"Goodbye, my friend..."

*My eyes narrowed and locked with the giants, after a second both our hands tensed. Using all my strength i gripped his hands as tightly as I could, I put all my weight into him trying to force him lower. But he did not move he was much much stronger than me, his grip tightened it was like a vice constantly cramping down on my hands. The pain was growing his fingers felt like they were piercing my skin ripping the bones out. I was not going to win this with strength, I was finding it harder and harder to hold my ground. He began to push forward slowly bending me back on myself, I took a step back to gain my footing. I let out loud roar of pain and anger as I pulled him towards and smashed my head into his. It was smashing my face into an iron wall, I felt blood begin to pour from my forehead, I reached back and slammed my head against him again and again. My blood was covering both our faces, his grip lessened as he was blinded by my blood. Now was my chance! I quickly jumped up and kicked both feet into his chest. His right hand lost grip but his left did not, As I hit the ground my left arm was pulled from it socket. I lost all feeling my hand, he pulled me to my feet by my left hand. I thought my arm was going to be torn off, he wiped the blood from his eyes and reached down and grabbed his mace. He bought it high above him ready to deliver a finishing blow to me, there was no longer a choice. I had to use it.*

Giant;"TI H'IERM!"

*He bought the mace down as I reached up and unsheathed my other great sword. His mace shattered as it clashed my with sword and a voice rang through the halls.*

"FINALLY! LET US FEAST! HAHAHAHA!

*The voice was loud and demonic yet godly at the same time. The laugh long and manic, the hallway darkened like the light was being eaten by darkness flowing from my sword and then me. My mind withdrew like I was no longer in control of myself, it was like I was now watching instead of being. My skin darkened to pitch black, but the markings began to glow brighter and brighter. It looked like the marks were slowly being eroded by the darkness, they started flickering until they seemed to burst and catch fire. My body stood up and my left arm picked itself up returning to its original position grasping at the giants hand. The giant quickly fell to its knees and began screaming. My eyes glowed deep red with fire within them, a large smile came across my lips and began to laugh loudly again.*

"HAHAHAHA, YOU ARE WEAK!"

*The sword was drawn back and quickly thrusted through the giants mouth, the blade twisted and and ripped itself out of the giants head sending the top half flying across the room.*

I ran. I ran and ran and ran, placing my steps carefully as I did. My ears picked up on the faint screams and yells but I continued running and pray that Atlas would be alright. After hours of running, my body felt weak from exhaustion I could sense that morning would arrive soon. My feet dragged in the sand and soon I fell down onto my knees. My body wanted rest, my mind told me to keep going but my heart worried for my friend. I shook my head. "Don't look back." I told myself as I stood up and walked onward.

I walked on and soon the morning heat got to me. I feel on my hands and knees. How big and vast was this desert? How much longer am I to go until I reach the end? I crawled onwards and finally my strength gave out on me. My body fell into the sand and my eyes were only half closed. "Is this my punishment for my sins? Why? I haven't even been given a chance to..." Before I could finish, my eyes closed and I let exhaustion take over my consciousness.

*My arms out stretched I let loud sigh breathing out a think smoke. my eyes closed, well my body's did I tryed and could not gain control of myself. All of a sudden I was in darkness, standing face to face with the demon that controlled my body.*

???;"Why do you fight me? I am you."

Atlas;"You are not me, you are disease infesting me."

???;"HAHAHAHA, Why do you speak to me so? I have treated you so well, given you strength and power."

*It moved closer to me and grabbed my chin pulling my face to its own.*

???;"You are nothing without me. Nothing but a weak little child with no family and no friends."

*My thoughts turned to Aiyana, she was the closest thing I've had to a friend in years. As I did its head twitched.*

???;Ahhh, so the little half breed finally made a friend? Maybe I will pay her a little visit."

*I pushed his away from me.*

Atlas;"YOU WILL NOT TOUCH HER!"

*It smiled demonically before vanishing. my body's eyes opened, and turned towards to exit, It shot through the door at an ungodly speed tracking through the desert, following footprints in the sand until it spotted her. Unconscious on the ground, it stood over her sword in hand.*

???;"Weak, just like you."

*The sword moved over her with the tip pointed at her throat. I screamed within myself, demanding to stop but the voice just laughed at me.*

???;"I am the only friend you will ever have again.*

*The sword pulled back and sharply thrusted forward meeting with sparks and clang as it met my other sword. My left arm had returned to its normal holding the sword. I had regained control on it, I quickly brought the sword to my own throat.*

Atlas;"Go back into your pit of so help me I will end us right here right now!"

