Duskbound

The afternoon sun surrounded the town square with bright, vibrant orange and yellows, painting the setting for the soon to be, execution. Many townspeople had gathered, although there were always people that managed to slip the cracks and somehow avoid coming out to these sort of events. Hainer stood there, silently observing his surroundings and the people around him. “What’s on your mind?” His grandpa asked. Hainer simply didn’t respond, continuing to stand there, arms folded. The crowd continued to murmur, until it slowly drowned to complete silence. Approaching the wooden stage, was the Mayor, alongside several guards and the executioner. The guards were dragging along a man in hand cuffs, his hair a mess, and sweating. His clothes and face were dirty, He wore the typical black hood, and wielded a massive blade. Hainer stared at the steel weapon, thinking about many it must’ve been soaked in blood. Better yet, if the executioner even thought twice before slicing off someone’s head. “You know, some would say execution is probably the best way to go. As opposed to drowning or hanging, I mean.” His grandpa said, catching Hainer staring at the executioner. Hainer remained silent, watching as the Mayor’s crew waltz up to the stage. The handcuffed man was instructed to get onto his knees by one of the guards, who stood around the stage. He looked almost defeated, his hands tied behind back and head cowering. It was his last few moments of his life, and the poor guy had to face his fate in front of the town as if it were a spectacle. Even Hainer felt sorry for the man.

“Standing before us today, is Keith Lark Jr.” The Mayor’s voice suddenly boomed, everyone’s attention now situated at the stage. “A talented man. A brother, father, and a loving husband.” The Mayor paused. Hainer looked around to see if he could point out the man’s wife or children, however, there were far too many people present for him to pinpoint who it could have been. Sure, the dead giveaway would have been to find a woman that crying, but there were several people crying which made it difficult to narrow down. “I remember when he was just ye’ big, looking into his eyes I saw a boy full of potential. The potential to accomplish many great things.” He took another pause. “However, somehow and somewhere, this man took a wrong turn. A turn that did not lead him down the path to finding this potential, but the path towards ruin!” The Mayor shouted, pointing his finger at Keith. The man sat there on his knees with a blank look on his face, continuing to remain silent. “And so he stands here today, his life reaching the end. Giving me no choice but to punish him for his witchcraft, and occult magic.” The Mayor paused, as the crowd began to murmur. Hainer raised a brow himself. He had heard rumours about someone who had been doing something witchcraft-related of the sorts, but had no idea it was this man named Keith. “Keith,” The Mayor continued. “Have you any last words?” He asked, giving the man a somewhat kind gesture. Hainer figured it was due to the Mayor knowing Keith since he was a kid, as usually many execution victims just face the blade without any last words.

The crowd’s murmurs slowed down, becoming more quiet in anticipation for Keith. He, however, remained silent for a few seconds. The Mayor stared at him for a few moments, waiting to see if he was going to say anything.

“This…town.” Keith started to speak, his head lowered. If it wasn’t for the fact that Hainer was watching near the front, it would have been nearly impossible to hear him speak. “This town, will soon meet its end.” He said, a bit louder. The crowd remained silent, as did the Mayor. “The Mayor, the townsfolk…you are all going to end with the same bloody fate as I.” He spoked again.

“Is that a threat? There’s nothing you can do as a dead man, Keith. I expected you to say something as least somewhat meaningful, upon facing death.” The Mayor said, disappointed in the man.

“I’m not going to do anything.” Keith’s head suddenly lifted, staring at the Mayor. “It’s them you need to worry about.” He said, facing away from the Mayor, towards the crowd.

“What? The townsfolk?” The Mayor scoffed.

“No, not the townsfolk, you pompous bastard. What lies beyond the city.” Keith looked past the crowd, and towards the forest covered mountains in the not-so far distance, beyond the City of Ivesburg. “They are coming, and they are going to feast.” He then looked at the crowd. “Every single one of you is going to die, and this cowardly man won’t do a damn thing to protect you!” Keith suddenly shouted, almost in a manic state. He became flustered, attempting to free himself by standing up and squirming his wrists to let loose from his cuffs. Suddenly the crowd began to talk loudly, also getting into a panicked state, in response to what Keith was saying. Without letting it get any further, the Mayor signalled the guards to hold Keith. They put him back on his knees, as he struggled to get out of their grasp. The Executioner suddenly swung his blade once the guards manhandled Keith into position, slicing off his head. The crowd gasped at the gruesome sight, his head falling clean off, and the stage dripping with red.

“Everyone calm down!” The Mayor shouted. “He is just spouting nonsense! The man was on his deathbed, he would have said anything to get out of this execution!” The Mayor shouted once again, staring at the crowd to clam them down. “I promise you, that you are safe!” He shouted.

Hainer was admittedly taken a back by the whole situation, especially the sight of Keith losing his head. He glanced around at everyone talking amongst themselves, also in a state of worry.
 
Fatima brushed against people, unable to avoid hitting any of the others joining the flow towards the town square. She kept either hand on the hilt of her club and the other securing her bag, anyone could attempt to pickpocket her in this bustling river of activity. She made her way through the crowd, muttering apologies with a heart-warming smile as she made her way towards the middle of the crowd, yet close enough to see the set stage. If she had any time for theatre, she would’ve thought this a play in motion, but it was not – it was reality. She bristled at the thought of seeing the stage being painted a red colour or yet seeing a body dismembered of its centre control. Best not to dwell on it, she shutter the thought away and turned her full attention to the front.

There. Fatima’s gaze shifted to the Mayor to the guards, then to the unkempt man in shackles. The only sounds being their footsteps with the company of clanging metal. She subconsciously gripped the hilt of her club hard, drawing her knuckles into a white. The atmosphere was tense with heavy sombre. Fatima’s eyes never wavering from the entourage that finally made it atop the platform. To say she was innocent in never seeing an execution would’ve been a fat lie, Fatima saw her share of executions that happened while she was still a child. She came to the conclusion it was another show of what happens to those who oppose the higher-up’s and to keep fear instilled in the people that are the very foundation of this backwards city.

Keith Lark Jr?’ Fatima probably heard of the man in idle conversation, but he wasn’t a big deal – at least not until now. She looked around her, hearing the cries of her fellow citizens, ‘Did they know him?’ She suddenly wondered. This man likely had built a livelihood within the city, probably knew a fair share of the people he’s come to interact with or even neighbours. She return her attention to the front, hearing the accusatory tone from Donsol, ‘Path of ruin?’ Her brows furrowed, the woman behind her had cried out a denial of the accusation said from the very mouth of The Mayor. Her eyes grew wide, ‘Witchcraft? Occult magic? Impossible!’ But it could very much be possible, the Mayor always had a witch hunt running—and those caught were just the unlucky few to get snatched into his talons.

Her thoughts running dry when this Keith started talking, “This town, will soon meet its end.” He said, loudly. Fatima kept on shifting her gaze from Keith to the executioner to Donsol. His next words, it seemed, lingered heavily on her mind, “The Mayor, the townsfolk…you are all going to end with the same bloody fate as I.”

What does he mean?’ Her thoughts on Nekrim now, ‘Where are you Old Man?’ Not a day gone by and she worried for him. “No, not the townsfolk, you pompous bastard. What lies beyond the city.” Fatima knew what he meant; she had a taste of the darkness that lurked just beyond the borders of the city. Ivesburg wasn’t as protected as the people thought, it was always thinly veiled in protection and lies. “They are coming, and they are going to feast.” Fatima nearly jumped as Keith’s gaze flickered to the crowd, “Every single one of you is going to die, and this cowardly man won’t do a damn thing to protect you!” He shouted out. Fatima could hear the people gasp around her, the murmurs now into full-blown panic. She didn’t want to admit it, but this guy might be telling some truth—and her Uncle probably knew something about this. Was that why he left yesterday? Was that why he was secretive?

Suddenly, Fatima didn’t know if she could place trust in her only kin left. Did he think her so childish to not protect her own self? Her worries were but a grain in the sea of sand that surrounded her. As if the on-set panic wasn’t worse, the sudden beheading had nailed the final stage of panic in the coffin. His head went flying from his shoulders, landing with a thud to the wooden platform, blood had splattered onto the few in the front of the crowd. The disturbance had finished the scene, drawing the curtains in for a close, but not before a final bow…right?
 
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As the crowds coalesced in the square, Amalia felt herself drifting that way from the market in the river of people as if caught up on the current of humanity drawn to a site of morbidity, death, and the basest nature of people that caused them to stare at such an act. And yet, the girl was one of them, going along to watch the same as all the others.

