Admist the icy fury of the northern winter, two fairly young males trudged through the deep snow in search of sanctuary from the bitter cold. Both wrapped heavily in clothes and other materials, the two blurred figured continued on their never-ending trek through the piling frost.

As a sharp wind blew, the latter male fell to the ground in a heap. His companion quickly turned to his aid, helping him up to his feet.

"I'll never make it...it's too far..." croaked the fallen boy, releasing blood consumed from an internal wound. "Mother will kill me...Mother can be so cruel sometimes..."

The other boy shook his head furiously in the night, "You cannot give up! We're bound to be close! It'll just be a little longer, I swear!"

Pulling himself to his feet, the ill boy struggled on, with his loyal friend at his side, as the continued through the night.

Hazel eyes peered from a small hidden hut, the whole of the miniature cabin practically buried in the snow, but she had made a point to keep the doors and windows unblocked. A point, that, however annoying it had been to keep it up, finally proved to be of use. The girl the eyes belonged to ducked outside, lithe form sliding through the snow with all forms of ease. She stopped in front of the two.

"Do you need some place to stay? A refuge through the storm?" she offered, looking between the two a bit nervously. It was uncommon to see people out in storms like this. Were they up to something? Or just unlucky? Either way, they deserved a chance. One of the two appeared injured as it was. She blinked, her eyes one of the only things visible around the white cloak that covered her body and the matching scarf around her face and neck, but she wasn't dangerous, or at least, didn't consider herself to be so.

The healthier of the two boys looked at her with his pale grey eyes which gleamed with hope, while the other laid crippled in his arms, his bright blue eyes showed nothing but despair. Surprisingly, neither the two were either surprised or shocked of the appearance of the girl.

"Yes please, any hospitality that you could spare would be greatly appreciated." replied the grey-eyed youth calmly, making the best effort to keep his friend in mental contact with the world around him.

"Mother is going to destroy us...do not turn your back on Mother...she will annihilate you..." rambled the weakened one, struggling under the other's grip to stay erect.

"Please, could you help us? I do not know how much longer we could last out in this cold..."

She nodded quickly, walking around and putting an arm under the crippled one's shoulder and then began leading them back to the hut where a vague glow came out of a small window. She chose not to comment on the sick one's babbling, rather finding it to be their business, not hers. Upon reaching the door, she opened it to allow the two in before her.

The healthier of the two spoke, "Is there anywhere that I could lay this one down?" His voice was monotoneous and plain, despite the trials and tribulations that he and the other had been through. "If not, he could settle for the floor."

The other, growing more delirious as time rolled on, babbled some more, "Mother...save me...I giveth thee that man over yonder if you spare my life...please...Mother..."



~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"He can use the bed." She motioned to a corner of the small hut. She pulled off the cloak, under it she wore a dark green tanktop and matching knee length skirt. Dark brown hair cascaded to her shoulders, the slightest of wave to it.

She watched them a moment, handing the cloak and scarf up on a hook near the door, then walked to the fireplace. She pulled some herbs from a pouch at her side and dropped them into the boiling water, 'What happened to him? is it just the sickness from the cold weather?" she questioned, looking over her shoulder as she began stirring it.

The one set the other down roughly in the bed, covering him up with blankets so only his head remained, which he took off the hat of his fallen comrade. He looked at him for a while, then mumbled, "How easy the great fall..." Turning back to the lady that offered them sanctuary, he replied, "Thank you, he shall use it to its upmost effectiveness, and your kindness will be rewarded. He..." he hesitated for a second, "...has fallen ill due to the coldness."

Taking off his garbs of protection, he stood up straight, wearing a robe-ish garment on his bottom half which flared out to cover his feet, while wearing a shirt that was a combination of a sweater and a t-shirt, the left being a puffed out sleeve that covered his entire arm, while the right stopped a little ways past the shoulder and was made of thin fabric. A set of blue tinted glasses sat on his head, and his slightly spiked blonde hair stuck out in all directions.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"There would be no need to repay me. It's all I can do to help." she checked the water one last time, dropping the ladle and walking over to one of the small cabinets that was built. She made no comment on teh appearance of the other, there was no real need.

Pulling a small cup from the cabinet, she scuttled back over to the fireplace, using the ladle to spoon some of the water into the cup, before adding another pinch of herbs to it. She walked to the healthy one of the two, offering him the glass, "Give this to him. It should help."

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

Taking the elixir in his hands, he nodded in thanks as he walked over to the fallen. Taking the back of the wounded in his hand, he pressed the cup to the other's lips and let him drink. Standing back up, he shook his head.

"I do not know what possessed him to come up here. More so, what possessed me to come with him." he tilted his head and watched him, "I sure hope he gets better though, or we'll all be in trouble..."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Who are you? And who is he?" she questioned curiously, watching him for a moment, "And where do you come from?" she glanced to the sickly one. Then quickly admonished ehrself. It didn't do to question people about their origins. Some would take offense at it. Some, even, enough to kill. Hopefully they weren't like that.

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

The sickly sprung up from his bed, screaming out, "Dracouris is coming for me! Save me, MOTHER!"

He then passed out cold.