???;"I will be waiting for you."

*The sword in my right hand dropped to the floor and my skin slowly began to return to its normal colour. I fell to me knees and let my other sword drop, the pain in my arm, hands and head returned. I fell back exhausted and bleeding.*

Atlas;"I fucking hate the desert."

*I smirked to myself before passing out.*

I awoke to water being splashed in my face. I coughed and shook my head before I looked around. I noticed an elf standing next to me. "So you wake. You lacked water, young one." I let out a soft groan before I looked down at my feet, seeing another bucket of water. I picked it up eagerly and drank from it thirstily. The elf spoke again. "It seems you lack manners as well." I put the bucket down and I stood up. "Why am I here?" I asked. The elf spoke. "Elves look out for he another. We are but a dying race. So, shouldn't we help our fellow brothers and sisters?" I growled softly. "I suppose." I waved my hand towards the elf but I couldn't get a read from him. The elf smirked. "You know, you could just ask your questions instead of sneak information but I suppose I should say such things as I have done the same to you while you were unconscious." I hissed angrily. "What?!" The elf looked away. "You have done so much wrong in your life, Aiyana. You and your friend."

I blinked. My friend? Did he mean Atlas? "Where is Atlas?" I demanded. The elf looked at me. "He is inprisoned for now and will stay inprisoned until his last breath. You, on the other hand, will go through a spiritual process to be cleansed of your impurities. You will start the process tonight." I gasped softly before I looked away. "I will go through the process if you release Atlas." The elf stood up, anger raging in his voice. "No! His kind caused this war! He is dangerous! He will not be released!" I yelled back. "Then I will not be cleansed!" We glared at each other, anger in our eyes and we held each other's gaze. I spoke through clentched teeth. "Let me release him and for every wrong he does upon our people, I will pay the consequences of his action." The elf's eyes widen. "The consequences will be painful. How you you know you can trust him?" I nod me head accepting the knowledge on the process. "I trust him because he trust me." I turned and walk away.

Meanwhile, within a large hollow tree, the elite elves guarded your body. You were on your knees, chain covered your body and bind your hands and feet, preventing you from moving any part of your body a single inch, even your fingers. A chain was wrapped around your neck and every chain was anchored to a stoned floor that had ancient writings on them. The 5 elite elves watched your every movement and they pointed bows, spears and swords at you, awaiting for you to make a wrong move. They looked up when I walked in and I spoke softly. "Leave us." They nod and left. My eyes looked at Atlas with sadness before I walked over to him. I kneeled down in front of him and I lowered my head softly. "I'm sorry, my friend."

*I sat there with my eyes closed, I could only hear the clang of the chains that bound me. Until I heard a familiar voice, I tryed to raise my head but couldent. I do not know if it was the chains or if I was just too weak, the dried blood on my face made it too hard for me to open my eyes but i knew her voice.*

"Aiyana is that you? I cant see."

*My voice was low and weak, I could barely breath with the weight of the chains upon me. I could not even muster strong emotions to reflect how I felt. As my thoughts returned to me I came to a shocking realization. I struggled with what strength i had left to free myself.*

"MY SWORD?! WHERE IS MY SWORD?!, THEY CAN NOT TOUCH IT!!"

*All my struggles were useless I could do nothing. My body dropped as far as the chains would allow, I went limp.*

"I'm.....I'm sorry, I'm so sorry."

"Yes. It is me. I am here." I said softly. "Your sword is safe. Resting at the opening along with the rest of your weapons and armor." When he let himself go limp, I place my hands on each side of his face. "Don't be sorry. I am..." I hesitated slightly. "..safe, with my people. You need to find Thanos, so he can repair your markings." I said before I placed my forehead against his head. "But you must promise me something, promise me that you will try you best not to harm an elf and to leave this forest...and never return." I said softly as my hands trace along the chains. "I will find myself one day but you must do the same." I whispered before I tap onto a single chain that ran along his back. The chain shook then the chains that one binded his body fell limply. I stood up and I backed away to allow him to remove the chains from his body. "But before you go, my friend. I need something special from you. I need a kiss." I said, looking at him, my eyes meeting is.