Pale eyes drank in the scene. Locked on to each of the figures on the stage with an intense burning, a swelling mixture of curiosity and fear. Amalia long studied the face of the one fated to die. Pity, but also fear. Witchcraft? Her attention quickly turned to the leader, the one pontificating to the crowd. Pale eyes consumed every detail. Every crease in his face. Every mark.

“Have you any last wo—” the Mayor’s voice was abruptly stopped with a wet, guttural choke. The man reeled back a step, eyes bulging in shock as hands raised instinctively to find the shaft of an arrow plunged deep into the soft tissue of his neck. Undoubtedly a killshot.

Tracing the lineage of the shot led back to pale blue eyes, now staring with a dogged determination, broken only by the arrow rest of a crafted Dhenari bow.

Death comes when beckoned but rarely fills himself with the feast laid out, she heard the words of an elder echo in her ears as she felt the crowd turn against her in a fit a rage, grabbing and pulling until she was lost in a sea of violence.

A jolt in her back, another faceless onlooker bumping against her frame, jolted Amalia of her waking dream and brought her back to reality just in time to see the blade fall and the end of the man who would be a student of witchcraft. The panic that quickly fell over the crowd made her clench her fist again wishing the bow existed in more than just a dream.
 
Millicent drowned in the sea of people crowding all around her, shoving anyone that got too close to her, threatening them if they didn’t give her some space. Not many paid her any mind though, she would instead get bumped around until she suddenly fell to her knees.

“Agh!” She grunts. “Looks like I have to do this the hard way…” She gets down on her hands now and shuffles on the ground like a little toddler through people's legs to get to a better view, she wasn’t going to miss this execution even if it meant the risk of getting kicked in the head. But she managed to do so successfully, and quickly stood back up when she heard the mayor begin to speak. It was a better view, but still not perfect, she could only see partially what was happening up there through all the heads in the crowd.

Millicent was at a loss when the Mayor announced his offense after saying how much of an upstanding person this Keith Lark Jr. was. What was so wrong with magic? It never harmed her, never harmed her family, she never even really heard about it, it was so hushed. She figured if this magic was so blasphemous and destructive, it would be rampant in the streets killing people left and right. But it wasn’t, monster attacks and executions caused more deaths in a day than virtually anything, even illnesses. Not even the nasty, scheming men that she worked for used what little magic they knew to harm anyone, more so just used it for the creation of Salva. So what exactly made this man deserve to be put to death in front of the eyes of all, even his own family?

The man was silent for so long after being asked for his last words that Millicent figured he wanted to just go quietly, which disappointed her. If that were her up there, she would scream everything she ever wanted to say to this world at the top of her lungs, she wasn’t going to leave this world without giving it a piece of her mind. When he finally did begin to speak, slowly and softly, she strained to hear what he was saying. She was surprised when he began to speak more loudly and boldly, she was hanging on every last word he said. His cryptic threat to the Mayor and townspeople may have striked many with the assumption that he was speaking out of fear and cowardice, but Millicent knew that what he was saying was true. The Mayor did not protect his people, he never truly has, he was just as much a coward as the man that he was putting to death. Keith's last few words created a hysterical eruption in the crowd, but Millicent just laughed, she laughed because after all this time, her seemingly ‘irrational’ fear of these monsters that crept so closely by her home, were going to do exactly what she suspected.

The sudden sound of the blade thumping into the nape of this poor man's neck and the ghastly splatter of crimson blood, made Millicent jump. Then the roll of the decapitated head at the Mayor's feet put her into a fit of rage.

“You bastard! You will not get away with this!” She bellows, her hand held high in a fist. “The man spoke only the truth! When will you people learn?” She could almost feel tears in her eyes.
 
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The crowd was getting antsy, and the Mayor seemed to have been slowly losing his grip at easing the crowd, due to Keith’s antics. People began to shout obscenities, calling the Mayor a coward among other things, and overall exposing the man for what he was. “Everyone, just calm down!” He shouted, a bead of sweat trickling down his forehead. He was being put in corner, and it was honestly showing. “Guards!” The Mayor shouted, gesturing his lackeys on stage to march down towards the crowd in an effort to ease the crowd. They took an aggressive stance, taking out their swords in an attempt to keep the crowd at bay, and to avoid them doing anything that may have been deemed as unnecessary. Hainer took a step back once the guards approached, bumping into someone nearby on accident. He wasn’t even sure who to believe anymore, Keith or the Mayor. He knew that the Mayor had always been a bit of a swine, however, it wasn’t like Keith had any real validity to him either. “Listen up!” The Mayor attempted to take control of the crowd and garner their attention. “I know many of you have concerns, but I can assure you, that you are all safe!” The Mayor paused. “We have lived and thrived here for generations, and we have never been threatened by what’s out there! There’s a reason why these walls exist, and why they still stand!” The Mayor shouted, with a bit more confidence in his voice. He was of course referring to the city walls that have stood since its creation, and although Hainer hated the Mayor as much as the next person, there was some merit to his statement. The crowd began to silence, not speaking much as the Mayor talked, possibly finding some comfort in what he was saying. He looked at the crowd, before letting out a sigh of relief. “We’re done here. Everyone go home! I promise you, you are all safe.” The Mayor took out a small handkerchief, wiping off the sweat from his forehead, gesturing the guards to sheathe their weapons.

Slowly, people began to disperse from the crowd, ending today’s event. “So I guess that’s it?” Hainer’s grandfather spoke. Hainer didn’t respond, simply staring at the Mayor who began to walk off the stage. “What’re you thinking about?” His grandfather asked.

“Nothing. Why do you ask so many questions? Go home.” Hainer responded, looking at this grandfather.

“And what about you?” He responded back.

“I’ve got stuff to do, still. You guys go ahead and eat dinner without me.” Hainer began to walk off, leaving this grandfather standing within the slowly dispersing crowd.

~​

The sun began to set, the slowly the orange sky was becoming dimmer, and darker. It had been a long day, and quite an eventful one to say the least. The town’s lamps were beginning to get lit, and people still roamed the streets, mingling. Guards patrolled and did their rounds, torches held in hand as usual. Hainer sighed, relaxing in his chair, finishing off the last piece of bread and meat in front of him before pushing the plate away from him on the table to signify that he was done. “Can I get you anything else before I close up shop, Hainer?” A man spoke, approaching the table and grabbing the plate.

“No thanks, Sid.” Hainer responded, watching as the man took his plate and walked back into his deli shop. It was a nice little shop, with a seating area right outside, and Hainer enjoyed eating there and observe the people walking by. Not to mention the owner Sid, always treated Hainer with respect. He looked up at the sky, as it began to dim and get darker by the second. I guess I should be heading out, now. Nothing like a warm bed to go home to. He thought to himself, standing up and stretching out his arms. However, just as he began walking, he noticed a man - about Hainer’s own age, talking idly by himself. Almost as if he were preaching, or trying to get someone’s attention, however, people kept on walking by.

“You there!” The man shouted, trying to get Hainer’s attention. He wore white robes, although they weren’t very ornate or special. Hainer immediately recognized the robes from the Dawn Church, although the ones this man was wearing seemed to have been an extremely simplified version of what they usually wear.

“What do you want?” Hainer snarked, approaching the man. The man was taken aback by Hainer’s sudden hostility, however, he tried to regain his composure.

“Uhh Ahem -” He started. “Look out there!” The man said, pointing to the mountains in the distance.

“Yeah, what of it?” Hainer raised a brow, looking towards whatever it was the man was pointing at.

“Do you know what’s out there?” He exclaimed. “Do you know what wonders, extraordinary places lie beyond this city? Out there in the world?” The man talked in an almost excited tone, trying to pique Hainer’s interest.

“I don’t. Where are you going with this? Are you trying to sell me something?” Hainer crossed his arms, continuing to raise a brow. Although he had nothing against the Church, it had seemed they were always up to something.

“Sell you something? No, no my friend. Nothing as trivial as selling you materialistic wares. What I’m offering you, is an opportunity!” The man paused. “We are looking for people to join the Church of Dawn!” He exclaimed.

Hainer paused for a few moments before speaking. “I know who you are, but I’m sorry, I’m not interested. I may be curious, but I’m not that curious that I’d spend all my time with The Church.” Hainer concluded, beginning to walk off.

“But wait!” The man suddenly jumped in front of Hainer, to prevent him walking any further. “Don’t you want to learn more about the world? About existence and purpose?” He asked. Hainer just looked at the man, before attempting to walk around him.

