ‘hot’,” Arkedge answered, tilting his head. “Really hot…”

“Dude, you’re drooling,” Kakik whispered into Arkedge’s ear.

“Uh huh,” Arkedge muttered, completely lost in his own little world.

“Arkeeedge…hello? Anyone home?” Kaxik waved his hand over Arkedge’s face. “Isya to Arkedge. You there?”

Oya got up from his seat and walked over to the two fighters. “Kaxik, I believe we have lost contact to the individual named Arkedge. Last verbal contact was a few minutes ago.” Oya answered.

“What do you supposed could have caused the interference?” Kaxik asked.
“A cleric deemed as ‘hot’ made an appearance within his range of vision. It is most likely that he will be unresponsive for the next couple of hours.”

“Hours you say? Well, this is a dilemma.”

“Um, guys? There is a way to snap him out of his trance,” Love answered.

Kaxik gestured to the love-stricken Arkedge. “If you know a way, go for it.”

Love walked up to Arkedge, looking him straight into the eyes. “Hey Ark,” she said, leaning against the wall. “That cleric chick you’re staring at just asked you out on a date.”

Arkedge’s eyes snapped back to reality. “Really?” he asked.

“No,” Love replied, walking back to her seat.

Arkedge looked crestfallen. “But but…aw man! Why’d you do that?!?!”

“Eh..well, I have to go now,” I said, getting up from my chair. “My guild is having a meeting today. I don’t wanna be late.”

“Ya ok,” Kaxik replied. “I guess I’m going too. I need to get some farming done.”
“Right guys,” Oya said. “Guess I’m gonna go too and-” his comment was cut off by a vicious bloodcurdling scream that made everyone jump.

“Owowowowowowowow!!! Stop it!! Please!!!!” The mage with the eyepatch from earlier was bent double over on the ground, with both gloved hands over his eye. He was obviously in pain. Avon’s assistant was standing above him, completely furious, holding an empty bottle of medicine, and green splatters all over her armor.
“LOOK WHAT YOU MADE ME DO YOU IDIOTIC-FIREBALL-THROWING-STICK-WAVING WUSS!! THIS MEDICINE IS EXPENSIVE, AND YOU JUST KNOCKED IT RIGHT OUT OF MY HAND!! YOU CRAZY WEAK EXAMPLE OF A CREATURE WITH PATHETIC POINTY EARS!!!”

“What’s wrong with pointy ears?” I asked, a little defensive.

“Ath?” Kaxik warned. “I don’t think it’s a good idea to pick a fight with her…”he said, nodding to the door, where Oya and Love were already edging toward, anxious to get out of the presence of this crazed cleric and into the safety of the city streets.

“I’m a mage!! I’m not used to physical pain!!” he wailed in anguish.

“Shut your trap!” the cleric yelled, snatching his eyepatch from the floor and shoving it over his face.

“Yeaaaah…ok you have a good point,” I said, quickly following my friends. “Arkedge, you coming?”

Arkedge, who had been staring at the whole scenario with wide eyes, quickly snapped a look at me and hurried over. “hey, um, Ath?”

“Hmm?” I asked, opening the door to leave. “Ya?”

“Do you think I uh…have a chance with that cleric?” he asked, a little hopeful.

I stared at him in disbelief. “That cleric?” I asked, pointing to the frustrated assistant, now busily rearranging medicine in one of the cabinets.

“I don’t see any other clerics here..” Arkedge answered.

“Arkedge…come on..you can’t be serious…”

“Come on Ath!! I’m tired of being single! I want a girlfriend!”

“Ark! Come on! Even you deserve better than that!”

“I-hey! What’s that supposed to mean!?!”

“Forget I said that. Come on Ark..”

Arkedge stole a glance at the cleric. “She can’t be that bad…”

“Arkedge, that’s what you said about that female mage you met two weeks ago…she dumped you after two days…”

Arkedge looked at me, a little offended. “Hey, it was three days. And she didn’t dump me…we just…kind of…broke up…”

I raised a skeptical eyebrow. “Kind of?”

“Yeah, well…” he looked around, trying to avoid eye contact. “I found out she had a boyfriend so we broke up after I met him and…”

“You met her boyfriend?”

“Yeeah..he saw me in the abyss with her…” Arkedge shifted uneasily, “and he didn’t really like that and..well...” he involuntarily shivered. “But this is different Ath!” he said “I’m sure she’s still single!!”

“Hey!! You two!!” the cleric yelled at us. “Don’t stand there with the door open!! You’re letting all the cold air into the room!! And stop whining you wimp!” She yelled at the mage, who was still wimpering on the floor.

I quickly shut the door behind me. “Well, no doubt in my mind that she’s still single…” I answered.

“Ok? So, what’s a good pick-up line for a cleric?”

“Ark, are you serious?” I asked. “Don’t use a pick-up line. That’s just lame.”

“Well, how do I start the conversation?”

“Just be yourself,” I said. “Take a deep breath, stay cool, and just relax.”

Arkedge sucked in some air, trying to calm his racing heart. “I can do this,” he said, confidently.

“You can,” I answered, then after a pause added, “but you really shouldn’t.”

“Jeez Ath, can’t you be positive for once?”

“I am positive. I’m positive that this won’t work.”

“Whatever! Say what you want! I can do this!”

A smile curved onto my lip. “How much you wanna bet?” I asked.

“How much you willing to risk?”

“70 pieces of silver!” I said, striking my hand out for an agreement.

“Same price as those pair of boots I saw you eyeing this morning in the marketplace?” he asked, striking his hand out.

“Yep!”

“Then deal!” he said, and we shook on it.

“Ok!” he bravely turned around and walked over to the cleric, straightening his armor and running his hand through his hair. “Wish me luck.”

“Good luck,” I said, then added under my breath, “You’ll need it…”

Arkedge cleared his throat. “So,” he said, standing next to the cleric. She looked up from the medicine cabinet and glared at Arkedge. “What?”

“Um…I was wondering if you had any plans this weekend…and if you’re available, like-”

She raised a skeptical eyebrow. “Why?”

“Well, there is this great cove I know in Sand Beach. Beautiful view, and…it’s really not so hard to get to and I was wondering if you could come with me this weekend for…well-”

“are you asking me out on a date?”
“I shouldn’t have made that bet with him…” I mused. “Oh well. Too late now…”

“Uh…” Arkedge hesitated. “It’s not really a date…I mean-I mean, I was…just thinking…ya-that we could…get together and well…you know…”

A long awkward pause ensued.

“I can’t watch this,” I muttered, and quickly left the room. “Teva, have mercy on his soul.”

[drycl3an0nly]

MOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRRR

i wanna know what happens D:


(btw: CC ftw >:3)

[allan-armageddon]

I am..such a pimp!o.o

[bahdon]

I took the time to read it all.
Your quite a good writer :]

[KilikX]

:333 me needs more XDD

[T3h_SyN]

I lol'd. Keep on writing :3

I wantz moar!

[oyaccount]

Wiiieeee000t! NICE ATH :) Lovely written =D I like everything you write ALOT for every each time :D
nice and keep it up !
Me wants & NEEDZ MORE D: <33

[adma4ss0]

._.'' All i can say is....procrastination did me in x_x


L:)L


“I’m afraid their lives have passed…” she whispered. “No amount of healing magic can bring them back,” she carefully closed the staring eyes of the archer.

"what happened to reving? I mean it's not like it's healing or anyhting >.>"


She paused for a moment, choosing her words carefully. “A person only passes if their body is too weakened to support life after respawn,” she said, turning to face the officer.

oh ~_~ well that explains it Q.Q


“I can tell it was a sword, yes, but it is much too narrow for it to be a two-handed, yet too long for a one-handed. It was a monster’s sword.”

o.o


The officer removed his helm, allowing his deep orange locks of hair to fall to his shoulders. “The only monsters that frequent that part of the abyss are Phino’s and Phinoflies. How can this be the case?”

“Either they can carry swords in their wooden hands, or a monster, like an Abyss Karasan, got in there.” Keast replied.

That's not the case, I figured it out right away >.>


“I think that medicine is worse than the pain…” I muttered, gripping the edge of my chair.

R:DFL


“Well, I was thinking more along the lines of ‘hot’,” Arkedge answered, tilting his head. “Really hot…”

image plawkes @_@ *drools*


“Arkeeedge…hello? Anyone home?” Kaxik waved his hand over Arkedge’s face. “Isya to Arkedge. You there?”

Oya: “Kaxik, I believe we have lost contact to the individual named Arkedge. Last verbal contact was a few minutes ago.”

“What do you supposed could have caused the interference?” Kaxik asked.

“A cleric deemed as ‘hot’ made an appearance within his range of vision. It is most likely that he will be unresponsive for the next couple of hours.”

“Hours you say? Well, this is a dilemma.”


LMA:D


“That cleric chick you’re staring at just asked you out on a date.”

Arkedge’s eyes snapped back to reality. “Really?” he asked.

“No,” Love replied, walking back to her seat.
That's cold o.o lol


“LOOK WHAT YOU MADE ME DO YOU IDIOTIC-FIREBALL-THROWING-STICK-WAVING WUSS!!"
lol


“I’m a mage!! I’m not used to physical pain!!” he wailed in anguish.
Implementing things from the game FTW!


“Come on Ath!! I’m tired of being single! I want a girlfriend!”

Arkedge stole a glance at the cleric. “She can’t be that bad…”


He's not gonna get her >.>


“I am positive. I’m positive that this won’t work.”
saw it coming XD


A smile curved onto my lip. “How much you wanna bet?” I asked.

“How much you willing to risk?”

“70 pieces of silver!” I said, striking my hand out for an agreement.
He'll get the girl >.>


“I shouldn’t have made that bet with him…” I mused. “Oh well. Too late now…”
He won't >.>


“I can’t watch this,” I muttered, and quickly left the room. “Teva, have mercy on his soul.”

We'll at least he won't lose exp when he dies! lol

~~~

great job, moar plz

~~~


“Well, I was thinking more along the lines of ‘hot’,” Arkedge answered, tilting his head. “Really hot…”

image plawkes @_@ *drools*

no really, image plawkes @_@

[DANk1]

MORE! lol i wana see where godly dank comes in and ebk's...ebk= evrybody killer >=D

[cruel-angel]

WOOOOT Go Athy!

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 4

Spying on your own Guild




One of my most favorite places in all of Isya was the private garden of my guild hall. Sweet cherry blossom trees stood tall and high, delicately dropping their pink petals onto the cobbled stone path that wound around the garden. Birds chirruped within the branches of the trees. In the center of the garden, an elegant marble fountain gushed forth with crystal clear water, and small little fish darted to and fro between the glittering rocks. On the far side was a small pond, with little frogs swimming among the lilies. Small statues and beds of flowers dotted the garden, adding splashes of color among the green grass.

I slowed my pace as I entered the garden, enjoying the warm sun on my skin. It was one of the most beautiful places I had seen in all of Isya, and an envy to the other guilds. More than once, jealous guilds have tried to climb over the walls of the garden and attempt to destroy it. Just a month ago, a powerful mage from an enemy guild actually figured a way around the enchantment barrier that was set around the wall, and he inferno a small section of the garden. The fire was put out before it spread further in, but the damage was already done. We had lost two cherry blossom trees and a bed of flowers.

“Drama ftw,” I muttered under my breath.

The trees had to be hacked down and cleared, but we used the charred wood as rich soil for a new bed of flowers. And the cherry blossom that was planted there was growing healthy.

I sighed. The garden was a haven from the tense drama in Isya. Within these walls, problems seem so distant and irrelevant. It was so peaceful, so quiet, so-

“ATHE!!!!” I had the wind knocked out of me as I was brutally tackled to the ground.

“Aie!! Urgh…hihi Kitten…” I gasped, sprawled on the pavement. “How are ya?”

“Hi Athy!!” she sat next to me and hugged me tightly, cutting off my air supply. “I’m doing good!! How are chu?”

“Suffocating,” I choked.

“Haha! You’re so funny!” She hugged me tighter.

“Aaak….”

“Well, come on Athy!! Let’s go inside!” She jumped up. “You don’t want to be late, do ya?” she said, grabbing my hand and yanking me up.

“Yeah, course not…” I muttered, almost losing my balance when Kitten pulled me up.
She giggled. “Come on you silly archie. Everyone’s already at the meeting hall, and Daevor said he wanted to talk to you about something.”

“Huh? What does Daevor want to-aie!” Kitten didn’t let me finish my sentence as she dragged me into the doors of the building.

--

“I found her! She was stalling in the garden again!” Kitten announced when she burst into the meeting room. I slowly followed behind, rubbing the back of my neck.
Mo looked up from her seat. “Hi Athemis. Whoa…what happened to you?” She asked.

“I got glomped by a kitten,” I replied, taking my seat next to her at the round table, and giving a side glance at said fighter. Kitten smiled innocently as she plopped down on her chair. “She’s ebil….”

“I meant your neck Athe. What’s with the bandage?” Mo said.

“Oh. I was at the abyss today. No big deal.” I answered, rubbing my neck harder. The pain had worsened since my meeting with Kitten.

Lovers glanced at my direction. “Let me see that,” he said, getting up from his chair and walking over.

The cleric examined the back of my neck. “It’s nothing serious. A concentrated heal spell is enough for it. You don’t need the bandage,” he said. He pulled out the hammer from the loop of his belt and muttered some incantations, directing the holy magic onto the wound.

“Wow, thanks,” I said, feeling the pain ebbing away until it was no more. “Thanks a lot.”

“No problem,” he said, returning his hammer to his belt.

“Well, since we’re all here, and we’re ready to start the meeting, where’s our guild master?” Day asked, looking around the room.

Slasher shrugged. “Ah saw ‘em dis mornin’ by Captain Shuitan’s office,” he said.

“Maybe he forgot,” Bloody chuckled. He had his chair tilted back on two legs, and he had put his feet up on the table. His black demon wings gently fluttered in a non-existent breeze. “You know him, always-”

“Eh-hem,”

Bloody looked up into a pair of deep blue eyes that were staring down at him. “Oh! Hi Daev!” He smiled apprehensively. “Didn’t notice you there.”

Daevor nodded slowly. “I was wondering why I keep seeing shoe marks on the edge of the table,” he said.

“Well, now that we’re here, we can start,” Daevor said, as Bloody quickly fumbled to take his feet off the table. “You’re probably all wondering why I called for an emergency meeting now, instead of waiting for our next-” he paused, and looked up at the chandelier. “Is it just me, or do those crystals seem brighter than before?” he asked.

Mo snickered next to me. I gave her a you-promised-not-to-tell-anyone-or-else glare. She just smiled knowingly.

“Well, anyway,” Daevor continued, making his way to his chair at the other end of the table, “The reason being, I had been called to meet with a few other Guild Masters of Isya, by the High Court of Elderine.”

Curious glances were exchanged along the table. The High Court of Elderine only held council if something deadly serious was happening. And whenever they did hold council, they rarely included anyone that wasn’t within the immediate government system. Guilds were self-functioning groups that only had a few ties to the actual government. There were only a few reasons as to why guilds would be involved in a council decision.

“The council wants to put together a team of warriors to investigate the Abyss,” he said. “A few days ago, 2 individuals, a fighter and an archer, were killed in the abyss.”

“Why is that such a big deal?” Bloody asked. “People die in the Abyss all the time.”

“This is different,” Daevor said. “They died from wounds that don’t match the monsters in that area. Not only that, but after a few days their wounds…changed. I saw the bodies myself at the Cleric Hall. It had some kind of aura around it.”

“Daev, what do you mean?” Mew asked.

Daevor shook his head. “I can’t tell you everything.” he said. “Most of this is classified, and I can only reveal everything to the people who wish to join the investigation.”

“But this guild is open. There’s no secrets or ranks, and everyone should know what’s going on. ” Mo answered.

“I’m sorry, but it’s not my decision. I’ve already told you more than I should have.” Daevor answered.

“That’s not much…” I muttered. Chiky nudged me to tell me to shush.

“Athemis,”

I looked across the table to Daevor. “I know you spend a lot of your time in the Abyss, and I know you’d be very helpful with this. You don’t have to agree, but if you want I can pull a few strings and reserve a place for you and a selected few.”

“What do you mean?”

“The council originally wanted to send in their own guards and recognized warriors, but I argued that it would be better if we sent in people who knew the abyss, and not just strong people. But I will warn you, this is a very serious matter. Everything is classified and secretive, and you’re going to be putting your life on the line more than you already are as a member of the Henneath Alliance.”

“You don’t need to decide now, but decide quickly. I can give you until tomorrow morning.”

I stared at the wall. If Isya was in trouble, then I should offer my expertise to help. And the rumors I had already been hearing in the Abyss, along Forest Perimeter, within the chatter and gossip among the shops…I had been having a tugging feeling that something wasn’t right. It was what every other Abysser had felt. But everything now just confirmed it…

“Ok, I’ll join.” I said. How bad could it be? I thought.

“Hey! If Athe’s gonna go in there to risk her neck then I’m coming with her!” Kitten said. She smiled at me. “And don’t worry about a thing. I’ll make sure you stay alive~”

I tensed. I’d feel safer with your sister…I thought, giving a pleading glance and Day.
Day shrugged. “I’d love to join, but I’ll be much too busy,” she said.

“Don’t worry Athe!” Kitten jumped up and pulled me into a bear hug. I forced a smile after gulping a large breath of air.

“What about you Bloody? You visit the abyss quite a lot.” Daevor said.

“Man, I’d love to help but I’ll be much too busy,” he said, leaning back on his chair yet again. “But just call me if you need anything.”

“Any other members of the guild would like to join?” Daevor asked.

Slasher, who had been sitting silently for the whole meeting, spoke up. “Ah can. Ah don’t go to deh Abyss as much as Athemis, But ah’m sure ah can be of some ‘sistance.” He said.

Daevor nodded. “All right. Athemis, gather some trustworthy people with you, and tell them about this. To everyone else, everything spoken within this room does not, and I repeat, does not, come to the attention of anyone else. I was supposed to select members and ask them individually to participate, and if they don’t wish to, tell them to keep everything quiet. But, I would’ve asked all of you anyway, so no point in that.”

“It is because for your own personal safety, no one in this guild but Slasher, Athemis, and Kitten can know about the investigation,” Daevor continued. “I trust all of you enough to tell you this. No one knows what we are going up against, and we also don’t want to cause panic to the general public.”

Kitten looked over at Slasher, who had his eyebrows knitted in concern. With a warning like that, something must have been serious. What had they gotten themselves into?

“You three, meet with me after the meeting, and I’ll explain everything that I can,” Daevor said. “And before we conclude, is there anything else that we need to discuss?”

Mo stood up. “We got a threat for a guild war by a new guild.” She said. “There’s a lot of talk that they want to wipe out most of the top guilds.”

“What guild are they?”

“You…wouldn’t believe me…”

“Try us,” Day said.

Mo giggled. “JooRdaN00Bs guild (A/N if there really is a guild by this name, then it is purely coincidental, as I made it up in 5 seconds),” she said. “They’re a new guild, but they already destroyed 3 guilds in 2 days. That, and they almost took down 4 guilds in the process,”

“But we’re non-warring,” Eric said.

“So were the other guilds,” Mo said. “They never file for war. They ambushed the other members and framed someone else. But I got word from an ally guild that they can help us expose them, and-”

I was only half listening to Mo and the others. Slasher was whispering to Bloody, and he was nodding in response and whispering back. I closed my eyes, trying to pick up their words with my heightened hunter’s senses.

“he died in there…orc soldier in 4x……”

“…more shadows….don’t die…”

“the energy is stronger……but I didn’t-”

“never thought….”

“you don’t know Slash…..you don’t…….”

“and….Perimeter is…..”

