The Desperate Rescue. [In Game]

[Ecnalab]

Looking up, Valira would find that Sune was actually missing, apparently having slipped out when she and Daisy were speaking. That was odd, Sune usually made it a point to let people know when she was coming, and going.

Zira stared down at them, smiling. "I was wondering why the cyclops didn't report in last night. I have to admit, I wasn't expecting to see you again Dirk, Honey. I gave you fifty fifty odds on making it through the swamp, then I figured you'd get yourself killed, or taken by some monster, or another. You are to be admired for your tenacity," she hissed, as she stood, and spread her wings, her human guise ballooning into her true form, a slack scaled dragon the size of an ox. "What do you say, come be a part of my hoard? You can even bring your little elf friend. I'm sure Daddy will love her," she offered, as she crept down the hillside.

 

[TheIrishOtaku]

Valira was surprised, and more than a bit concerned at Sune's absence. While it was possible that she had just gone out for some fresh air or to meet up with Dirk and Akalfa, the fact that she hadn't said anything to Valira and Daisy before she left was unusual to say the least. Sune was a powerful entity indeed, but she was neither invincible nor invulnerable and the battle with the cyclops had made it clear that this place was as dangerous for her as it was for the rest of the group. She might have been worrying over nothing, but she would not be able to relax until she was sure of the demons location and safety. She and the demoness may have had their differences, but that did not mean that she wished the woman to come to harm. If she could do anything to prevent that happening, she would with all her strength and skill. Standing up, she sheathed her sword and looked towards Daisy with a grim and serious expression her face. Her eyes betrayed her feelings, concern mixing with uncertainty.

''Sune has left the cave without alerting the two of us. She's probably alright but just to be on the safe side I think we should go looking for her. I don't like the thought of her being alone out there, for obvious reasons. I swear if this is some prank of hers she'll get such a spanking for this...''

Valira almost hoped that was the case, but something told her this situation wasn't as harmless as all that. There food would probably end up the meal of some adventurous cave rat, but that was the least of their concerns right now. Better no food than an injured or worse companion after all. Making her way to the mouth of the cave Valira waited for Daisy to follow her lead. She hoped that wherever Sune had gone that it was close by. Getting lost and separated from the others would make an already tense scenario far worse. Speaking of the others, it was taking them a while to get back with that firewood, although that could have just been due to the scarcity of kindling available in the area. Still, that made her concern for Dirk and Akalfa's safety grow along with that of Sune.

''We should also attempt to regroup with Dirk and Akalfa. We may need their help to find Sunelarra and I am certain that they would want to know she is missing. Besides, I must admit that I am getting a bit worried about them as well, by right they should have returned by now. I won't be able to rest easy until all of us are safe and accounted for.''

Valira's did her best to keep her voice calm and measured, but there was still an undercurrent of tension behind her words. She prayed that her fears were unfounded, that they would all soon be reunited and enjoying a delicious meal together, laughing all the while about the truly mundane reasons that had kept them apart. That was her hope at least, although something in Valira's bones told her that that hope would soon be dashed into a million pieces. Shaking her head clear of such pessimistic thoughts, Valira steeled herself for whatever they would find as she and Daisy left the cave, holding on to the scabbard of her sword until her knuckles turned white. Whatever happened next she would be ready for it, no matter what it was.

 

[Kalnath]

Dirk threw down the gathered firewood and stepped in front of Akalfa protectively, motioning her to back away from the half-dragon's approach. In the clear light of dawn, he could get a much better look at Zira's true form - and it was no less intimidating than it had been the dark, cramped tower. She hadn't changed at all since that night.

But he had.

“…Is that all, Zira? Is that all you have to say for yourself!? You don’t even think you did anything wrong, do you?” He shouted his defiance up at her, eyes incandescent with rage. "I hoped that I might be wrong about you. I hoped that what I saw that night was just an overreaction. I hoped that maybe we could find a way to reconcile, but now? Is this who you truly are, Zira? Is this what you are!?”

He hadn't drawn his daggers - not yet - but his hands hovered close to them.

 

[TheIrishOtaku]

Valira smiled back at Daisy, greatly appreciating her comfort and support. It seemed they were both of one mind about the situation at hand, which was gratifying as it meant Valira wasn't being overly cautious or paranoid as a small part of her worried she might be. In her anxious state Valira had nearly forgotten about Sune's true name, although Daisy was right that it should only be used if they had exhausted all other methods of finding her. If everything was alright, Sune would not appreciate being brought to heel like a dog. If Sune was in the middle of something dangerous, then the effect it usually had on her could end up having deadly consequences. No, better they search for her the old fashioned way and hope they find her and the others as quickly and as easily as possible. Along with all of the worry and anxiety, Valira was disappointed that her conversation with Daisy had been interrupted. They had been bonding, enjoying each others words and company, and then this had to happen. It seemed that moments of peace were few and far between for the party, such was the way on a quest like there's. Besides, the area they were in didn't exactly scream safe and secure. Regardless, Valira promised herself that she and Daisy would properly pick up the conversation that was so unfortunately interrupted at a future date. For the moment, as they began their search Valira decided to address what Daisy had said to her before they had formed their little search party.

''When we get out of this Daisy, I will treat you to all the curry you can eat. I am sure you will enjoy it as much as I will enjoy your non reptilian based cuisine. I would rather like to try making the former from scratch, I have never done so before but it would be an enjoyable challenge and from what I have been told, food made by ones own hands often tastes the best. Since you will have a lovely Elven assistant, perhaps I can enlist the same of a lovely human?''

Valira chuckled at that, sounding more nervous than amused. She had meant every word she said to Daisy, but it was clear that her bringing it up then was an attempt to diffuse tension and distract them from the dark thoughts that were worrying them. Valira was still utterly focused on the task at hand however, her eyes constantly scanning their surroundings as they continued to search for their companions. A cold wind blew past them, bracing Valira and seeming to sharpen her focus, even as it did little to improve her dark mood.