“I’ll admit I’m curious, but like I said: I’m not willing to devote my entire time to the Church. I have things to do, and businesses to run.” Hainer put his hand’s on the man’s shoulder, pushing him aside and began to walk. However, just after a few steps, the man quickly stopped Hainer once again.

“Okay, well before you go, at least take this!” The man suddenly handed Hainer a letter, with the Church’s red seal of approval on it. Hainer just stared at it, trying to figure out what the man had just given him. “It’s a Letter of Approval. I’m only supposed to give them out to people who are interested, but as you can see, it’s getting dark out and I haven’t managed give very many out today. If i go back to the Church without meeting my quota, then I’m going to get scolded.” He then pointed to the letter in Hainer’s hand. “At least this way, I’ve given it to someone, and I’m not lying about what I did with the approval letters. Consider it a second chance, if you end up using it. Those with that letter, are able to take a tour of the Church and observe our teachings and sessions, for a day. I just ask that you think it over.” The man concluded.

Hainer slipped the envelope into his pocket, looking at the man. “Well, you’ve gone through the trouble of trying to convince me, so I’ll look it over when I get a chance.” Hainer of course, had no real intention of looking anything over, however, the man was persistent, and the last thing he needed on his plate was getting into an argument with a member from the Church. If there was anything he learned in his life, it’s that the Church always won its battles. Hainer looked at the man awaiting a response, however, he oddly stayed quiet as if he didn’t hear Hainer’s response. He noticed the man was looking at something. No longer was his focus Hainer, but for some odd reason, he stared upwards into the nighttime sky. “Now you’re ignoring me?” Hainer began to shout, irritated. “Hey! What’re you even looking at?” Hainer looked up at the sky too, and saw the gigantic moon, and shone in the sky. It was lustrous, and Hainer would even go as far as calling it beautiful on this particular evening. Upon closer inspection, he noticed what the man had been looking at. There were three shadows, of what seemed to be birds, circling the sky ominously in front of the moon. However, these shadows were way too big for any regular birds. Or at least, as far as Hainer’s knowledge went.

“Those…” The man suddenly started to speak. “T-Those shadows…” He stuttered, fear taking over his voice.

“Yeah? What about them?” Hainer asked.

“W-We need to get out of here.” The man said shakily, and looked at Hainer. His face was covered in worry, and he frantically looked around.

“Get out of here, for what?” Hainer responded. The man was shook, and it was clear the shadows had spooked him. Suddenly, a loud shriek echoed from above. It was eerie, and nothing like Hainer had ever heard before. It sounded similar to a bird, however, it was distorted in its own twisted way that not even Hainer could desrcibe. Almost demonic, so to speak. Hainer stared at the shadows, as did several other people nearby, including a few guards and shop owners who stepped outside to see what was going on.

“Wait, are they getting…bigger?” Hainer pondered, trying to get a closer look at them. The shadows were just as black as the night, and it made it difficult to pinpoint exactly what it was, even as they got bigger.

“No, not bigger! Closer!” The man from the Church shouted. Hainer’s eyes widened as he saw the shadows quickly disperse, with one of them descending incredibly quick right towards them. In what seemed to be a few short seconds, one of the shadows shrieked once again, and landed with a loud thud. Hainer nearly fell from the shock of what he was witnessing, as did the man from the Church right next to him. Hainer took a good look at the beast. It was a crow, but far more sinister, and the sheer size of it was what scared Hainer the most. It easily towered at 10 feet tall, and was covered in thick, black ink-like feathers. People began to scream and run, as the monster spread its monstrous wings and let out another shriek. Using it’s spear-like beak, the monster skewered a nearby citizen, and gripped the lifeless body with its talons and glanced around at the people running to find another prey.

Screams and shouts filled the town’s air, as several guards drew their weapons to fight against the Demon that had appeared in town. After all that talk about them being safe, it had turned out it was a lie, to nobody’s surprise. Arrows zipped through the air to kill the beast, as other guards drew their melee weapons to try and possibly hurt the beast close range if they could. Without thinking, Hainer quickly ran towards the nearby deli shop to hide, with the man from the Dawn Church hastily trailing behind him. However, before they could even reach the shop, he noticed Sid quickly closing the door behind him, locking it. “Damnit!” Hainer pounded his fists on the door out of anger. “Sid, open the damn door!” He pounded his fists once again. He understood Sid might have been scared, but surely he could have let them in? “There’s two more of these monsters roaming around town, what the hell do we do?” Hainer shouted at the man.

‘I-I’m not sure!” He looked around. “Maybe we can try to run while the monster is occupied!” He said. Hainer looked at the battle ensuing, and it looked extremely grim. A few guards were already dead, lying down in pools of blood, shred apart by the beast that breached the city from above. Hainer wasn’t sure what the outcome would have been if they ran, however, if they stayed in this one open spot, it would certainly spell doom for him and his ‘acquaintance’’.

“Let’s go! We’re dead if we stay here!” Hainer glanced around, and saw the lifeless body of a guard on the ground not too far away from them. Sadly, he met his fate, however, Hainer used this as an opportunity. He ran up to the body, and grabbed the bloodied sword the guard had been using. He wasn’t even sure if swords were going to work in he needed it, however, he figured some protection was better than no protection.
 
The ride was long. Boring. Tedious, and uncomfortable. Victus yawned for the umpteenth time that hour as the carriage he rode in made it's way down what the north would call a road. More dirt than stone really, but still a path from point A to B and the quickest way to Ivesburg. His summons was out of the blue, but the Church of Dawn had noticed an increase in demonic presence in the area and were having trouble bringing in believers with how busy the town had gotten. "If only they weren't so far north maybe they'd get more visitors." Victus spoke softly to himself, ever the optimist. His traveling sack rest beside him as he motioned to open it. His hand grasped the firmness of stale bread, lifting it out and taking a bite. It was meant to last him the trip and as he peaked over the front of the carriage he confirmed that they had finally reached their destination. Tearing a piece of the bread with his teeth he savored the flavor of it, the fact that it was stale didn't bother him in the slightest. It was food, and for that he was grateful; besides, he was the type of person to save everything he could till last which often led to a lot of stale bread.

"How often do you make the trip up here anyway?" Victus questioned the guide, startling the old man behind the reigns as previously Victus hadn't made a lot of conversation during the few days ride.

"Only once every few months." The guide uttered back, taking a breath to collect himself. "I try not to come out there, the cold really gets to my bones and well... There's some truth to the rumors of the monsters in the area. The way I see it, it's best not to chance it!" He shouted, turning his attention back to his guest. "But the church pays well and I owe them a favor for taking care of my family, but if you're ever in need of getting out of this place send a letter and I'll be along."

Victus nodded in response, stretching out his tired body from the ride. He was stiff, and the cold wasn't helping. He finished his bread and ran his hand through his beard to shake the crumbs out, eyes falling on the massive walls as a few lights in town drew his attention. For a frontier city, it was rather large and right by the ocean. It's intrigue made sense, and was probably bound to be an important trade center - that is, if it wasn't for all the nasty rumors. Sure, demon stories were common most places but this town was starting to get a reputation for it's governance. "And what about it's people?" Victus chimed in after a minute. "What can you tell me about them? I've seen the farmland, if it's at the ocean I'm sure there are trappers and fisherman but if you like to hear gossip.." He trailed off, looking to meet the guide's eye. "What have you heard about the executions?"

At this the guide's posture grew sullen, and it seemed he had difficulty meeting Victus in the eye. "It's a frontier city, what do you expect? A nasty lot of thieves and criminals out where they think the law can't find them." He spoke with a growing sense of confidence. "If it weren't for the executions I doubt anyone would feel safe here. Sometimes, an example just has to be made." The old man sighed as he finished the last part. He genuinely seemed to mean part of that, and Victus only grew quiet as he realized how different the environment would be here.

As they neared the entrance to the town Victus looked upwards, it was late but that was expected. What wasn't were the shadows that plagued the sky. "You should stop here, and turn back now." Victus ordered, his version of a "friendly" tone gone as he grew serious. No sooner had he got the words out his mouth than a shrill scream pierced the night. "Looks like the rumors were true, stay safe on the road old man." Victus was in a hurry as he leapt from the carriage with his gear in tow, traveling sack over his shoulder, weapons where they belonged and armor already set. One might say that's what made the ride so uncomfortable, but he refused to be unprepared and attacked on the road the way his family had been.