I opened my eyes again. Bloody had sensed the changes as well. At first, I thought it was my mind playing tricks on me, and I blamed it for spending too much time in the abyss. But…he had felt it too. The air in the abyss was colder, and the monsters were more brutal. And on my farming treks, when I went in to gather the precious stone dusts, leathers, and whatever else I could find, the monsters had protected their treasures more savagely than they usually did. Raiding their domain had become slightly harder. But everyone thought it was just a phase, and that it would pass. But now…

What is going on? I wondered. I wanted the meeting to end, so Daevor could tell us what was going on. Now that it had been brought to my attention, pieces were falling together.

Something was changing.

--

“All right, it’s getting late,” Daevor finally announced. I rubbed my eyes and looked out the darken window. Stars winked back at me in the deepening sky.

“We’ve covered everything what was needed,” he said. “Dismissed, and a good night to you all.”

Chairs rustled as people got up to leave. Kitten waved over to me and Slasher. “Athe, we gotta talk to Daevor remember?”

“Yeah, I didn’t forget,” I said. “Hey, Slash…what were you and Bloody talking about earlier?”

Slasher shrugged. “Ah don’t know wat’s happenen’ in dah Abyss,” he said. “Ah don’t go dare much meself. But last time ah was dare, ah ran into some fightar that neerly keeled meh. I swear, I nevar saw anyone that had that much powar in their swing. Ah can’t get that much meself.”

“Ah. Those, are people high on cookies. Nothing different in the abyss,” I replied.
“Just a minute you three,” Daevor said, hurrying past us. “Bloody!” he called out the door. “Bloody!!”

Bloody turned around at the call of his name. “Come back here,” Daevor called out. “I need to speak with you about something.”

Bloody paused, and walked back up the hall toward Daevor. “Yeah? What’s up?” he asked.

“Come with me to my office,” Daevor said. “We need to talk in private.”

Daevor led Bloody down the other side of the hall. “Why are you so tense?” Daevor asked. “I’m not gonna bite you…”

“Yeah well…last time you asked me to talk with you in private was when you wanted me to scout Burning Rock in a blimp…I still have nightmares from falling out of that thing.”

“Well, you were supposed to put on the safety belt.”

“You don’t think about that stuff when you’re getting attacked by a flock of giant honeying!” Bloody retorted.

Kitten, Slasher, and I watched Bloody and Daevor enter through the door of Daevor’s office. Silently, Kitten and I sidled a glance at each other.

“Rock! Paper! Scissors! Lizard! Spock!”

I stretched my palm out. Kitten formed a fist. “Haha! I win!” I cried.

Kitten pouted. “All right, fine Athe..” she muttered. “I call shotgun on the left window!”

“Ah-wait. What are we doin’?” Slasher asked.

“Eavesdropping,” I replied. “Slasher, can you take the balcony on the above floor?”

“Wait. Yah eavesdrop?” he asked.

“Psh! Athe’s a master of eavesdropping! Why do you think she’s the guild spy?” Kitten said.

I blushed. “Come on. It’s not that big of a deal…”

“So..you been eavesdroppin’ for awhile now?” Slasher asked, surprised.

“Well of course,” I said. “How else do you think I know everything before any official announcement is made?”

“Ah don’t know. Ah just thaut…actually, ah nevar really thaut of that…”

“So Slash, wanna help out here?”

“Well ah…uh…” Slasher shrugged. “Naw. We shouldn’t…this is a bad ideah…Ah won’t participate…”

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 4 Spying On Your Own Guild (cont.)

“Ok! Suit yourself!”I sprinted down the hall and leaped down the steps, running toward the kitchen. At the bottom, I spun around to run down the hall, but smacked into a female cleric.

“Ouwch!” Eris stepped back, hand over her nose. “Ow Athe..why you rushing?”

“Sorry Eris. Going to kitchen,” I said, hurrying pass her.

“What for?”

I smiled. “Getting a glass. Wanna help?”

Eris smiled. “Sure thing! Where you need me?”

“Go get the top balcony across Daevor’s office!” I called back.

“Gotcha!” She said, running up the staircase.

In no time, I was running back up the hall toward Daevor’s office. Quickly and quietly, I hurried down over to the door, pulling out a glass tumbler from my bag. Kitten and Eris were already at their positions. I set the mouth of the tumbler against the door, placing my ear on the other end. I smiled as the voices of Bloody and Daevor filled into the glass.

With one hand, I pulled out my chat-stone, wrapping my fingers around it. I can see them! Eris’ voice filled my head. They’re by his desk.

Ok, good. I can’t see them from the other window. If they move over to you I’ll tell you. Kitten answered. What are they saying Athe?

Wait you two. They’re on the far side of the room. Gimme time. I replied.

“Humph…”

I looked behind me. “Oh come on, Slash!” I said in a harsh whisper.

He crossed his arms and leaned against the wall. “Fine,” he muttered. “Ah won’t intafere, but ah won’t help either.”

“All right…” I said. I returned to the conversation between Daevor and Bloody.

--

“Bloody, I’m not asking you to stop abyssing, but this is the second threat of a guild war in a week.”

Bloody’s voice answered. “Daev, it’s the abyss! Kill of be killed!”

“The threat of a guild war is serious, Bloody. Especially if we are not a warring guild. The lives of every other guild member are at stake with such a threat.”

What are they saying Athe? Kitten pressed.

Wait!Gimme a sec!

Bloody’s voice answered. “The guy got mad that I killed him, so he declared war. I’m not at fault here!”

“Did you take a record so you can report it?” Daevor asked.

“Well no…you can’t report someone for wanting to war….”

“Bloody…declaring a guild war on a non-warring guild means one of two things. It’s a new guild that has no idea what it’s doing, or it’s a powerful guild that will take this out of the regular protocol of a war. That means ambushes, bounty-hunters, and pass-killing. Under no circumstance will I permit that to happen!”

Athe? Eris asked.

My concentration was broken. We got threat for an unofficial guild war. I replied.

Really? Which guild? Kitten demanded.

Didn’t say. I answered.

“Athemis? Is somethin’ wrong?” Slasher asked.

I glanced at him. “Yeah..you could say…” I whispered back.

Slasher hesitated, looking at the door. Finally he couldn’t stand the suspense any longer. He placed his ear on the door as well.

“What happened to ‘I won’t participate’?” I asked.

“Well, ah’m not interferin’, am ah?” he replied.

I smirked, and went back to my eavesdropping. “Daevor,” Bloody answered. “Come on! Our guild is more than strong enough to take these people on! If they want a war let’s give it to them!”

“We cannot afford that now! Not only are the guildies a part of this, but our academy as well. It’s our duty to protect them, and we cannot risk-”

Athe! What’s going on?!?

Hold it!

Come on Athe! Eris said. You’ve been silent most of the time now! Tell us what’s going on or I’m coming down there to find out!

Whaaaat? No! I need you at the balcony!

Kitten can keep watch! Besides, they’re both sitting at the desk. They won’t move!

Ok ok…jeez. Kitten, no problems on your end?

Silence.

Kitten?

“Yes?” Kitten asked.

I jumped. “What are you doing here?” I asked, turning around and seeing her.

She shrugged. “If they’re not moving then we can all listen in. You’re terrible with telling us what’s going on!”

I cringed. “Doesn’t matter! You never leave your position, and the main spy can relate information at a later, safer time! If this was a real mission, I would be updating you only if the targets were moving in on me, but I can’t tell if that’s happening if no one is watching them! No wonder I’m the only spy in the guild…” I muttered, seeing Eris running down the hall toward us.

“Fine, just don’t talk,” I said, returning to my glass. Kitten and Eris joined Slasher at the door.

“Well, I’m sorry to force this onto you Bloody, but for the time being you are banned from entering the abyss.” Daevor said.

“Daev! You can’t do that! I have a right to go there whenever I want!”

“Then for the security of this guild, I also have the right to take you out of the guild, even place you in our detention area if I see fit.”

“You mean our dungeon?? What? You blackmailing me??”

Daevor sighed. “You’re forcing my hand onto this Bloody.”

“I can’t hear anything!” Kitten hissed.

“Ah can only get a few words,” Slasher said. “But ah can’t make out what they’re sayin’,”

“Athy seems fine,” Eris mused. “She’s stuck to her tumbler.”

“But this isn’t such a big deal!” Bloody answered from behind the door. “Stuff like this happens all the time! We’ve dealt with it before!”

“Bloody,” Daevor paused. “There is more going on that you know…maybe after all this is cleared up, I can tell you, and the rest of the guild, but not now. I’m sorry.”

“Daevor…why all these secrets??”

Silence. “You know something, don’t you?” Bloody pursued.

“Bloody…argh,” Daevor sighed. “Bloody, we’re done. Bottom line is, for the safety of this guild you are no longer allowed to enter the abyss for any reason, or you will force me to take drastic measures.”

The doorknob above me clicked. My eyes widened.

The door was suddenly pulled open from the other side, and Slasher, Eris, Kitten, and I lost our balance and collapsed onto the floor. “Yikes!”

The four of us landed sprawled on the floor. My glass tumbler rolled out of my hands and stopped at Daevor’s feet with a small clink. Kitten hesitantly looked up, and gave a shy smile. “H-hi Daev,” Eris said.

“Ah told ya this was a bad ideah…” Slasher muttered.

“We’re you four…eavesdropping?” Daevor asked, staring down at us.

“Maybe?” I answered sheepishly.

“It was her idea,” Kitten answered, pointing at me.

“Tattle-tale,” I muttered.

Daevor placed his hand on his head. “Argh…”

Bloody cleared his throat. “So, uh…can I go now?” he asked.

“Yeah yeah, you can go,” Daevor said.

“Right. Uh, see ya guys,” he said, picking his way to the exit. “Good luck,” he whispered to us as he left the room.

“Urg…” Eris muttered.

“Forget it…I was going to talk to you anyway…get up and close the door behind you,” Daevor said, turning around and going to his desk.

“Aight!” Slasher said, picking himself up and helping the rest of us up. “We’re real sorreh Mistah Daevor. Ah mean, we knew we should’t’ve listen in, but ah tried to tell ‘em not to…not that ah want only ‘em to git in traouble – ah mean, none of us do but—”

Daevor put his hand up to silence Slasher. “We can talk about this later,” he sighed.
“Now, as I told you during the meeting, I—” he paused. “What are you doing here, Miss Eris?”

Eris blinked. “Umm…bye!” she said, slipping out the door. Daevor stood there for a moment, perplexed, before shaking his head and continuing.

“Anyway,” Daevor said, gesturing to seats in front of his desk, “Here’s the rundown. I’m going to tell you everything I know about what is going on in the abyss; from my meeting with the other Guild Members to what I witness in the Cleric’s Hall. Listen carefully…”


And, recruitment is no open! IF you want to be in the story, post so here your ig name, class, and a short summary about yourself. Ciao~

[adma4ss0]