Undeterred by the sudden outburst, the remaining replied bluntly, "From the south." Not revealing his name, or the other's name, nor why they were there yet, the air laid still.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She jumped slightly into the air at the outburst, turning in mid-air and facing the one who hand shouted, hand slipping to the side of her waist for a moment before realizing what it was. She returned her gaze to the other, dropping her hand once again as he replied.

'Obviously.' She thought bluntly, though gave no sign on her face. She simply nodded and walked over to the fire, sitting down. A thoughtful expression crossed ehr face, a distant look.

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

With his sharp eye and keen sense for detail, he switched his stance and stood in front of the one in the bed, his arms held outstraight. "Why do you reach for a weapon...?" he asked calmly, not wanting to take any chances, seeing how he himself was unarmed.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"I reach for a weapon because I was surprised by the noise." she said calmly, then held up her hands, "I seek to cause you no harm, but I am not sure if you wish the same." she continued watching him cooly. "I am sorry if you thought I meant to attack you."

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

He kept an eye on her, he tapped the boy in the bed, "Adanian, get up."

The boy in the bed groggily sat up, still off in his own little world, "Huh...? What's going on, Melfice?" he looked at the lady across from them, then up to Melfice.

"Do you wish to stay any longer?" he asked, still watching.

Adanian stretched, looking around the room, then checking himself over, "I think I'm well enough to travel once more." he smiled, "I feel much better."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"You're not going anywhere until this storm passes." she said calmly, stepping to stand in front of the door, "'lest he gets ill again. There's no one else for miles around, and I seriously doubt that he'll last." she said, arms crossing over her chest in a manner that said, 'just try to get by me.'

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

Melfice, thinking for a second, dropped his guard, realizing leaving would be futile. He nodded to the woman, "I guess you have a point, sorry for acting so rash."

Adanian looked up at Melfice, "You're just not much of a people person, are you?" he laughed, then grabbed his stomach, "Erg...guess I'm not so fit to go anyways..."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Do you have other injuries?" she questioned, still remaining by the door, apparently not exactly trusting the hasty surrender that had been recieved.

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

"Well..." said Adanian, looking up to Melfice. "We do have a problem...you see, as a district Deacon of Tiana, I was sent up into these mountains to try to find the Frostwing Shrine and-"

Melfice covered Adanian's mouth quickly, shaking his head quickly, mouthing the words 'No!'

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"The Frostwing Shrine?" her eyes narrowed slightly, "What business do you have with it?" apparently she was one, that, coward as she may be at times, was not to be deterred once her mind was set. She looked between the two suspiciously.

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

"Might as well tell her the whole damn thing now, Adanian." grumbled the malevolent Melfice.

"Alright." he smiled, continuing on, "Well, I'm not sure if you know about Tiana, Mother of All up here in the north, but she is our deity down in the south. She created the world, giving life to all and creating a world of purity. At least that was until Dracouris reared his ugly head. Dracouris is the opposite of Tiana in every way, and brought his evil minions upon the world to oppose Tiana. The two clashed in an epic battle and the world returned to its original state. But...lately...Tiana hasn't been replying to our prayers, so use Deacons of Tiana have set out across the world to the places of worship to try and call her back to her Temple. Makes sense?"

Melfice laughed after he was finished, "I still cannot believe you believe in such nonsense."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She watched them a moment, then nodded slowly. Fools to go in search of that place in days of late, didn't they know it was guarded? Of course she wouldn't be the one to speak of it, bad things happened to those who said anything.

"Well...that certainly is interesting." she stated after a few moments of thought, "None the less, it's... a suicide mission." she cut herself off there. no more talking, Sora, it'll just get you in trouble again.

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

Adanian shook his head, "Suicide mission or not, I must fulfill my sacred duties." he said modestly.

Melfice simply laughed at the little man, crossing his arms in front of him, "So, you still want to continue on, despite the fact you'll probably die, huh?" he shrugged, "I guess I must follow." He turned to Sora, "Hey, want to come with? You seem to know something about this place. You could just lead us there, don't have to go in..."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora raised an eyebrow thoughtfully. Leave the cottage? That would get some people mad. Well, rather, quite a few people. But who cared? She shrugged slightly. "Sure I'll go along. It's not like I have anything better to do. It's not often people are stupid enough to travel in this weather." she shrugged slightly again.

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

Melfice nodded, "Then it's settled. Might as well get going while the weather's bad." he laughed.

Adanian got up from his bed, and walked over to Sora, clasping her hand, "Thank you ma'am, your partonage will be rewarded."

Melfice laughed, slapping Adanian's hand away, "Enough with the wholesome crap, let's just go." He said, dressing himself back up in his shabbish protection from the snow.

Adanian geared up, checking himself over before opening the door back out into the fierce storm.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora laughed shortly, shaking her head. "Don't call me ma'am. Makes me feel old. Call me by Sora." she said simply, pulling on her cloak and scarf, grabbing a few things and stuffing them into a small pack before following out the door.

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

Adanian settled his lips into a frown, "I'm sorry Sora...I don't want you to feel uncomfortable." he crossed his feet and looked down.