He took off running into the town, listening to the cries of human and demon alike. It didn't take long to find the origin, with blood already on the stones spilling from fresh corpses. One of the large beasts was there already, with two peculiar guests. A man who did not look like a solider, accompanied by an easily recognizable man of the faith. Looks like his job started immediately. "Brother! What can you offer to help? If nothing, stand aside and find cover but if you know even the smallest of magic stand behind me and we'll bring this creature down!" Victus shouted, he had no time for introductions or explanation - every second he spent now had one purpose. Save who he can.

As he got in front of the two, Victus wasted no time in throwing his traveling sack at the beast - it flew well but had no great impact as it fell aside harmlessly after hitting it across the beak. But it did it's job - he had it's attention and his hands were free to draw his shield and sword. He kept the shield in front of him, ready to block as he muttered a few words of incantation, preparing to bolster it's defense. This beat had talons and a beak whose sharpness was apparent from the corpses littering the floor, he would waste no time in ensuring it didn't get past his shield.
 
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Fatima shifted in her stance, taking the chance to move away from the stage when the townsfolk started calling the Mayor what he truly was. But it seemed Donsol still held sway over the people he was promised to direct in path of light, and not towards darkness. The giantess found her way, elbowing with apologies, towards the back and with the stragglers who were just now turning away from the enraged masses. She couldn’t wait around, listen to half-truths, and lies from the Mayor when she still had deliveries to make. With guards now equipped with their weapons, trying to control the crowd, Fatima slipped through the unguarded cracks and back into The Willows.

What a buncha pansies.’ She thought, her eyes scanning the addresses. There were actually fewer than she initially thought who needed a home delivery. It didn’t take long to make the final rounds and make her way back to the Hive; her perception of The Willows was not what was described to her. Fatima’s judgement, she admitted, was clouded by the fabricated stories of the townsfolk she cared so much about. And she corrected her image when she found nothing but a buncha people trying to survive in this mess of a city. She apologized to each patron about Nekrim’s absence, and they would need to wait until he came back from ‘vacation’ as she described it to them. Better to shroud the truth in half-truths than give them less hope to hang on to.

When she emerged from The Willows, she found the sun setting just beyond the city’s limits. Fatima cursed the Old Man for leaving her with orders, when she still had more of her own to fill. But the topic of Nekrim made her think about the execution again, and Keith’s initial state of alarm about those coming their way. She turned her head to the walls that enclosed the city in a concrete prison—as she thought it was. If the Demons were making a comeback, surly the Church of Dawn would handle it, right? All the donations should account for something, if they couldn’t protect the civilians from the darkness that lurked on its borders then who the hell would?

Fatima dismissed the thought as she trickled into the crowd, they were making their own way back to their homes. As was she, greeted by the emerald eyes that lurked in the darkness until she lit her own torches within the shops, the large, black panther was laying on the slab of a bed that Fatima made for her. Fatima pulled out left over Antelope she purchased a week ago and placed it in the metal bowl for Clawdia, “You better savor this last piece, Claw. I won’t be able to get you this expensive meat for another fortnight.” She said, the Panther seem to understand her companion as she took the time to bite into the meat.

The young Blacksmith placed her sack onto the hook by her forge, she went over to her work station—which was messy—and went over the details placed by a local farmer. Apparently, his livestock was getting ravaged by some strange creature, and he wanted to be prepared for the next time it struck. She rolled up her sleeves, exposing muscular forearms, and put her black apron back on with the pair of work gloves as she grabbed the newly-forged butcher knife from its resting place.

The sounds of clanging metal would continue as the night sky replaced the sunset. Fatima was ready to sharpen the blade, when the piercing screams of children sounded through the troubled night. She stopped in her tracks; her companion’s fur already risen at the sounds. Clawdia could sense something that Fatima couldn’t. The Blacksmith ditched the tools, and work attire to the aside, grabbing her club instead as she ventured out the door. Clawdia didn’t trail far from her side as the saw what no one should see. A black, beast that took shape of a crow, taller than anyone in the town, perhaps even the walls themselves! She gripped her hilt, the screams now more prominent as the nearby victims to the ugly thing started running in sheer panic. The unlucky few got snatched away in its claws, some literally torn to pieces by its beak.

“By the Light, what the hell is that thing?!” She yelled to no one in particular.

The Guardsman already taking the thing on, many were swept away on a date with death. All that training couldn’t have been for nothing, she looked down at Clawdia, meeting with the same gaze of agreement, “Don’t die on me, girl. The Old Man would have my head.” She spoke to the panther, in a farewell tone. If this was going to be their last night together on this earth, then they would go down with a fight. Clawdia was the first to leave, roaring out a screech as it joined the fight with the others. The confidence swelled in her, and the somber in her heart as Fatima lifted her club, yelling out, “It's clobbering time!” And into the fray she went.
 
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The execution steeled the young woman's resolve -- Amalia knew she had to get out of the city and back to the mountain before the insanity of this place consumed her. She'd watched as the people gathered in morbid curiosity and bloodlust to watch one of their own killed, then turn to panic and fear in the same breath before the man's lifeless body was cold. The city was a mob, a ruthless gang with a collective soul darker than a moonless sky. Amalia had once been fascinated by the city, now she wanted nothing more than to put it behind her and be with her people once more.

Carefully, the Dhenari woman laid out her belongings in the leather wrap spread across the bare floor of the dimly-lit room, making sure everything was accounted for. She then rolled the bundle, tying it carefully into a small, compact package. Into the backside of the wrap was sown a quiver so that the roll and quiver hung easily from her back and shoulder, smooth access and light traveling. Every Dhenari woman spent a good part of their childhood learning to make such quivers and Amalia was certain she could create another one with her eyes closed given the materials or anything like them.

The shriek, the otherworldly banshee squall summoned from the very depths, pierced the cool evening air and the cloth draped loosely over the room's open window. Instantly every muscle in Amalia's body tightened, frozen in alarm. The last time she heard such a sound, half a dozen Dhenari -- or what was left of them -- were returned home for the burning funeral rites.

The mob that was the city didn't stand a chance. She'd seen them turn to fear and useless panic at mere words of terror. Faced with the great danger, she knew their lot would turn to puddles without a moment's resolve. If she was going to escape the city, or if anyone was going to survive, those who could fight had to muster their arms.

Throwing the pack over her shoulder and grasping the finely-crafted shaft of the bow, Amalia Trelles contorted her limber frame through the open window and onto the rooftop, part of the interconnected row of rooftops spanning the city, a veritable elevated highway. Deft feet covered in cloth shoes as she sprinted from one roof to another, agile legs make the necessary leaps as she hurled her body toward the terrible sounds, dancing along the ridges until the sounds filled every sense, dulling out the rest of the world.

Sliding to a stop and dropping to one knee, Amalia brought the bow before her and dominant hand deftly drew an arrow from its quiver womb, notching it immediately. The horrible form of the creature was clearer than she had ever seen it, the lights of the city casting a harsh truth hidden by moonlight and heavy trees the last time pale eyes laid gaze on such a beast.

The arrow loosed, flying true toward the form of the beast. She quickly reached for another, but braced herself to flee if the great demon chose to give chase instead.
 
What a hoot!

Keetas paused to consider the phrase for a moment. The slang didn't make too much sense in his vocabulary, as he hardly ever brought terms from the Willows back to the higher districts, yet this strange saying had stuck. What's more, it applied. Seeing a long-forgotten acquaintance decapitated before his eyes—perhaps Keetas had pinched a tad too much Salva earlier in the day. None of the words the beheaded man had spoken bothered him in the least.

Well, not at the time, they hadn't.

Certain notable events always came rushing back quicker than others when one was faced directly by a screaming horror, wings as black as midnight and a long, unmercifully pointed beak stained crimson—the same dark fluid tossed carelessly beyond the stage that afternoon. How he had gotten to this point, Keetas neither knew, nor cared. The only thing left to do was get out of it again, and do so quickly.

He scrambled to his feet, eyes darting frantically to the left, the right, and above. The boy looked like walking dead; blood of the fallen soldiers staining his upperclass suit, rubbed across his face and throughout his hair, and covering his skin almost completely. For once, he could have cared less.

Moving as fast as he dared across the slick, filthy stone road, previously-nice shoes splashing against the sticky-wet, reddened tiles, Keetas made for the closest cover he could pinpoint—behind several empty barrels to the lee of a shop. Then he promptly screwed his eyes shut and prayed fervently for whatever magical deity ruled over the earth to spare him his miserable life, promising solemnly to change his ways.