''Where are you all....''

Valira said this aloud, not expecting an answer. Valira took a deep breath to steady her nerves. They couldn't have gone far, they just had to keep moving and they would find them. She just hoped that when they did they would all be alive and in one piece. Valira shook her head violently. Her friends were strong and capable, they could handle themselves in battle, she had seen it first-hand. She couldn't allow worst case scenarios and fear to sap her will or cloud her judgement. Right now, she needed to have hope and faith, both in herself and Daisy and in her comrades. Even separated, they were with each other in spirit, with a bond forged by mutual experience and hardship, one that would never be broken. So let whatever happened next come. They would face it side by side, together.

 

[Ecnalab]

"Yes!" Zira snarled. "I am dragon! This world exists for our pleasure. I take that which pleases me, and burn that which does not. Now, tell me, little, soft, human. Which are you?" Her voice was booming, and sent a chill down Dirk's spine with its implications. His choices seemed set, a plaything, or a meal.
The creature before her was not the largest Akalfa had ever seen, but easily the most frightening given its combination of size, intelligence, and complete disregard for the well being of others. As much as it shook her, she couldn't imagine how Dirk was feeling, with all of its malicious attention focused on him.
A rumbling female voice came down the gully, and made Daisy's ears twitch. Whatever that was, it sounded very big, and very full of itself, and made her skin crawl.
It hit Valira's ears shortly thereafter, and made her stomach twist, because she recognized who it belonged to.... Zira. The dragon was here.

 

[TheIrishOtaku]

Hearing Zira's voice made Valira's blood run cold and a shiver run down her spine. It was like nails scraping on metal to the High Elf, an unpleasant and unwelcome sound that she wished more than anything she hadn't heard. Yet heard it she had, there was no denying that simple yet horrifying reality. True, this was technically why they were here, to defeat Zira and her father and to free their captives. It wasn't so much Zira's presence that was the issue, it was the fact that she had gotten the jump on them and had appeared before them when they were separated and therefore vulnerable. Their plan had relied on the final battle taking place in an area of their choosing, to give themselves the utmost advantage. Now it was Zira who had the initiative, and Valira knew that wresting it from her would be difficult indeed. Regardless, Zira though powerful was not invincible and Valira knew that they would defeat her no matter how much she stacked the deck in her favour. Running as fast as she could, Valira decided there was no time to lose. She did not even stand still to offer an explanation to Daisy, opting instead to do so along the way. Not that she thought it was particularly necessary, she knew that her friend was smart enough to put two and two together. But she did so anyway, just to be absolutely clear.

''I'd know that awful voice anywhere, it is Zira! That foul creature has clearly made the first move at our expense, she is smarter than we gave her credit for! It goes without saying that our comrades are in grave danger, we must make haste and pray that we are not too late in coming to their aid!''

The worry that Valira felt was mingled with rage and sheer determination. If Zira thought that she could threaten her friends, her beloved no less, she had another thing coming! They may not have started this particular battle, but they would finish it, putting an end to Zira's reign of terror once and for all. The fire in her eyes, the set to her jaw and the speed at which she was moving all spoke to Valira's resolute desire and enthusiasm for the coming battle. She resisted the urge to leave out a war cry, in order to hopefully surprise the half dragon. Two could play at that game after all. Turning to Daisy, she nodded solemnly at her friend and comrade.

''This goes without saying, but be careful. Zira is a formidable foe indeed, even outnumbered as she is we will have to employ all of the strength, skill and cunning at our disposal in order to defeat her. I do not exaggerate when I say this will probably make all of our previous battles seem like child's play in comparison. Steel yourself Daisy, this will not be easy but by all that is good and honourable we will prevail!''

Valira said this in a voice that was equal parts serious and hopeful, the High Elf fully aware of the odds stacked against them yet no less confident of victory for that. Zira was strong, but they had a weapon that was far more powerful. And Valira wasn't thinking of her cursed sword (although that was a definite edge). No, what they wielded was righteousness, and that burned hotter and brighter than the breath of any dragon, full blood or no.

 

[OmegaUmbra]

Akalfa backed away in shuddering fear, covering her ears as Zira's booming voice shook the trees like thunder in the sky, powerful and demanding. The sleek blackness of her scales looking like shining ebony armor. A terrifying predator on the prowl, with one particular piece of prey on her mind. Akalfa was shaken to her core, yet stood her ground. After everything Zira had put Dirk through, she had the gall to screech at him and make demands? After kidnapping their comrade, filling them with guilt, and throwing a child-like tantrum she still had not changed one bit, even daring to offer the Dark Elf over to her father as a treat? It digusted Akalfa. Selfish and self-serving just like all the people she had worked under for all her life. Clenching her fists in rage, she stood beside Dirk, thankful for his protection and now willing to return the favor. Putting her hand on his shoulder to comfort him and show her support. Even if this adventure may be their last they would not surrender, and would fight with all the dignity and furiosity they had!

She could feel the arcane magic flow in her veins, red hot and angry, ready to strike as soon as the moment presented itself.

"Well Dirk...which are we?"

 

[Kalnath]

Plaything or meal: you're prey either way...

The blood boiling in Dirk's veins told him to draw steel; to take vengeance for all the stress she had caused him. But the more sensible (if craven) part of his mind knew that Zira would be too much for the two of them alone. It would be different if the whole group was there, or if it had been him alone, but the half-dragon had explicitly threatened Akalfa. The dark elf needed time to get away, either to bring the others or just to save herself.

...Perhaps there was a way to give her that time? Dirk closed his eyes and took a deep breath to cool his temper. He hadn't heard the conversation very well from outside the tower, but he'd caught enough of it to remember the gist.

"Zira, I'm sorry. Please. Let this grudge go..." he said, softly, "I have never denied that I was wrong to spurn you like I did, but that doesn't mean you were right to attack my friends over it. You should have been more patient, could have asked about my... reasons. Or at least left the rest of them out of it."