Melfice, on the other hand, rolled his eyes, smacking Adanian in the back of the head, "Focus, kid! Time to move, not for apologies." he remarked, disappearing into the thickening snow.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

(( Im back and i have a new character to boot, along with some new Rp skillz...though sorry to say my zpelling ztill zucks^^))

Amist the falling, storming snow a shadow, mounted on a midnight stallion, watched as the 3 left from the small cottage seemingly in the middle of nowhere. Despite the harsh cold whipping winds and the snow falling harder than ever, It still managed to stalk them. The snow falling as it was made it appear to be but just another blurr within the trees, the shadows.

Another hard wind swept by the figure, whipping its long black ragged clothes as it passed. Those with keen eyes could of seen easily that this figure was indeed built like a man, and a man indeed he was...a coldblooded heartless yet classy man. His rags as some had come to call him covered his entire body including most of his face, making him look like one who could have been from a far off desert of some sort, letting those who dared to look at him see but his crimson red eyes and a single piece of equally red hair fall between his eyes. His eyes, his red were but a bit darker than that of the color of blood.

A small smirk escaped his lips as he watched the two depart from the cabin " So it seems that the two have decided to bring another along to help them on there quest . Fine by me...more people to die by the hand and name of Dracouris" he said to nothing but the wind.


~*~ Only through death are we truly born.~*~

The snowy camouflage blinded the two in their travels, barely being able to see Sora, who walked next to them. Adanian, once again, struggled through the compiling snow, while Melfice trudged through unstopped and unscathed.

Adanian stopped, wobbling around on his feet, "I feel sleepy..." he mumbled, falling backwards into the snow.

Melfice stopped, having an almost third eye about the situation, and turned back to Adanian, picking him up out of the snow and putting him on his back, giving him a piggyback ride for the remainder of the trip.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora frowned and nodded at the apology, also not bothered by the harsh conditions much. Of course she lived there, it was something she had been born into. A frown crossed her features as Adanian fainted. "Taht's not good.." she said softly, digging through her pack but still keeping pace, she pulled out a leaf after a moment, sniffing it to make sure she had the right one, 'Would he mind terribly if I shoved soemthing in his mouth?" she questioned.

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

Melfice stopped, tilting Adanian's head towards Sora, and propping his mouth open. "If he minds, this decision is not in his hands." he said, exhaling a large puff of carbon dioxide into the air, shaking his head, and smiling a little. "Either way, I should carry him until we arrive to prevent future occurences."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"I know that. him passing out every five minutes would only make this take longer than necessary." she replied, tearing the leaf and put it in his mouth, "This is simply to keep him warm so he doesn't freeze to death from not moving." she explained simply.

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

Adanian lightly chewed on the leaf in his sleep, smiling as he finished it, resting his head back down on Melfice's shoulder.

Melfice looked at him, then back at Sora, "I suppose he is not used to such harsh conditioning...Poor boy." he shook his head, changing the subject, "When are we going to arrive?"

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Normally it'd take fifteen minutes..but in this weather..." she paused to calculate, "It'll take anywhere from a half hour to an hour on foot." she said finally, shaking her head to attempt to take some of the snow out of her face.

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

Melfice looked up into the sky, the snow falling down into his eyes and melting away into tears, "At least we have something to look forward to, don't we?" he laughed oddly, echoing over the wind.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Being exploded by the shrinekeepers? yes, I'm sure that's a lot to look forward to. She thought morbidly, though put on a light smile. "And what would we be looking forward to? or was that sarcasm? Difficult to tell."

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

Melfice looked back to the boy on his back, "From what I know, as long as he is in working condition, the members of this place should give us a warm welcome..." he looked around, glancing at the scenery that seemed to blend into itself, "But...I doubt it."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Who..are you two anyways?" she questioned, sounding as though it was off ahnd, though she was really curious, "They'll give him a warm welcome?"

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

"Seein' how the youngin' here is about seventh up in the Tiana Divine Order, these people should respect him or something like that. He could explain it better himself, but, as you can see...he's a little under the weather." he replied, still being quite vague.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She nodded, figuring it best to keep quiet from that point on. She wrapped ehr cloak a bit tighter around, once more bowing her head to keep the snow from her face. What was she doing travelling with two people she didn't have the least idea about? Idiocy. She frowned, but something had told her to go, so she had. Just her luck that she might end up dead.

~^~We're all trying to kill eachother. We just don't realize it. ~^~

The figure continued to follow them, even though he already knew the destination at which all of them were going to arrive, but stalking his prey just seemed like so much more fun than waiting for them. He rode silently behind them, and even though his eyes were keen he had not yet relized how close he really was to the two he was following. Leaning forward he rested his wieght on his horses neck. The horse gave off a rather loud aggitated snort but he through nothing of it for the moment.