*As the chains released me my body fell only I barley stopped myself from hitting the ground. I sat there on my arms and legs my head still resting on hers barely able to support my own weight. Her skin was even softer than I remember, I could feel her breath on my face and my eyes. I slowly managed to break the bond on my eyes and see her in the light, I had only seen her in the shadows before never in the light. Her beauty was describable every feature glowed and radiated, I gentle placed a hand on cheek. I saw the dry blood on my hand, something so brutish should not be allowed to touch someone like this. But I knew she was hiding something, what has see done?*

"What have you done? They will kill you for releasing me....."

*my mind when back to our first conversation, every question I asked then had the same response. Why ask a question with such an obvious answer? She knew what she would face for helping me, and yet she did it anyway.*

"Come with me.....please"

When he looked at me, I smiled softly and I put a hand on his chest before I shook my head sadly. "I...I can't...I shouldn't..." I said softly. "But I want to." I looked at him and noticed for the first time how humans his features were. I lifted my hands and I place them gently on his markings, letting my hands trace over the marking, just like I did when we were in that dark, cave together. I felt the strength that he held underneath his skin, the raw power was still raging strong within him and finally my hands stopped at his right side. I exhaled softly before I pulled my hands away. "Atlas, thank you. Thank you for helping me. Please leave. Our paths will join again another time." I said sadly. "Another time."

*I have to leave, neither of us has a choice any more. It was a hard truth to swallow and it was even bitter going down. I closed my eyes and kissed her forehead.*

"I will see you again, that I promise you."

*I removed my hand and used all my strength to push myself to my feet, it was hard just to stand but I had to go. I moved past her and stepped out of the tree, shielding the sun from my eyes. I cradled my left arm in front me, and slowly limped through the settlement. I could feel everyone's eyes staring holes through me, they all wished death on me. As I reached the outskirt of the settlement there was a singe elf standing and staring at me. His gaze met mine as I crossed his path and stopped next to him, he was clearly someone important making sure I left without causing trouble. I turned body to face him, staring him down through the blood on my face.*

"Know this, if any harm befalls her I will return. I will return and lay waste to everything you hold close to your heart."

*I did not wait for a response before I kept on walking out of the area. I found my equipment not far from the settlement, I struggled putting my armor back on. My arm made it near impossible to sheathe my first sword, I would have to carry it. I walked onwards struggling with each step but continued to press onwards. It would take a day or two to reach Camp Dawn, the only place I could think of to find Thanos and maybe a bed.*

I closed my eyes, remembering the bitter moment of parting with my friend. When he left, I fell to my knees and I tried to hold back my emotions but I couldn't. A single tear rolled down my cheek before I heard the elf's voice behind me. "I'll say it again. His kind is dangerous. You can never love his kind. No elf should and no elf would." The elf stood behind me and he place a thumb on my forehead, right where Atlas left that bitter kiss. I smirked lightly. "You say he is dangerous. You say that we can never love. Heh. Love knows no race."

My ears twitched as 2 other elves stood beside me. They all frowned at me and the elf spoke, anger in his voice. "You will be punish for saying that." The 2 elves held two copper rings in their hands and they clipped the rings to my ears. Now I had 4 copper rings on each ear. This was a symbol. Usually a sign of greatness or power was displayed with gold or silver rings but copper...you were looked down upon by the elves. I winced slightly but I continued to smirk lightly. The elf frowned. "Once you undergo this process you will never belong." I smirked widely and I chuckled softly. "Heh. I never belonged in the first place." The elf hissed softly and soon the 2 elves started chanting. I chuckled then I gasped in pain.

The veins in my hands, neck and face became visible under my skin and my breaths were short and soon I couldn't breath. I couldn't move. My muscles were so tense that they seem to freeze in place. I could feel my life draining from my body and into the elf's thumb. I struggle to fight against the elf's power but he was too strong. His magic was much more polished than mines. I searched my mind for something, anything. Soon, my eyes looked up at the elf and I forced a smile. The elf screamed in pain and he pulled his hand from mines. I fell to the floor, gasping for air and soon I lost consciousness.

*I continued onwards trying not to think of how I abandoned the first friend I had in many years, but what was I supposed to do? I needed help and advice, but who would help me? Night was falling but my feet refused to stop, I kept thinking the sooner I make the sooner I can return and help her. My march continued throughout the night, I kept thinking those elves might send one of their beast to come and finish me off, but nothing came the night was nearly peaceful. It was until the voice came into my head.*

???;"Release me Atlas, you will die you do not."

Atlas;"I'm fine with that, as long as I take you with me."

???;"Foolish mortal, I will never die."

Atlas;"Maybe so, but you will be gone from me and that is good enough."