Dirk turned his head and gave Akalfa a subtle nod as he cautiously stepped away from her, raising his hands placatingly as he approached Zira's draconic form. It was a dangerous gamble, and if it didn't work out then the next few seconds were going to be very painful, but he had to try... for his own conscience as much as anything else.

"Please, give yourself one more chance to do this peacefully. We don't need this violence."

 

[Ecnalab]

"I think not," Zira replied, and a wall of fire rushed from her mouth, straight towards them.

 

[TheIrishOtaku]

Valira smiled slightly, both at Daisy's optimism and her confidence. It was important that they didn't lose their heads, figuratively speaking. After all, panic could very easily cause the pair to lose them in a more literal way in the coming battle. Valira swore then and there that the only one who would be decapitated this day was Zira. She knew that killing the half dragon was the only way, Zira had proven herself impossible to negotiate with and a danger to everyone. If a less deadly alternative presented itself, Valira would be willing to take it. But if they did have to kill Zira, she would not lose any sleep over it. After all, if anyone deserved death, it was her. As they approached the source of the voices, they became louder and Valira could make out the voices of her friends along with Zira's. Valira frowned as she heard Dirk attempt to reason with the woman, a noble yet ultimately fruitless gesture. What happened next was expected and inevitable, yet as Valira rounded the corner and finally came upon the scene, it was no less horrifying. Seeing Zira's fiery breath racing towards her friends, it was like the entire world went into slow motion. There wasn't enough time to get them out of the way, if they didn't act fast Dirk and Akalfa would be burned alive. Quick as a flash, Valira turned towards Daisy with an expression in her eyes that burned as hot as the fire threatening her comrades lives.

''You need to cast a spell to quench that fire or at the very least one to protect them from its effects! There isn't a moment to lose!''

Valira didn't wait for an answer as she took off at a run towards Zira, unsheathing her sword as she ran and jumping at the last minute over the wall of flame. Bringing her sword down in an arc, she aimed straight for the half dragon with all the force and rage she could muster. This was risky to say the least, an all or nothing attack, but she hoped that Zira would be both distracted and her movements cumbersome enough that she wouldn't be able to dodge.

''Taste. My. Blade!''

As far as Valira war cries went it was short and sweet, but no less emotionally charged for that. She just hoped that the damage of her attack would match the intensity of her effort and the emotions fuelling it. Landing on her feet at the same time in front of Zira, Valira's blade finally came down in a whooshing arc, slicing the half dragon from head to stomach. Valira waited for the brief delay as Zira's body registered the attack, praying that the cursed sword would be enough to pierce the beasts tough hide. If it wasn't, she had left herself vulnerable, winded and at point blank range for Zira's fire.

 

[Kalnath]

Dirk’s eyes flew open in shock as the flames surged forward. He dove to the side, throwing himself to the ground in a desperate attempt to get out of the way as the heat licked at his ankles. His ears were ringing and his heart thundered in his chest as he looked back over his shoulder at the place Akalfa had been standing, now consumed by fire. He couldn’t see the dark elf through all of the flames, and in that chaotic, panicked moment, his mind jumped to a horrible conclusion:

He’d done it again. His stupidity had cost them another close companion.

Gritting his teeth, Dirk rose to his feet and drew both of his daggers, his entire body shivering in rage and anguish. Even if he was wrong, that awful feeling was worse than any wound the monster could inflict on him. He whirled around just in time to see Valira's opening strike - when did she get there!? No, it didn't matter - and rushed to back her up, watching the beast's reaction for an opening...

 

[Ecnalab]

Zira looked at the two of them, and laughed, a deep mocking sound, before it turned into a gasp. The thin line down her front that Valira's sword had made, barely more than a scratch, began to turn pale, then spread as the scaled around it began to crack, crumble, and finally slough off, leaving a thin stripe of bare skin down the dragon's front. "What have you done to me?!" she roared in rade, and beat her wings, blowing the group back, and off their feet.
The sudden wind also blew away the smouldering fire that lingered where Akalfa had been standing, and the group saw her... wrapped up in Sune's wings, and mostly unharmed, the demon apparently none too bothered by fire.

 

[TheIrishOtaku]

Valira was delighted to turn Zira's scornful laughter into incredulous rage, although she didn't have any time to revel in the feeling as the had dragons wingbeats knocked them over with the force of a small storm. Though a little shaken up, neither she, Dirk or Daisy looked none the worse for wear. The former hadn't had the time to cast a spell, everything had happened so fast. Worry and fear suffused every fibre of her being as she remembered that Akalfa was still caught in the path of the flames, only for it to morph into glorious relief and surprise as she saw her cradled in the embrace of Sune's wings. Valira let out a shaky breath she hadn't realised she was holding, as she stood back up, helping the others do the same. She shot a misty eyed look at Akalfa, her gaze and the smile that graced her lips expressing the boundless love she felt for her paramour, coupled with relieved jubilation at her safety. She then turned to Sune and gave a her a look of pure gratitude, as well as a solemn nod of respect for what she had done. She hadn't been required to save Akalfa, true name or no, instead she had done it because she chose to. Whether it was altruism, pragmatism or some mix of the two, regardless she had saved her beautiful lovers life and Valira would be forever indebted to her. There would be time to discuss their feelings later however. Right then, they still had a half dragon to defeat and they could not afford to get distracted.

''We can't let her escape! Daisy and Akalfa, since we can't harm her with magic, use your spells to distract and disorient her! Dirk, you and I are going to have to take her down! I'll use my sword to reveal as much of her vulnerable flesh as possible, then we'll go in for the kill! Lets show this pathetic excuse for a monster what true heroes are made of!''