~*~ Only through death are we truly born.~*~

Melfice shook the snow out of his hair, and rubbed his bare arm with his gloved hand. This walking was certainly taking a long time. Flying would be much more productive, but Sora and especially Adanian might be shocked by such an act. Better keep that a secret for now, he thought. Running should be sufficient. With that, he jogged through the snow, not truly finding it difficult, at least not yet.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She raised an eyebrow, then followed after, matching his pace easily. This was her home, of course she could move easily in the current weather. It was natural for her. But the fact one of the travellers could manage it, well, that was a bit odd to say the least. none the less, she refrained from commenting.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Melfice ran on, laughing to himself, "Reminds me of the Plateau Handimor over on the east world. Except there were rather large mammoths over there." Although it appeared that he was running, he was rather levitating just enough to create the illusion of running.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She watched Melfice carefully, attempting to figure this out. 'Mammoths?" she questioned after a moment, raising an eyebrow though the gesture was not noticeable

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

He nodded briskly, "Yeah, mammoths, you know, big furry elephants?" he looked over at her, showing no signs of fatigue. Not knowing what a mammoth is? It was like she never left the country before. Perhaps she hasn't...

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Elephants?" she questioned again, staring at him, "What're those?" she blinked, still moving.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

He stopped for a second, tapping Adanian on the shoulder. "Show the pretty lady a mammoth."

Adanian murmurred something, then held out his hand creating a faint image of a wooly mammoth, but only about 1/3rd it's height, then fell back asleep.

Melfice grinned at Sora, "That is a mammoth. An elephant is the same without hair." he proceeded to run once more.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Folken watched as the three quickened there pace and hey well kicked into the side of his horse. The kick was merly ment to be that of a light one but of course the horse was already agitated, so just to spite Folken it took off, kicking up snow everywhere.
The stallion was off and it was but a large black blur running very quickly towards the 3 of them.

~*~ Only through death are we truly born.~*~

Adanian popped his head out from around Melfice's shoulder, "Are we there yet?"

Melfice stated simply, "No."

"How about now?"

"Nope."

"Now?"

"Definitely not."

"...........................................yet?"

"I'll tell you when we get there, alright?"

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She blinked, "We are here now." she announced, looking up thoughtfully, "And have been followed by someone on horseback, though it doesn't seem as though they valued stealth all that much. They're running full speed.." she blinked again.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Adanian's eyes focussed on the shrine with a gleam of hope while Melfice directed his attention to the flying assailant. "They must think they are something special, going all out like that." he laughed, letting Adanian down. "You start your business in there, I'll wrap up things out here."

Adanian nodded, looking to Sora, "Would you sooner stay out here in the cold or come with me? Your choice, I won't be offended either way."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"I think I'll join you indoors. It appears appears he.." she motioned to Melfice, "Has everything under control. Or am I wrong in thinking that?"

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Adanian laughed, latching onto Sora's arm, "Oh, he'll be fine, don't worry about him. Come, let's get moving!" he said enthusiasticly, pulling Sora indoors.

Melfice turned back to the two as they left, "Just don't take too long!" he then muttered to himself, "I don't know how long I could hold out...bah."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora blinked a bit caught off by being grabbed and pulled after him. She nodded slightly at Melfice, following after him quickly so as not to be knocked over in the process. "Okay okay, coming.." she muttered.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Leading her down a very long hall covered in a thick sheet of glimering ice, the two came upon a large set of steel cast doors. Standing infront of them, he held up his arms and spoke.

"For the greatness of our Lord Tiana, the Deacon of Friendship has come to deliver us from evil!"

A large symbol appeared on the door in the shape of a circle with two large V's, one right side up and the other side down. The doors then swung open into a room filled with lightly glowing candles and, now, apprehensive looks from the dwellers of the holy place.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She followed after him easily keeping pace now that she was on balance. Somewhere along the way she had managed to pull down the hood of her cloak. She glanced around, more than slightly apprehensive. She'd never actually been in the Shrine, only heard rumours, but it was beautiful in there. She blinked as the door opened, remaining silent the whole time, though shooting apprehensive glances at some of the dwellers. Hopefully they wouldn't be thought...evil, or smmat of the sort.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Walking fearlessly into the room, murmurs and whispers from those around rose up until it became somewhat uproareous. Swaying his head back and forth as he went, he remained smiling despite the now uncomfortable atmosphere, ever approaching the altar that was erected in the center of the vast room.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

As the stallion ran closer the blurr become more of an outlined figure, a figure which held great power apone it. Folken narrowed his eyes as his hands shot for the rains of the beast. Curses of all sorts flew through his head as he was two already enter the temple, one remaining behind. Giving off a rather angry growl he finally regained completely control of the stallion, stopping it just before it hit the only one left behind. His eyes of red narrowed at his sworn enemy, as his hand reseted on the hilt of some sort of curved sword.

~*~ Only through death are we truly born.~*~

Grinning slightly, Melfice opened his mouth to speak, "A follower of Dracouris, I see." he laughed, holding his chest with his hand, "This should be quite easy." His smile quickly changed over to a whicked sneer, "Let the fear fill your mind, as the chaos fills your heart." Curling up two fingers to the man, beckoning him forward, "It'll be fun, watching you do your thing." he laughed once more.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

A muffled smirk could be heard from behind the cloth that was wrapped around his mouth. Folken lept of the great stallion and landed swiftly in front of his opposer.

" You are none of my concern, but if you dare to stand in my way of thoses who have entered the temple, then i will be forced to kill you."