The story is just as detailed as ever. :3
~~~

wewt!

IGN: Health_Restored or just Health for short
Class: Cleric
Summary/Character: Shy... and obsessed with pokemon. <.<

...

done? <.<

[cruel-angel]

Hehheh... Day and Kitten got in the story... thanks Athy for the best laughs of ... ages! YOU MADE MY DAY SISTAH! And ya I wuv joo too!

*waiting for the insanity of Killer_Kitten to reveal it self* =P

[oyaccount]

lol , kitten / Day seems like such an energyful person xD Great written Athy! GOGOGO moooooar :D

[fatmanhouse]

Coulda at least shown my whoosh epic pking XDD Fear meh :X

[Dragonfly77]

Uh oh...shouldn't have said that around Oya... >.<

[morilea]

I *love* the way each Chapter ends! Keep it up, ish truly great stuff!

[adma4ss0]

I think I'm the only one in the recruitment, do I get a prize? >.o

[KilikX]

Can I be in it, even though I'm not on Bijou? o.o

[Dragonfly77]

I think I'm the only one in the recruitment, do I get a prize? >.o

Hmmm...how about a picture of that hot cleric chick?

Can I be in it, even though I'm not on Bijou? o.o

Lolz of course. XD Just give me your name, class, and a summary of yourself. ^^

[KilikX]

Hmmm...how about a picture of that hot cleric chick?



Lolz of course. XD Just give me your name, class, and a summary of yourself. ^^XD okay, well, IGN is Rizer, Warrior(as you can tell by my great siggy ;) ), Summary: I can be dark or kind depending on the situation around me, I joke around alot and will help people with almost anything if I'm up to it ^^


Is that good enough? :3 or do you need more?

[fatmanhouse]

T___T taking sooooo long @_@ T___T

[cruel-angel]

Shush! Give her time to be creative!

...


...


...


OK U GOT UR TIME! Give us more stories! XD

OH! And the picture of that "hot" hotheaded cleric chick is better not be about Stonecold... I know I have bad temper but still... O.O

Oh wait... Stone is still married, never mind. <.<

[Dragonfly77]

But-but-but I gave you an extra long chapter!! I said I'm going to be busy for awhile, and idk when I can get a new chappie!! T_T I mean, the last one was 2 posts long.. >.<

[adma4ss0]

Hmmm...how about a picture of that hot cleric chick?

*there's a pile of drool in front of the computer*

lol ^.^

[Daevor]

Wow! awesome writing skills. Each person has their own personality and 'accent'. You really have created a very mature piece of writing. And the humour is excellent!

My only request is that Lady Boots needs to be in it as well - and she needs to have some important, secretive part to play (that does, afterall, fit her personality ;)).

Well done, Athemis of the Abyss.

[Dragonfly77]

OHMAHGOODNESS!! LADY BOOTS!! I knew I forgot someone!!!! >.<;; I'll add her in >.<

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 5

Secret Meetings




A lone figure stood at the top of a hill, with the hood of his robes pulled down low, over his face. The wind raged around him, whipping up the streaks of torn black cloth that flared around his legs. High above, the sky was darkened with ominous clouds. He took a deep breath, and slowly let it out, trying to calm his racing heart. He had been waiting for some time, and it was only now did he see the person he was waiting for.

Down the path, he could make out the outline of a fighter clad in armor, and on his back his cape was dancing in the wind. His sword was drawn, stained with crimson blood. A large shield was slung around his back. “You wanted to speak to me?” he asked the fighter once he was in earshot.

“Ya, I want to speak with you,” the fighter answered irritably, sheathing his sword. “You know how many monster I had to fight through to get here?”

The figure tensed at the statement. “What do you want now?” he demanded.

The fighter lunged at him, grabbing his shoulders. “you messed up, and now I have to clean up your mess!”

“What are you talking about?!?” the man seethed.

“A few days ago, a Karasan soldier entered the Dungeon of the Abyss and killed two warriors.”

“That’s what you wanted, isn’t it?” the man snapped.

“Not like this! We can’t bring this to the attention of the Henneath Alliance! This could destroy everything!”

The man pulled himself away from the fighter. “That is none of my problems.” He answered. “And this isn’t part of the bargain!”

“I can make it your problem, and I just changed our bargain,” the fighter snapped. “I don’t want anything else going wrong, or I swear I will destroy you, and everything you hold dear. Do I make myself clear?”

The man glared at the fighter. They stared into each other’s eyes in long silence. The wind around them continued to howl and rage, tearing at their cloths and kicking up dust.

The fighter immediately plunged his hand into the man’s robes, yanking out a golden medallion. The man cried out in horror. “What are you doing?” he cried. “Don’t touch that!”

The fighter ignored him, staring at the delicate markings shaping around a blood red stone. “Precious little trinket, huh?”

“Take your hands off of it!” the figure gasped. He grabbed at the chain, trying to pull it out of the fighter’s grasp. Slowly, he felt his strength slipping away from him.

“I wonder…” the fighter mused. He traced the outline of the medallion, careful not to touch the stone in the center.

“Please,” the man choked. “Let it go!”

“All right, all right,” the fighter answered, dropping the medallion. The man staggered back, slowly feeling his strength return to his limbs.

“Listen to me, my friend,” the fighter said, placing his arm around the figure’s shoulders. The man was shaking, gasping for air. The fighter’s lips curled into a smile. “This is what I want you to do…”

--

“The dead bodies at the cleric’s hall had blackened marks surrounding the wounds,” Daevor said. “It was leaking with some kind of magic. We asked a Warlock from the Mage Hall to look at it. All he could distinguish was that it was some kind of dark energy.”

Slasher nodded slowly. “Is that what coulda killed ‘em?” he asked.

Daevor shook his head. “No. Their wounds were severe enough that they couldn’t properly respawn, even without that energy. What is curious is how it got there in the first place.”

“Another thing is the weapon. It seems to match the shape of a Karasan Soldier,” Daevor said.

“But you said they were in the Dungeon of the Abyss,” Kitten replied.

“They were,” Daevor said.

I thought for a moment. “There were…rumors…of monsters popping up in different abysses,” I said. “I haven’t actually seen any myself, but they all seem to be happening in the far back rooms of the abyss.”

“That’s something you could look at,” Daevor said.

“So, when can we meet with other members for this…investigation?” I asked.

Daevor shrugged. “Part of the protocol is that you can’t meet other members that are outside of your groups. It’s to make sure what you’re relaying is accurate. They don’t want you to get together and discuss false information.”

“Al’aight,” Slasher muttered.

“So…if we run into another group in the abyss, we won’t have any idea and we actually might end up fighting each other?” I said.

Daevor nodded. “Yes. I didn’t quite get that myself…”

“Oh this is perfect,” Kitten muttered. “isn’t 99% of abyss conflict due to misunderstanding?”

“Somewhere close,” I said.

“And another thing. You have to report all of your findings to either Guard Captain Shuitan, or his nephew, Officer Paulman.”

“Paulman?” I asked.

“Yes. Why? What’s the matter?”

“Nothing,” I said. “It’s just that…well…”

“He’s a crybaby!” Kitten finished. “I can’t believe he got promoted to officer…”

“Well, he’s the one heading this investigation,” Daevor said. “He can’t be that bad.”

“Sure…” I thought.

-Flashback-

“Think of the reward, think of the reward, think of the-dammit.” I quickly glanced at ogre-not a weakened ogre, but a full grown adult ogre-that I had accidently aggroed in the middle of kiting the remainder of my mob of harkens and king colls. I pointed my crossbow into the air, releasing the last needed shot of arrows into the sky. They flew straight up, before sailing back down and striking the mobs with a final hit.

I slid across the mud, dodging the ogre’s wild swinging club. I scurried up, and ran backwards, pointing my crossbow into its heart. He came charging at me, bellowing in anger. Quickly I fired off my three arrows, before he got close enough to swing his club. I ducked from the attack, diving out of the way.

The thick slippery mud was making it hard to keep my balance. I rolled along the ground, and saw an opening. Quickly I fired an arrow, which jabbed into the ogre’s shoulder, and penetrated deep into his shoulder blade. He yelped in surprise, grabbing the arrow and trying to scratch it out. When he wasn’t looking, I leaped behind him, loading an arrow into my crossbow. “Over here!” I yelled.

He turned around and had the force of a power shot slam into his chest, ripping through his green skin. He cried out, slapping his hand over the gushing bleeding wound before stumbling backwards.

I followed up with more arrows, barreling him down to the ground. They slashed through the meat on his bones, cutting deep wounds. He staggered up in an attempt to block the arrows with his fat arms, but I fired off another power shot. It smashed into his ribcage, and I heard the crack of a bone. The monster’s head rolled up to stare at the sky. With a final sweep, he fell backwards with a thud.

I lowered my crossbow, heavily breathing in the misty air. Finally, I turned around and began to walk down the pathway. It wasn’t too far off now.

The ogre’s eyes slid open. He grunted in anger, pushing himself up. Too late I turned around to see what the noise was, and I was knocked into a hill by a sideway sweep.

I slammed into the ground and gasped in pain, feeling blood tricking from my forehead. The ogre was upon me, raising his weapon high. I bolted my crossbow up, and fired an arrow. It whizzed up, slitting into the ogre’s throat.

He choked, rooted to his spot for a split second before he dropped his club and finally fell down, dead. I laid on the ground, gasping for air, and digging out a red stone from my pocket. I absorbed one, and felt the pain slowly ease with my wounds healing.

“This had better be worth it…” I muttered, pushing myself up into a sitting position. I pulled out the scroll from my bag. “Never before did I go through so much trouble to deliver a message…”

I got up, scraping mud off of my green leather armor. With one hand, I slung my crossbow on my back, and trudged through the mud and grass to the alcove wedged between two small hills. “Paulman?” I called out.

“Who goes there?!?” an orange-haired fighter poked his head out from a little wooden shack built into the hills. “Who are you?” he crept out of the door, holding a sword, defensively pointed at me. For a fighter of the Elderine Guard stationed out in the woods, he didn’t look like what I had expected. He had red top and pants, with simple leather boots. He didn’t wear a piece of real armor. His hair was neatly combed, and I could even smell his aftershave and minty breath.

“My name is Athemis, a Hawk Archer of the Henneath Alliance,” I said. I held up the scroll. “I have a message for you from Guard Captain Shuitan.”

“Oh! You’re just a messenger,” he lowered his weapon. “Well give it to me!”

I held out the scroll, which he snatched from me. “Ok. You can go,” he said, opening the scroll and shooing me away.

I stared at him. “Don’t you at least have the courtesy to say ‘Thank you’?” I asked.

He looked up. “What?”

“I had to travel all the way from Elderine to give you this message, fighting monsters along the way.” I answered. “And you have nothing to show for me?”

Paulman threw his hands up into the air. “Well what do you want? Tea and crumpets?” he asked. “If you haven’t realized, we’re out in the middle of nowhere, and this isn’t Elderine! I’ve been living off of rations for the past few days! And look at you, you’re covered in mud and blood.”

“Well of course I’m covered in mud and blood. I just fought through two mobs and an oversized ogre!”

“Oh! You killed the ogre that lived down the road from here? Good, it’s been driving me crazy. Ok, for that, I will say thank you. Women,” he muttered, going back to reading his scroll.

I stared at him in disbelief. “I should slap you right now…” I said.

Paulman wasn’t listening. He was transfixed to the scroll, reading it with horrified eyes. “Oh no…no no no no…how could my own uncle do this to me??”

He shot a look up at me. “This-this isn’t some joke right?” he demanded. “He can’t be serious!”

I put my hands up in defense. “I’m only the messenger. I have no idea what the scroll says.”

He shoved the scroll in front of my face. “It’s an order to collect ten harkens clubs! That means I have to fight those things?”

I pushed the scroll away. “Well, I’m pretty sure harkens wont just walk up to you and hand you their clubs,” I said. “They might club you instead…”

“I-I can’t do this…”he whined. “What am I going to do?”

“I should leave now…” I mused, slowly backing up.

“Hey! No! You can’t leave me hanging like this!” he cried. “You gave this to me! And you look like a good fighter! You gotta help me!”

“No way, forget it. I’ve had enough trouble with you,” I answered.

He grabbed my wrist. “Do you have any idea who you’re talking to??” he snapped. “I’m Paulman, Captain Shuitan’s nephew! I demand a little more respect!”

I pulled my wrist out of his grasp, and yanked my crossbow off of my back. “You want to get clubbed kid?” I shot back. “This heavy crossbow can make a decent close-combat weapon!”

He gulped. “I-I’m sorry.” He said. “But please, I really need your help.” He knelt down in front of me. “Please, I beg you!” he pleaded. “I-I’ll even pay you!”

I sighed. “Oh fine! Stay here, I’ll be right back…”

He leaped up. “Thank you thank you thank you! Now what are you waiting for? Go get me those clubs!”

I shook my head, glaring at him as I walked down the path. “I really should just club you myself,” I muttered.

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 5 Secret Meetings (cont.)

--

After awhile of hunting, I was walking back up the path to Paulman’s camp with a batch of Harkens clubs slung on my back. He was eagerly waiting outside of his camp. “What took you so long??” he cried.

“It was only an hour…” I said, swinging the pack of clubs off of my back.

“Just-just leave it there. Right there on the ground.” He said, pointing to a designated spot in front of me. “Ok! You can go now, and don’t tell anyone about this!”

“Whoa, hold on.”I said. “Where’s my pay?”

“You’re…pay?”

“Yes, my pay.”

Paulman laughed nervously. “You don’t really mean that do you?” he asked. “You really don’t want payment for this…?”

My eyes narrowed. “Listen. You pay up or else I take these clubs down to the bog and dump them there, and let’s see you hunt for the clubs yourself. Oh, and I’ll tell your uncle that you aren’t capable of gathering the clubs, and had to ask me to get it for you.”

“All right all right!” he pulled out his wallet from his pocket, counted out some coins, and placed them into a separate pouch. He tossed the pouch to me, which I caught in one hand. “Happy?”

I opened the pouch and dumped the contents into my hands. “What the-five pieces of copper?? You are just-”

I picked up the pack of clubs and began walking down the path. “No! Wait!”

He pulled out his wallet again and counted out some more coins. He placed them into another pouch and tossed it to me. I caught it, opened it, and dumped the heap of silver into my hand. “That’s better,” I said, returning the silver to the pouch and pocketing it.

“All right, just leave the clubs there,” he said. “Back away.” I dumped the clubs on the ground and took two steps back. He hurried over to the stack and crouched over it, counting out the clubs “seven, eight, nine – all right, there’s ten. You can leave now.”

I crossed my arms and stared down at him. “What?” he asked, getting up. “I said you could go.”

I marched up two steps and slapped him on the face. “Good bye,” I said, turning and leaving.

“Owwww…” he cringed.

-end of flashback-

“Yeah, he’s a real great guy,” I said.

“Anyhow…” Kitten continued. “Daevor, you were saying something that we were risking our lives for this investigation?”

Daevor nodded. “It’s with the Shadows of the abyss…they seem to be more brutal than before…”

“…I noticed, but it’s not by much,” I said.

“Well, just two days ago a shadow mage targeted two fighters in the abyss and single-handedly killed both of them off,” Daevor said. “They barely respawned.”

“One…shadow?” Slasher asked.

“Yes. Just one. What’s even more disturbing is that they were hanging around the portal. Shadows rarely come that close to the entrance.”

“Why did it attack them?” I asked.

“No reason. It just ran up to them and attacked. They weren’t even close enough to draw aggro. What’s even more disturbing is that both fighters had cookie charms and highly enhanced gear. They should have had no problem.”

“Da abyss was in their range…a’ight?” Slasher asked.

“They were in Abyssmal swamps celebrating their success to changing their class to Gladiator.”

“Oh….” Kitten breathed.

“Yes…not a good sign…”

“Do you three still want to join...?” Daevor asked.

“I do,” Kitten said.

“Ah do as well,” Slasher replied.

“And I have to or else there won’t be any story to tell~” I smiled sweetly to you readers.

“Then it’s settled. By tomorrow afternoon I need the full list of people that are to be in this unit so I can present it to Paulman.” Daevor stood up from his desk. “It’s very late. You should all turn in.”

Kitten nodded. “All right. Nite Daevor,” she said, getting up to leave.

“Aight, see ya all,” Slasher said.

“Wait, Athemis. Stay back. I need to talk to you about something,” Daevor said.
I looked up. “All right. What is it?”

Daevor nodded a good-bye to Slasher and Kitten before resuming. “You were eavesdropping again…”

“Um, yeah…I well, erm…” I embarrassingly glanced down at my feet.

“I’m impressed. The carpenter assured me that my new door couldn’t leak any sounds to the other side. When you’re not busy, I have a task for you.” Daevor said.
My eyes brightened. “Sure thing! No problem!”

He nodded. “Well, assuming that you are more acquainted with the abyss than either Slasher or Kitten, I assume you want to take charge.”

“Of course.”

“Do you have in mind who you are going to recruit?”

“Yup.”

“Good. I’m going to need a complete list of the members, Paulman requires it. He’s going to issue out documents to each group; you should get it by tomorrow afternoon. Also, it might help you to come up with a code name..”

“Code name?” I asked skeptically.

“Just to be on the safe side,” Daevor said, reassuringly. “There’s too much talk about these new guilds starting wars in the abyss: I’m worried it has more to do than a struggle for power.”

“Ok. Got it.”

“That should be it,” Daevor said. “Best of luck.”

[Dragonfly77]

Quadruple post for the win...JUST BECAUSE I CAN!! (:<

[Daevor]

Now I'm very intrigued. :D

[T3h_SyN]

Rawr <3 Love the story, but I still don't see me in it D:

You need to remedy this problem :3

[Dragonfly77]

Very easy method..post an application!

[T3h_SyN]

But, but, but... I did (http://www.outspark.com/forums/showpost.php?p=2270418&postcount=4)! I was the fourth post D:

Anyway...

Name: Kitone
Class: Fighter, of the 2h sword variety.
Likes: Fighting (for a good reason), Barking orders, Carne, Being right.
Dislikes: Fighting (for no/a bad reason), stupidity of others, Being wrong, Veggies.
Personality: Brave, prone to doing random/stupid things but isn't stupid.


happy? ;3

[fatmanhouse]

Niiice :D Wheres my part coming in D:< I want to pk @_@ >>

[KilikX]

lol, o right XD my weps are sword/1h and 2h

(nd I love to keep my Akren alive <3)

[cahsandra_devenya]

OOOOO I totally want to... err.... try out (?) for a part in this!

IG name: Akren

Class: Cleric (pally =J)

A few deets: Akren is a kinda lazy leveler, she likes to hang around and chat more than kill anything and she HATES questing.

If she is not sitting around chatting in guild chat she can be found running around in circles killing mobs in the abyss or in a KKP KQ trying to keep her party and favorite fighter (Rizer, he's up there ^) alive.

Akren is totally all about debunking the myth that clerics are only for healing and will fight mobs right along her party while trying to heal everyone, but since she is bad at this she kills her whole party and has earned the title: Akren the Fail Cleric!


I hope thats the kind of stuff you wanted to know =) any other questions just ask!

[KilikX]

*bump* >.>

[KilikX]

I said *bump* darn it!

[KilikX]

I said *bump* darn it! ><

[T3h_SyN]

*clears throat then screams* BUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUUMP!!!!!!!

Plox?

[KilikX]

D: nu fair ><

[Chaola]

Ok, so apparently I'm in...

*goes read*

I'll be back...

[Dragonfly77]

>.< I need more time!!!! *shuts door with a sign 'do not disturb'*

[KilikX]

ok ok ><~ bored

[fatmanhouse]

omg D: boooo at the author boooo

[darkchemicyin]

I love the story

[haralto_kiki]

Keep writing PLEAAAAAASEEEE! Love teh story :3 Karasians are evil, I would know ._.

[Daevor]

*chants*

We want more! We want more!

[fatmanhouse]

*chants with daevor*

*MORE MORE MORE!!!!*

*Starts a riot*

"Bring out the chairs people!!!"

[T3h_SyN]

*Pokes head in* I heard rioting! That I can do.

*pulls empty beer bottles out of her pocket and lines them up on a table* Right, so you see, after we start a general chaotic environment we bring in the fire. *pulls out a big gasoline container and fills the bottles halfway* And the best firestarter is a molotov. and the secret to a good molotov is to put something hard inside the container so it breaks easily when thrown. *begins stuffing the mouth of the bottles with cloth rags, lighting them once there nice and tight in there*

*cups her hands around her mouth* Get your riot equipment here, free of cost!

[KilikX]

o.o I don't really think that'll work....*gets out the mortars* >: D THIS what u NEED!!!

*puts string on the rings of grenades and stations them in the ground ready to be pulled* XDDD

[cruel-angel]

*Dances on the tables and throws empty botles around* WEEEE WAAAAANT MOOAAAAAAARRR!

[oyaccount]

Guys... I think we shouldn't disturb her.....

AH HELL! WHO CARES? * throws computer out of window and scream , " WEEEE WANT MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAR "
Wait... I think I went out of hand... :S

[Dragonfly77]

Ohhhh...[censored] O.O

Waaait!! *throws hands up in the air* I'm working on it!!

[meepkeep333]

WE WANT MORE WE WANT MORE can i join the riot?

[meepkeep333]

o i know the way for my riot pulls out pichforks and torchs some rope and a bomb.

[fatmanhouse]

Mooooooaaaaarrrr!!!!<3

[Ceemeng]