Valira ran forward at that, leaving out a war cry that was both a genuine exultation, a morale booster and an effort to intimidate their foe. Valira kept her focus on Zira, ready to move in a moments notice if she tried to leave off her fiery breath. Even with her cursed sword and everyone working together, this fight would not be easy but Valira had complete faith in her friends and their inevitable victory. Valira slashed her sword once again at Zira, this time aiming for the patch of bare skin, aiming to both injure the beast and unveil more weak spots for her and Dirk to slash at. While she did so, she laughed triumphantly. Antagonising their foe was risky, but it also increased the likelihood of her making reckless mistakes that they could take advantage of.

''What's the matter Zira? Not as invincible as you thought? Getting a little scared? Surprised that we've picked up a few new tricks since last we met? It appears that the draconic reputation for arrogance is well deserved indeed. You underestimated us and now look where you are, about to be slain by the very beings you thought of as mere insects. The fact that we even have the temerity to do so must eat you up inside. I pity you, truly I do. I dare say you and your father will end up with more than a bruised ego when we're done with you!''

Valira said this as she continued to slash at Zira, making each strike in rapid succession as she did so, not slowing down for a moment. Valira's aim was to attack hard and fast, doing as much damage to the half dragon as possible. Fatigue and muscle ache were taxing even her prodigious stamina, but she did not relent. She had to soften Zira up as much as possible if she and Dirk hoped to administer the coup de grace.

 

[Ecnalab]

Valira's sword sang through the air as it cut away great swaths of the dragons scales, and even drew first blood. Her cheers of triumph lifted the hearts and minds of all around her. Then Zira swung back.
The dragon's massive tail whipped around like some huge snake, and slammed into Valira's side. Her armor might as well have been made of paper for all the good it did against such a powerful strike. It crumpled like tin, and Valira felt something break inside her, before she flew through the air. When she hit the ground, she couldn't breath.
The others saw Valira fly a good fourty feet, before she landed in a heap. "Miserable knights," Zira muttered.

 

[TheIrishOtaku]

The wide smile on Valira's face was immediately wiped off as she was hit by Zira's tail with all the force of a runaway carriage. As she landed in a broken heap on the ground, she felt panic set in along with searing pain that flared throughout her body. Any attempt to move only exacerbated the agony, as Valira's eyes stared unfocused and blurry ahead. Her head felt like it had been turned to puree and her lungs burned from lack of oxygen. To top it all off, Valira knew that she was going into shock. She needed help, and fast. Try as she might to remain conscious, she felt herself passing out, her body and mind pushed to breaking point. One last hoarse and painful groan was the last thing she uttered before everything went black.

 

[Kalnath]

Dirk sat up from where he'd landed after Zira's wings had thrown him on his back. Glancing around to check on his companions, he caught sight of Akalfa, protected by Sune's resilient wings, and the wave of relief that washed over Dirk upon seeing them unharmed was nothing short of invigorating. He leapt to his feet as Valira laid out their plan of attack, and nodded in acknowledgement. This would take all of their strength combined, just like the cyclops.

While Valira charged the monster directly, striking it repeatedly with her enchanted blade, Dirk had seized the moment to circle around to flank it. He smiled, seeing her tear away at the dragon's defenses. Though there was little time to admire it, Valira's capabilities as a warrior were always impressive. With every strike, the dragoness became more vulnerable, more defeatable.

And then one swipe of Zira's tail sent her flying. He watched, horrified, as she hit the ground so far away. The sound of the impact as she landed was sickening. She looked dead...

Dirk went ballistic.

"DAMN YOU!!" He screamed in outrage, running up from behind Zira and leaping onto her back with bloody murder in his eyes. One hand grabbed on to whatever it could for stability while the other stabbed at her flesh again and again. All thoughts of reconciliation were gone. All hopes of subduing her alive were swept away in the fires of righteous fury.

"I won't let you hurt them! Never again! Do you hear me? NEVER AGAIN!"

 

[OmegaUmbra]

As the torrent of blazing flame made it's way towards Akalfa she saw no opportunity to dodge. Like a deer caught in the eye of a hunter's bow, she shut down, too terrified to move. Closing her eyes tight with a blood-curdling scream Akalfa expected the end of her miserable life to burn away in seconds, reduced to ash by a haughty half-dragon.

Instead of blinding agony she felt her feet lift from the ground, heart racing in both confusion and shock. The sorceress was sure death was supposed to be painful, not akin to being cradled in someone's arms...Reluctantly opening her eyes Akalfa was met with Sunelarra's visage. Safe and scorch free, save for a single lock of her hair. Blinking incredulously the Dark Elf began to realize just what had transpired.

"Sunelarra? Y-...You saved me?"

She stared up at the demoness for a few seconds in stunned silence before a goofy grin graced her features, nearly getting teary eyed at the revelation. And here she thought she was Sune's least favorite! Who would have thought that whole demon rehabilitation thing would work out? Without another word she buried her face in the demoness's chest, lavishing hugs and kisses aplenty onto the she-devil, too gleeful and grateful to be alive and see another day. Akalfa very well knew Sune didn't have to do it. She wanted to. And that alone was enough to get the sorceress all chocked up.

"Oh Sune, I can't thank you enough! I'll make it up to you one day, I promise! For everything you've done..."

Now she'd be the one owing the demon favors, who would've thought. Looking back down towards the ground she sighed in relief not only seeing Dirk still in one piece, but the arrival of her valiant lover and the kind witch as well! Valira striking the dragon like a slayer sent from the very heavens, unstoppable and more powerful than Zira could take, her vicious war cry echoing out across the field like a horn of victory. Momentarily catching that gaze in Valira's eye nearly made the Dark Elf melt, swooning at the most inopportune time. Snapping out of her bout of reverence, Akalfa nodded and took aim, invigorated and filled with morale, hurling ice winds and thunder at Zira as fast and steady as she could.

As the Dark Elf threw her hand back to prepare for another mid-air assault she saw Zira's tail come down upon Valira with a heavy crash, sending her beloved flying, in what at a distance, looked fatal.