~*~ Only through death are we truly born.~*~

He shrugged nonchalantly, letting out a sigh of boredom, "Just have to go and be difficult, don't you?" he shook his head, running his hand through his hair, "It's my job to protect that little runt in there, and that woman if he sees so fit, so...yes, I am going to stand here, if you don't mind."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora followed at his heels, glancing a bit nervously around, ready to cduck, or tackle the -moron- in front of her if some sort of attack was made against them. What did he think he was doing, just walking in here? And why the hell was she following?

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Stepping up onto the platform of the altar, he greeted the man standing there. The man gave him a feared look, and quickly backed away from him, running in fact. Puzzled, Adanian shrugged, and started his ceremony.

Holding up his arms at his side, he bellowed out quite loud for a boy his size, "People of the Shrine of the Cruel North, Tiana smiles upon you on this day! For she has sent me here to free you of your troubles, and keep you out of the grasp of the foul Dracouris. Now, behold! The light of Tiana shall appear!"

Turning to the altar, his voice changed to a shrill, high-pitched, orchestrated tone, in which he spoke:

"TIANA, GODESS OF..."

His own voice returned, where he added, "Friendship!"

The altar's obliesk shone brightly, sending a beam of light up into the ceiling, melting away the rooftop and letting the sunlight in.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She stayed back down, watching him silently, eyes wide in shock at the happenings. Sora knew of Magic. She could even preform most ice or wind spells, but this..this was big. Soemthing that obviously took a lot of power. She made a mental note not to get Adanian angry at that point, still watching him amazed.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Then, it began to happen.

The obliesk started to shake violently, breaking free from its platform. The white light gradually changed over to a thick, black shade. Large icicles fell from the ceiling as the hole was soon enveloped in a thick black mesh, blocking out the light. The people of the room ran away in panic, although most were crushed by the falling ice.

Adanian's eyes widened in a state of fear, stepping away from the altar and falling back onto the floor. His limbs shook uncontrollably, and he slowly crawled backwards like a crab. His mouth stayed open in a protruded fashion.

The altar finally exploded into a array of marble and stone, the pillar falling limply to the ground. On the floor beneath, a symbol was present: two hooks opposite of each other with a large triangle around them.

It also took on the black light, firing large sparks from itself. A bulky, huge arm-like structure rose from the floor, out of the symbol.

Adanian broke out into a panic, jumping up to his feet and clasping Sora by both shoulders, "I-i-i-i-t..."

The beast pulled itself up from the depths of below, climbing out of the symbol until it was freed from its prison. It stood sixteen feet tall, with arms as thick as redwood, and eyes of pure crimson. It howled incredibly loud, shaking the building.

"I AM THE ARMS OF DRACOURIS! FACE THE WRATH OF HELL!"



~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She went pale at the signs, then the arms, backing up for a moment before she was clasped by the shoulders. What was going on, and what had she gotten into? She stared wide eyed at the creature, it shouting threats to the air. She virtually winced as people were killed by the falling ice. Why couldn't she have just stayed home?

A soft whimper escaped her lips as she attempted to push Adanian's arms off her shoulders, turning to look at him, "We'll have to fight it." she said softly, simply. Fear was evident in not only her tone, but her eyes and composure, "Can you use any form of weaponry or spell, actually damaging spells that don't cause creatures to come out of the ground and attack people?"

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

He nodded, still in fear of the creature that lurked before them. Shaking it off, he muttered almost inaudiably, "I wish Melfice were here..." He turned to the beast, puffing his chest out and yelling at it, "I am a follower of Tiana! I shall smite yo-"

The roar of the beast cut short his threats, "TIANA!?" It growled, crashing its fist into the ice below it, shaking the building once more, "YOU MUST DIE!"

Adanian shook his head furiously, "No! I won't let your evil fill this world once again! Go back to where you came from!" His arms shook in rage, his eyes fluttered about, then his hands burst into balls of white energy. "Holy Flare!!" The two energy spheres shot out from his hands, intertwining with each other until it became one, and slammed into the beast.

"GRRRRAAAAARRRRHHHHH!" it bellowed by the sudden blast of divine power.

Yet...there was not a scratch on it.

"GYEEEHEHEHEHEHEEE...YOU WILL HAVE TO DO BETTER THAN THAT, MY FRIEND!"

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She watched a moment, calculating, then stepped back, dropping her cloak on the floor behind her. The shaking of the building threw her off balance for a moment as she watched the creature, drawing a sword from her side. She'd hoped she'd never have to use it, but it seemed that she'd found her way into something that she couldn't lightly abandon. The blade of the sword was curved, the hilt silver the only marking a single aquamarine stone embedded in it.

"It has to have a weak spot somewhere. It's just a matter of finding it." she stated, looking to Adanian for a split second, though her attention was on the giant foe. Great. She wasn't a fighter, or at least hadn't been for...a long time. she was a healer, for goodness sake, but this guy - Adanian - seemed rather defenseless.

Figuring her musings would only get ehr in trouble she charged at the hands, blade held to the side she attempted to slice at it, figuring it would do no good either way. Or maybe it was just immune to Holy Magic. no way to be sure. Jumping back she retreated away, attempting to be out of range before the hands could retaliate.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

The arms of the beast lunged forward at her, missing, but creating a large crater in the ice. It laughed at them, running about.