oooooooo great story MORE PLZZZ :D very very interesting

[papadoc1]

Q_Q i ish not in it!?!?!

[Ceemeng]

Q_Q i ish not in it!?!?!

lolz its becuz ur not special :P C: even tho im not in there... but i am going to be :D

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 6

Love is In the Air




The alcove of perimeter forest was the same as it always was: Still.

The large stone pillars stood up imposingly, casting irregular shadows on the compact yellow dirt ground. Not even a weed could peek out of the soil. There were no birds in the area, no natural noise, giving the odd feeling of being sucked into time. The only sounds were the few shops set up in the middle of the ‘forest’; a small clearing from the stone structures. Now and then, talk could be heard among people, trying to bargain for a little trinket or purchasing a stack of scrolls. Most peculiar of all were the blocks of stones that had somehow freed themselves from gravity, eerily floating in the sky, some of them ominously moving up and down in a slow continuous fashion. Guards stood at different spots, mostly bored. They waited for their shifts to end, warping people and making sure heated discussions don’t get too out of hand.

This was the entrance to the Abyss.

I had found a spot away from curious eyes, where I had ducked under some shade to hide from the harsh sun. Another oddity of this place was that the sun had never set: even if it was the middle of the night in all of Isya, Perimeter Forest was well lit.

“Hey guys,” I said, smiling to a group of people making their way over. “Got my message?”

“Yup, the others are on their way here as well,” Arthur said. “What’s going on?”

“Let’s wait until everyone gets here,” I said. “That way I don’t have to repeat myself.”

“All right,” Demise said, settling down on the ground. “Pretty late to call for a meeting if you ask me.”

I shrugged. “I’ll get to everything. Don’t worry.”

“Oh, Athe,”

I glanced up at Arkedge, who had called me. “Ye? What is it?”

He grinned. “Remember Avon’s assistant?”

“Yeah…why?” I asked, a little hesitantly.

“Well!” his grin grew wider. “She was busy that weekend so we couldn’t go out…BUT!”

“…but..?”

“We went out that night!” He swooned and plopped down next to me. “We watched the sunset at Sand Beach! It was so beautiful, just the two of us…” he dreamily stared off.

My eyes widened. “But-that…that means-”

He snapped a look back at me. “Yup! A certain someone owes me 70 pieces of silver~”

“Whaaaat?!?!”

“You lost Ath!” he laughed.

“But-but,” I stared at Arkedge. “How?” I demanded.

“My handsome charm won her heart,” he replied. “Sorry, Athemis, but that costs ya 70 silver coins!”

My jaw dropped. “I…don’t believe it…Prove it!!”

“I knew you would say something like that~” he said, taking a piece of cloth from his pocket. “She left me her kerchief. It smells like sunflowers…” he showed it to me.

I defiantly crossed my arms. “No way! That could be any girl’s kerchief!”

“Her initials are embroidered on it! See?” he showed me a corner of the kerchief. Sure enough, the letters C. H. were stitched in light blue thread.

“C..H?” I asked.

“Cleric Healer,” he said.

I blinked. “Her name is Cleric Healer? That’s..unusual…”

“Would a rose by any other name smell just as sweet?~”

“Oh, don’t go all Romeo on me, Shakespeare.” I muttered. “Save it for your new love…”

Arkedge laughed. “well, bottom line is,” he struck his hand out. “Pay up!”

“Fine,” I mumbled, pulling out my coin purse. “I’ll get you for this…”

He chuckled, pocketing the lump of coins I handed to him. “Better luck next time. And next week, we’re going to have a picnic in Elven Woods!”

“I’ll get back at you! Somehow, I will!” I snapped. “I want those boots!”

“Aws, what’s the matter Athe? Why the tantrum?”

I turned around. “Hey Lucky,” I sighed. “I am not throwing a tantrum…And…hi everyone else…”

“Hi Athe!” Anna exclaimed, waving at me.

“So, what’s with calling us all over here?” Victor asked.

“I’ll get to that in a minute,” I said. “Firstly, everyone is here now, right?”

“Looks like it,” Oya mused.

“All right. Let’s see…Dank, Kaxik, Oya, Arthur, Arkedge, Gil, Health, Lucky, Pastrami, Pino, Trigger, Kitten, Kitty, Victor, Slasher-”

“Ath? You lost us,” Kitten said.

“Ugh…how about this. I’ll just introduce you to each other.”

“Sounds good,” Ceemeeg said.

“OK! First off, that’s Dank. He’s a fighter, as you can tell.”

Dank waved to everyone. “Abyss killer at your service.”

“Over there is Trigger, one of my apprentice,” I gestured to the mage with thick black hair.

“Hi all!” Trigger greeted everyone.

“That’s Pino,” I said, pointing to the red-head fighter, “and that’s Kaxik next to him,” indicating to the fighter with a golden Mohawk.

“The silver-haired cleric with a super-saiyan haircut there is Althemis, my evil twin,”

“I’m not the evil twin, you’re the evil twin!” he retorted.

“No you’re the evil twin!”

“No, you are!”

“You are!”

“You are!”

“You are!”

“You are!”

“You are!”

“You are!”

“I am!”

“I am! –Hey, wait!” he cried.

“Hah!”

“You tricked me! See? You are evil!”

“Bah. The other black-haired mage is Victor,” he smiled and nodded, “And the silver-haired mage is Kitty.”

“Hellos,” he said.

“That fighter with war paint is Pastrami, and the cleric with war paint is his brother, Linguini.”

“Hey…you look familiar…” Gil said slowly.

Pastrami looked at Gil. “I do?...” he asked.

“Yeah. Your face is on the wanted poster in the Archer’s Hall.” Gil said. “What did you do?”

Pastrami shrugged. “I made enemies with a lot of archers...”

“Why?” Love asked.

“I only kill archers…”

“You…what?” Oya asked in surprise. He looked at me. “You’re friends with this lunatic?”

“Haha..I’m not a lunatic…I’m really a nice guy…most people just don’t take the time to know me…”

“He is a looney,” Kitten said.

“Ugh…let’s just say he did kill me before, yes, but I killed him back so we’re even.” I said.

“Anyway! That’s Lucky, the Happy-go-lucky fighter,” I said, pointing to a light blue haired fighter.

“Lols, Athe~” he said.

“Gil, the only other archer in this group for some weird reason…” I said, indicating at him, and giving a glance at the readers. “More archers would be nice!” I whispered, before returning to the introductions.

“What?... Only two archers?...Aw…” Pastrami sighed. Gil gave a nervous glance at Pastrami, before cautiously backing up behind other fighters.

“It’s ok…one archer is our friend…” Linguini answered.

Pastrami looked over at his brother. “Linguini…I know you have a crush on her…but you’re embarrassing yourself…”

“Oh…” he blinked. “I didn’t notice…”

“Riiiight….” I said, once again questioning how in Isya was I acquainted with these two.

“Moving on, that’s Love,” I said, nodding at the female fighter with her hair up in a ponytail.

“Kitten, another fighter,” I said. “And Slasher, also a fighter. Both of them come from my guild.”

“Why so many fighters?” Anna asked. “It’s like they’re taking over Isya…”

“Yeah…go figure,” I mused. “And we have three more fighters. Oya,” I pointed to the guy with thick black braided locks of hair, “Arthur,” He was dressed in white armor, with a pair of feathery wings on his back, “and Arkedge,” who was happily counting his money.

“And then it’s Anna, a cleric” I nodded to her. She waved at everyone. “Another cleric, Akren, and the other cleric, Health,” he himself greeted the group.

“That leaves Rizer, a two-hand fighter, Demise, the one with orange light wings, Ceemeeg, the one with a little crown, Jazi, another fighter, and Doc, a ninja-ish fighter.”

“And Conjy, my little brother.” I finished, pointing behind the group.

“Don’t call me that..” he answered. Everyone turned around to see who had spoken. The little mage was standing against the wall, slightly apart from the rest of the group. He looked over the others with shy eyes.

“Aw Conjy, you are my little brother!” I said, walking over and ruffling his light blue hair.

“Mrrg…it’s not that..don’t use my nickname,” he grimaced at the treatment his big sister was giving him. “My full name’s Conjurator, or just Con.”

I giggled. “Well, that’s everyone except-”

“Sorry I’m late guys, my sister wanted to look at the shops,” A mage was walking over to the group, with a jumpy little fighter in tow.

“Cunning! You made it!” I waved over at him. “And hi Soul!”

The mage, Cunning, nodded a greeting. “Hi Athemis!” Soul answered in her perkiness.

“Heya! How are you guys?”

“Doing good,” Cunning replied. Soul smiled at the other people in the group. “Whoa..wait a minute…Soul, is that right?” Arthur asked.

“That’s my name! What of it?” she asked.

“You are a fighter right?” he asked. She carried a shield on her back, and her sword was slung around her waist. She was wearing the armor of a fighter, but instead of sturdy metal cloth they were usually made out of, hers were from stiff leather. “Oh. Yeah I’m a fighter. But I’m a Halfler.”

Really? Victor asked. “You’re a Halfler?”

“What’s a Halfler?” Trigger asked me.

“Someone who’s half elf, half human,” I said. “It’s pretty rare because people are either elf or human, even if both their parents are different species. But sometimes a Halfler is born.”

She beamed. “I’m one of a kind!”

“So…” Ark tried to see through her thick short hair. “Do you have…pointy ears? Or are they rounded?”

“Oh, they’re rounded.” She said, pushing back her hair to show her ears. “but they’re less curved than regular. Halfler mages and archers are the ones with pointy ears, it’s just smaller than other elves.”

I nodded. “Well, that should be everyone for now.” I said.

“Now, the reason why we’re all here…” I held up a small stack of parchment. “Before I go on, I need you all to swear to secrecy. Good?”

Slowly, everyone nodded in agreement. “You already told us that in the message you sent to us Athe,” Kitty replied. “We wouldn’t be here if we didn’t want to know what’s going on.”

I gave a grim smile. “I didn’t think it was such a big deal myself until I read this notice from Paulman. I got it a few hours ago.” I looked around. “We’re alone right?”

“Ath, there’s no one here but us.” Anna said. “This is a pretty good spot.”

I took a deep breath. “All right.”

[meepkeep333]

MORE!!!!!!! WE WANT MORE!!!

*gets friends to join the riot*

new plan for are riot pull out some bows steel arrows some rope some wet cloth a fire lantern and some oil and a car battery* so we load these bows with arrows and put the cloth on then and dip them in the oil then put them in the fire and shooot them at the authors door and nothing makes a riot go good without a explosion *pulls out a tank of gasoline and the car battery and some wire*pk if the first plan dosent work we try the bomb e set the gasoline tank infront on the door and hook up the battery and wires to it to a control pannel then we press this button then KABOOM!!!!

[Dragonfly77]

*taps your shoulder* I'm over here silly.

*Punches* WHACKO

No burning my office!

[fatmanhouse]

Booooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooooo -.-

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 7

Unit 5729




“If you’re sure about this, you have to sign in and swear,” I said. I took out a leaf of parchment and handed it to them with a pen. “Write down your names. But before that happens, you might want to listen to this,” I held up the other stack of parchment.

I paused, looking at the papers. “The Council of Isya is recruiting members of the Henneath Alliance to investigate the sudden increase of unexplainable activity in the Abyss. Due to circumstances, if you accept to join, you are giving up the right to pursue judiciary justice in the case of a pass-killing, loss of personal belongings, i.e. thieves, kill-steals, and you are not allowed to call for help outside of your respective unit. This includes but not limited to PKK services, filing for Guild Wars, Tickets to the Community Support, and the entirety of the Isya Council. Should circumstances be created where operation would be exposed to the general public, any measure of action can and will be taken to ensure the safety of the public.

“As an order from Officer Paulman, all information obtained by these units are to return to him, through a respected member of the Henneath Alliance.” I looked up. “In this case, I asked my guild Master, Daevor, to be the messenger.” I returned to my reading. “Each unit is to be completely isolated from each other, any interaction will result in suspicion and immediate prosecution.

I shuffled the papers, retrieving one from the stack. “Recently an Abyss Orc Hunter was discovered with a strange medallion. Currently there is no information on its use or purpose, as it was damaged upon retrieval. The first order is to gather more of these medallions so that they may be taken for study.

“A word of warning to these members. The monsters within the abyss are growing in strength, taking down people who are more than capable to hunt them. During this investigation the Abysses will remain open so as not to cast suspicion, but it is also the duty of the investigators to keep dangerous monsters from the public as well.

“Every action you take is to be recorded. Nothing you do may be left out. You may work with people outside of your unit, provided you do not reveal your identity. Best of luck to the members of the investigation.”

I stopped. “That’s it.” I said. “Actually, I’m not even supposed to read this to you until you’re all sworn in, but…I can’t. I can’t ask you to put your lives on the line without first knowing what’s happening,” I looked sideways. “You don’t have to join if you don’t want to, just keep what was said a secret.”

Everyone fell silent. “Ath,” Pino finally spoke up. “No way are we gonna let you do this alone. We’re here to back you up.”

“We’re all in this. We got your back,” Dank said.

I smiled. “Thanks guys.”

“So, when do we start beating up monsters?” Love asked.

“Tomorrow morning,” I said. “We can divide up into groups and search for these medallions. Oh, that reminds me, we’re going to need a name, separate from the Council. I don’t have a good feeling about this, and this is just to be on the safe side.” I said. “Something that won’t draw attention to us, and a name we can all relate to but no one else.”

“I know a good title,” Cunning said. “How about..Abyss Guardians?”

I paused. “Actually I like that,” I said.

Anna smiled. “Abyss guardians. We sound like pkkers, not investigators.”

“Well it’s perfect! No one would know what we’re talking about. And it sounds way better than ‘unit 5729’.”

“Unit..5729?” Slasher asked. “Wow…that’s ah lotta people.”

“Yeah...the entirety of Isya might be in on this thing…” I muttered.

Trigger looked around. “What I don’t get is why we didn’t get any information about this before,” he said. “I mean, I didn’t hear anything until you told us Athemis.”

“Council’s picky on their choices,” I said. “I don’t know why….”

“Well you know what? It’s late, and I gotta go,” Health said. “See you all tomorrow.”
Victor nodded. “Right. See ya everyone.”

We departed our way for the night, leaving in small groups instead of together so as to draw no attention. None of us knew anything of what was going to happen next.

[fatmanhouse]

Yeah yeah i heard enough of the boring parts ;~;

[papadoc1]

YAY! now i dun has to keels u ^_^

[KatieElisa]

Hi,

I love your story. Very interesting. I like the details and imagination put into it.

You can use my archer in your story if you like. Her name's KatieElisa and she's married to a fighter named GIJay. They're both level 74 atm. She loves to use her xbow for the extra damage and crits but sometimes utilizes a bow for the faster attack rate. She's friendly and out going, quick to make friends. She'll work hard, but likes to stop and have some fun, too. She's also fiercely loyal to her guild and friends. She doesn't like to pick a fight, but won't back down from one, either. The abyss isn't a place she likes to linger, but she'll go when it's necessary to help out a friend in danger.

Here's a ss of Katie and Jay:

http://inlinethumb61.webshots.com/45052/2221595240054951953S600x600Q85.jpg (http://entertainment.webshots.com/photo/2221595240054951953bJYcon)

I look forward to reading your next chapter. :D

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 8

Blood Thirsty Killers




The next day I was up before the sun rose. I wanted to get to the Abyss early, before any of my friends. I needed time to think.

I took a deep breath, drinking in the cold morning air. Crossing my arms to shield myself from the chilly air, I quietly made my way across the quiet city.

I ignored the marketplace in the center, retreating to back roads and alleys. Shouts of advertising merchants and consumers were muffled behind the buildings. I walked down a cobbled street, entering into the residential area.

Not many warriors bothered entering this section of Elderine. The center of the city was all that was really needed for them. They only ventured further out to exit through the gate into the terrains of Isya.

I turned into an alley, walking down to the end and going up a small flight of stairs. I stopped, and looked around to make sure I was alone.

“Psst…Athe,”

I turned my head. “Over here.” I edged further into the alley. “Weird place for us to meet,” I said.

A guy was standing behind a stack of trashcans, with a dark purple cloak pulled low. “I didn’t really have much choice.” He said.

I shrugged. “Well, I still don’t know why you’re doing this,” I said. “Is it really worth this Bloody?”

“Hey! Don’t say my name out loud!!” he hissed. He lifted his hood off of his face. “They might be listening!”

“Blooody…” I muttered. “If anyone from the guild is eavesdropping on us I would know. Relax, no one’s here.”

“Not even Morilea?”

I hesitated. “I don’t think so,” I said.

Bloody looked around uneasily. “Calm down! And let’s get going before I change my mind.” I said.

“Ok ok,” he said, pulling the hood over him again. “I can’t believe I’m helping you with this…” I muttered, as we walked out of the alleyway.

“Aw, come on Athe!! You can’t expect me to stay out of Abyss Pking, can you?”

“Apparently not,” I said. “But I’m telling you, this is going to come back at you.”

“Pssh. Don’t worry about me,” he said. “So, what about you and your group? What’s up with them?”

I gave Bloody a sour look. “You know I can’t tell you,” I said.

“Oh, all right.” He sighed.

“We’re just going on what we agreed on,” I said. “And if you tell anyone in the guild that I’m helping you against-”

“I won’t! I promise, I won’t.” he said.

“What are you planning to do anyway?” I asked.

He grinned. “PK,”

“I meant, besides that.”

Bloody shrugged. “Nothing. My friends and I are just going to be pking any noob that crosses our path.”

“Ugh, I can’t believe I’m doing this. One of the most ruthless Pkers in Isya is forced to stay out of the abyss, and I’m helping him back in. If any pkker finds out I made their job that much harder, I’ll never hear the end of it.”

“Oh come on Ath!! I’m not that bad!!” he smiled. “We only eliminate the weak. And humiliate the strong…”

“And teach modesty when you yourself lack it?” I asked.

He laughed. “Yup!”

“Oh Bijou,” I muttered.

“Yess!! I can see the portal guard!! Once I’m in Forest Perimeter I’m untouchable!”

“To an extent,” I said. “Forest Perimeter is still connected to Isya.”

“Fine. Once I’m in the Abyss then I’ll be untouchable!” he grinned like a cat that had just swallowed a canary.

I looked around from behind the wall and sighed. “Actually I’m really surprised Daevor went all the way to put your name on the Elderine Guard’s watch list.” I said. “I don’t want a curfew like that…banned from a map…”

“Neither do I, and that’s why I’m going back in!”

I shrugged. “I still don’t get it.” I said. I pulled out a small leather bag. “I mean, as Guild Master, he has the right to do it if he sees you as a threat to the guild, but…” I looked at Bloody. “He’s not the kind of person who would do that. Bloody, I’m worried.”

“Ok, now it’s my turn to tell you to calm down,” Bloody said. “Daevor’s just doing what he thinks is right, that’s all. He has good gut instinct since he doesn’t trust me.” He smiled. “He should trust me a lot less~”

I sighed. “Well, here goes nothing,” I said, handing Bloody the bag. He eagerly opened it, pulling out a light blue wig and clay pointed ears. He quickly put them on, pulling the hood over his hair. “Do I look like your brother?” He asked, slipping on the ears.

“If no one takes a closer look to see that you’re really human, I guess you can pass,” I said. Bloody pulled out a dark orb from the bag. “Your brother’s a genius,” he said, staring at the fog billowing inside the orb.

“Ok, let’s do this,” I walked up to the portal guard, and Bloody carefully settled the orb on the corner we were standing on. He then followed after me, keeping his head low. “Hi, can you warp us to Perimeter Forest?” I asked the guard, rather hurriedly.
The guard shifted his weight, and gave a look at us. “Names?” He grunted.

“I’m Athemis, and this is my brother Conjurator,” I said, gesturing to Bloody. “Please? We’re in a hurry.”

“Conjurator I’m going to have to ask you to remove that hood so I can see your face,” The guard said, ignoring my impatience.

Bloody hesitantly lifted the hood back, keeping most of his face in the shadow of the hood.

“All the way kid,” The guard grunted. Bloody lifted the hood farther back, allowing the guard to see the bangs of light blue hair falling over his eyes, and the pointed ears peeking out.

I placed my hands behind my back, gingerly pulling out a small tiny black sphere from my sleeve. I settled it between my thumb and finger, and then immediately crushed it into pieces.

PSSHHH-KRRRRCKAAACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!

“What was that??” the guard jumped up, his eyes immediately falling onto the billow of smoke rising into the sky. He started off for it. “Wait!” I cried, grabbing his wrist. “Please, this is urgent. Can you at least warp us first?”

I looked around. “The two of us are pkkers, and yesterday we got into a fight with this guy, Sparrow. He was so mad he swore to get back at us. Please, neither of us feel safe out here in Elderine until he gets caught. And FP is a small place with several guards. It’s safer for us…”

The guard looked at the smoke and then at us. “you think that happened because of this guy?” he asked.

I nodded. “He’s crazy.” I said. “He won’t dare come into FP and do something since there’s so many people in there.”

“All right you two,” he nodded, handing us two orange warp scrolls. “Hurry up and get in there,”

“Thank you,” I breathed, taking the two scrolls and handing one to Bloody. We quickly warped inside before the guard could find out that this was no real threat of an explosion, and it was nothing more than a smoke bomb.