"NO! VALIRA!"

Akalfa shrieked in absolute panic, loosening herself from Sune's arms as she fell to the ground. Despite the tumble it did nothing to hilt her speed, running with all her strength towards Valira's fallen body, sobbing all the while. Making it to her side she shook the High Elf, gently, yet firm. Valira's unresponsive nature bringing a look of utter despair to Akafa's face. Panicked and at a loss, watching the future she had imagined for the both of them slowly wash away as the seconds ticked by. Her body was still warm but it was clear to see she was out cold. And who knew what internal injuries may lie hidden still. Mortified, she turned to Daisy and yelled for her aid.

"Do you still have any of those red vials? Any healing magic? Anything at all we can do? Please, there has to be something!"

 

[Ecnalab]

They would turn to see Zira, and Dirk, gone, and hear a rapidly fading roar.

Dirk felt air rushing through his hair, as he held onto one of the spines that jutted from Zira's back. The dragon had started beating her wings again, but this time the ground began to shrink as she did so. They were flying, and his stomach did loopdeloops as she bucked, and rolled, trying to dislodge him.

 

[TheIrishOtaku]

Valira let out a hacking cough as she felt her bones knit back together and breath return to her lungs. Whatever had been poured down her throat tasted terrible, but was not nearly as unpleasant as the agony she had been in mere moments ago. The intensity of the pain subsided until all that was left was a dull, throbbing ache in her side. Clearly it would still take time for her to fully recover, but thanks to that potion she was over the worst of it. Her eyes fluttering open, Valira in her dazed and groggy state thought she saw a bright light and two of the celestials said to bring the souls of the dead to the afterlife in her peoples faith. They seemed to be talking but she couldn't fully make out the words. As she regained her equilibrium and her eyes focused, she realized that it was just the light of the sun illuminating Akalfa and Daisy, sight and sound finally getting through just as they finished their conversation. They were a sight more beautiful and welcome than any divine beings could ever hope to be as far as she was concerned. Valira began to breathe more evenly, getting strength and energy back to her voice as she spoke.

''You saved my life.... thank you my friends, thank you for rescuing me from deaths door and for always standing by my side. I could not have wished for better comrades. I swear that I will repay your kindness and loyalty tenfold for as long as we all draw breath.''

She smiled warmly at them, her eyes filled with gratitude, respect and admiration. She longed to kiss Akalfa, to hold her, to be feel her, after they had both come so close to deaths door. There were so many things she wanted to say and do, but she knew that they would have a lifetime to do so after the battle. Speaking of lifetimes, that had been a wakeup call. Life was too short and could end at any moment, one had to seize happiness before it was too late. Until now, Valira and Akalfa had been together in a wonderful but ill defined way. Valira swore that if they got out of this alive, no when they did that she would properly confess her feelings to the Dark Elf, make their relationship official and ask Akalfa to return to Ashara with her at quests end. Eventually, she would propose to her (once she found proper rings) and they would make a new life together in blissful harmony for the rest of their days. Such a beautiful vision brought a flush to Valira's cheeks and made her want to pepper the other woman with kisses then and there. For the moment, she settled for rubbing Akalfa's cheek lovingly with one hand. Valira saw that she had been crying and her heart both swelled and ached from the outpouring of emotion.

''Dry your tears my love, I am alright. It will take a lot more than Zira to take me away from you.''

Valira smiled at that, attempting to cheer up Akalfa and downplay just how close she had come to death. It was a testament to how out of it she still was and how distracted by her own thoughts that only now did she register what was going on around them. She heard Zira's roar and saw a rapidly receding speck in the distance that she could barely make out with a squint. She thought she saw Dirk, holding on to Zira's back as she flew through the air and he stabbed at her. For a moment, she thought that she was still hallucinating, but it was indeed reality. Valira was shocked, worried and more than a little impressed as she saw Dirk in action. Still, he needed assistance as quickly as possible. She had gotten the gist of Akalfa and Daisy's conversation, but clearly he was too far up for it to work. They needed a new plan. Valira suddenly remembered Sune, and she thought she had it.

''Sune, could you fly one of us up there? If you get us close enough we may be able to help Dirk finish her off. I doubt she'll be expecting an attack like that, distracted and enraged as she is, so it may be our best chance. Then you can catch us before we hit the ground. Despite my injuries I think it should be me who does it. Its risky I know, but I don't see many other options at this time.''

Valira hated to do this to Akalfa, so soon after she been through such heartfelt pain and worry over her safety. But she knew that her sword was the only thing that could break through Zira's hide and it was more likely to bestow a lethal blow than Dirk's daggers. Valira couldn't ask her or Daisy to wield her sword in her stead, confident though she was in their abilities she knew that they wouldn't be able to do this as well as she could. Besides, the thought of risking either of their lives in such a manner was unthinkable. No, it would have to be her. Standing up with a grunt of pain, Valira stood shakily on her feet for a moment before finally gaining her balance. She turned to Daisy, remembering hearing her say she was initially going to prepare something ''big'' in solitude. She was interested in any alternative plans the witch could provide, not to mention curious.

''Unless what you were planning would be better Daisy? You mentioned you were going to do something while Akalfa supported Dirk. May I ask what it is and do you think it would be a viable alternative?''

She had heard the tone Daisy had used when speaking and she had sounded more grim and serious than ever before. Clearly whatever she was planning was significant indeed, something that the witch clearly did not relish doing. Valira hated to ask in so blunt a manner, obviously this was something that made Daisy uncomfortable, but right now she didn't have any choice. If winning this battle and getting out of it alive rested on what Daisy said next, then delicacy and manners could take a backseat for the moment. She would still apologize after the fact of course, once they were all safe and sound.

 

[Ecnalab]

Sune looked at her with fear, and worry pained across her face. "No. Even at my fastest, I could not keep pace with, let alone, catch up to a dragon in flight," she admitted.