Adanian decided to use his secondary form of combat, seeing how the primary seemed to be ineffective. "Time to use the terrain...for the tactical advantage. Geomancy!" his hands glew green, before responding.

Adanian's Geomancy was an odd talent, a randomized attack, or defensive skill, based upon the terrain on which he stood. Sometimes greatly effective, other times, horribly weak.

This time, it caused a light snow fall. Disappointed greatly at this, he closed his eyes, on the verge of crying.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Oh don't you start blubbering uselessly!" she hissed, shooting him a glare, muttering about useless males. "Reanimate: Blizzard!" she stated, holding her sword in front of her, the stone on the hilt glowing softly as the snow that had fallen and ice that had been chipped gathered up at the roof,swirling for a moment before forming into a funnel and slamming down upon the hands, hitting them with the snow and ice, and snow that fell adding in.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

His eyes narrowed at his oppresser, as his hand continued to rest on the hilt of his strange blade.

" Do you honestly wish for..." stopping in mid sentence his eyes went wide as he felt the ground beneath him shake and the temple give off a very large amount of power.

" Damn im to late..." he stated plainly before rushing past melfice and towards the temple entrance.

The gigantic beast screamed as its skin froze over at the fury of the ice, until its voice died down and disappeared as it was encased in an icy tomb...

Adanian breathed a sigh of relief. "Whew...that should hold it...at least for now..." he once again latched himself to Sora's arm, staring at the large, cryptic statue of the Arms of Dracouris.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Melfice was stunned by the sudden rush of the man, and he fell into the snow. "Hey, you! Come back here!" he quickly scrambled to his feet, chasing after the cavalier, yelling behind him, "ADANIAN! DON'T LET HIM IN!"

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Folken smirked as the man became close behind his heels how easy people are willing to die for something...he thought as he rushed to the temple doors and quickly inside of them.

His went wide as he looked around at the temple...he had never seen such a place like this before only heard of it. And then...And then his eyes feel apone the arms of beast that was to destroy the world...

" That ice wont hold it for very long..." he stated in a rather monotone voice to anyone who happened to be standing around him at the time.

Turning and glaring as yet another person entered the temple, she glanced to adanian, then to the newcomer, then the arms, who supposedly wouldn't stay incased very long. "Aye, I know that. But it's better than nothing. And you really should get better lines. Those are rather...overused." she stated, rolling her eyes at Folken. Too many males. All idiotic.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Folken merly smirked at the quick witted woman. Woman...always have somthing to say. His eyes then narrowed as he scanned around the temple.

" Who is the one responsible for realeasing these hands?" he asked with an icy tone, a very aggitated tone. Whoever had realeased these hands had realeased doom apone the world.

Melfice came in last, panting slightly, and looking at the monster, "So...he's been freed, huh? I thought it would be a little later." He put his hands in his pockets, looking over at Adanian.

Adanian himself was baffled, "You...you knew this was going to happen, Melfice?"

Melfice nodded, cracking his knuckles and picking up a piece of ice and tossing it aside, "Yes, it was part of the job."

Adanian, still confused, was starting to grow a little more irritated, "What...job??"

Melfice tossed some more ice aside, "For you to come here and to take care of the Arms of Dracouris, whether it was through sealing for another five years or whether by slaying it, as well as all the people who resided here, for not obeying the commands of Tiana, Empress and Goddess of All."

Now in a state of shock, Adanian stepped backwards, "You mean...we...I..."

Melfice laughed, "Oh, don't sound so shocked, you little naive child. Nothing can't be achieved by making everyone happy. Those cave dwellers here were in the way, so they deserved to die."

Sytared at the two in complete disbelief before shaking his head and coming to his senses.
" You mean to tell me.....that you" he pointed towards Adain " Released these hands, and that your both going to kill all these people because they stayed her to protect the hands of draconius, to make sure they would never be freed again...Arnt you the ones who should be punished?" he asked causually while cracking his neck from side to side.

Sora looked between all of them uncomprehendingly, blinking slightly. "What have I gotten into.." she sighed softly, looking between the three males then back to the hands dubiously. She shouldn't have left the hut. That was the mistake she made. But it got so dull, waiting there for travelers to come by and not be half dead by the storm! What did they expect her to do, rot there until she was an old maid hermit of some sort? She couldn't much complain. This, at the very least, was better than that.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Adanian backed away from them all, shaking his head slowly back and forth, looking around at the carnage. "This was not supposed to happen. It was supposed to be a simple prayer to Tiana...she would have smiled upon me from above, then I could have returned...what is this...?"