*The voice did not speak again, but there was some truth in its words. If my wounds were not seen to soon I would perish here, but I forced myself to keep moving. As day broke I arrived at the entrance of a large mountain range, a small path was winding between the mountains, somewhere along this path I will find it hidden within the rocks.*

I awoke with a soft groan. My body felt the same yet different. I couldn't really truly discribe it. I press my face into the bed quietly before I force myself to sit up. I looked around and I noticed that I was in a room. I waved my hand lightly then let them drop down. I was still in the forest with my kind. I shook my head sadly. I should have went with Atlas. I stood up but I felt a resistant on my right ankle. I looked down and notice that I was chained to the bed. I waved my hand over the chain and for a brief second, an inscription glowed a dark purple before it disappeared. I frowned angrily. "Great. Just great. And dark magic isn't a specialty of mines." I mumbled before I looked in the direction where I knew Atlas had left. I needed to escape and go back to him.

*I stumbled down the mountain path my left arm dragging along the rocks, I was becoming more and more exhausted. But I could not stop until I reached the camp, my sword felt heavy in my hand as it rested on my shoulder. I soon came across an alcove hidden in rock, I made my way to the back of it rubbing my hand along the wall. A trail of blood followed my hand, my hand crossed over a rune in the wall as the blood spread across it the wall shifted and began to lower. I stepped through the new hole and the wall raised behind me, it was a shot walk to the other side of the cave. I emerged into a large clearing well hidden by the surrounding mountains, there was a wooden gate blocking my path with several men atop it aiming arrows down at me. After a while another came appeared atop the gate and shouted to the others.*

Guard;"Stand down men, and raise the gate."

*There bows dropped as the wooden gate was drawn up, I crossed into the clearing and dropped to my knees on the inside. The area was full of people, a large campfire in the middle and many caravans circling the perimeter. I had finally arrived, Camp Dawn a refuge haven started and ran by gypsies of many clans. I could hear people singing and children playing, the whole area sounded of merriment. I fell back and looked up at the sky, a few men approached and looked down at me.*

Man;"Sweet gods Atlas. You look like shit."

*The men laughed and picked me to my feet slowly helping me through the camp.*

Man;"Lets get you fixed up old chap."

"Here." A plate of fruits was dropped down in front of me. I remained sitting on the bed, my head low with my black hair covering my face. The elf looked at me. "Aren't you going to eat?" He asked. I let out a soft sigh but made no move. The elf walked closer to me. "You have not completed the process. You will stay here until you complete your cleansing but you burned off the hand of one of our greats. How dare you?! But I suppose that is what is expected from a half-bred el-" I grabbed his mouth and I started chanting quietly, soon the elf fell to his knees as I started draining his life from him, letting him realize that I am not weak. I released him and he fell back, gasping for air. I frowned sadly before I looked away. My emotions were starting to get the best of me. I have bonded with another and now...I desired him more than anything. What lengths would I go to be with him? To be with Atlas?

*The men pulled me into one of the caravans and lied me down on to a table. A man dressed in elegant robes walked in carrying a staff with charms and all sorts of odds and end hanging from it, he was the settlers Shaman and healer. He inspected my wounds before telling the men to bring him several items, as the men left he pulled a small vial from his robes and held it to my lips.*

Shaman;"Drink and rest, you will be back with us shortly."

*I swallowed the bitter concoction and slowly felt myself drift into a deep sleep. I awoke serveral hours later, the pains had turned to simple aches around my body. I slowly sat up and saw a familiar man sitting in the corner, his clothes were simple yet intricate small details along the trims.*

Atlas;"Thanos, I thought I would find you here."

Thanos;"As I knew you would soon return."

*I stoop up and moved in front of me, he grabbed my arm and lifted it up looking at my markings. He moved around me closely inspecting every marking on me. He stood back in front of me and let out a small sigh.*

Thanos;"You are becoming sloppy as time goes on, you can not keep freeing him."

Atlas;"His power is growing faster than we thought, I need more bindings."

Thanos;"I agree, but soon they will not be enough. He will eventually win and you will be lost."

Atlas;".....I need help."

Thanos;"You need more than that, not even Picar could resist this for much longer. But for now let us repair and renew."