 

[Kalnath]

Dirk tightened his grip on Zira's spine while his other limbs fought for purchase on anything at all. She rolled, and his feet slipped, his legs dangling helplessly behind him. When she bucked, his body slammed into her scaly hide hard enough to knock the wind out of him. And as she flailed about, it felt as if the very blood in his body was being pulled this way and that. He was getting lightheaded. Queasy. It was a struggle not to be thrown off entirely, cold wind whipping at his eyes and numbing his fingers as Zira climbed higher into the air.

Gritting his teeth, straining his arms, Dirk slowly pulled himself up the dragon's back. Most of the exposed skin was on Zira's underside. He just had to get close enough. Maybe he didn't have an enchanted sword, but that wouldn't matter if he could just reach her neck, or her heart... As Zira leveled out from another loop, Dirk leapt for her shoulders, throwing his free arm around her neck. His right hand held the blood-flecked dagger as tightly as his shivering fingers could manage, while the left searched for an unscaled point. He'd get one, maybe two strikes. He had to make them count...

 

[TheIrishOtaku]

Valira deflated at that, her plan falling apart before it had even got off the ground, quite literally in fact. She wasn't surprised by the answer but she was disappointed. She did not begrudge Sune in the slightest, to do so would have been both unfair and irrational, and she gave the demon an understanding look to impart that sentiment. Valira wracked her brains for another plan, but nothing came to mind. Lack of resources, Zira's resistance to magic and the fact that they were limited to a ground assault severely limited their options. Daisy's plan might turn the tables in their favour, although the witch was clearly still mulling over the exact way to phrase it. Valira did not want to rush her, clearly this topic was one the witch found uncomfortable and difficult to broach, giving her friend an encouraging smile and a sympathetic gaze that held no judgements. Whatever it was, she could tell them. Nothing would change the groups opinion of her. While they waited, Valira kept thinking on alternative strategies.

''That is unfortunate but understandable, Sune. If only there was a way to increase your speed to match Zira's. Would such a thing be possible through the use of a spell? It wouldn't have to last that long, just long enough for us to reach her. Once she is dead, Dirk and I will jump from the corpse in free fall. Then you can catch us. Assuming such a thing is possible, the only issue is the fact that catching the two of us would be too much for even you, Sune. That would put us all at risk. A spell to slow the descent of the one Sune isn't holding would therefore be necessary, although it would have to be timed just so to ensure it worked as intended.''

Convoluted yes, but this was the best that Valira could think of on short notice. It relied on a lot of suppositions and was no less risky than her previous plan, but it didn't seem impossible. They had overcome worse odds before after all. Whatever they were going to do they needed to do it fast. Dirk's life hung in the balance, and Valira didn't want to see her friend ripped to shred by Zira's claws, or even worse crushed under the weight of her dead body. Even if he managed to kill the half dragon, which Valira thought him very much capable of, they would need to move at a moments notice to extract him from the rather precarious situation he found himself in. Giving a worried look towards the distance, straining to see her noble friend locked in battle with their hated foe, Valira sighed in frustration.

''Its not a perfect plan, its not even close, but its all that comes to mind. If there are no better suggestions and assuming it is possible, I say we go for it.''

Valira waited for both Daisy to tell the group of what she had been planning, and for any objections or alternatives from Akalfa and Sune. She was eager for any help they could provide, as Valira felt herself truly starved for choices. She was beginning to get a headache to match the dull pain that still wracked her body, but she ignored both as best as she could. The agony that Zira had inflicted on her victims, both physical and emotional, would be returned to the half dragon with extreme prejudice. That gave Valira comfort, her aching body serving as extra fuel for the fire that was her hatred for the scaly beast.

 

[Ecnalab]

Dirk's dagger plunged down again, and again, hitting hard scales, before, with the last of his strength, the blade dug deep into the dragon's chest, and Zira screamed. Dirk could do little, as Zira went limp underneath him, his dagger having penetrated either a lung, or her heart. Either way, the strength was quickly draining from her, and she was loosing altitude fast. The mountains began to spin all around him, as she went into a nosedive, and the ground rushed up to meet him. Strangely, it looked blue. Then they hit the water, and he couldn't breath.

The rest of the companions could do little but watch as the piercing scream of Zira rang out through the mountains, and she began to plummet towards the ground.

 

[Kalnath]

Dirk lost his grip on the blade as he disentangled himself from Zira's body. Some may have considered it a lucky break, but Dirk had never been much of a swimmer - and now, weighed down by his clothing, weakened by his ordeal, he struggled in his frantic efforts to reach the surface.

Which way was up!? Trying to follow the light didn't help; if anything it was even harder to swim towards.

Was this it? After everything he'd been through... the mission yet unfinished... he would simply... drown? His lungs burned in his chest, screaming for air that he couldn't seem to reach as his panicked tears mixed with the cold lake water.

I don't... want... to die...

 

[TheIrishOtaku]

Suddenly, all of their discussion was rendered moot as they heard Zira's scream and saw her body rapidly descend in the distance, with Dirk no doubt along for the ride. Valira was proud that Dirk had finally finished the half dragon off, but that and the relief she felt at Zira's death paled in comparison to the concern she felt for Dirk's safety. They could do nothing to slow down or prevent his fall, they just had to hope that he had landed on something soft. Valira hoped more than anything that he was still alive, it was unlikely that Dirk would come out of this unscathed but with their healing potions and Daisy's magic, she was reasonably confident that they could heal his injuries. As long as they weren't too severe that is, but Valira would not allow herself to dwell on such dark and horrifying thoughts. Right now, their friend needed help. Valira set off at a run toward where she thought Zira had landed, knowing that every second could mean the difference between life and death for their comrade. She signalled for her friends to follow, slowing down to make sure they kept up and remained within earshot.