Melfice laughed, shoving Adanian down to the ground, "Stupid child, time to rid the world of you." He held out his open palm to him, where pinkish energies began to gather, "Take that! Chaos flare!" A flare similar to Adanian's formed in his hand, but it was much more condensed. It left Melfice's hand, colliding with Adanian and blasting him across the room until he laid motionless against the iced wall. Melfice smiled to himself, "Deacon of Tiana? Quite feeble."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora stared at Melfice blankly. he could use magic? Really powerful magic too....she frowned faintly. "Cut that out! He didn't do anything to you, you bloodthirsty creature!" she shouted, glaring, looking nothing mroe than an angered child as she glared.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Melfice laughed loudly, echoing throughout the cavern in a bone-chilling manner. "What could you possibly do to stop me, hmm?" He tittered with amusement. "I'll show you! Timewinder!" Small magical shackles formed around Sora's feet, arms and neck, binding her in time. "Keehehehe..."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She whimpered quietly, staring at him in dismay. "You..." she said quietly, not moving at all. There wasn't really anything she could do against it. She was just sent to help travelers on their way and if they prooved well enough, assist them with the ice element. never did she think she'd actually have to fight against someone.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Grumbling to himself, he shifted his eyes back and forth between her and Adanian on the floor, then grinned menacingly. "This should fix you. Chaos Flare." using the same treatment that he used upon Adanian, he created a flare within his palm, which released from his hand and impacted with her chest at the exact moment that the shackles dissipated into air.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She gave a faint yelp cringing in the brief second in time that allowed anticipation of death. Her eyes were closed tightly, awaiting pain, but only a dim sense of coldness arose around her as a shield of ice encased her entire body, the flame sizzling helplessly on the ice for a moment then disappeared, the ice fading away along with it. She stared ahead of her, eyes opening, confusion bright in her hazel eyes. She didn't even know what had just happened, much less if she could do it again. She stood in place, almost as though she was frozen.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Melfice scrunched up his face, looking at Sora. He didn't have the time to deal with her right now. "So, you can defend yourself. Congratulations." he snickered, "I'd loved to stay and play, but I have a title to steal." he said, looking over at Adanian. "So long, you...two." he turned, and ran off through the entrance.

The unfortunate bit is that the Arms of Dracouris happened to dethaw at this moment.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora watched him uncomprehendingly for a moment, still figuring that she should be dead.She glanced to Adanian, hoping he was still alive at least a little bit, then caught sight of the hands, thawing. "Curses..' she spat, looking around helplessly, figuring the smart thing to do would be run.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Adanian, in his near death state, mumbled a few words out loud, hard to hear, however.

"Kieantaeous...Milennia...Norcadam...Tiana..."

Before the ice that had temporarily sealed the fiend had melted away, the rays of light from the sealing shone down through the darkness and penetrated the shadows. A series of large white egg-like balls flew around the room, restoring life to all those who had fallen. As soon as they all possessed life, the balls all joined together over Adanian, then entering his body.

He looked up feebly, as a vision of Tiana was in front of his eyes.

"Do not dispair my child. I would never abandon you..."

"Thank you...my lord..." he said, followed by a bright white flash that blinded the eyes of everyone who had eyes.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora winced away from the light, having been staring at Adanian as he muttered various nonsense. What had she gotten into? She rubbed her eyes vigorously, but kept them closed, unsure of whether she could trust that the flash was gone.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Adanian was standing after the substantial light had died, doning a long, thin rapier with a crest of Tiana at the base. "This must be the first of them, I guess..." he mumbled to himself, then gained some confidence. "Time to put this big beast to sleep!"

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora looked back, watching Adanian silently. not even thinking that he may want or need any assistance. nope. never would she think that, but she stared around, feeling quite a bit out of place.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Standing up proud and tall, despite his size, he pointed his sword at the monster and yelled out:

"Run! Everybody! Everybody run!"

He then turned and bolted off past Sora, stopping behind her, "You coming...or would you like to be friends with it...?"

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Friends?" She stared at him, "With those? Nuh-uh." she stated, then joined the stampeding mob in getting out, pausing for a moment, "But you can't just let it run amock, it'd destroy everything..."

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Adanian froze in his tracks, turning back to Sora. "You bring up a good point. I'd better deal with it, care to join in on the festivities?" he smiled a warm smile, twirling his rapier around in his hand.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"I'll stay around in case you need any assistance." She nodded slightly, stepping back. she'd never fought before, she kenw she had ice magic, but hadn't the faintest idea on how to use it, or when to use it, except for the spell that manipulated the element.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

"Alright, then. I was easy on you the first time, but this time, no more Mr. Nice Adanian!" He grinned, holding his rapier tight. Turning back to Sora, he asked her, "When I give a signal, do you think you could use some of that ice magic to enchant my sword?"

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora paused a moment, then nodded. "Alright. What's the signal?" she questioned, thinking a moment. Yes, she could irect the attack, it would just take a moments thought. She stayed back, watching the snow that was still falling a bit, thinking.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

"You'll know it when you hear it." he smiled, turning back to Mr. Big Arms. He came upon the beast and slashed it from top-left down to bottom-right. "Now, Sora!"

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Reanimate: Snow! Direction: Rapier!" she shouted the four words in one breath, snow that was still floating around quickly swirled up above in a flurry before swirling down and circling the rapir, going into the blade and causing it to glow a soft icey blue.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Adanian slid around to the back of the beast through its legs and across the ice, flipping back onto his feet, "Icy Thrust!" he yelled out, plunging his rapier into the back of the monster, causing it to scream out in pain.