*His rolled up his sleeves and opened his hands, in his left white flames appeared roaring from his palms. In his right a black liquid that moved like a snake circling around. I stood up and took a deep breath readying myself for what was to come. He began to chat quietly and moved closer to me, after his chant finished his hands passed through my skin entering my chest. He started another chat but it was drowned out by screams of pain and agony coming from me. The flame within me bonded with the liquid and began to course through my body, Thanos removed his hands and continued the chat waving his hands over my markings guiding the now living essence within me. The flame was now black and could be seen through my skin as it passed over my chest and down my arm, intensifying as it moved over any damaged marks repairing them. The process continued over my entire body until they were all repaired. Thanos moved his hands to either side of my neck and chanted loudly, the flames rushed to my neck and began to push at skin from the inside. My screams stopped the flames were cutting off my voice and breath. The black fire began to pierce my skin and moved it self around my neck creating a new design surrounding my throat and joining with older marks. Thanos finished his chant and took a step back, catching his breath. dense smoke raised from my body quickly filling the caravan. He pulled me from the caravan into the fresh air, I began to wretch and cough spitting up black residue. Thanos picked himself up and pulled his sleeves down before speaking.*

Thanos;"You know the process you must now give it a name."

*Even through the pain I could only think of one thing.*

Atlas;"Aiyana...Aiyanas wrath."

I stared at the ground, refusing to move until I felt a vibration. My ears twitched and I listened carefully to the voices around me. "They are approaching the forest! They are bring the war to our home!" One yelled. The great spoke calmly. "Ready our warriors and protectors. We must defend this forest at all cost." I felt sudden vibrations as people ran and scurry to ready themselves. My eyes widen slightly. There was going to be battle. I grabbed the chain and I pulled and yank on it but to no avail.

"My dagger. If only I had my dagger." I whispered angrily before I put my hands on the ground. I felt vibrations heading out of the forest towards the plains and other, lighter vibrations heading deeper into the forest. From the vibrations, I could tell in was women and children heading deeper. I waved my hands over the chain and I whispered. "Release!" The chain glowed a dark purple then I felt a painful shock start at my ankle and radiate throughout my body for a brief second. It only last a second but the pain was incredible. I pulled my legs to my chest, breathing heavily. "No.." I whispered then I yelled loudly. "No!" I struggled to my hands and knees. "I will not give up! Not yet!"

Thanos;"I will leave you now, but before I forget an old friend wants to talk. Shes over there somewhere."

*His hand pointed to the other side of the camp. I stood up and struggled to find my voice.*

Atlas;"Thank you, Im sure we shall meet again soon."

Thanos;"Let us hope not."

*He took his leave and headed out of the camp vanishing into the caves. I took a second to catch my breathe before moving to the other side of the camp trying to find a familiar face. As I looked through the crowds of people I saw someone perched atop a caravan on the edge of the settlement. The posture was very familiar to me, I made my way over to the figure and stood below the caravan they were sat on. The figure jumped from the caravan landing next to me, as they stood straight they removed their hood.*

"Its been a long time, Atlas."

*Her arm reached round and caught me under the jaw knocking me back a few paces. I regained my footing and rubbed my jaw.*

Atlas;"Its good to see you too Alicearia."

*I don't know if I was more shocked at the punch or just seeing her again. I had not seen her since I was a member of Picars personal companions. There were six of us back then, adventuring and waging war on behalf of Picar. When he eventually died we all split apart heading out separate ways.*

Atlas;"I thought you were still traveling with your clan back on west lands."

Alicearia;"I decided to do some traveling on my own, seeing all the other camps in the world. But the real question is what are you doing here? This is not your home.*

Atlas;"And neither is the place you speak of, you know what they did to me. You are one of the few people that know what I am, I decided to try and make a new one."

Alicearia;"Doesn't seem to be working out too well for you no dose it?"

Atlas;"No better than if I had stayed. But I have something now, someone I need to help but I cant. What should I do? What would you do?"

Alicearia;"You know I have always done as I pleased. But you have always known what you needed to do. Even when we traveled with the others, you knew what to do. So tell me, is this somthing you want to do, or need to do?"

*I thought on the question before answering.*

Atlas;"Both."

Alicearia;"Then you have already made up you mind."

*She was right, I already knew what I was going to do. I had to go back for her.*

Atlas;"Thank you."

*I turned around and began to move out, but Aliceaira caught my shoulder.*

Alicearia;"Before you go theres someone else who wants to say hello."