''I think she went down somewhere over that ravine! Get whatever healing potions we have ready and be prepared to cast healing spells! Whatever condition Dirk is in, he's going to need all the assistance we can give him!''

Valira was exhausted, physically and mentally, by everything that had transpired so far. Her bones and muscles ached, but still she pushed herself to the limit, refusing to rest while her friend's life was at risk. It would probably make her recovery from her injuries take even longer, not to mention make the pain worse, but she did not care in the slightest. Dirk was far more important than any discomfort or hardship. He was her friend, her comrade, a man she deeply respected and admired. She wouldn't allow his story to end like this, not if she had anything to say about it.

''Curse Zira! Even in death she causes nothing but pain and misery! I hope wherever she is now burns as hot as the fire that she once breathed!''

Valira spat this out with pure rage and venom. She normally wouldn't relish the death of an enemy in sucha way, but Zira had more than earned such ire through her actions. What little respect she had for Zira as a foe was dwarfed by the disgust and hatred she felt for the half dragon. Zira had been a cruel and callous monster, one who would be missed by few and mourned by even fewer. Valira's only regret was that she hadn't been able to help Dirk administer the killing blow, although she did take comfort in the fact that she had gotten a few good stabs in. As she ran and they got closer and closer to Dirk's location, she idly wondered if her plan would have worked, and what Daisy's idea had been. It was all academic now, but still she considered it to take her mind off of the worry, anger and fear that had bloomed in her gut like a filthy weed. Once they had rescued Dirk and they had room to breathe, she would have to ask the witch just what she had been talking about. Assuming she felt comfortable enough to tell her that is.

 

[OmegaUmbra]

Akalfa was undeniably relieved by Valira's quick recovery, looking to Daisy with pure gratitude in her eyes. When everything was said in done she'd really have to make it up to everyone for saving not only her life, but the life of her most treasured one. There was never a moment where they didn't have each others backs, and that was something Akalfa valued more than anything in the world. A special unbreakable bond that she wanted to see flourish no matter what stood in their way. The sorceress tried to deny her feelings at first. Thought it to be too early, unsure of herself, afraid of rejection, but after watching her lover go pale and almost pass the threshold of life...it was clear what really lie in the Dark Elf's heart. Something she'd need to get off her chest when the time was right. Leaning into the High Elf's touch as she dried her tears.

That moment of relief was short lived, however, noticing Dirk's absence with a freighted gasp and looking up toward the horrible, dreary sky. He was trapped. Trapped with that horrid wretch. And there was nothing Akalfa could do about it. No way to aid in the plan. No support she could provide. Nothing. Nothing but watching a cloudy sky and waiting with wide eyes, terrified for her companion's safety and the fact Valira would risk her life yet again. Watching and waiting and waiting and watching. Never had she felt so helpless. Her fists tightened in frustration. Both angry at herself for her own lack of action, and the fact she was too slow to stop Zira from taking flight. Now Dirk was up there and goodness knows what was transpiring...

She thought, before the piercing shriek of Zira echoed out. Snapping the Dark Elf out of her thoughts and back into the fray. Dirk had done it! A rogue turned dragon-slayer, she would cheer if not for the realization he must be crashing down along with the she-dragon's body. They needed to get there fast. Now. She couldn't bare to lose someone she was close to twice.

Running along as fast as she could she heard Daisy speak under her breath, her brow raising, especially after hearing of her earlier, grave tone. Just what did she mean?

The answer came soon enough as the brightest flash Akalfa had ever seen overtook her vision, nearly blinding the poor elf. It sounded like...twisting. Snapping. Too heavy to be tree branches. Like bones and sinew reforming. She couldn't see what was happening but knew a transformation of some kind was taking hold of the witch, worried beyond measure, frazzled by the myriad of going-ons all happening at once. With a whirl she watched in awe as the tall figure moved off in the distance, far too fast for her eyes to catch.

Akalfa was rendered speechless. Blinking slowly as she attempted to take in everything that had just transpired. Looking towards Valira she nervously gulped, pointing towards where...Daisy? Or whomever just arrived, had sprinted god speed. She had an endless amount of questions, but those were secondary at the moment. They had one goal that took up her entire focus.

"We'll really need to push it to catch up, here." Extending her hand to Valira, Akalfa pushed herself with all her might breaking into a sprint. She wasn't the most athletic Dark Elf for certain, but those little muscles worked themselves into overtime. Desperate to save Dirk. Desperate to make sure he was alive. He just had to be...

 

[Ecnalab]

Daisy would be the first to reach the small lake nestled in a little valley, almost an hour later. The place was a veritable oasis in the mountain range, fresh water, surrounded by trees, and probably sporting fish, and other resources. She was pretty sure that this was were Zira had gone down, but now that she was here, she realized that searching for her friend would be like looking for a needle in a haystack. Then she noticed the smoke. On the other side of the lake, a thin stream of smoke rose from the trees.

Dirk would be awoke by the smell of something roasting on an open fire. He groggily opened his eyes to see that he was in a small camp composed of a few tents, and a roaring firepit. Thoughts of his friends having found him, and gotten dinner ready filled his head, until he tried to move. That was when he quickly realized that he was tied to a tree, and the people around the fire where not his friends. The four figures were huge individuals, dressed in simple fur clothing. They looked human, but with rough, blocky features, and most sported horns sprouting from their foreheads, as well as short tusks emerging from their lower jaws. They were also built like brick walls, with muscles on top of muscles. He remembered what Sune had said when they first arrived at the foothills of these mountains, and his heart sank. Ogres.