--

“WHOOO-HOOOO!!!! I’M-mmrgh!!” I clamped my hand over Bloody’s mouth. “Don’t celebrate until you’re actually inside the Abyss!!” I hissed. “We still have one more guard to get through!”

“Ok ok!! But I’m just so excited!!” he eagerly strutted ahead of me. “My friends and I had today all planned out, and epic day of pking at the front steps, in front of the gate!”

“The PKK Union will NEVER forgive me…” I sighed, pushing my hair back as I followed Bloody.

“Oh, by the way, who’s that Sparrow guy we’re supposed to be scared of?” Bloody asked.

I shrugged. “A personal enemy,” I said.

“Oh, story?”

“Let’s just say…the rumors that are going to be spread around about that guy, because of that smoke bomb, are something he deserves.”

Bloody thought for a minute. “If I see him in the Abyss today I’ll kill him just for you. Ok?”

I smiled. “I’d appreciate that actually,” I said.

“My way of saying thanks. And tell your brother I said thanks as well, that smoke bomb is ingenious. And it was nice of him to lend me his robe…”

I glanced sideways. “Yeah…well! Let’s get you into Abyss.” I said.

Bloody pulled the hood back down, following me to the entrance to Passage of the Abyss. “Hi sir,” I said to the guard. “Can we enter?”

“Hi Athemis,” the guard said. “Nice seeing you again.” He handed me an orange scroll, not bothering to check my level of power with his measuring staff. It was a nice luxury to be a frequenter of the abyss, guards only check your level of power every once in awhile. It was unlikely you passed the level’s limit within the next day. “I’m sorry mage, I don’t think I know you…” The guard took out his staff.

Bloody nodded quickly, keeping his head low. The guard placed the staff next to him. He studied the lines along the staff. “All right, you can go in as well,” he said, pulling out another orange scroll and handing it to Bloody.

Bloody quietly sighed in relief as he took the scroll. Eagerly he broke the seal and unraveled it. He warped into the abyss, and I followed in after him.

--

“I’M IN!!!!!!!” Bloody eagerly threw off the hood. “This is awesome!! Thanks Ath!!!!” he quickly undid the fastenings on the cloak, pulling it off of his armor. “I can see my friend at the top of the stairs!”

“Whoa!” I grabbed his wrist. “Before you run off to them, remember our agreement…?” I said.

“Yeah, I didn’t forget. Come on, I’ll introduce you to them.” He said. “Want the cloak back?” he asked.

I shook my head. “Keep it for now. You’re going to need it to get out of the abyss.”

“Ok,” he said, stuffing the cloak into his bag. “Let’s go meet them!”

I followed him halfway up the stairs and stopped. “Wha-wait. Them?”

Bloody paused. “Yeah, why?”

I hesitated. “I can smell their cookied breaths from here…” I answered, staring at the parade of glittering enhanced weapons. Even their armor was enhanced, merged with power. A strangled cry came out from up in the stairs, only to be cut off shortly. I shivered.

“They won’t hurt you, I promise,” Bloody said. “Come on. I’m leader of this group. Relax!”

“Oh-okay…” I cautiously followed Bloody. “But honestly, I feel like a sheep walking into a pack of wolves…” From a distance, I could see into their bloodthirsty eyes.
“Well, the sheep is friends with this wolf, so you got nothing to worry about,” he said. “Hey guys!!” he called out to them.

“Bloody!! You made it man!!” One of the fighters stepped down the stairs, holding a blood-stained axe in his hand. “We were afraid you’d miss out on the fun!”

“Not a chance,” Bloody cried, giving a high-five. “Left some noobs for me?”

“They’re in here somewhere. Most of them ran. Sometimes we just duel each other until one pops in.”

“Like right now,” A female cleric got up and strolled over to me. I glowered at her.

“Hah, it’s great to be back,” Bloody said, not having heard the cleric’s comment. “Oh! Check out this sweet axe,” another fighter said, pulling Bloody over.

The cleric tilted her head. “Little archer with a crossbow. Green eyes, braid on one side…what’s your name?”

“What of it?” I asked coolly.

“Bloody darling,” a silver-haired female archer nodded at me. “You got a shadow. An arrogant shadow. Let me get rid of her for you.”

My eyes darted up in time to see her pull back on her bow. She immediately released it, throwing power into the cast. I twisted my body out of the way, with the arrow wizzing past my line of sight. I yanked my crossbow off my back and defensively aimed at the archer, and fired a poison shot. I rough blade shoved into my back. “I don’t like people attacking my girlfriend,” the guy sneered.

I turned and fell on my back, kicking the fighter’s shins in the process, and setting my crossbow into his chest.

“Not so fast!” A mage formed a fistful of ice in the air, and then channeled it toward my direction. I instinctively raised my arm to block it. The stinging attack knocked my crossbow out of my hand, as a thin sheet of ice froze over my arm.

The fighter placed the tip of his blade by my neck. “So,” he said, looking up at the mage and archer. “Who wants this kill point?”he asked.

I glared at them, my crossbow too far for me to reach. “I’ll weaken her, and either of you can finish her off,” the fighter chuckled, raising his sword.

“Hey! Nononono!!” Bloody came rushing down the stairs, and tackled the fighter in mid-swing. “Don’t hurt her!!” he cried out, blocking the fighter with his own sword.

I scooted over to where my crossbow laid, grabbing the handle with my good hand. The mage and archer had been startled by Bloody, and were staring dumbfounded as he struggled with the other fighter. “What the heck man?” The fighter snapped.

“Don’t-” Bloody he swerved his sword under the fighter’s weapon, knocking it out of his hand. “-kill Athemis!”

Another mage looked over at Bloody. She then looked at me. “Kill Athemis? Ok!” she stretched her hand in the air and pillars of ice formed above my head.

“Oh [censored]!” I leaped up and scrambled out of the way before the pillars of ice slammed down. The pillars shattered upon impact with the staircase, throwing shards of ice everywhere. I was blinded for a spilt second and didn’t see the magic bolt that blasted into me, pushing me back down.

“No! I said don’t kill Ath!” Bloody ran up the stairs just as the mage summoned a ball of fire in the air. “No!”

She flung it at me. Bloody immediately leaped into the path and took the hit himself “Bloody?!?!”

“She’s my guildie!!” Bloody gasped. “Look!” he pointed to the guild crest on his shoulder, and mine as well. “Same guild!! Don’t kill her!”

“Oh! Well why didn’t you say that before Bloody?” The girl archer asked.

Bloody just rolled his eyes.

“These people are crazy!” I hissed at Bloody, pushing myself up. “I-I’m sorry Ath…” Bloody muttered.

“Ok! Here’s the thing: I got into Abyss with Athe’s help. In exchange, you can’t kill her, or the group of people that are coming here in the Abyss later.”

“What? Oh come on, man…”

“Ath and I made a deal,” Bloody said. “No pking her and her party.”

A fighter fumed. “Fine..”

I sighed. “So I’m assuming it’s safe now,” I said.

Bloody nodded. “Yeah, but just you guys. Everyone else that walks in here is dead.” He grinned.

I held my hands up. “Ok. Have fun..I guess...”

“Oh, and I can’t exactly control everyone…so they might pick a fight with you but I’m going to do the best I can.”

“And that’s probably going to be the best I’m ever going to get huh?”

“Yeah..”

“Ah well.” I started to make my way out of the mob of pkers. “Ok, I’m…going now….um…cya…”

I quickly made my way away from the stairs, putting as much distance between myself and the group. One fighter eyed me as I leaved. A small smile curved on his lip. “Group of people coming in later? Hehe..” for the time being, he returned his attention to pking.

[T3h_SyN]

Another mage looked over at Bloody. She then looked at me. “Kill Athemis? Ok!” she stretched her hand in the air and pillars of ice formed above my head.

I lol'd at this. I would so do this. No regrets :D

I <3 the story Ath, even more so after me winning the race ;P

[Dragonfly77]

You won the race because I afked at the last bit!! I would've won!! >.<

Besides...I won the race earlier...

[papadoc1]

*grabs rocket launcher and shoots ath* MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRRRR

[hogashoshiro]

WHAO! What an awesome story! Your really good at writing! But like definitely write more! :D

btw, is it to late to still be in the story???

[oyaccount]

WOW! Athy!! You ROCK, We want MOAAAAAAAAAAAR :D Really nice! No doubt!
I'm your greatest fan! ;D

[Dragonfly77]

I just posted 3 chapters in one go and you guys want more?!?!

x.x

And Hogashiro, if you want to be in the story, just drop in an application. ^^

[hogashoshiro]

Yes three chapters in a row and we still want more!!! :D It's an awsomefull story! Abyss Gaurdians ftw!

IGN - HoganoShiro, a.k.a Shiro, a.k.a Hoga
Class - 61 Mage
Description - Kind, caring, sensitive, and loyal to friends. Quiet and only speaks when there is something that is worth saying. Only attacks in defense of others, and has a strong sense of justice.

I know it's another mage, when you need archers, so you don't have to use him. xD But anyway yes, write more!

[meepkeep333]

MOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRR RRRR WAT HE SAID AND YES I WILL BURN DOWN YOUR OFFICE!!! *pulls out the battery wires gasoline and gets ready to press th button*

[meepkeep333]

deont hit me in the face again

[KatieElisa]

Sure, you can use Jay in the story, too. :D He's a compassionate, friendly guy, soft spoken, but always ready to defend me and his friends, even at the risk of his own life. He's extremely patient, willing to work hours on a lic or work steadily earning exp to level. He's willing to make friends, but doesn't easily forget when someone treats him or myself wrong. He'll fight when necessary, but doesn't go looking for a fight. We make a great team. I pull, he mocks, we kill. I love him to death and he loves me just as much.

One of my favorite things to say to him is, Yay, Jay. He chose his name based on that. GIJoe - GIJay. Yo, Joe - Yay, Jay. :D

Oh, and I go by Katie.

I love the new chapter. Lots of action and suspense. It's going to be fun to see what happens.

[oyaccount]

I'm waiting eagerly for the next chapter!
I wanna put the link on my siggie so other people can enjoy this, how do I put it so I can write " Abyss Guardians " like you have it Athy, and they just click on it and come in here? :)

[meepkeep333]

moar please post moar im going to start the riot if you dont

[papadoc1]

*shoots ath with rifle* CAUSE I CAN!. oh and cant have this not in my post MOOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAAAAAARRRRRRRRRRR

[allan-armageddon]

WHO WON THE BET? I DID I DID, WHO WON THE BET? I DID I DID...sorry for the caps lol, just wanted to brag ^^

[fatmanhouse]

I am so bad *** XD...

[meepkeep333]

ok im starting the riot

so first we load these bows with the arrows and dip them in the oil and light them on fire then we shoot them at the authors door if this dosent work then we bring out the explosions we use this car battery gasoline tank and wire then we hook them up to the door then we press this red button then it goes KABOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!! sound good?

[Daevor]

ok im starting the riot

so first we load these bows with the arrows and dip them in the oil and light them on fire then we shoot them at the authors door if this dosent work then we bring out the explosions we use this car battery gasoline tank and wire then we hook them up to the door then we press this red button then it goes KABOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!! sound good?

*backs away slowly* You sound like a professional rioteer...

PS: go read my Minoes story while you're waiting
(Shameless self-promotion :o)

[cruel-angel]

I really really REALLY love this story even I was sorta hoping u would have picked up some other of my chars than the useless troublemaking fighter who I allways get into riots and fights just because I get so frustrated with it because I am more used to play my other chars... and trying to buff anyone with axe is usually a bad idea. (ya ya it really happens and I can not help it, just like trying to use naturemist with axe either... not working, wonder why) So ya. Fail fighter is doing sorta good in the story this far tho ._.

[Daevor]

^^ Kinda like when I used to spam "3" on Slasher (Teva rest his soul) and then wonder why he wasn't healing himself...:o

[Dragonfly77]

XD When I'm on Conjy, I forget he doesn't have an auto attack. ._.'

[fatmanhouse]

oh oh oh!idk what your talkin about =o

[meepkeep333]

ive held a few riots in my life =D

[meepkeep333]

MOAR HURRY AND POST MOAR or im exploading the authors doorhttp://15-39-34

[Dragonfly77]

*contemplates on a long break until people settles down*

[T3h_SyN]

I hear you Ath, when I started my mage I kept having to cancel my autoatk until I realized i should remove it from the hotkeys...

-Flashback-
Okey-dokie, Targetted the slime... Magic missile *presses 2* and now we wait for cd *fighter instinct kicks in* SPAEM AUTO ATK!1! *mashes on 1 like a mad woman* *Mage walks up to slime and starts whaling on it with her stick* Wait.... NOOO! Don't do that! *slime proceeds to out do me on a 1-1 physical damage numbers game* Oh look... Cd's done *presses 2* *Fighter instincts take over again*

Rinse and repeat

-End of Flashback-

[roxca]

Is it too late for applications? :3
Name: Roxpi
Class: Archer (bows ftw XD)
Summary: Currently without a guild, since she likes being a lone wolf, but also takes the times to make friends. She doesn't pick fights, unless attacked first. Has a love for kiting! Also loves being one of the strongest in the group.

Edit: Forgot to tell you guys, Calm down and give her time to write! It doesn't take one day to make an amazing story! *sits and waits patiently* >.> And just to add, Roxpi doesn't hates pkers (even though she still goes to the abyss) and can be kinda quick tempered at times. I wrote my original description when I was really drowsy so I wasn't thinking too clearly. x.x

[Chaola]

And back ._.

I love this story, even though I'm not featured much *starts grumbling*

Keep going !!! :D

[papadoc1]

wait wait wait anyone think were harassing her? NAW IM JUST PLAYING WITH YA *melts authors door with thermite* WE WANT MOOOOOOOOAAAAAAAAAR

[ccasarow]

*barges into author's room with a chainsaw*

[ccasarow]

actually people cant write that fast lulz, they still have other things to do =)))

[allan-armageddon]

I want moar. bah, hurry it up plerse :O

[oyaccount]

Omg :( I've been waiting EAGERLY for the next chaper in like a year now?! I'M GROWING GREY BEARD ATHEMIS, YOU HEAR ME? GREEEEEEEEEEY BEARD! TOO LOOONG :( EVIL xD

[Dragonfly77]

*faints* DX I'm working on it!!

[fatmanhouse]

Faster nub

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 9

Undeniable Power




“What do you mean, we’re not ready yet??”

“You can’t rush the machines. They’re slow, and they take up lots of power. Just be patient.”

“Kitone, I want this thing to go through!!!”

Kitone’s eyes narrowed. “If you don’t like the pace I’ve set, we can settle it with a little blood-bath duel…”

“Don’t you dare make any threats to me, woman!”

Kitone smiled. “You’re right. I was being a bit rude...pests like you should just be gutted; no questions asked.”

The man’s face contorted into rage. “How-dare you!” He grabbed the hilt of his sword, jerking the metal blade out of the hilt. “You do not speak to me like that!” He lunged forward.

Kitone sidestepped out of the way, grabbing the fighter’s collar. She spun around and threw him against the wall, pinning him. “I could kill you right now,” she whispered into his ear. “I can slice your stomach and spill your bloodied guts onto this cold stone floor…and let the rats feast on your corpse.”

The fighter growled in anger. He struggled against her, trying to push himself off of the wall. Kitone released one hand from his collar and grabbed a fistful of hair. She forced the man’s head back.

“You’re so pathetic,” she said, staring into his eyes. Immediately she slammed his face into the wall. “Pathetic and weak. I’m amazed someone hasn’t killed you yet,” She yanked his head back and slammed it again.

“Stop it!!” he howled out as Kitone smashed his head a third time. “Stop!”

Kitone twisted his head as far as his neck would allow. Blood was trickling down the several cuts on his face. “What’s the matter?” she mocked. “Not as strong as you thought you were? Truth hurts huh?”

The man glared at her, not saying anything. Kitone slammed his head into the wall one last time before releasing her hold. “Next time,” she said, “I won’t be so merciful…”

The man slid down against the wall, breathing heavily. A throbbing pain was filling his head. He glared at Kitone, dressed in her sleek red and black armor. Her red hair was pulled back in a tight ponytail, and from her hips swung a large sword, larger than what most fighters used. “You forget Kitone,” he angrily yelled at her, pushing away his child-like fear and trying to regain some of his demeanor, “You’re a wanted criminal. You need me.”

He staggered to his feet. “It was me that brought you here, to this abandoned dungeon. I’m the reason you’re still alive. Do you want to go back to prison, and wait for your execution?”

Kitone turned her head halfway, watching the fighter from the corner of her eye. “I’m sure your pretty little head won’t look nice on a stake.” The man sneered.

“I’m pretty sure your head won’t look nice when it’s rolling on the floor, trailing blood,” she countered. She leaped forward, pulling her large sword out. Before he could react, she was upon him, with the blade of her sword against his neck. The man found himself gaping into the emotionless eyes of Kitone. “Me landing prison time was a minor…setback,” she said, playfully wavering the blade dangerously close to the man’s neck. “I don’t exactly need you, and I would have gotten out sooner or later. You just provided a shortcut.”

Then she smiled, and withdrew her blade. “And my funds.”

The man’s heart was pounding. She’s mad! He thought fearfully. I should’ve left her in prison!

“Aside the point,” Kitone continued, “I think you’ve overstayed your visit. You should leave. Now.”

Flustered, the man rushed toward the door on the other side of the room, forgetting his pride for once. “Oh, one more thing,” Kitone called to him.

The man stopped. He had just made it to the doorway. He didn’t dare turn around, and settled with clutching the doorframe with his white knuckles. “I’m going to need a unit of warriors as my personal army.” Kitone said. “I’m sure you won’t mind.”

He gave a quick nod, before slamming the door behind him and fleeing down the stone stairs.

--

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 6 Undeniable Power (cont.)

“DIE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!”

“No, you die!!” I snapped, firing a flurry of green arrows into the air. They flew straight up, and the fighter that was chasing me ran straight into them.

Come on, come on, come on! I begged. Respawn already!!

A sharp crackle sounded behind me. Desperately I tried to leap up, hoping to duplicate the same evasive move I had made earlier. But in the middle of running, I didn’t get enough height, and the mage had anticipated my strategy. She threw the ball of ice higher than before. It effectively hit my legs, and the frozen magic spread over my boots. “Ergh!”

I fell, slammed on my back, and skidded forward on my landing, unable to control the slippery and heavy ice. Desperately I tried to push my legs under me, trying to get enough momentum to stand up. But they kept sliding back across the floor. “Hehehe…”

My eyes shot up, at the fighter that was now striding over with a menacing grin. “You can’t run now,” he chuckled.

“Oh [censored],” I muttered, second time that day.

It’s funny how a good day can turn to bad, then worse. Since the other members of Abyss Guardians still hadn’t arrived yet, I figured I’d start early and solo farm for those necklaces. Even though I had found a good stash of dust and a nice axe to sell, I had no luck with the necklaces. Upon taking a break to wait for a new mob of Karasan Soldiers, I sat by the entrance to the room, not bothering to take precautions of hiding since I thought I was way back in the abyss, much too far for anyone to bother me.
That was a big mistake.

I had seen the mage and fighter coming down the hall, but I didn’t give it much thought, thinking they were going to take the next room since I had claimed this one. I returned to watching the empty room, waiting for the next mob of monsters, when upon looking back at the two warriors I noticed that they were taking their time in their strides. That, and they were both staring directly at me.

Gingerly I placed my hand on my crossbow, which was lying next to me. I picked it up and stood, trying to look like I was done with this room and ready to leave. The fighter stopped where he was, motioning to the girl to do the same. I turned and walked across the empty room, heading to the exit on the other side, and trying to pay no attention to the couple. After I was a good distance, they walked over to the entrance of my room, and stood there, watching me. When I was about halfway across the room the fighter charged at me.

By instinct, I spun around and fired off a piercing arrow, and made a bee-line down the room. The other entrance was only a few feet away, an easy getaway. Or so I thought before I saw it cut off by a mob of Vivis and Karasan Soldiers. The last thing you need when you have a fighter on your tail is a large mob for him to stun you in. I was forced to turn around.

Making a wide loop and hugging to the edge of the room, I kited the fighter back to the other entrance. The mage stood at the exit, gingerly holding her wand, watching for the timing. She outstretched her hand and summoned a ball of flame. I gritted my teeth, waiting for her to release it.

She flung it forward, and I ducked underneath, diving to the ground and rolling back up again, without losing a step. I pointed the crossbow to the ceiling and released a mist of green arrows, striking both the fighter and mage.

She was blinded for a moment, but that didn’t stop her. She willed the energies in her body to race outward, dispelling them right when I was about the dodge to the exit.
The purple mist surrounded me, and my sight blanked out. For a split second I freaked before realizing what I had just ran into.

A large ghastly skull charged up at me, mouth open wide with a hysterical maniacal laughter. It’s eyes were blazing with an intense yellow light. Fear surged into me, and blindly, I turned and ran, tripping over my feet, just trying to get away from the skull.