*She turned her head and let out a loud long whistle. After a few seconds I heard and beastly roar come from outside the camp, a creature was standing on the rocks just above the wall. My eyes narrowed.Zed?!?*

I tugged and pulled on the chain as hard as I could. Soon, my ears twitched at the sound of distant screaming and yelling. I waved my hand in the direction of the noise and my eyes widen. I sensed fire. The forest has been set on fire. I looked at the chain and I grabbed it angrily and yelled. "Tyela neuma!" The chain glowed a dark purple once again. "Damnit.." I mumbled before I felt the radiating pain again. I fell to the floor, gasping and twitching in pain.

Why? In exchange for his freedom, I gave up mines. Was it worth it? I closed my eyes and I nod my head. Yes. It was worth it because I cared for him. I heard the sound of wood crackling and I knew that the fire was drawing near. I struggled to my hands and knees and I grabbed the chain, giving out one last effort to free myself. "...Panta tangwa..." I panted but when I saw the chain glow once again, I closed my eyes. I had no more words to help free myself. This was it. I screamed in pain as the painful shock went through my body once more. I fell to the floor once again but I was trying to fight the feeling of unconsciousness.

My vision was a bit blurred but I could see the smoke, entering the room and I could feel the temperature in the room increase. I heard screams, yells and hiss of pain. Soon the room was broken into and I saw humans and some dwarfs, wearing armor. They looked at me before they looked at the chain that bind me. Not wanting to be captured again, I struggle to get up but my body wouldn't move. All I could do was manage a weak hiss at them before I closed my eyes.

Atlas;"ZED!!!"

*As i shouted the creature jumped on the spot and turned towards us, It moved at great speed as it lept from rock to rock. It jumped clear over the wooden wall landing a few meters from us. It is Zed! Revealed in light I could see him clearly now, a great giant sabertooth tiger. It came sprinting towards me leaping and landing on me, he wildly licked at my face. I brought my arms up and rubbed his head, he was as tall as me and as stong.*

Atlas;"You've grown boy."

*I pushed him off and say up on my knees, I kept rubbing his head and neck as I looked up at Aliceaira.*

Alicearia;"He remembers you. Then again a familiar never forgets its master dose it?"

Atlas;"Thank you for keeping him safe for me."

Alicearia;"Well you said you would need help, and I figured you would want him back sooner or later. Hes stronger now, strong enough for even you to ride."

*She went in her caravan and pulled out a stange set of armor and threw it down infront of me.*

Alicearia;"Where your going I figure he will need this."

*It was battle armor for Zed, When I first got Zed I had dreamed that we would go into combat when he was old and strong enough. I had a master smith create this for when he was ready, I can't believe so kept it this whole time. I quickly strapped the armor around Zed, it fit perfectly and made him look monstrous a fearful creature that people would cower against.*

Alicearia;"This repays my debt to you, and now it is time for us to part ways again. I doubt we will meet again, but good luck I hope you find peace again."

Atlas;"Thank you again and goodbye my friend."

*She jumped into her caravan and took off out the main gate, when she was gone I turned to Zed.*

"Are you ready boy?"

*He let out another ferocious roar and stood up waiting for me. I smiled and mounted his back, we took off at great speed rushing through the tunnels and out the other side. My weight did not slow him down at all, we were moving faster than any man on horse ever could. We would make to her within a few hours at this pace. Hold on Aiyana, I'm coming.

I awoke with blurred vision. I lift my hand to rubbed my eyes but saw that they were binded together. I blinked and I looked around. Crap. I was captured again. I notice that I was riding in a wagon with other elf's. A metal cage, enclosed us within the wagon. Males, females and even young elves. Children. Their hands were all tied to prevent them from using magic. I looked in the direction of the forest and all I saw was a huge black smoke rising in the distance. I stood up but notice that the chain was still on my ankle, intact but part of the wooden bed was still attached to the other end. I looked around desperately for my bow and I notice that it was in another wagon with some other weapons.

I blinked and looked around. There was an army of human and dwarves. It seemed that they formed an alliance of a sort. I frowned angrily before I kick at the wagon, trying to free myself. Unfortunately, my racket was annoying a dwarf who slammed his hammer again the metal cage. "Enough, you elf!" I turned to him and I let out a loud hiss. The humans laughed at me before one spoke. "It seems she has some fire in her. We'll make sure she'll be the first to be sold at. The auction." The dwarf let out a loud snort as I blinked. Auction? Sold? Where was I going? What was going on?