 

[TheIrishOtaku]

Valira's confusion turned into pure shock and bewilderment as she saw and heard Daisy's transformation, grimacing slightly at the sickening noises and bright light that emanated from the human Or at least what they had thought was a human, it was clear now that Daisy was a shifter of some kind, a being with an animalistic alter ego. Valira had heard tales of such creatures, although she had never seen one in person before. Valira could understand why Daisy had kept this secret from them, being a shifter was a difficult thing for a being to live with, to say nothing of the discrimination they faced from more mundane person. Valira felt sympathy for Daisy, no doubt she had struggled to keep this aspect of herself under wraps, that and keeping it secret must have been very stressful for her. She also felt just a bit of fear and concern, hoping that her friend's altered state was one she could control, after all they wouldn't want to add that onto their list of current problems.

As Valira heard the scream that Daisy let out, confusion once again subsumed any other thought. She had heard that type of scream before, it almost sounded like a.... Valira's suspicions were confirmed as a blur of floppy ears, big feet and a fuzzy cotton tail flew past her at a speed far beyond anything Valira had seen so far. Daisy was a were rabbit! Valira had been expecting a werewolf, a werebear, hell maybe even a wererat, but a were rabbit!? It was so out there that Valira would have had a hard time swallowing it if she had not seen and heard it. It was no less powerful in its own way than the other possibilities, that speed was something to be admired for example, but it was no less bemusing for that. The lewd and crazed words that Daisy let out made Valira's eyes widen, realizing very quickly that the rabbit side of her friend was a lot more blunt and exuberant than the human side. Manic and filled with energy, Valira thought that very appropriate for a rabbit, even if it did come across as slightly.... unhinged. Still, even in this new and strange form, it was still Daisy they were talking about. She knew that her friend would do everything in her power to save Dirk, he was in good hands, or rather paws. Still, they would have to rein her in before she went too far. It would be the height of irony if Dirk survived both fighting Zira and the fall only to die from the rough ministrations of a friend turned sex obsessed bunny.

Valira could tell that Akalfa was just as confused as she was, returning her paramours bewildered gaze with equal intensity. When this was all said and done many questions would need to be answered, but right now they couldn't let confusion distract them from the task at hand. Dirk needed them, and they were not about to leave him in the lurch.

''Indeed, let us make haste!''

Taking Akalfa's hand in her own, the pair of them raced as fast as they could, muscles pushed to breaking point, tendons feeling like they would snap from the strain of their exertion. Finally, after what seemed like an eternity but was probably a little under an hour, they caught up to Daisy, with Sune in tow. The demon didn't seem all that tired, which Valira chalked up to supernatural stamina. As she and Akalfa took a moment to rest and catch their breath, breathing heavily all the while, Valira finally got a closer look at the were rabbit. In addition to the features she had noticed before, Daisy was clearly taller and more muscular in this state than she was in her human form. The fur covering parts of her body seemed almost like clothing, and Valira idly wondered how soft it would be to touch. The claws that extended from her hands and feet were sharp and fearsome looking indeed. Clearly, this bunny wasn't as defenceless as its wild kin. Valira was going to say something to Daisy, but she became distracted momentarily by the beauty of their surroundings. The place was beautiful, a bastion of green, brown and blue that contrasted perfectly with the dull colours of the mountains surrounding it. Calm and peaceful, in other circumstances it would have made a wonderful fishing spot. Leisure was the last thing on Valira's mind however, as she noticed the plume of smoke rising from the other side of the lake. Valira knew that it had to be Dirk. Relief mingled with concern and fear. No matter how well he stuck the landing, Dirk wouldn't have had the strength to make a fire, let alone a reason to. Something else was going on here, something sinister.

''We have to find a way across this lake! I fear that Dirk is in grave danger and I am not just talking about his injuries from the fall! We could swim across, although given how exhausted Akalfa and I am that I don't think we would have the energy to stay afloat, let alone make it across. We could cut down some of these trees to make a raft, although we don't have any tools and it would take far too long! We don't have any spells of levitation or flight, and no magic potions or scrolls to that effect either.''

Valira looked at Daisy, an idea forming in her head. It seemed ludicrous, but given the were rabbits tremendous speed it might just work.

''Daisy, do you think you could run us across the surface of the lake? Its a relatively short distance, and its clear that unlike us you have near boundless energy. You wouldn't have to carry both of us, you can take me and Sune can fly Akalfa across. That way, we won't have to waste time taking turns. Can and will you do it?''

Valira knew that it was a hare (more like rabbit) brained scheme, but it seemed like the best shot they had at getting across the lake. Valira was more than willing to court the absurd if it meant saving Dirk, after all sometimes the best solution to a problem was one that seemed most unlikely. Or in this instance, downright crazy.

 

[Kalnath]

Any relief Dirk felt at his survival was lost in the full recognition of his predicament: the ogres must have fished him out of the water, then tied him up here to dry. It was a little surprising that they hadn't eaten him already, but Dirk didn't want to give that thought too much attention. What was it that Sune had told them to do if they saw an ogre? "Don't look weak?" ...Probably too late for that.

He glanced around the camp, in case his friends had also been captured, but could see no sign of them. That was comforting, in a strange way; it meant that they might still be in a position to help, wherever they were. They would come for him. He knew they would, though that was no excuse not to try and meet them halfway. If Valira and Akalfa could break free of their captors on their own, then why shouldn't he be able to do the same?

Dirk tried to wriggle free from his bindings, but it seemed the giants didn't cheap out on their ropes. He could cut his way out if he could reach one of his knives, except his primary dagger had been stuck in the dragon's underbelly and was likely at the bottom of the lake by now. The other one had been tucked into his boot, but the way he was now tied to the tree meant that he couldn't bend his leg enough to get to it, or even make sure it was still there.

This may be more difficult than I thought...

 

[Ecnalab]

Jumping the lake was definitely out, but it wouldn't take long to circle it. Somebody had to have made that fire on the other side.

As dirk watched the three ogres around the fire, he noticed two more handling a long thick rope that went into the water. Giving it a heave, they soon pulled the lifeless body of Zira out, and onto shore. Seeing this, the ogres near the fire stood, and approached eagerly, all were licking their lips. Dirk had to wonder if he was going to be desert, or the appetizer?