“Devastate!!”

The skull was smashed out of my vision and I fell into the shattered pit. My hands scraped against the ground on my fall. I scrambled up, hopelessly trying to climb over the broken rocks, feeling the slow numbing effect of the attack take over me.

“Heaaargh!!”

Sharp searing pain ripped through my shoulder. I screamed in agony, falling back down into the pit. With my good arm, I shoved myself to turn around, to face my attacker.
A bolt of fire slammed onto my side, alighting my leather armor. I yelled.

I tried to push myself up again, but the muscles in my arms were weakening. Panicky, I felt the numbness spread across my limbs. I hate stun…

The fighter stood before me, with the axe stained in bright red blood. “No hard feelings,” he chuckled, and walked around the pit. My breathing was ragged, and I was doing everything I could to prevent myself from slipping into unconsciousness. “What-are you…talking-” I wheezed.

“Hurry up and kill her so we can go!” the mage yelled at the fighter. “She’s stunned!! Strike!!”

I forced my hand to move, pushing away the pain from my mind. I had to get out. When the fighter turned around to respond to the mage, I reached over and pulled my crossbow in front of me, aiming it at him. “Power Shot!!”

He snapped his head to me at the sound of my voice. The arrow ripped out of my crossbow, and ripped into the fighter’s neck. He chocked, stepped back and stood motionless, and then fell onto his knees. Blood began to trickle out of his mouth.

I didn’t waste any time. Fighting the stun, I rolled in the dirt and smothered the flames on my armor. Then I dug out a stone from my pocket and absorbed it. The cooling magic soothed over my burns, and then they ran up to my shoulder, healing the wound. I hadn’t even noticed the warm blood that run down my arm.

The mage yelled in horror as the fighter fell head over heels into the pit he had created. No longer stunned, I grabbed for the rim of the pit and pulled myself out. I didn’t know how long the fighter would be down.

“Wanna be next?” I yelled at the mage when I climbed out of the pit. “If not, get out of my way!”

She glared at me. She raised a fist and a ball of electricity cackled in her hand. Then with all her anger she threw it at me.

I forced myself to wait before I dove out of the path of the attack. The ball of electricity kept going and struck the fighter inside the pit.

“No!!!” she shrieked. I rolled along the ground and bolted onto my knees. Then I steadied the crossbow in my hands and aimed at her. “Power Shot!!”

The arrow ruptured out of the weapon, flying dead-straight into the mages heart.
The attack buried itself into her chest. She stumbled back, and fell down with a sickening thud.

I knelt there, taking in deep breaths of air. They would respawn: hits like that didn’t destroy the body. But it would make them think twice about attacking me again.

“You’re gonna pay..”

“Wha-?” I turned around and saw the fighter crawling out of his pit, with a bloodied arrow in his hand. “You’re gonna pay big…”

“You-can’t…”

He leaped out of the hole and charged at me. I scrambled up and ran over to the exit; where the dead mage laid. Before she slowly pushed herself up and pulled my arrow out of her chest.

My eyes widened. They should both be dead!

Furious, the mage summoned a ball of flame and flung it at me. I dodged, once again trapped in the room.

I ended up kiting the fighter in wide circles, hoping to get a lucky hit, dodging most of the time and healing myself with stones whenever he did manage to catch me. The mage wasn’t making it easy either. She would blast attacks at me whenever she could, trying to slow me down enough for the fighter.

I racked my brain for a plan, something, just barely ducking underneath yet another magic missile. Ok, I’m being chased by a fighter than doesn’t die, I’m target practice for a mage that doesn’t die, one exit leads to a mob that I risk getting stunned in, and the other has the mage with her fear skill, the sides of the rooms all drop down a cliff face, and I’m trapped in an empty room with nowhere to hide..

Empty room…it was still empty.

That was it!

I changed my kiting pattern. Instead of hugging the sides of the room, I slowly made the circle smaller, in a misshaped oblong path that twisted around the room. I just needed timing to be perfect.

But it didn’t work like I had hoped. And now here I was, lying on the ground at the so-called ‘mercy’ of a psychotic fighter.

I need more time! I stared at the fighter. “Well, at least tell me how you and the mage didn’t die when I shot you both.” I said.

“Aw, you curious?” the mage asked, walking into the room. There was no threat of me escaping, and she wanted to savor the victory with the fighter.

“Um, yes, I’m truly curious,” I bit down my pride for the next line. “The two of you are superb! Really! Honestly! I’ve never seen anyone who wielded power like you two before!”

The fighter stopped in his tracks, giving me an awkward look. “Um…” he probably wasn’t used to being praised by people he was getting ready to kill.

My mind raced. “The way how you two fight, it’s amazing! So much power, energy, and skill! I bet everyone fears your names!”

The mage gave a questioning glance at the fighter. He just shrugged in response.

I kept going. “Now me, I’m only a-a-a noob! It has been such a great honor for me to see the fight you two employ! You could intimidate the gods themselves!!”

A mist of golden light illuminated far behind the fighter and mage. Just a little more…

“You two are a shattering force. On your own, you could take down anything, but together nothing can stand in your way!! I bet every top guild is fighting each other to get you to join them!”

Another wave of gold mist lit up behind them. I pressed on. “What lucky guild did you two join?” I asked, trying to keep their attention to me.

The fighter muttered, “She is a noob.” The mage grinned. “Aw, little archer. It’s a strong guild, one that you can never join.” She said. She raised a ball of energy. “Shall I finish her?” the mage asked the fighter.

“W-wait!” I said, raising my hands. “You didn’t tell me how you survived my hits!”

The mage’s ball of energy cast shadows across her face. “It’s a guild secret,” she said casually. “And this guild only accepts the best.”

Another wave of gold light emerged. Shadows within the light began to move, heading toward us. “C-could I join the academy?” I asked hurriedly. “I-I mean, I know I’m not allowed to join academies anymore, but-but…uh,” I stared as the fighter raised his axe above my head.

“We don’t have an academy. And we don’t want you anyway. Oh, and don’t bother about respawn. We’ll save you that trouble.” The axe surged down.

My arms wrapped over my head, covering my purple hair. A wave of light glittered all around us, and the Karasan soldiers stepped out. The first thing they saw was the brightly colored armor of the mage and the fighter, and without hesitation, lashed forth at them. They didn’t take notice of the lump on the ground, which blend in well with the color of the floor.

The fighter’s aim was thrown off when he got tackled back by the wave of monsters. The axe clattered a few inches from my head. The mage yelped in surprise, and the Karasan’s that had spawned earlier took notice of her and raced down the room.

My heart swelled with joy. It worked!

I grabbed my crossbow, and using it like a hammer, slammed it down in the ice that encased my boots. The ice cracked, splitting long lines down the side.

I swung a second time, digging the end into the ice and pulling it out like a pick. It was only going to be a matter of time before the Karasan’s realized there was another person in the room.

I slammed the ice again, shaking off the large chunks. It was going too slow. Pulling my crossbow up, I aimed at the ice. “Power shot!”

The arrow cleaved through the top half of the ice. I kicked it off, splitting more ice with my crossbow.

Using my hands, I shoved the ice off my boots. I threw a quick glance at the Karasan soldiers. They were kept quite busy by the mage and fighter, and even with the Vivis help, the two of them were doing quite well.

I kicked off the last chunk of ice. Scrambling up, I raced down to the exit of the room. That was too close.

[ccasarow]

i can't take it anymore Dx (awesome plot)

[cahsandra_devenya]

wow! that was amazing *wide eyes* don't die lil archer!!!

[meepkeep333]

moar!!!!!!!!!!!!!! the riot pepole are buy trashing up another form allready >.>

[cruel-angel]

Sneakeh! Go Athy go go go! We love the story! ^^

[fatmanhouse]

Awsome like always eh athe?xD

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 1

Out and In of Trouble



I didn’t stop running until I had put a good distance between myself and my old room. When I finally stopped, I sank down to the ground, gasping for air. I ducked behind a large edifice of curved stone, one of the several strange pillars that lined the edges of halls of the Abyss.

I had moved to higher ground, a good vantage point over most of the Abyss. I could actually see my old room at the far back. The fighter and mage were still working through the mob of Karasans. I smiled, silently congratulating myself. It was taking much longer than usual for the mob of Karasan’s to respawn, meaning one thing: they were waiting for their friends to join them in one giant mob for the respawn. And now that there was a large mob in the room, with each soldier cut down a new one would gradually take its place. The fighter and mage were going to be tied up for awhile.

Never again will I complain about my armor’s color, I mused.

I heard laughter sounding off from the other side of the hall. Picking myself up, I trotted over to the other edge and peered over the other side to see what it was.

I smiled. It was the other members of the Abyss Guardians.

Taking up my crossbow, I aimed it over the edge. Then I released a flurry of green arrows.

They yelled in surprise as the attack landed, releasing the poisonous mist around them. They grabbed at their weapons, frantically looking around for the archer. “Wewt!! Snipers of Isya~” I called down.

Victor looked up. “Athemis!! What the-”

I laughed. “Hi guys!!”

Lucky waved up to me. “Hahas, good one~”

I leaped off the edge, sliding down the cliff face. “Where have you guys been??” I asked upon landing.

“We got held up by a group of people, at the entrance,” a fighter answered. I glanced at him. “Oh..well,” I sighed. Bloody and his gang…must be.

“Oh! I should introduce myself,” the fighter continued. “My name’s Rizer.”

I nodded. “Oh ok!” I said.

Using his sword, he pointed to a few other people that I had realized weren’t part of the Abyss Guardians. “This is Shiro,” he gestured to the mage, “my girl, Akren,” a cleric, “Katie and Roxpi,” two archers standing together, “and Jay,” another fighter, standing next to Katie.

Rizer grinned. “We’re glad to join Abyss Guardians.”

“Ok great! Uh, wait-what?”

Oya cleared his throat. “We uh…” he avoided my eyes. “We found a few more people,” he said.

I scowled. “You could have at least told me...”

“Well now you know!” Anna said. She pulled me into a quick hug.

“Yeap…ok!” I said. “I’ll go along with it…”

“Shall we begin?” Victor asked. “The others already started. Let’s go find those medallions!”

--

“If I see another Karasan, I’m gonna puke,” Anna whined.

We had been farming the monsters for hours, and hadn’t found any necklace. We were exhausted, and at that moment taking a well deserved break. I slipped out my chat stone. Hey evil twin. How’s your party doing?

Althemis’ voice responded. We haven’t found anything ourselves. And Athemis?

Hmm?

YOU’RE the evil twin!!

You are!

How am I evil?

Because I’m not!

I’m a cleric! I can’t be evil!

Just because you’re born with the gift of healing people doesn’t mean you aren’t evil!
And just because you aren’t born with magic like a mage doesn’t mean you’re not evil!
We elves are magical. If we don’t have a connection to the supernatural, (mages) then we have a connection to the earth! For humans-

That’s beside the point!

Well, I’m still not evil!

Prove it.

What?

I said prove it.

How?

Show you’re a good person.

But I am.

If you are, you won’t think twice of donating a couple gold pieces to me.

Wha? No way!

See? You're greedy. Hence, evil.

Pssh! You should give your sister gold!

You’re not my real sister!

I’m your twin sister! So I’m still you're sister and you're still my brother!

But we’re not actually related!

If we have no relation to each other, then how come we have the same name-

I meant my biological sister!

And is it a coincidence that the mages discovered a strange link between us? How come we can chat through our chat stones much more clearly than other people? Why do we always bump into each other when we need the other? And-

Because weird stuff happens like that in Isya! But that doesn’t mean I’m evil!

Bah…you take all the fun out of this. I’m gonna go rejoin my party…

--

Althemis rolled his eyes. “You’re still the evil one…” he muttered, stuffing his chat stone back into his pocket. “Ok guys!” he turned to his party. “Athemis and her group still didn’t find these costume jewelry. Let’s keep looking.”

Althemis looked around his group. “Um..where’s Trigger?” he asked, looking around for the little mage.

“Isn’t he in Pastrami’s group?” Dank asked.

Althemis furrowed his eyebrows. “No, he was with us. Where’d he go?”

Slasher got up from his spot. “We have you Alt, Gil, Dank, Arkedge, Cunnin’, an’ me.”

“And Athemis has 2 parties. Herself, Anna, Lucky, Victor-”

“Wait, where’s Arkedge?” Gil asked.

“He went to Elderine to grab some potions. He’ll be back soon,” Cunning said.

“Well, everyone else is in Pastrami’s party. Or, the archer-less party.”

“Ok ok. Just give me a minute.” Althemis pulled out his chat stone. Pastrami?

Wait..in a middle of a mob..

Is Trigger with you?

No…I thought he was in your group…

Um, hehe…I’ll get back to you.

“Trigger’s not with them!” Althemis panicked. “Gah! If anything happens to Athe’s apprentice, she’s gonna kill me!”

“Hey! Calm down!” Dank said. “Just contact him!”

“Yeah! Right!” he closed his eyes, concentrating on his chat stone.

Trigger?

No response.

Trig? Where are you? Trigger!

--

“You could easily do this yourself,” Trigger sighed, adjusting his bag as he walked down the corridor of the Abyss.

“Um…not really…Cleric won’t give me this many potions if I went by myself.” Arkedge replied.

Trigger hefted his bag on his shoulder. “How many did you buy?” he asked. “This thing weighs a ton!”

“I guess I did take a lot…” Arkedge said sheepishly, rounding the corner.

“Well, I guess it’s worth the silver.”

“Oh, I didn’t buy it.”

Trigger gave a confused look at Arkedge. “Cleric gave it to me for free.”

“Wait..” Trigger stopped. “She took the best potions from Healer Avon’s stock and gave it to you?”

“Yup,”

“For free??”

“Yup.”

“Why?” Trigger asked, surprised.

Arkedge grinned. “She’s my girl~” he said dreamily. “That’s why I need you to come along. To double the amount we get!”

Trigger rolled his eyes. “Didn’t the others give us money to buy the potions?” he asked.

“Yeah,”

“So?”

Arkedge blinked. “So what?”

“Well, potions cost us nothing. So where’d the money go?”

“Yeah yeah, don’t worry. You can keep half for helping me.”

Trigger shook his head. “Nope.”

“What?”

“It’s going to cost you more than that.” He said. “At least eighty percent of the silver to keep me quiet.”

“Whaaat?”

“Either I get eighty percent, or you get beaten up when we get back to our group.” Trigger grinned.

“Trig man! Come on!”

“Eighty percent,” he said.

Arkedge scowled. “No way. They won’t believe you.”

“They will after I show them this recording of our conversation,” Trigger said, showing his chat stone to Arkedge.

Arkedge’s eyes widened. “You wouldn’t…”

Trigger held the stone up in his hand, and with the mental command, it began to pulsate dark purple.

“Didn’t the others give us money to buy the potions?” Trigger’s voice echoed from the stone.

“Yeah,”

“So?”

“So what?”

“Well, potions cost us nothing. So where’d the money go?”

“HEY!” Arkedge cried, grabbing for the stone. Trigger stepped back, keeping the stone out of Arkedge’s reach. “Eighty percent of the silver!” Trigger smirked.

“No way! Half each!” Arkedge snapped, struggling to grab the little stone.

“Nope. Now let’s see…we have-” Trigger turned around to keep Arkedge away from his chatstone, “a total of fifteen stacks of potions, fifty each-” Arkedge came around and tried to reach for the stone. Trigger held it above his head.

“Ergh!” Arkedge leaped for the stone, trying to push Trigger away. “So that makes seven hundred and fifty potions-” Trigger pushed Arkedge back, shoving him away with his staff. “All that at-at two hundred copper each, that’s 150,000 copper, or-”

They stumbled around. “Or a hundred and fifty silver! So eighty percent is-”

“Hyah! Argh!” Arkedge desperately tried to reach for the stone again, but instead found a gloved hand shoving into his face. “A hundred and twent-”

Arkedge pulled out his sword. Trigger’s stopped, and his eyes widened. Then Arkedge took his chance and slapped the stone out of Trigger’s hand.

“AHAH!!” Arkedge raced after the stone, which was tumbling and jumping down the corridor. “HEY!!” Trigger followed pursuit.

The stone kept rolling and bounced into a wall, smacked into it and bounced off again, before slowing to a stop a few meters away. Arkedge lunged for it, but it flew out his grasp. He shot a look at Trigger, who had his stone flying into his hands.

“No fair using magic!” he yelled. “Well you used your swor-oof!” Arkedge had tackled Trigger to the ground. The stone flew out of the mage’s hands and rolled down the hall again.

Arkedge leaped up and ran after it. Trigger himself scrambled up. He took out his staff, and chased down Arkedge.

The stone clinked against the wall and came to a stop again. Arkedge ran forth. Trigger reached for Arkedge’s collar with the hook-shaped design of his staff.

“Urk!” Arkedge was pulled back by his collar, tripped and fell on his back. Trigger sped past him.

Arkedge scrambled up and raced down the hall. He grabbed the tail of Trigger’s cloak and yanked it back.

Trigger lost his balance and tripped as Arkedge ran past him. The mage got up and pulled his staff back, then released a pulse of energy at Arkedge.

It slammed into the fighter squarely on his back. Trigger ran past as Arkedge fell from the force.

Arkedge shot up and raced off toward the mage. He caught up, and pushed his shoulder against Trigger. They ran shoulder-to-shoulder, and then Arkedge slammed his shoulder into the mage, pushing him to the ground.

Trigger landed hard on his back. He shook his head, trying to clear it, and shot a look over to his stone.

Arkedge slid over to where the stone rested, and grabbed for it-only to have it fly out of his reach again.

“Wha?-” Trigger raised his hand and grabbed the stone in mid-air. Then he leaped up and ran down the hall.

“That is getting old!” Arkedge chased him down. He pulled out his shield that hung from his back. “Deva-”

“If you strike me I’m telling the others!” Trigger yelled behind him.

“-damn!” He pulled his sword away from the attack. “Well, you still used a skill on me!”

“That was a tier one pulse shot! That doesn’t even hurt you!”

“It’s magic! Magic hurts!” Arkedge leaped forth and tackled Trigger. The stone flew out of his grasp.

They both landed on the ground with a thud, shot a look up and saw the stone resting a foot away. They scrambled for it. Trigger reached it first and slammed his hand above the stone. Arkedge responded by bolting his hand over Trigger’s. Trigger’s other hand landed over Arkedge’s. Ark slapped his other hand over Trigger’s.

They stared at each other, each taking in deep gulps of air, and refusing to budge for the other. Finally Trigger looked at Arkedge, the pile of their hands, Back at Arkedge, and then he scooped the stone from under their hands and pulled away.

Arkedge wouldn’t let him escape. He grabbed a handful of Trigger’s robe and pulled him back down. Trigger fell on top of Arkedge, and they rolled down the floor, struggling against each other. They stopped at the top of a staircase, with the stone being wrestled between themselves. Then one more nudge and the both tumbled down the steps.

“Leggo!”

“No! You leggo!”

“Ouwch!”

“Hey!”

“Move it!”

“Gah!”

“Ugh!”

Arkedge pushed Trigger down. “HAH!!” he triumphantly yanked the stone out of Trigger’s grip, and held it above his head.

Another hand then plucked the stone from Arkedge’s grasp.

“Huh? Uh..” Arkedge looked up and saw a hefty, large shouldered fighter grinning down at them. “Oh no..” Trigger muttered, getting up in a sitting position.

“Hello you two,” the fighter answered in a deep growl.

[linkin_park1]

two thumbs up^ ^

name:ride_or_die aka fluffy
class:fighter
summary:uhhh i bmx lol XD

[roxca]

Woot love how this is going! :D And another woot since I was in it (though only a little :P), but come on, give every other character a chance for the action. XD

[fatmanhouse]

>_> Not ready for my pking madness -.-?

[Dragonfly77]

No bloody, I'm trying to tone it down for the younger readers.

[Chaola]

Ooooh I didn't realize that Bloody was Felix, I thought it was Tuke >.<

Nice new chapter !!!

moar moar MOAR !

:3

[Dragonfly77]

o.o Tuke's not a pker.

[Chaola]

I know

But I thought it was for BloodThirstyBat xD

I'M SOWWY !!!

Q.Q

[Dragonfly77]

Don't say sorry to me, say sorry to Tuke. o.o

[oyaccount]

Now where is my PKKing madness? :D! RAWR! xD

[Chaola]

Don't say sorry to me say sorry to Tuke. o.o

It's a story.

For all I know, you can take a name and change the personnality of the person.

Bleh.

[oyaccount]

It's a story.

For all I know, you can take a name and change the personnality of the person.

Bleh.

Well, you're not that right.
If you told athemis you wanted to be in the story, and you told about yourself, wouldn't you be surprised if she then wrote about you like this
" And theres LittleMo, a no-lifer that doesn't care and PK's everyone 'cause she has nothing to do at all, she likes to scam people and KS slimes in Roumen, she eats poo everyday and she hates herself "
This was just for an example, don't get mad or anything, but you understand me right? You wouldn't like that lol, you'd probably prefer the real you and if you wanted your personality changed , it could be begged for I guess :)
So even if it's a story it's not right lol.
But on the other hand if she took a random name and did that, it's okay, if she made the person up, but in this case it isn't, since they're talking about some Tuko guy that is not made up I guess.... Just my 5 cent , no drama though!