What more did you expect?
 
A fire burned in her chest and tears welled in her eyes, Millicent didn’t know she was capable of these emotions anymore, she was so used to keeping them at bay, to never show weakness or vulnerability. But no one was watching, even in the middle of a mass of people, nobody noticed her tears, it was as if she was alone, like usual. As the soldiers marched down to beckon the crowd to disperse, Millicent was so deflated and exhausted at this point, her normal instinct to fight back could not be mustered. Instead she heeded to their orders, following the rest of the townspeople away, like a sheep being herded off to its pasture.

She had completely forgotten about her mission to follow the Moradi’s, but the idea was not appealing to her anymore, she wanted to go home, but where was home? She had spent days sleeping in a bed that wasn’t even hers, one that she normally was kicked out of and pushed to get to work, or no pay would be given that day. Or a bed that could only be rented for one night. She felt lost. Millicent made a quick decision, she turned down a path that led to an array of cottages in the Hive, and stopped at the very last one. Above its door was a wooden plaque with carefully, and intricately carved words engraved in it. It read: “The Montesquieu's Residence”. She approached and made two soft taps on the door, hearing discussion coming from within. After a few moments the door opened and an older man, almost as tall as the doorframe, emerged. His face was warm and welcoming to whomever it was going to be that requested to see him, as the Montesquieu's did not get a lot of visitors, but once his eyes slowly made their way down to Millicents, his face grew solemn.

“Millicent.” He said stiffly.

“Father...may I come in?”

He was quiet for some time, as if pondering her question.

“Who is at the door, Alvis?” Millicent could hear her mother's soft voice call out. Her mother poked her head out, a hand rested on the door frame, surprised to see Millicent standing there.

“Come.” He finally said, ushering her in. The door slammed shut behind her and she could see one brother and two of her sisters sitting at the table beside the fireplace, they all turned to look at her. Millicent took a seat at one of the small wooden tables, near the entrance of the home, normally meant for guests.

“Did you see the execution? An awful sight it was.” Millicent piped up, quietly.

Her father did not bother to look her way, he sat at the table with the rest of his family and they all sat awkwardly, unsure of what to do or say.

“No. And for good reason. Every day an innocent man dies at that stake, maybe not every man that stands upon that stage, but most.” He said, taking a sip of some warm liquid in his goblet.

Millicent stood and shuffled over to the table where they sat, she reached into her satchel and pulled out a sack of coin, setting it gently down in front of her father.

“What is this?”

“It’s for you. All of you.”

“What? Your Salva coin?”

“N-No..father..” She lied, stuttering nervously.

He stood and threw the sack to the ground, coin clattering loudly on the floor.

“Alvis!” Her mother exclaimed in shock.

“No! Don’t think I don’t know about your sneaky little business! And here I was, believing that you had come to redeem yourself to us. Get out! Get out at once!”

“Papa..please.” A tear streamed down her cheek.

“Millicent, please, just go.” Her mother pleaded, face in her palms.

She didn’t budge, her feet were frozen in place, the world was spinning. She continued to cry, watching her father stare threateningly at her. He wasn’t going to wait any longer, he stomped up to her and grabbed her gangly little arm, pulling her to the door.

“Papa, I’m sorry!”

He thrusts open the door with his other hand and pulls her through it, pushing her out into the cobblestone path.

“Don’t you ever come near my home again, you hear me? You are not my daught--” His shouting was interrupted by a shrill screech from above him, something not far off into the sky. Followed by this were panicked screams and low cries coming from the town square. A loud thud came from behind her and based on the sheer fear in her father's eyes at that moment, it could not have been good.

“W-What is it, papa..?” She squeaked out, afraid to look behind her.

His eyes were still fixated on whatever it was, he could not take his eyes off of it.

“They’re...they’re here..” He whispered, water welling up in his eyes.

Millicent finally turned and she felt as if a knife had pierced her heart, she began to shake and tremble at the sight of this horrific creature perching on the roof of a cottage across from theirs, it’s demonic, black eyes piercing into her own. She didn’t dare make a sound, or the slightest of movement. It let out a bellowing cry, so strident in her ears that they began to ring afterward. Two obsidian black wings grew from its bony back and in one quick swoop, it sailed towards the two of them.

“Papa!” Millicent cried, dropping to the ground and holding her head in her knees. She could see the creature diving into her father and ripping his head from his body like it was taking a bite from a carrot, it then crashed into their cottage, and Millicent watched as roofing and wood toppled over it and everything that was inside.

“Papa! Mama!” She howled, crying hysterically now, “No! No! Nooo!”

The monster emerged from the clutter as if nothing happened and flew off back into the sky. Millicent could see in the distance that there was more than just one of these creatures. She pulled herself up shakily and began to run towards the center of the town, her legs like jello and head spinning. She stopped once she reached the square, grabbing onto a pole to keep herself steady and catch her breath, watching these creatures kill and ravage the people of Ivesburg. She knew if she just stood there, out in the open like this, she would be killed just like the rest of them. Millicent trod carefully, sneaking behind shops and hiding behind vendors to get across the open area and towards the edge of town. She didn’t know where she would go, just that she needed to find a place to hide and take cover, and just as she saw before her, these creatures were more than willing to bulldoze into large structures like homes and shops to get what they wanted.

Millicent heard shouting and could see youngest Moradi and a man in armor, though this man was not in the typical guard or soldier getup, the two of them holding weapons, most likely no match for these creatures-- but, if she wanted to stay alive, maybe it was a good idea to stick with someone who could defend. She just needed to figure out how to get to them discreetly.
 
As the bloody battle ensued, Hainer glanced around to see if he could find some sort of exit, to make a quick getaway. The streets in all directions were long, and rather open. He knew that if he tried to run, it’s very well possible he may have gotten the attention of the Demon, and it wouldn’t bode well for the young Moradi. ”Brother! What can you offer to help? If nothing, stand aside and find cover but if you know even the smallest of magic stand behind me and we'll bring this creature down!” Suddenly, a man clad with eerily familiar armour shot up near them, and in an attempt to do damage at the beast, threw a sack of some sorts, which only seemed to further agitate it. Hainer immediately recognized the armour as being a part of the Church. Putting two and two together, he realized the newcomer was talking to other young man that was with Hainer, both of them apart of the Church of Dawn. He then took out a sword and shield, and began to hastily mutter something, which sounded like an incantation of sorts, to Hainer. Damn, does he really intent to fight?He then turned his attention to the Demon.

The beast shrieked once again, as it flapped its unholy wings and giving a glimpse of its wingspan. Hainer realized he may not have had a choice in the matter after all, as the monster cocked his ugly head, and eyed the trio before beginning to flap its wings. Hainer could feel the vibration, and the sheer power the beast had, as it began to hover in place before darting towards them. “Move!” Hainer shoved the non-armour wearing Church member to the side, as he quickly readied his blade. The newcomer has a blade and shield with him, so even if they couldn’t kill the damn thing, maybe they could do some damage do it to be able to get away. The beaked demon flew towards them, however, instead of flying right at them, it kept a distance from above, just a smudge out of Hainer’s reach with the blade. “Damn! The thing is too high!” He shouted, swinging his sword but ultimately missing the flying monster. The beast flew up, circling a few times, with a guard trying to shoot it down with an arrow. Either the beast was agile, or the guard simply was not skilled enough to be able to shoot it down, however, Hainer chalked it up to nerves, and the fact that this monster was nothing what the guards were probably used to dealing with.

“Everyone brace yourself!” Another guard shouted, his voice booming among the chaos. The beast let out another shriek once again, and began to dive down towards the combatants. Hainer then quickly turned to the newcomer.

“If you have any ideas, now would be a good time to implement them!” Hainer stood next to the man, with his own blade ready. Suddenly, the other Church member he was with earlier, began to run away from the fray, in an effort to get to safety. “Wait! Idiot!” Hainer cursed to himself, as he saw the beast’s attention fixated on the man, and flew slightly above everyone and right towards the Church member who attempted to get away. Without thinking, Hainer swung his blade oncemore, this time feeling the top part of his sword hit something solid. Blood sprayed out, as the monster shrieked. However, unlike last time, the shriek was now in response to pain as indicated by the yelp of the creature. Hainer’s eyes widened, looking in shock as the creature flew right into a nearby shop with a loud crash, breaking apart the door and windows, splintering the wood apart. However, it had seemed Hainer’s attack was just a trifle wound, as the beast quickly flapped its wings again, flailing in attempt to self-right itself back on its feet, after its crash.