We rode for what felt to me like forever. It was dark and only the moon provided light. The wagon came to an abrupt stop and the cage opened. I hissed loudly before I was grabbed and pulled out by my hair. I struggled to free myself but was greeted with a kick to my side. I gasped in pain before I was pulled to my feet and shoved onto a some kind of stage. A man, in front of the stage spoke loudly. "I give you, an elf! A female! Place your bids she will make a good slave to all! Do I hear 8 silvers! 10 silvers?" He questioned as the crowd looked at me. I could hear the mummers, the whispers and shouts. I could hear chuckles, snickers and laughter. Where was I? And why was I head?

*We sped out of the mountains and through the woods following my footsteps back towards the deep forest. After a few hours we came to a small opening before. We were nearly there when my gaze was drawn up by the thick could of smoke in the distance, I knew instantly it was coming for the elves encampment. I urged Zed onwards faster than ever heading straight for it, fire had spread to the surrounding area by the time we reached the entrance I had left by. It had been a slaughter, bodies lied think on the ground the once lush grass had been stained by blood and fire. I climbed down and walked forward Zed following behind, there were no signs of life anywhere. I quickly moved through the area searching everywhere, Zed snarled behind me and was looking to my right. There was Elf lying on the floor covered in his own blood, but still alive. I quickly moved over to him and knelt next to him.*

"What happened here? Where is Aiyana?"

*The elf struggled to speak.*

Elf;"We were attacked....by man and dwarf....th...they took them...took them all"

*He coughed up a mouthful of blood.*

Elf;"West...they went west."

*As the last words rolled from his lips his life shortly followed. I stood up and moved to the west side of the camp, there were grooves in the ground. These were made by a wagon carrying a heavy load, there were several other similar trails the all led west and through the forest. I quickly mounted back onto Zed and spurred him onwards, we followed the trail through the rest of the day and half the night. We came to a village hidden deep in the woods, I dismounted as we neared the edge of the tree line. The village was busy even at this hour, Dwarfs and men patrolled the outskirts.*

"Stay here boy, if I need you i'll whistle."

*Zed let out a soft whimper and laid down tired from the ride, I stroked his head. Stealth was not a strength of mine but it was easy enough to get close to the town with being noticed at this time of night. There was a large sheet of brown cloth hanging from a nearby window, I quickly grabbed it and covered myself in it, concealing my armor weapons and face. I kept to the side on houses staying out of sight, I stood between two building in shadows overlooking the main square of the village. Some spectacle had been set up on stage at the far end, my eyes narrowed trying to see what it was on stage. I could see a man shouting to the crowd and a line of people on the left clamped in irons, and one more to his left standing center stage. Aiyana?!?

The bid was rising and so was my anger. So this is the fate of the elves? This is why they are going extinct?! Captured to be sold to dwarves and humans for them to treat us like slaves and do as they wish. I looked over at my fellow elves and they looked around scared. I can sense fear from them. Children held onto their parents and others seem to have lower their head in defeat. Elves were a peaceful species without strong emotions. My eyes sadden as I looked at them then I turned my head away.

"25 silver pieces! Do I hear 26?!" The man yelled. I scowled angrily as I heard them shout and yell. I could sense lust and greed from the crowd. I could even smell the alcohol from their breaths. I balled my hands in a tight fist in anger. Being a half bred, I didn't really fall into the elven category, especially when it comes to temperment. My emotions were stronger and unlike the elves, I acted out on my emotions. I tried to do my best to stay in control. After all, the chain was still on my ankle and anytime I try to use magic or a spell I would get punished with pain.

"28 silver pieces! Come on men! Placed your bids! She may be an elf but look at her beauty! Once she adapts to being civil, she'll be happy and grateful for what we have done. Elves hide out into the forest, uncivilized and savage but we can change them! We can teach them how to be civil and teach them how to work the right way! Come! Placed your bids! They are easily tamed creatures!" My eyes shot open. My kind?! Creatures?! Untamed and uncivilized?! My anger got the better of me. "You should not speak on what you do not know!" I hissed at the man. The crowd gasp at my anger. The man walked over and he slapped me hard, causing me to fall to the floor. I blinked, dizzy from the hit and I struggle to get up but all I could do was pull myself to my hands and knees, my head hanging low. The man looked back at the crowd. "Easily tamed!" The crowd yelled excitedly and the bid went higher until finally. "32 silver pieces! Going once?" The man yelled, looking around. I shook my head, a tear stayed at the corner of my eyes. Was I to suffer the same fate of my people? Was I to soon fade into extinction as well? I closed my eyes sadly. Perhaps Atlas was right. My gods has played their cruel joke and I am the last pawn left in the game. "Going twice?!"