GO ATHY STORY xD

[fatmanhouse]

Ahahhaa!mo athe captures my inner spirit in this story XD....I remember how the whole guild scolded me for pking XD

[Chaola]

Well, you're not that right.
If you told athemis you wanted to be in the story, and you told about yourself, wouldn't you be surprised if she then wrote about you like this
" And theres LittleMo, a no-lifer that doesn't care and PK's everyone 'cause she has nothing to do at all, she likes to scam people and KS slimes in Roumen, she eats poo everyday and she hates herself "
This was just for an example, don't get mad or anything, but you understand me right? You wouldn't like that lol, you'd probably prefer the real you and if you wanted your personality changed , it could be begged for I guess :)
So even if it's a story it's not right lol.
But on the other hand if she took a random name and did that, it's okay, if she made the person up, but in this case it isn't, since they're talking about some Tuko guy that is not made up I guess.... Just my 5 cent , no drama though!
GO ATHY STORY xD

Bleh, I give up, I'll just go.

[Dragonfly77]

Guys no fighting in my story >.o I forbid it.

[oyaccount]

No fighting in your story?! LIES!
THe last chapters was like only fights xD SO LIES!!!

[Dragonfly77]

You know what I mean Oya...now shush before I let you get pwnt by a pker...~.^

[bladeboyaj]

I wanna Join the Story!!

Name: Tanker_God
Nickname: Tank/Tanker
Class: CleverFighter

Summary: Well... I like to fight monsters. I really like to hang out in town and chat with others. Abyss..., well, I`m kinda scared to go there coz of the Damn pkers and i think its kinda spooky, but i guess its a good place 2 train. I`m okay as a Tanker. I hate Ksers and i dont mind killin a few people in Abyss myself! I dont mind being added as a pker but plz make me a good guy lol!!

Looks: Black Hair, Fighter Armor, etc. etc.

[oyaccount]

You know what I mean Oya...now shush before I let you get pwnt by a pker...~.^

Omg, that would never happen! * but shushes anyway :( *

[fatmanhouse]

Sure it wont Oya...Sure it wont....XD *slowly lifts axe* come here little boy :X

[oyaccount]

Sure it wont Oya...Sure it wont....XD *slowly lifts axe* come here little boy :X

*Runs away* TOLD YOU I NEVER DIE BY A PKER! :D

[Dragonfly77]

A fight between the pker and the pkker...hmmm...*struck by inspiration*

[oyaccount]

*Kills Fatman! PKer dead!* Game over! :D OYA STRIKES & WINS AGAIIIIIin :D

[captaingammer]

This is actually quite a riveting story! I'm kept in by the main plot parts, but I'm just different that way. ^^; I never did get bitten by the PvP bug. Take all the time you need.

I'd like to see if I could be a part, but all four of my characters are so unique. D: I'll just load you down with options! >:3

-

Name: Cora Gammer
Class: Mage
Weapon of choice: Staff, though she'll use a wand if it's more enhanced.
Description: A cute young woman who was born with poor health. As such, she never got the urge to be better than anybody. She spend most of her time at home but will occasionally go out to practice her magic. She's very kind and sweet, and as such has never seen Forest Perimeter, much less Abyss.
Picture: She's the mage in the lower left corner of characters in my signature. You can't see, but she has dark green layered hair and a premium 4 face.

-

Name: Colonel Rayne
Nickname: Cora Gammer
Class: Fighter
Weapon of choice: 2-handed sword. When using a 1-handed/shield, she's an epic tanker. I'd tell you how she utilizes a technique called "sword juggling" to use all three weapon options, but I know it'll sound infeasible and Mary-Sue-ish since I don't know anybody to back me up. TwT
Description: The heir to the throne of a foreign country which emphasizes male supremacy, Colonel is hesitant to emphasize the fact that she is a woman. Her personality is very princely and chivalric, including a great sense of justice. After joining the Gammer family, she took on the name "Cora" after the before said mage offered to share her name since "Colonel" didn't sound like a girl's name. She was also given the cat ears by a good friend to help loosen up her stiff personality.
Picture: The fighter in the top left of my signature. The only difference is that she should be wearing the male Nightmare suit. *Spends $5 for a single screenshot :D*

-

Name: Cons Gammer
Class: Cleric
Weapon of choice: Normally uses a hammer, switches to mace if the situation calls for it. She's a tanker/healer anyway.
Description: Cons was found in Uruga during a big fire, wearing robes and a slime helmet. Since then, she has never been seen without fully covering body armor, gloves, boots, and her signature slime helmet. She has a boyish charm about her, but can get vicious when anybody threatens Cora the Mage. She is extremely protective of her and isn't above throwing herself in front of any strike to protect her.
Description: The cleric in the upper right corner of my signature. I edited the picture to include her gloves. .-.

-

Name: Cap Gammer
Class: Archer
Weapon of Choice: Uses a Crossbow for her training, item gathering, and skill spam. Switches to bow to stack hits or get a quick one off.
Description: I won't sugarcoat it... Cap may seem a bit mentally off when you first meet her. She's got mild schizophrenia, meaning she'll talk to herself when she thinks nobody's around. To make it worse, she's infamous for having killed an up-an-coming PvP star for cheating on her. Currently she lives in the Gammer family instead of being exiled. When you get to know her, you'll see that she isn't crazy at all. She's warm and witty, if not spacey.
Description: The archer in the lower right corner of my signature. I noticed her lack of matching boots too late. Oh well~

-

If you need better pictures, feel free to ask. ^_^

Of course, people would know more about these characters if my fan fiction thread got more attention. 9~9

[allan-armageddon]

Who is this Trigger? I totally gotta meet him on Fiesta lol. By the way, Trigger and I would totally pwn that stone-stealing jerk with the funny voice.

[fatmanhouse]

Your so dead oya!*takes axe* *chops Oya's golden nut___ off :D* I HAVE THE GOLDEN NUT___ I REIGN SUPREME!>_> BEAT THAT lol btw oya u could never kills me o_o

[oyaccount]

Your so dead oya!*takes axe* *chops Oya's golden nut___ off :D* I HAVE THE GOLDEN NUT___ I REIGN SUPREME!>_> BEAT THAT lol btw oya u could never kills me o_o

OMG MY GOLDeN FREAKINg NUUUUUUUUUUUUUUT :(
GIVE 'EM BACK! :O
Oh you're not gonna give them back huh? *takes my heavy axe and swings it*
*KA-CHING*
NOW YOU'RE GOLDEN NUTS ARE OFF TOO! :D
*sells them for 50gem each*
TAKE THAT :D I REIIIIIIIIIIGN SUPREME :D

[Dragonfly77]

Boys :rolleyes:

[roxca]

OMG MY GOLDeN FREAKINg NUUUUUUUUUUUUUUT :(
GIVE 'EM BACK! :O
Oh you're not gonna give them back huh? *takes my heavy axe and swings it*
*KA-CHING*
NOW YOU'RE GOLDEN NUTS ARE OFF TOO! :D
*sells them for 50gem each*
TAKE THAT :D I REIIIIIIIIIIGN SUPREME :D

When did this happen? :eek:

[allan-armageddon]

Whoa you guys have golden nuts?! SHOCKER. I'm gonna go pinch myself incase I'm dreaming..

[T3h_SyN]

Well... that was weird.

[Dragonfly77]

You obviously haven't met Oya or Bloody. Actually, this craziness is perfectly natural.

[T3h_SyN]

I see... it's still weird.

[KatieElisa]

Woo hoo, Jay and I are in the story! Can't wait to see what happens! :D

[oyaccount]

When did this happen? :eek:

Don't deny it, you know when it happend! You bought one of his golden nuts I was selling! :D

[fatmanhouse]

Lol *takes axe* *castrates your golden nuts* >_> Be happy i didnt use my golden scissors of death O_O

[fatmanhouse]

You obviously haven't met Oya or Bloody. Actually, this craziness is perfectly natural.

Gosh darn right it is...umm ISNT!I think O.o Umm *** we talking about?O.o
Bedazzled by my golden nuts?=O

[roxca]

Don't deny it, you know when it happend! You bought one of his golden nuts I was selling! :D


What? LIES! D:<

[cruel-angel]

Come on guys leave the nuts out from this thread and give her time to create! O.o

...

...

...

Have you created yet?

[stonecoldsoul]

I know

But I thought it was for BloodThirstyBat xD

I'M SOWWY !!!

Q.Q

Bats has one killpoint... It could have been my ebil twin :D

[bladeboyaj]

I love this story!!!!!!!!!

[hogashoshiro]

This story just keeps getting better and better! :D Keep up the great work! And Yays I'm in the story! ^.^ Made me happyfull. :)

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 11

Trouble Again




“Incoming!!” I yelled.

Lucky held his sword and shield ready, poised to strike the trail of Karasans. I sped past him, at that moment he lifted his sword and slammed it into the ground. Shockwaves ruptured outward, taking hold of the mobs. “GO!” he yelled.

Rizer lifted his axe above his head and slammed it downward, hacking through the forest of bodies. Jay followed up with his own attack, pulling his axe horizontally through the karasans. The other archers and I took aim and released our green tipped arrows into the mob. Anna and Akren stood a bit in the back, chanting their healing spells.

Before the mob was done, Roxpi started off for the next mob of karasans, running toward the large group in the distance and shooting off her arrows at the first row. She trailed them back to the waiting fighters.

“Get ready!” she called. The new wave of Karasans were immediately caught up within the attack. She flipped around and barreled her attack at the monsters.
Suddenly, Rizer leaped back in surprise. “Roxpi! Where’d you get this trumpy?!?”

“Wha?” Jay slashed through a Karasans. “What you talking about? This is Passage of-whoa!” his sentence was cut off as another trumpy stabbed at him with his spear.

Jay quickly countered, hooking the spear with his staff and twisting it in half. “Rox! Your mob’s full of trumpies!”

“Mob’s losing stun! Quick, hit them!” Lucky called out.

“They can’t be losing the stun…” I said. “It lasts longer than that!”

“Well you tell that to the Karasans~” Lucky replied. He then ducked out of the way of a white spear. “And the trumpies!”

“Shadow!” Akren cried out. “I got that one!” She left her spot and charged straight into the mob. Raising her hammer, she slammed it down on the back of a shadow mage. Bone cracked underneath the mage’s robe. The mage stumbled around, raising its staff and ready to send a burst of magic at the cleric. She swung her hammer around, smashing it into the side of the mage’s face. The force hit him and cracked his neck. “Akren! Behind you!”

A karasan had broken free from the stun. Just barely it raised its sword to impale the cleric before a large chunk of ice collapsed on top of it, crushing it underneath with its surrounding comrades.

“Pull back Akren!” Shiro called at her.

“Nu-uh! No way!” she replied, slamming her hammer into the forehead of a stunned Karasan. “I’m having waaay too much fun!!”

“Trumpy on your left!” Katie called out. Lucky spun around, and stabbed his sword through a gap between the trumpy’s armor. “What in Isya are trumpies- yikes!”

A hard object had slammed into her back. Not enough to hurt her, but enough to startle her from her concentration. She spun around, expecting to see a lightning vivi that had snuck up to the line of archers and mage.

The grinning face of a Phino stared back at her. She stood there, perplexed. Clumsily, the phino pulled back its wooden hand for another swing. She easily sidestepped out of the way, aimed her crossbow, and fired off an arrow that split through the wooden puppet’s neck. The head snapped off and fell with a thump. “What in Isya are phino’s doing here??”

“Kill first, ask questions later,” Rizer replied, hacking through the mob with his axe.

--

Bloody twirled his sword around, doing a series of fancy and complicated fencing techniques. The fighter in front of him tightly gripped the handle of his shield. “You’re cookied aren’t you?” he seethed.

“Me? No, not right now,” Bloody answered. “But I can be if you want me to.”

The fighter furrowed his brow in anger. “You killed…my entire party…”

“I kill jerks,” Bloody answered. “They were acting like jerks.”

The fighter’s face contorted in anger. He charged forward.

Bloody stood his ground, waiting for the fighter to draw close. The fighter raised his sword and swung vertically. Bloody dodged to the left, plunging his sword into the opening between the shield and the sword. The blade scraped against the chest plate, sliding up to the fighter’s face.

The fighter flinched as the tip of the blade slashed into his chin. With his shield, he shoved Bloody back. Bloody stepped back, and measured the counter with his weight, pushing back on the shield. He raised his sword and hacked at the fighter’s face.

The fighter blocked off the incoming blade with his own sword. The swords slid down against each other, coming to a stop and locking on the hilts. Bloody pushed his sword further down, trying to overwhelm the fighter.

Crouched against his shield, the fighter struggled against Bloody. He shut his eyes, concentrating against the blade. Then he slipped onto his back, and with his leg, kicked upward into Bloody’s stomach, throwing the Pker up and over himself.

“Agh!” Bloody flew over the fighter and slammed onto the ground on his back. He shot a look up at the fighter, who had raised his sword above him, ready to split Bloody in half. Bloody rolled out of the way as the sword came down, and with his own weapon, slashed forward at the fighter’s legs. He drew a deep cut under his knees.

The fighter yelled in pain, and fell on his knees. Bloody scrambled up, and dove his sword into the fighter’s chest. In a furtive throw, the fighter blocked the attack with his shield. Bloody rushed in, threw the shield aside with his free hand, and plunged the sword into the fighter’s stomach.

He screamed in horror, seeing the blade run clean into him. In a wave of grandeur, Bloody yanked out the sword and plunged it in again. The fighter fell, taking in shaky breaths of air.

Bloody stabbed one last time, ending the fighter of his misery.

“No good challenges these days,” Bloody sighed, wiping the blood on his sword onto the dead fighter’s armor. “I’m getting bored.”

The dead fighter made no answer, immediately warping out. Bloody watched him respawn in the distance, escaping through the portal. “I hope he brings in more people,” he said.

“Maybe this will perk your interest,” Bloody glanced over at his friend, a female fighter. “Take a look at this godly weapon.” She said.

She pulled out a sword from her bag, a large two-hand. “What, are you serious? A Two hand?” Bloody grimaced. “those are fail weapons, no matter how godly.”

The fighter grinned. “Don’t be so sure of that,” she replied. “Take a look at the stats infused in the blade," she handed it to Bloody.

Bloody took the weapon and pulled out his chatstone, holding it above the sword. A glitter of words coiled up and over the sword, relaying its special craftsmanship. “Ok, it’s godly yeah…but it’s still a two hand…” he said, reading off the information.

“Look at the raw damage.”

Bloody paused. “No way,” he said. He looked at his friend. “There’s no way it can be crafted to give this much damage.”

The fighter smiled. “Give it a try,” she said.

Bloody hefted the weapon in his hand. Sure, you could tell right away from the sleek design that it was powerful. It was heavy, but not too heavy to handle. The blade was razor sharp, and the enhancement was the highest grade possible.

“Well ok, let’s see…” Bloody turned around and searched the area for his next victim. Most of his friends were already busy picking fights with anyone else in the immediate area, meaning no current challengers were available. Then he spied a male archer in the distance, solo kiting a mob of karasans.

Bloody started off for him. The archer was just about finishing up his mob when Bloody reached him. “Hey archer!” he called out.

The archer shot a quick look at the person who had called him, and saw an enormous blade rushing up to him. With a startled cry, he furtively ducked from the attack, but fell into the remainder of his mob. A karasan swept his sword across the archer’s chest, cutting through the thick leather armor.

Bloody swung the sword horizontally into the mob, decapitating a karasan in a single blow. For a split second he stood there, shocked at the power, then swung the sword again at another karasan that had snuck up behind him. He cleaved right through its arm.

“Hey!-” the archer aimed his bow at Bloody, and released a charged arrow. Bloody swung the blade around, cutting through the arrow and splintering it in half. He grinned.

He swung the blade downward, slashing into the archer. The archer stumbled backward, howling in pain. He collapsed onto the ground, cringing in pain as he held his injured shoulder.

Bloody slashed again, the force of the attack throwing the archer back. In his glory, bloody slammed the blade into the remainder of the karasans, cutting then all down.
When the last body had collapsed into a heap around him, Bloody stood where he was, staring at his new weapon. “Impossible,” he breathed.

The archer had warped out and respawned, running for the exit, but Bloody didn’t care. He turned back to his friend. “Where in Isya did you get this??” he asked.

The girl grinned. “I knew you’d like it,” she said. “It’s a gift from my guild,” she replied. “A gift to you.”

“To me?” Bloody marveled at the weapon. “What for?”

The fighter put her arm around Bloody’s shoulder. “We want you to join us,” she said.

Bloody tore his eyes from the weapon. “But…I’m already in a guild…”

“Oh please, your guild is weak,” she retorted. “Someone of your power and grandeur belongs with us.”

Bloody gave her a curious look. “What makes you say we’re weak…?” he asked.

She rolled her eyes. “Bloody, this guild of yours has been around for a long time, correct?”

“Well, yeah…”

“Along with some of the other so-called top guilds…guilds that no one would dispute their power, right?”

“Right…”

She smiled. “Wrong.”

She patted him on the back. “Don’t miss out on the opportunity of a lifetime, Bloody. These guilds are going to rise above every other guild…”

“Guilds….as in plural?”

She nodded. “Yup. They only take the best. Let the weak die out.” She pointed at the sword. “There’s more where that came from, lots more…”

Bloody hesitated. “I…don’t know…”

“I understand, you need time to think,” she replied. “Take all the time you need. Go ahead and keep that sword; it’s yours. But, don’t take too long on your decision.”

--

“Oof!”

Arkedge had been unceremoniously tossed to the ground. “Hey!! You want a piece of me?” he shook his fist at the fighter that had just dropped him on the floor.

“Shut up Ark!” Trigger hissed. The two of them were surrounded by nasty looking pkers, each brandishing their weapons, which shined and glowed in the dim light. “Me first!!”

A chirpy mage stepped out from the group, and raised her staff. An orange ball of energy began to formulate at the center of the staff. Arkedge gulped.

Trigger raised his hand and created a plume of fire in his palm. “When she attacks, swing your sword,” Trigger whispered to Arkedge.

“What?”

“Just do it-now!”

The mage released her energy at the two of them; at the same time Trigger threw the ball of fire onto the ground. Arkege pulled his sword into the flame, and the fire wrapped around the blade. He bolted up and swung upward. The raw energy from the mage flew toward Arkedge, and was caught in a net of fire. The shift of weight forced Arkedge to continue the swing up and around, creating a fiery vortex around himself and Trigger. At the peak of the swing, the ball of energy rocketed off his sword and few back at the mage.

It slammed into her at full force, sending her spiraling backward. Trigger raised his hand and summoned a pillar of ice to form around him and Arkedge. Then he slammed it down, crushing the group of people around him.

Thick steam rose from where the cage of fire had come in contact with the ice. Trigger grabbed Arkedge’s hand and they escaped through the cloud.

They fled away from the group. “How did you know that would work?” Arkedge asked.

Trigger shrugged. “I didn’t. I just had a hunch.”

“And…if it didn’t work?”

“Then we’d probably both be dead,” Trigger replied.

“Oh jeez…I don’t know if I should applaud you for that brilliant idea, or kick your butt for nearly killing us!”

“Applaud me,” Trigger said. “I like that option better.”

“Heh, well I-whoa!!” Arkedge skidded to a stop. “Where’d she come from??”

The mage who had attacked them earlier was standing in front of them. Battered, bruised, and very, very angry.

Trigger gaped. “Oh, this can’t be good…”

[cruel-angel]

WOOT! Go Athy!

I just wuv this stowy! <3

[cahsandra_devenya]

yay I got to attack something ^^ I <3 this story and check back like everyday for updates! I'll be patient though *hides flamethrower behind back* I can wait...

[T3h_SyN]

That 2h... I demand it :O

All around a good chappie :3 Moar nao pl0x?

[allan-armageddon]

Trigger and I could handle that mage no problem >.> Finish the fight D:< I demand moar.

[fatmanhouse]

Lol niiiice...BUT HEY D:< You had to go with the 2h didnt ya?>.>" I told you D:< i hate two hands dey for phails Q.Q

[roxca]

That 2H hell in a blade. x.x And more chapters please? :3

[Eternal_Doom]

This story sounds like fun. =o

Can I join? =]

Name: Flamewave (People just call me Flame)

Class: Mage

Summary: A Mage with a burning desire to help the noobies of Abyss, Flamewave tells the truth, keeps his word, and speaks out against injustice. He manages to keep calm in dire situations, and lives by the term "forgive and forget". Though he lacks self-confidence at times, he will always do what he can to make Isya a better place.

http://i289.photobucket.com/albums/ll226/ImageRocker/MageSet.jpg

^ Flamewave. =x

[allan-armageddon]

Lol niiiice...BUT HEY D:< You had to go with the 2h didnt ya?>.>" I told you D:< i hate two hands dey for phails Q.Q

I use a 2H ._. I'm not THAT big of a fail ._.

[Dragonfly77]

To all the applicants, you've all been approved. ^^ I'm still recruiting. Just know that with so many cameos it's going to take me a bit to give everyone a nice part in the story; so even if you only get a small mention now, you'll get something eventually.

And haha, everyone loves the 2h except Bloody...the one who actually got it...picky much? XD

But I digress, I'm no fighter. What is it about 2h that fighters hate so much? Aren't they just the slightly weaker/more accurate version of an axe?

[allan-armageddon]

I'm using it cause I've always loved the 2h whether in the game or not. You don't see Cloud using a small sword, thats right, he handles things with a huge Buster Sword, might I add, is a 2h. Ah huh, I'm going 2h, aah yeah.