“Here it comes again!” Hainer shouted to his sword and shield wielding ‘ally’. It was definitely hurt, but not hurt enough, as it charged towards them again.
 
A battlefield was always chaotic. Demon's just happened to make it a little crazier. Victus felt the magic resonate in his shield as he muttered his incantation, but he wasn't certain if it would be enough - these birds had 3 means of attacking in his mind. Two different legs full of talons and the beak, blocking one may be feasible but an outright assault? A glimpse at the corpses nearby was enough to tell him that his armor wouldn't amount to much if he was fighting against this thing alone. Thankfully, he wasn't.

From his peripherals he was able to see those that had chosen to join the fray instead of exit, a shout from the other side of the bird alerted him to a robust woman with a club. 'A solid hit with that could daze it.. I wonder how fragile it's skull is.' Victus thought to himself, but allowed the woman to push in while he did his best to keep it's attention - which proved rather unfruitful. An arrow passed by the bird from the direction of a rooftop, it's whistle being the first sign of another presence he had as the bird obstructed his vision as it flapped it's large wings to ascend. "Step back." He uttered, waiting to see if it would engage with it's talons; but none came. Instead it circled them, eerily looking down as arrows whizzed past to no avail. A loud warning from a guard gave him only a few moments of caution before the bird opened it's maw and let forth a fell shriek.

His ears rung, his head split in a brief fit of pain; but his eyes didn't waiver as he made sure to keep eye-contact with the thing. One moment of looking away could mean death so he grit his teeth and looked on as it avoided swipe after swipe. 'I might need to invest in a spear.' Victus thought to himself, he preferred swords, but reach was always favorable when dealing with beasts. While the well-built commoner took swings towards the bird Victus stood ready beside him, shield poised to stop a swoop from the creature but it never came till the priest gave it an opportunity to do so by running away.

The fool had become it's next target, and almost as if sensing weakness the raven went flying after it - only for a well placed cut to send it veering off course into a storefront. Good, he had a very short amount of time then. "I've got just one - to keep it grounded. Wait till I get it's attention again, then you - " He addressed the man beside him with a sword before turning back towards the woman with a club nearby. "And you! Come in from behind, just be careful of it retaliating!" Victus shouted before breaking into a sprint towards the beast crawling out of the rubble. His shield remained blessed as it had sat idle, a groove on it's side was meant for him to be able to brace a weapon against it should the need arise - and here it was.

There were innocents here, two individuals who were definitely not soldiers still standing, a guardsman and a bowman taking shots - and if the blurs he saw in the corner of his eyes were true, children hiding nearby. Why did the lord have to test him so soon? Victus dove towards the beat's charge, his right, the bird's left so his shield was between them and with all his effort he took a heavy swing at the wing, targeting where it's would-be shoulder was while purposefully aiming his shield to ram against the origin of it's peak to keep the angle as far away from him as he could. Now if only he could keep it's attention like this - Victus kept his legs firm as he rotated around it after the collision, shield up and blade to his side, swinging wildly was a sure way to get himself killed - he would have to wait for openings.
 
Clawdia waited for an opening on the beast, watching as she perched up onto a nearby tree. Whilst the panther was awaiting, Fatima stood beneath the demon, armed with her handy-dandy club. She jumped back at the sound of male’s voice, prompting her to jerk her attention—momentarily—from the crow. Fatima knew that armour from the Church of Dawn when she saw it, immediately recognizing the man’s insignia on it. ‘Maybe those donations aren’t a waste after all.’ She thought as she waited for the bird to land. With the sounds of arrows zipping through the air, she knew they wouldn’t do much damage to it – but at least it did something.

The loud screech nearly blew her ear drums, barely sparing time to use both palms to cover them. The ringing continued in her ears the moment it stopped before taking a large swipe towards its attackers. Her swings were fruitless, barely getting a hit in edgewise near its rear end. Before it had another target, she stood mid-attack to see it fly into a store, turning it into rubble. “And you!” Fatima whipped her head in his direction, her heart thumping erratically in her chest, “Come in from behind, just be careful of it retaliating!” He shouted at her, ‘fore taking off.

She wanted to yell at the guy for ordering her around, but bit back her sarcastic response. Right now, she had more important matters to attend to. Like, the ugly bird coming from underneath the rubble, she took this moment to go around the building. She took note of Clawdia following on the opposite side, her padded footsteps. For the panther, she would have no problem in getting her own strikes against the demon. But for Fatima, she would likely have a more difficult time. The woman was trained in basics, hitting in close range was what she was good at. Throwing a demon into the mix, she might as well have her efforts tested. She could see the man grabbing the crow’s attention with his ramming of his shield. ‘Right. Back end.’ She reminded herself as she finally made it towards the rear end of the building and finding the unholy thing unguarded in the back. With all the might she could muster in her right arm, she went charging forth, using the hard end of her club to get a solid hit into its back end.

“Clawdia, now!” She’d shout as soon as she struck. The Panther coming from the shadows to leap onto its back. Her claws dug deep into its feathers, drawing an ungodly speech from it again. The demon shook Clawdia, wildly, from its back, tossing the large cat to the ground. Clawdia manages to land onto her feet, roaring out in anger whilst bearing her canines at it.
 
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From this distance, even the masterful bows of the Dhenari wouldn't be more than a passing nuisance to the creature and there was enough chaos with the combatants on the ground that Amalia clearly wasn't going to draw it away from the people either. Icy eyes scanned her surroundings for another option. The woman and her feline companion kept flanking the beast while a shield bearer did his best to keep the attention of the beast.

Eventually, Trelles' eye locked onto a rope stung from her own rooftop across the city street. For banners or clothes to be hung out to dry, no doubt, but it appeared to be a sturdy enough construction, or at least that was the near silent prayer she breathed while retreating a few steps before launching into a quick sprint and a leap into the air. Immediately, she whipped the bow over her head and around the rope, a slight jolt as gravity attempted to dominate the day. The bow pressed against the rope, bowing slightly, but it held the girl's weight as she slid along the length for a few seconds, just long enough to put her a few feet above the rampaging creature.

Amalia released one hand, immediately dropping down and feet quickly finding the spine of the creature. Barely maintaining her balance in the precious moment available to her, the raven-haired girl notched an arrow and, without the luxury of aiming, pulled with all her strength and loosed an arrow at point blank range direct into the neck of the creature before another sudden jolt tossed her aside, crashing into a market stand a distance away.
 
There were yells, screams echoing against his ears. Covering the sides of his head could not drown out the noise of the Demons' shrieks as warriors and guards tried to defend against the beasts. From the sound of bloody Salva being tossed back and forth amidst battle conversation, it was not going well at all, but these strangers were fighting back and somehow turning the tides, at least for the—

"Everyone brace yourself!" One of the guardsmen had yelled, jarring Keetas to his senses. Within the next three unholy shrieks, the Demon was launched directly into the building he was hiding to the side of. Walls came crashing down atop him, and if it hadn't been for some strong barrels, he likely would have been dead.
 
The execution was unsettling, though they always were. But this last one of Keith... really set fear into the hearts of the people in Ivesburg. Conrí on the other hand was really rattled by the entire execution. He knew Keith fairly well, along with Keith's family; the Larks. Conrí would even go to the point of calling Keith a friend. Seeing the head roll off his shoulders, blood splattering across the wooded stage and even on some of the townsfolk, was certainly a gruesome yet frightening sight. "Keith? Witchcraft? That would explain why he's been rather distant lately... he was that is" the entire situation still being processed in Conrí's mind.

The Mayor had pulled it off like nothing was the matter, that the townsfolk were safe. Of course anyone would play it off like that if they were scared. The crowd was growing closer to the mayor, stepping over Keith's limp body. His dark blueberry colored eyes stared at the soulless eyes belonging to Keith's decapitated head. A certain feeling lingered inside Conrí, the hair on the back of his neck pricked as well did goosebumps start appearing on his skin. He was one that loved getting into trouble and had his fair share of fights and even has seen many executions in his life, however this particular one really got him startled. Especially since it was Keith that was beheaded. But mainly it was the fact that Keith seemed so... different during his last moments. Conrí supposed that anyone would seem different during their last moments in life, but something about Keith was off.