*The crowd hushed as the she shouted at them, It was Aiyana! I was happy to see her alive at first. But my rage quickly built inside me knowing what had befallen her. When she was hit to the ground my entire body tensed and my rage built even further, my breathing quickened trying to hold it back but it was no use. The man returned to his original spot and continued his speech, after a few seconds later my hammer came flying through the air soaring just over the heads of the crowd. It violently smashed into the mans head sending him off the back of the stage, the crowed grew silent again looking around as the guards moved through the crowd shouting trying to find the one who threw it. I moved out from between the buildings keeping the sheet covering me, as I slowly paced through the crowd not adjusting for anyone in my path.*

"Tempos, grant me strength to defeat my foes."

*A bright light began to shine from under the blanket as I moved onward. I continued to speak my voice growing louder as I moved.*

"Tempos, feed me your anger so I may share your fury."

*My eyes began to shine and emit a fiery red glow and more light was bursting from under the cloth. Once again my voice grew louder and the crowd began to notice me and clear a path.*

"Tempos, give me the gift of your forge to bring my enemies to their knees."

*As more light burst from me the cloth flew from me revealing the bright light shining from my markings. The guards began to shout and move toward me as the crowd grew further apart, My skin between my marks began to shine and turn a dark silvery grey. I drew both swords and continued forward as the guards surrounded me.*

"TEMPOS SHOW ME FAVOR AND USE ME AS YOUR WEAPON!"

*Black fire began to emit from my eyes all me marks were now glowing brightly except for the one on my neck. The guards began swinging their weapons at me, as the collided with my skin they bounced back as if they had hit steel. I reached the stage I bought my sword down shattering the chains that bound Aiyana, I turned and faced the guards that were still swinging their weapons at me.*

"YOU WILL PAY FOR YOUR ACTIONS AND FACE THE WRATH OF THE GOD OF BLOOD AND FIRE!"

*I charge at the guards swinging my weapons with great speed and strength channeling all my fury in each blow.*

I manage to look up just in time to see a familiar hammer take the man away. At first, confusion showed on my face and soon my eyes widen. It couldn't be? I heard Atlas's voice and as it grew louder, my smile grew wider. He had come for me! I saw the marks glowing brightly ans knew that he had repaired himself although my eyes did catch something that was different but regardless, I couldn't have been more happy to see him right now. When he brought the sword down on the chain, I knew that I would be free from my bonds. Free from my punishment, for now. The chain shattered and I stood up. Thanks would have to wait for now. I ran to my fellow elves and I waved my hands over the chains. "Panta tangwa!" I whispered and the iron clamps fell from the elves. I whispered for them to escape quickly and they nod their heads and ran off as fast as they could.

Now, I needed to find what was mines. I ran to the wagon and I jump inside. It was full of weapons. After some searching, I manage to find my bow but soon afterwards, I was tackled down by a human. I hiss angrily as we fought. I manage to send a punch to his jaw, knocking him back. I strapped my bow onto me and quickly followed by my quiver and arrows. Perfect. I waved my hand briefly and my eyes widen. I sensed my dagger. It was deep within the wagon. I reached my hand down, through the weapons, trying to find it. The human had grabbed a sword and he lifted it over my head. I looked up and I grabbed my dagger just in time. Steel met holy steel and sparks flew as we tried to force the other away. I glanced at the writings on the handle of my dagger and I smirked lightly. "Templa en' tessa!" The human gasped and he froze in place. I pulled away from him and I jumped out of the wagon. I sheathe my dagger in my boot before I yelled towards Atlas. "Atlas! We have to leave! Let's go!"

*My rage grew as I continued to cut down the enemies before me, cleaving them limb from limb. I heard Aiyana call for us to leave, my anger subsided slighty and knew she was right. I thrusted my sword into two oppenents and looked back to the stage streching out my hand. A mark on the back of my hand shone brightly and my hammer broke through the stage returning to my hand, I kept its moment swinging it up and over me bringing it down infront of me quaking the ground sending all near me to the ground. The hammer shrunk back down and I returned it to my waist. I place 2 fingers in my mouth and let out a loud whistle, I could hear Zed roar off in the distance. It only took a few seconds for him to reach me, tramping serveral men as he approched. I picked up my swords seathing the second and keeping the first inhand before mounting on Zed and guiding him over to Aiyana, I breathed deep and calmed myself allowing the flames in my eyes die down and my skin slowly turn back to normal. I reached out my arm to help her up.*

"Let us leave and be done with this place."