[Eternal_Doom]

To all the applicants, you've all been approved. ^^ I'm still recruiting. Just know that with so many cameos it's going to take me a bit to give everyone a nice part in the story; so even if you only get a small mention now, you'll get something eventually.

And haha, everyone loves the 2h except Bloody...the one who actually got it...picky much? XD

But I digress, I'm no fighter. What is it about 2h that fighters hate so much? Aren't they just the slightly weaker/more accurate version of an axe?

I guess it's because it doesn't have as much damage as an Axe, they have higher aim, but Aim Scrolls can fix an axe's lack of it, and you can't use a shield with it.

They look pretty cool though. =P

[Dragonfly77]

Arkedge...you're not cloud...

Ohh...that gives me an idea =D

[allan-armageddon]

I AM CLOUD D:< Buster Sword ownage.

[fatmanhouse]

Lol take it from me 1h has speed/def axe has lower aim but get godly dex one with aim scroll its deadly...and well for 2h...I think its useless lol...it has more aim then an axe but the dmg is decreased by a lot too making it fail...xD athe take the 2h off me D:< i refuse to use one XD
Lol i agree with eternal_doom they do look kinda cool xD but phail dmg .___." Pker with 2h = fail Q_Q

[captaingammer]

By contrast, I enjoy stacking hits with a 2h. >_O Not missing once and gathering up DPS is the way I like to roll. Colonel would gladly have the 2h to counter-balance all the one-sided 2h hate. *Will not join in on the debate since everybody's mind is made up* ^_^

[fatmanhouse]

axe and 1h ftw >> BOOM SHACKA LACKA

[allan-armageddon]

I would take that 2h off your hands bloody, 2h is just the way i roll...*Unless I delete a character and make a tank*. But thats another story, I WANT MORE OF THIS STORY. 2h ftw >> BOOM BOOM, FIYA POWAH.

[Eternal_Doom]

*Grabs popcorn and waits for next chapter* Hurry up! D:<

[fatmanhouse]

Lol I acually do Have a 2h like that xD...Athe makes real events x3 you can have it XD if ur on Beeeejoooowwww

[allan-armageddon]

IM IN BIJOU I WANT THAT 2h!!!!GIMME PLERSEEEEEEE, still waiting Ath -_-

[fatmanhouse]

XD lol w/ bloody_asian when u got the time xD GoC +9 2h >> 29 str 30 spr 28 end x.x"

[allan-armageddon]

I am poor lol, I can't afford that o.o unless its free :3

[fatmanhouse]

Lol x_x only 3g x3 thats how much godly 2hs are worth >> *cuz they fail @_@*

[captaingammer]

Foodge. D: And I have to be on Apoline.

[fatmanhouse]

aww xD sucks x3

[Dragonfly77]

Haha, again, everyone wants that godly 2H except the one who actually has it. o.o

[allan-armageddon]

-__- I can't afford that, forget it lol. Come on, new chapter! Any way I can borrow it?lol.

[fatmanhouse]

Lol If i can find it out of all my +9s u can have it o.0 i have no use for a 2h XD

[allan-armageddon]

Gimme gimme gimme please. Still waiting ath :3

[fatmanhouse]

Lol char names?._.

[oyaccount]

3g for the sword!!

[allan-armageddon]

I am usually on AllanWolfheart :3 Whisper when your not busy :3

[fatmanhouse]

Lol x_x dont have it anymore lost that +9 when i was hacked XD...I do have a +9 50 blue axe and 2h for sale for 50g tho x3 care to bid?

[oyaccount]

BLUE? o.o oooolaalal may I try it? :D

[allan-armageddon]

Curse my poorness, no thanks, I don't bid anyways, go for it Oya lol.

[Dragonfly77]

My thread has turned into a Bijou Marketplace? O.o

(And chill, I'm working on the next chappie as I post this) ^^

Edit: You got any nice archer gears for sale? Marketplace isn't doing well for me. v.v

[fatmanhouse]

From 3 stated +9 - capped int i got all ur wares XD

[Dragonfly77]

Chapter 12

“No…”

Maghis lowered his head in despair. The long black hood swept over his eyes, shielding it from the dull glow of the large crystalline hoop that hung in front of him. He stood there for a long time, staring at the black water at his feet. “I can’t allow this…”

He rubbed his thumb across the wood of his staff. For so many years he had stayed here, lived out what was left of his life, casting the spells that would preserve the crystal, and sacrificing his very soul just to protect it. And now…

That man had made a threat. To the ones he loved so dearly.

He gazed at the black water. The surface shimmered back like polished obsidian. “Oh, my dear brother…” he quietly whispered. “What would you do?”

Deep down, he knew the answer, but he desperately wished there was another option. His eyes traveled up to the large hoop, gleaming white energy, vibrant against the dark shadows that engulfed the hall around him.

He shook his head. There were so many things he regretted doing in his past. He had not known any better, and now he had paid dearly for that price.

He turned from his spot, firm in his final decision. He did not like it, but compared to what was bound to happen eventually, it was the lesser of the two evils. Sacrifices had to be made. He just hoped, that in the end, he would be forgiven.

He slowly made his way back to the small line of huts in the distance. The joyous screams of laughter from the children brought tears to his eyes. “No one should have to live in a place this dark,” he whispered. “Thank Teva that they are so blissfully ignorant of what is going on around them.”

Sometimes, the very interworking of the world should not be tampered with.

--

Arkedge couldn’t believe the position he was in. He was pinned down on the floor by his own shield, the only thing blocking his body from the staff of a very, very angry mage. The staff was riveting with magical energy, and Arkedge knew that if at any moment the magic was released at this close of a distance, he would most likely be blasted into the floor. “How many strength cookies did you eat??” He asked the mage.

She grinned a sadistic smile. “I didn’t eat any,” she sneered.

“Hard to believe,” Arkedge grunted. “Your breath’s very strong.”

She glowered at Arkedge, pushing against her staff even more.

“A little help, Trigger??” Arkedge asked, desperately pushing back against his shield.
“I’m trying!!” Trigger yelled back, conjuring two balls of electricity in his hands. For the last ten minutes since Arkedge went down, he had been trying to overwhelm the mage. But none of his attacks seem to have any kind of affect against her.

Trigger closed his eyes, willing more electricity to gather in his palms. Finally, at the peak of its power, he clenched his fist, and a layer of flame enveloped each hand. When each firebolt was at its full potential, he brought his hands together, and another layer of magic formed above it, this time ice. The sphere of energy began to grow, with the spells interlocking within each other. His eyes flared open, “Anaka jei beshya fa!!!” he pushed the energies forward, and a spear of red, blue, and yellow flew head-on to the mage.

She looked up, and saw the attack coming straight at her. She narrowed her eyes, and stretched out one hand toward the attack. A light blue shield formed in front of her. The spear slammed into the shield, and dissapitated, both skills canceling each other out.

Trigger stood there, stunned. That was the most powerful skill he knew; it was not even one of the common spells that was taught in the Mage Hall, but one of the ancient magicks. Some of the strongest mages in Isya couldn’t even come close to duplicating it. And yet, she had completely destroyed it.

She withdrew her hand back, and a ball of white energy formed at her fingertips. Trigger’s eyes widened as he realized too late what she was going to do.

She lurched her hand forward, and Trigger was flung into the air. He slammed into a curved pillar of stone, that cracked upon impact. He collapsed onto the ground, not moving.

“TRIGGER!!” Arkedge cried. The mage waved her hand, and the cracks on the pillar widened.

The top portion of the pillar split off from the rest. Then it broke off, and plummeted on top of Trigger. It shattered into large of boulders as it hit the floor, burying Trigger.

“NO!!!” Arkedge furtively struggled against his shield. The mage turned back at him. “Now to finish you,” she smirked. Her staff began to glow with energy. “Oh no,”
Suddenly her body lurched. Arkedge stopped, realizing that she was no longer pushing against his shield. The magic in her staff had also disappeared.

She rolled off to the side, falling to the ground. A small pool of blood began to gather around her.

Arkedge pushed himself up. “Wha?” he saw the feathered end of an arrow sticking out from her back.

He looked up, and in the distance saw an archer. A wave of relief washed over him. “Oh wow…thanks so much…”

The archer said nothing, but loaded another arrow and aimed at Arkedge.

“Um…”

She fired the arrow. Arkedge scrambled to put his shield in front of him. The arrow pierced his shield at the spot above his head, cutting a large hole into the metal.
Arkedge peered over the top of his shield, seeing the archer getting another attack ready.

“I knew this was too good to be true…”

--

Trigger cringed as the yellow respawn light slowly faded around him. He was sprawled on the ground, too weak to stand. He had made it, but barely.
His head was spinning, and a sharp pain stung at him with every breath of air he tried to take. He fumbled his pockets for a heal stone, immediately absorbing one.
He pushed himself up, sitting against the wall. The stone hadn’t healed him entirely, so he withdrew his bag and pulled out a large flask of red liquid. He downed the contents, returning the empty bottle to his bag.

He shook his head, trying to clear it. After he had hit the floor, something very strange had happened. He had died, he knew that, but it was what happened after he died.

His spirit lingered around his body, just as it was supposed to. He knew he could only hold onto this world for two minutes, before his body would warp. Whether it would take his spirit with it or not, was always the tricky part of respawns.

But…

It didn’t make sense. After the first minute had passed, some kind of black energy began to accumulate around him. At first, he thought it was the Abyssmal Energy. He had felt it before, a long time ago, before he was revived by a cleric.

But yet this one seemed different. Trigger dug out another health stone, absorbing it and feeling the last bit of his strength return.

He had panicked. He didn’t want to turn into a nameless shadow of the abyss, so he fought against the energy’s pull.

Respawning right then might save him, but it might also strengthen the hold of the Abyssmal energy on his soul, ripping it away from his body. The link would then have severed, before being reconnected with his body by the energy, and inevitably turning him into a shadow.

He shivered at that thought. Athemis had told him about shadows. They were the trapped souls of people who had died in the Abyss. Unable to control their new bodies, they attacked anything that came their way. It was a never ending fight; the soul could not control the energy, and the energy could not control the soul. For all eternity, it would aimlessly wander around the abyss, until it spotted another target to kill.

No one really knew the exact answer of why they fight, or the actual process of how shadows were formed; just that if the energy succeeded in getting a good strong hold on the soul, you wouldn’t respawn.

He had done the only thing he could think of. Before the energy got any stronger, he forced a respawn. It was scary, willing his soul to release hold of the body, and into the vortex of dark energy. Thankfully, it had worked. The energy did not have a strong hold of him, and his body had pulled his soul back in, before it warped off to respawn.

He looked over at the respawn spot, worried about Arkedge. He hadn’t respawned, meaning either he was still alive, or he was at the moment wandering around as a shadow. He hoped it was the former.

Trigger dug into his pocket to retrieve his chatstone, immediately realizing that it wasn’t there. That fighter still has it…

He stood, stretching the crinks in his neck. This wasn’t good. Cut off from the rest of his party in the middle of the abyss, with pkers haunting around every corner, and maybe even residue energy still left in his body, with who knows what happened to Arkedge…

His eyes traveled up the flight of stairs to the shifting shadows of people running amuck in the abyss. They hadn’t noticed him yet, but when they did…

This wasn’t good. Not at all.

--

Another arrow slammed into the pillar Arkedge had taken refuge behind. There was no way he could get close enough to the shadow archer to land an attack, and at this rate, his best hope of survival was to duck behind pillar after pillar in an attempt to escape.

A blast of energy ripped into the stone a few inches above his head. Small pebbles rained down on him. If he stayed here, the pillar would most likely collapse on top of him, so he had to move out soon; exactly what the shadow archer wanted him to do.
He peered around the corner, to the pile of rubble in the far distance. By now Trigger must have respawned; whether his soul stuck to his body or not, and if he was still alive, Arkedge had no idea.

Another arrow whizzed toward him. He withdrew back just in time, with the arrow flying past where his face had been only a few seconds ago. He took a deep breath. He had to make a run for the next pillar right now.

He readied himself, waiting for the instant the archer would shoot her next attack. He listened for the twang of the bowstring before he sped out of his hiding place and ran for the next pillar.

Arrows flew down at him, trying to pin an attack on Arkedge. He dodged each arrow, leaping and ducking each attack. “Yea-ha-ah-he-ha-he-ha-yeah!!!!!” He dove for the pillar, right when an arrow sliced through the sole of his boots.

The archer bombarded his new hiding place, trying to drive him out. Irritated, Arkedge reached down and yanked the arrow out of the bottom of his boot. He was about to fling it out before he stopped. He had noticed something on the arrowhead.
It was tipped with a white liquid. This struck Arkedge as odd; any liquid in an arrow should either be bright green or brownish green; the color of the poison within the arrow.

A small drop of liquid trickled down. Arkedge slowly held it out, letting it drop to the floor. He half expected something to happen, maybe for it to burn the ground or something. Instead, it fell down as a droplet and stayed there.

Arkedge looked back at the arrow, and then his boots. He blinked. The part of his boot that had caught the arrow was charred black. He carefully traced the edge with his finger before he pulled back in surprise; it had stung him.

Another blast slammed into the pillar he was behind, reminding him where he was. Quickly he pulled out a piece of leather he had picked up earlier, and wrapped it around the arrowhead. He placed the arrow in a pocket of his armor.

Blast after blast kept slamming into the pillar. Arkedge readied himself to run off for the next pillar, but stopped. The hallway kept going until it dropped down a cliff face. This was a dead end.

Another thing he had noticed was that the attacks had stopped. Maybe the shadow had given up and gotten bored, and left him alone? It was unlikely…

He decided to risk it, and peered around the edge of the pillar. What he found was an arrow aimed right at his head.

He cringed, slowly backing up. The archer had stopped attacking, yes, to draw in for a close attack. The cold dead expression haunted with one motive in its eyes: kill.
Arkedge immediately slammed his sword into the ground, hoping to create enough shockwaves to rupture the archer’s concentration. Instead, the archer back flipped into the air, twisting and turning, then landing safely out of the pit. She drew back on her bow.

A large blade suddenly cut through the archer’s midsection, and the archer collapsed, falling down dead. Another fighter stood behind the archer, brandishing a large two-handed sword. He had black hair, with his signature demon wings on his back.

“Yikes…thanks a-I mean, I had everything under control, I didn’t need any help,” Arkedge replied coolly, sheathing his sword. “But thanks anyway.” He glanced at the weapon. “By the way, nice sword…”

The other fighter grinned. “Thanks,” he said, hefting the large weapon.

Arkedge peered at the guild emblem on his shoulder. “Oh neat, I have a friend that’s in your guild,” he said.

The other fighter nodded. “that’s nice,” he said. Then he lifted his sword and swung at Arkedge.

Arkedge immediately pulled his shield up in a block, taking three steps back from the force of the attack. “What was that for??”

The fighter smiled, brandishing his weapon. “My name’s Bloody,” he said. “I’m a pker.”

Arkedge blinked. “Why me…?” he muttered, ducking from another swing.

[oyaccount]

I haven't seen myself in the near chapters at all ;/

[captaingammer]

Edit: I should just keep my mouth shut sometimes. -.-

What a riveting chapter! Normally I give pointers on how to improve action scenes, but I think you've got that down. Of course, being the lover of boring plot that I am, all of the detail about how one becomes a shadow was really cool as well.I was kind of hoping to see that whole thing play out to an end, but hey, I guess you need to please your PKing constituents.

I just know that Bloody is going to get his by the end of this story. At least by narrative standards he SHOULD. >_O

[Eternal_Doom]

Very good chapter! ^^

I loved the way Bloody randomly came out of nowhere and started attacking Arkedge. =]

[fatmanhouse]

Im so bad *** XD!!! >=D

[fatmanhouse]

BLUE? o.o oooolaalal may I try it? :D

XD WELLLLL if u got 50g then yes XD

[Daevor]

12 hours have elapsed, and still no sign of chapter 13 ._.

[allan-armageddon]

WHOA WHOA WHOA, I thought I used a 2h in game ._. Guess I was lying to myself all this time.. BTW, I am no match for bloody >.> Either I die, or Ath comes in and tells him to stop. ._. Bloody is all mighty powerful, and I, I can't beat a Shadow ;~;

I'll have you know that I got pwned by a slime, the most vicious of monsters.

[Dragonfly77]

Well...um...you were farming that day so you brought your one hand and shield, instead of your two hand? ^^'

[allan-armageddon]

Lies, I haven't farmed once lol. But, I am anticipating this battle, Bloody. Don't be distracted Ath, keep up the writing!!

[fatmanhouse]

xD - I wanna fight u main allan xD...and *hands u my 2h* u can have it XD

[oyaccount]

I think it would reflect better on you if you took the time to comment on the story instead of just hitting alt-f and looking for your name. Just my two cents.

What a riveting chapter! Normally I give pointers on how to improve action scenes, but I think you've got that down. Of course, being the lover of boring plot that I am, all of the detail about how one becomes a shadow was really cool as well.I was kind of hoping to see that whole thing play out to an end, but hey, I guess you need to please your PKing constituents.

I just know that Bloody is going to get his by the end of this story. At least by narrative standards he SHOULD. >_O

Hm, what are you talking about? I read the whole story, and Athy knows how much I love this story and I check through it for new chapters and read it right away, EVERYDAY. So please, I think it'd reflect better on you if you'd just not scream at people you don't know a damn thing about. Just my 2 cents.

Btw, damn you Bloody! I HAVE THE RIGHTS TO TRY IT WITHOUT PAYING! :P

Keep on going Athy, you know you rock! o.o

[Dragonfly77]

I decide what happens to that 2H, Bloody!! Not you!!

And @ Oya and Gammar...x.x

Oya tends to post things that mean something completely different than what he meant to say...you get used to it x3 Yeah, I know he's one of the biggest fans. He doesn't give me peace in /w when I'm ig. o.o And stop picking fights oya x.x You already picked a fight here. PLEASE NO MORE!! DX

[captaingammer]

*Sigh* Nobody pays attention to my main fan fiction series on here and the only feedback I've gotten was a PM telling me that my chapters are too long, then for some reason ended by telling me to update more. I was a little irritated at the time.

I apologize for my hastily written words. T_T

[allan-armageddon]

my fighter is easy, and boring for me, which is why I'm working on an archer <3

[fatmanhouse]

XD...Oya U NEVAHHH GET MAH BLUES D:< NEBAH!!!!And Athe T_T I dont wish to use a fail 2h x.x </3 as for u allan fight me archer with ur archer X3..Lol and I always get my epic pking scenes >:3 *unbeatable >:O* *no modesty what so ever <3*

[allan-armageddon]

Errr... is that the teapot boiling? *Runs*

[Dragonfly77]

Oooh!!~ I love tea!! Get me some!! =D

[allan-armageddon]

Get your own dang tea =.= and mine is boiling hot. *Breaks China Glass* ._.

[ichioutaiurufu]

thats a lot to read @_@ i'll read it later but for now...

Name: inutori (inu)
Class:mage
Summary about yourself: Im an awesometastic mage who helps people out and kills pkorz :3 sometimes I do ask for a friendly fight and I dont get all mad if I die even if it's in abyss. i got no charms and such so ya o: idk was dat gewd?

[Dragonfly77]

Approved. ^^ But like the other cameos, it's gonna take awhile before I can get a spot for you guys in the story

Get your own dang tea =.= and mine is boiling hot. *Breaks China Glass* ._.

Fine!! D= *drinks strawberry milk tea*

[allan-armageddon]

Hey hows the new chapter goin?:D

[Dragonfly77]

*looks up from msn chat* huh?

*Looks at Microsoft word, with AG story staring at me* um..

*looks back at msn* hmmm...

[Icetra]

o_o

*chants* Work...Work...Work...

:p

[captaingammer]

*looks up from msn chat* huh?

*Looks at Microsoft word, with AG story staring at me* um..

*looks back at msn* hmmm...

You are so very not alone. O-O *Looks back at online class homework* Er... ^^;

*Offers tea, some munchies, and a pillow*

[Dragonfly77]

You are so very not alone. O-O *Looks back at online class homework* Er... ^^;

*Offers tea, some munchies, and a pillow*

*Gratefully accepts*

[oyaccount]

PFF! *Tackles in your little picnic party and ruins everything*
NO BREAK FOR ANYONE OF YOU! NOW GET BACK TO WORK. *Drinks your tee and throws the rest in a lake*

What are you still doing here? GET TO WORK DAMNIT! =P

[fatmanhouse]

*shoves a chainsaw up oya's *** >.>* Work faster now writer slave D: T_T

[T3h_SyN]

Wow...

The sheer lack of words i can find to describe your lack of patience is astounding. But... *puts on srs bsns face* Ath, where am next chapter!?!

[captaingammer]

*walks by and slips a box of chocolates under Ath's keyboard*

[Dragonfly77]

...

...

.........

*takes box of chocolates and flees :3*

Wheee~ Bahamas!!

[allan-armageddon]

*Bashes Ath in the head with a coconut*No bahama, its writting time :3 *Kicks box of chocolates into water*