Eventually the mayor disappeared and the darkness settled in. Most of the people were already finishing up their days before they were to head back to their homes and eat dinner. Guards were already holding their torches and going on their rounds. Conrí in particular didn't leave the center of Ivesburg, beside the stage where Keith had been executed earlier. The mess had already been cleaned up, all that was left was the stain of blood and a cold memory. Before Conrí knew it, the sun disappeared completely, leaving him in darkness. Turning away from the stage, ready to go home and deal with his family. A screech pierced the town. This wasn't no child screaming, this was something Conrí had never heard. A demonic banshee almost scream. His dark blue eyes darted up as he tilted his back seeing a figure in the sky. Wait, no. Two? Three figures, pitch black matching completely with the darkness in the sky. His eyes widened.

"Demons" he whispered, frozen still in place. Conrí knew exactly what those dark figures were. Half his life was filled with the Dawn Church's teachings of such creatures, in addition to the drunks in the taverns telling nonsense of stories similar to what the church described as 'demons'. One of the demons had flown down in the center of the city, preying on a few townsfolk that happened to be around. It wasn't long after did a few guards run towards the demon only to surrender their lives to a noble cause. The demon looked similar to that of a crow, however it had much more sinister aspects to it than the average crow, for one it was around 10 feet tall. Surprisingly many townsfolk engaged in a battle with the demon, but what surprised Conrí the most was seeing a Moradi fight a demon. Conrí didn't move at all during the fight that exploded before him, not until a member of the church ran past him, someone Conrí knew fairly well.

"Rats" said the deep voice that came out of Conrí's lips. He pulled out his simple small knife, knowing it wouldn't do anything to a 10 foot tall demon. Thankfully there were others around him, more experienced fighters from the looks of the man in armor. The armor Conrí immediately recognized, the Church of Dawn. A few others, such as the Moradi, a woman and her feline companion were fighting the thing, and distracting it from Conrí who soon made his way behind the stage where the execution had taken place earlier in the day. He was still on the cobble-stoned street, though hidden behind the corner of the stage which was a good foot or two high. The knife was still in his right hand, in case the demon would find him and go after him. His hand started to shake, he was afraid. It was doubtful the monster would go after him at this point, but yet it still brought fear into Conrí. After all he had never seen such a monstrous thing in his entire life.

Another townsfolk entered the battle, riding the back of the creature and shooting an arrow into it's neck. Conrí was shocked seeing such skill from a simple townsfolk, though shortly realized she wasn't just a simple townsfolk. She was a Dhenari. Bewilderment and terror ran wild throughout Conrí's body, he felt useless in this situation though fear had really taken hold of him, which wasn't normal in such a rebellious trouble seeking person. Conrí wasn't skilled in fighting, heck he barely knew the basics. "Conrí you fool, some of these folk have barely any training. If they can run straight into battle, then you can too" the thought ran through his mind for a good minute. Heck, the monster was severely injured, and perhaps close to death at this point. Yet he stayed where he was, watching. However he was ready to run, into or away from battle.
 
Hainer eyed the beast, keeping all attention to the task at hand. He knew if he made a slight error in anything right now, it could cost him his head. ”I’ve got just one - to keep it grounded. Wait till I get it's attention again, then you.” The Shielded man responded. Hainer silently acknowledged the orders, as the man turned another woman nearby who wielded a club and gave her orders as well. Before Hainer could properly process what was happening, the man jolted towards the monster using his shield to bash the demon’s beak, and swing at the demon’s shoulder joint where the wing was attached. Ahh I see…keeping it grounded, as in damaging the wing. Hainer tried to wait for an opening, as he watched the shielded man try to figure out his footing with the beast, swinging every chance he got. The woman then began to make her way into position, and with a strong swing, clubbed the beast from behind as some sort of animal jumped onto the crow’s back sinking its claws deep into the flesh of the beast, before being knocked off in retaliation from the beast’s flailing.

Another demon? Hainer thought to himself, before realizing the animal was acting upon the woman’s command. The beast yelped as it took a series of hits from the shielded man’s plan, which Hainer took it as his turn to do something. The beast was occupied injured and grounded, which meant it was wide open for a decent attack. Hainer watched from the corner of his eye, as another woman, this time wielding a bow and arrow appeared onto of the beast, jumping from above to land directly onto where the black animal original was. Letting loose an arrow at deadly close range, the beast yelped once again before bucking the woman off, sending her through the air into a nearby market stand with a crash. There was no denying it, the monster was strong, however, with the combined efforts of everyone they were dealing enough damage to possibly kill it. Hainer readied his sword, and ran towards the fray.

The beast let out a somewhat weak shriek, and attempted to stand up on its legs, with its wing injured, body bruised, beaten and full of wounds from arrows and the black animal’s attack. Hainer ran closer and closer to the monster, and without thinking, rammed his sword straight into the neck and throat of the beast as the others occupied its attention. Hainer quickly pulled the red-covered steel weapon out, as the creature let out a shriek of pain. It yelped and flapped its wings, and once again without thinking, Hainer rammed his sword once again in the same area. He felt his sword touch solid flesh, and rip right through inside the crow’s neck before rotating his blade whilst inside and pulling out the steel weapon once again. Blood sprayed out onto the ground and Hainer’s clothes, as he quickly took a step back to watch the beast flail and yelp unable to breath. Its feathers were frayed and stained red, and it’s hostility slowly calmed down as it stopped moving, and lay there on the town’s ground. Hainer stood there for a few moments, staring at the dead beast and catching his breath to process the whole ordeal. He couldn’t believe what just happened, let alone actually managed to kill a demon - albeit, with the help of other people of course.

“Is it dead? Is it dead?!” A voice suddenly shouted. Hainer turned his head to see several guards approaching, with their weapons still drawn.

“Yeah…I think so. No living thing could survive that thrashing.” Hainer wiped sweat from forehead, pointing to the monster who lay in its own blood-soaked pool of dirt.

“Well, it took a lot before it actually went down.” A guard said, pausing. “And it didn’t come without cost.” The guard said. Hainer looked around. This particular area of the market was destroyed, and people lay on the ground, lifeless. It certainly didn’t come without cost, and it was a shame to see what had transpired this fateful evening. “Round up everyone who’s injured. Anyone found still lingering about, tell them to go home and stay OUT of The Hive. Nobody leaves their homes until further notice.” A guard told the other guards.

“Sir, what of the citizens who live on the streets, or don’t have homes to return to?” A guard questioned.

“Then find them someone else’s home to stay in, I don’t care how you do it. Everyone is staying inside, I’m acting on emergency rules, as per law.” He commanded. The other guards simply nodded as they quickly dispersed among themselves. Hainer looked around, and found several people had been hiding about in the plaza as the battle was in full heat earlier. As arrogant as Hainer was, even he understood how scared they might have been during this, seeing as how he had felt the same way if it weren’t for the sword in his hand. Hainer then turned to the group he had been in battle with, until the guard spoke up once again.

“That includes you lot, don’t linger about.” The guard said. “Who lives the closest? All of you, go there NOW!” He shouted, however, Hainer noticed it wasn’t a shout filled with anger or abuse of power, but rather, one of fear. The guard seemed to have been genuinely worried, which Hainer had never seen before.

“But sir, we don’t all live together, we - ” The church member from earlier spoke up, until the guard interrupted him.

“I don’t care if you all don’t live together. There’s still two more of those monsters lurking in The Hive, I don’t have time for citizens running all around the city to get to their homes. Can you not just listen for once?” The guard said, fed up with the situation at hand. “These monsters may attract more monsters, and the last thing we need is The Hive to be overrun with these wretched things.” The guard concluded, before looking at Hainer. “Hainer, take them to your place, it’s big enough and somewhat away from The Hive. Tell your father it’s the Mayor’s Rules.” The Guard said, turning around.

“Wait! There’s no way I’m taking a bunch of random peasants home with me. I don’t care if they did help kill that thing, there’s a reason why I live away from The Willows and The Hive.” Hainer argued, furrowing his brows out of frustration. The guard then turned to Hainer.

“If you want to keep your position with the law, I suggest you heed my orders.” The guard stared at Hainer with intent. Hainer stayed silent, knowing exactly what the guard meant. It was far too often he payed his way to get favours with the law, which saved his behind many times. And as much as he hated the idea of bringing along random people to his home, he didn’t want to squander his relationship with the Mayor and his laws, let alone deal with the punishment of breaking said laws.

“Yes, sir.” Hainer responded, frowning.

“Good. A bit of curfew won’t kill you. Now GO.” The guard commanded.
 
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Victus's wrist felt numb, his blade had found purchase in the beast's wing and it was taking all his strength to keep the shield in between him and what would be death. The height of the crow alone made blocking a bit difficult as the crow beat him in height bot about 4 feet, enough to force him to stretch his arm for an effective block; but it was manageable. With it's attention on him he was able to catch glimpses of the fight around him, careful as to what it would cause - one missed strike or hard hit could endanger him or others by jostling the creature or knocking his feet out from under him. The rubble alone poised a difficult threat if he got pushed back and tripped over a larger stone. As the worries filled his head a meaty thud filled his ears, albeit muffled as he still hadn't recovered from the shrill cry from earlier - not being able to cover his ears well enough would do that to him. However, the woman's shout of "Clawdia, now!" Was easy to hear, and a shadow from over head was all he had as an alert as an unknown creature leapt atop the beast with what he could assume to be sizable claws. Heck, he'd take any help he could get.

Strike after strike the beast seemed to feel the culmination of their blows, it's body moving haphazardly as the weight of it's injuries started to take their toll. Victus was preparing to try and anger it again to keep it's attention but before he knew it, another assailant managed to appear from above - 'What is it with this place and the aerial attacks?' He thought to himself, making a note to be more careful of the sky while in town. From birds, to beasts, to what appeared to be a ranger of sorts. It was a very quick shot as the woman released a notched arrow into it's neck, which for any normal creature would prove lethal but Victus would still appreciate the damage that it would do. The beast was shrieking now in it's own horror, it recognized that death was coming as it's voice grew weaker. Now was the time to press forward and end it while it wavered, which thankfully the young man from earlier seemed to recognize as he dove in and impaled it's neck with his scavenged blade. The blood that spilled forth was proof enough at how much damage it would cause, Victus's shield now covered in it as he close to the neck as the man kept cutting in.

As the beast fell to the ground beside them Victus took a deep breath, finally allowing his hands to fall to his side as he took a step back to compose himself. His shield flickered in the light before growing dim, it had done it's job and he was now a bit exhausted from using magic and holding up under it's assault. As guards appeared on the scene and asked if it was dead Victus merely nodded, focusing more on breathing than speaking as his eyes took in his surroundings. Help the others first. It was instinct that got him moving, putting his sword away after confirming the other birds weren't nearby. His shield would remain at the ready, but he could still use both hands at this point. He let the young man handle the conversation here as he neared the now fallen stall that the ranger had fallen into, "You alright in there? That was a great shot, risky, but remarkable." He shouted, taking a moment to check on her and offering a hand to help her out of the mess if she would take it.

He wouldn't be able to spend a lot of time there though as he went on to survey his surroundings - he was missing something. The courtyard was starting to fill with a few stragglers, some townsfolk who had been hiding nearby now revealing themselves from their convenient hiding places. Victus held no ill will towards them, he knew all too well that fighting these demons were not for the common-folk but one of the children he had noticed earlier hiding by barrels was absent. Wait - Barrels! Victus glanced back at the dilapidated building, seeing the bottom end of a few barrels beneath a fallen wall and without a delay moved in a hurry to check beneath it. "Well, aren't you a lucky one." Victus murmured to himself, seeing a young boy now covered in dust and grime but from the looks of things perfectly healthy. "Can you get out or is anything trapped under rubble?" He finished, offering a hand in case he needed it as well.

It was at this time that the young man and the guards had begun arguing, taking Victus's attention back towards them and after doing a final check up on the two he made his way over to catch the tail-end of their conversation. "I can agree with you that the townsfolk should head to safety." Victus began; making a point to get closer to the guard to match his stature. "But unless you're what this town calls their elite or most well-trained guards, I fear that without some support the remaining two crows will still be too much for just your men to handle." Victus would gestured towards the bloody scene that still painted the cobblestone of the city center, among the bodies of the common folk lay plenty guards - and while he meant no true disrespect his job was to support. But by the lord, did rest sound good right now. "Unless it's common practice for the town to sit these attacks out and hide indoors, I think your people will have a better chance of limiting casualties with me by your side. You've got enough men here to get the job done, I can keep it's attention." Victus spoke confidently, forcing eye-contact with the guard as he imposed his will. He had always been a stern man, and despite a selfish desire to go and rest in a plush nobleman's home against his will a sense of duty called him to action.
 
The world spiraled out of control as Amalia sailed from the back of the creature, then jolted to black upon a crashing return to the mother earth which had born her flight. She remained dazed and unable to rise for the remainder of the battle, raging in her stead until the creature was finally slain. Slowly, the spinning of the world slowed to that which brought the sun's rise and setting rather than the racing nature of her less-than-effective theatrics. The young Dhenari ranger had barely enough time to take stock of danger's end before a figure was upon her. Rather than an attacker, however, this one offered aide too sweet to be rebuked.

"You alright in there? That was a great shot, risky, but remarkable." Amalia didn't have the wits about her to study the face and figure of the man before she reached out and grasped his wrist, using his steady frame and gentle pull to right herself vertical once again and giving a few breaths for the disorientation to cease enough to speak.

"Wasn't doing much good from the roof," she offered with a wry grin, going to point back in the direction from which she'd leaped and immediately wincing at the sharp pain in her side from doing so. The conversation didn't go any further as the young man left as quickly as he came, apparently in a triage of the carnage wrecks by the beast and those who would slay it. Quickly feeling her wits returning to her, Amalia felt a sudden jolt of panic as she realized her bow was no longer with her. Spinning around, she scoured over the market stand's wreckage in the hope of finding its familiar curve. After a few moments, she found it on the ground some throw away, thankfully having been tossed away from her and landing largely harmless on the ground.

Breathing a sigh of relief as the intact weapon returned to slung across her, Amalia slowly and carefully approached part of the group gathering, heated conversations with passion not unlike that of heated battle. The obvious defiance and defeated acceptance of the one ordered to give shelter and comfort to the lot of them intrigued her. After losing his verbal battle with the guard, Amalia approached him slowly.

"For someone who fights with such strength in your heart, you've got cold blood now," she leveled at him.
 
In the pursuit of attacking the demon she was swiped away herself, Fatima went flying with enough force into some barrels and a solid wall nearby, the wooden structures crumbling beneath her weight. As if on instinct, Clawdia jumped in front of her companion, growling at the crow who recognized its looming defeat. Fatima, on the other hand, was recovering from being swiped away like a rag doll. She sat up, the world was spinning in all directions, she shook her head, and closed her eyes as to dispel the dizzying effect. She stumbled to her feet, standing up like a toddler would when it learned to walk on two. Fatima grabbed the nearby building for support while she waited for the world to correct itself, and when it did, she was in sight of the beast’s corpse.

Her hearing coming back at the same time, hearing guards spill into the battle arena. Clawdia remained in her defensive position, her fur flattened, though the low growling has not. The bird was something the panther recognized as a threat, she couldn’t know the same for the men wielding weapons. A headache started to formulate at the back of her skull, Fatima groaned out while rubbing it. Although, she came out of the conflict with minor cuts, and bruises, she was relatively unscathed.

“You okay?” She finally asked to her companion. Clawdia turned back, her emerald eyes seeking the same question towards her. The black feline came out completely unscathed, this made the Blacksmith quirk a smile, despite the arguing happening behind Clawdia.

“The Old Man better have…” She took in a deep breath, only to cough out. ‘Looks like my luck has run a mock.’ Her breathing was wheezy, being tossed into barrels and solid wall resulted in likely, fractured ribs, or even broken – who knew?

Fatima pushed off the building, she searched for her lost weapon, finding the club in the rubble of the barrels. With the help of Clawdia acting as her temporary cane, she managed to grab it, not without grunting in pain. And she attached it back to her hip, the woman made her way over to the minor group gathering. She got there in time to catch the end of Moradi’s words, in opposition, to whatever they were speaking of, “Wait! There’s no way I’m taking a bunch of random peasants home with me. I don’t care if they did help kill that thing, there’s a reason why I live away from The Willows and The Hive.”

Her brows knitted together, ‘Right. Your highness can’t get his precious carpets dirtied.’ Just to spite him, she spit out a huge loogie which was coated in blood and spit on his boots. Fatima didn’t want or need Hainer’s help, she disliked this man and no ounce of good-will in her body could convince her to trust him – even if for an evening.

“Forget it. I’m not staying with ass hat over here.” She drew in a breath, completely forgetting she might have a fractured or broken rib(s). Another coughing fit drew out of her, she wiped away any spit from her lips. She was stubborn when she needed to be, and turned from the crowd, ready to make her way back to her own home, that was not far from where the clash took place moments ago.
 
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