"Sora! Run for cover! This might hurt you!" he shouted back to her.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora nodded, then joined the crowd of people leaving the room, stopping just outside the doorway and silently waiting for whatever was going to happen. Yes, she was listening, why, she had no idea. maybe it was just the small part of her that had common sense.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Looking to see that Sora was gone, he murmurred to himself, "Here goes...sure hope it doesn't kill me..." In a very loud, shrill, phantomish tone, his voice rang out in the temple.

"Kieantaeous...Milennia...Norcadam...Tiana!"

The bright white light filled the room once again, surrounding itself around Adanian, before escalating into a full shrine explosion. Shards of ice and snow shot across the land in a shower of rain, until only the floor of the building remained, the people who fled, the Arms of Dracouris, and no Adanian...

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora ducked down, closing her eyes at the sound and the wave of power that sutrrounded her before turning around, looking for Adanian, sighting only the arms, she frowned, almost wincing.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

An estravagant woman angel descended from the clouds above, armed with the rapier of Tiana, and all of her equipment beared the same symbol. Her long, blonde hair settled at her shoulders, off of her forehead, as her scarlet eyes were locked in position upon the Dacourian fiend.

"I, goddess Tiana, shall smite you in the name of all that is holy and pure." she said in a monotone voice.

The beast simply looked at her and growled, digging its claws into the ground, and stomping its feet, gritting its teeth.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

Sora stared in wonder at the goddess, eyes wide, she slowly backed away, not in fear, but in reverence.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Seeing how the Arms did not possess any magical capabilities, this would be quite easy for Tiana. "Heaven's Grudge." he said, twirling around in the air, slowly at first, then gradually gaining speed until she stopped. A hole in the clouds appeared, and a large beam of light designed solely for the purpose of crushing the ill-hearted, slammed itself into the Arms, topling it over onto it's back.

"I might as well finish this before a fight breaks out. Dreadlock." Several large hands burst out of the ground and held the beast in its place. It squealed in a horrible fashion, almost deafening. Tiana was not affected, seeing how she cannot hear and all. "Unholy Revenence." she whispered, flying down onto the belly of the behemoth, twirling the rapier around several times before sinking it in.

The Arms of Dracouris imploded on itself, gathering up into a tiny ball, then exploding in a thick mist of blood and gore.

Tiana fell to the ground, wounded immensely. "That should be enough for today..." she muttered, reverting back into Adanian.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She turned her head, closing her eyes at the gore, ducking away from the sight, but then turning back and sighting Adanian. She walked over slowly, hindered by the fact she was trying to avoid the gore, then kneeled by him. "Are you alright?" she questioned slowly, almost unsurely, never sure of what exactly happened just then.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

The conversion left Adanian on the verge of death. The same cuts and wounds that Tiana could bear without question were nearly fatal to the weakened Adanian. He turned his face to see Sora, and smiled warmly, "Just a little banged up, that's all..." he coughed, spitting out a few droplets of blood to the side.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She frowned faintly, pulling off her pack and digging through it for a moment. "hermits..bah.." she stated shortly under her breath, pulling out a vial, "This should help..i hope.." she murmured, "I'm no healer person, but I know my way around herbs. Open your mouth." she commanded firmly, hoping she wouldn't wind up poisoning him rather than healing him.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

He laughed slightly, then coughed again, opening up his mouth, "Id funneh, dat yoo er ealin a ealer." he smiled, rolling his eyes around.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Ironic, isn't it?" she laughed, taking a moment to translate it before pouring the liquid from the vile into his mouth, "but not everyones perfect. I can only use herbs and such."

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

"augh eever gats da jub dun." he mumbled, letting the liquid pour down his throat. He licked his lips afterwards, "It has quite the unique taste...doesn't it...?"

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Of course it does. No one else knows these recipes so you wouldn't have tried it before." she stated, a slightly smug note to her voice as she replaced the vial, "But then again I might have poisoned you just the same." she shrugged.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

"Only time will answer that question." he replied, trying to sit up, but to no avail. "How are the others doing?" he asked, looking over at them all.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"They're shocked, a bit dazed and confused, probably a bit scared, but otherwise alright, I think.." she looked around slowly, checking to see if anyone else was injured, "I think everyone got out either way, and I don't see anyone severely injured, except you." she pused him down, "So don't try getting up again for a while."

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

He nodded, laying back down on his back, "That would be the best approach to this subject, wouldn't it?" he smiled, then drew his lips back, "Any sight of Melfice? I have an inkling that..." he coughed violently, shaking his head, "......"

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"No, i didn't see where he went. What, do you plan on chasing him down right now? And what were you mumbling about just now?" her words were slightly admonishing, though it was purely out of concern. She crossed her arms over her chest and raised an eyebrow.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

He shook his head, disagreeing with her question. "There is no...real point in following him now. I know his plan, after all..." he coughed, "He'll probably report that I died, and try to take my place, it is what most people do...so predictable..."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"He probably does think you're dead." she sighed shortly, 'And would you care to fill me in on exactly what you were doing and what he's trying to do, and who's trying to save the world and who's trying to destroy it?" Babbling was what she was doing, but clearly. yes, that is possible.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Sitting up once more, he looked at her on a crook, "Would you object to continuing this conversation in a place that is a little bit warmer, such as your house?" he shivered, the cold was starting to get to him.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She nodded, blinking. Yes, she had forgotten that he wasn't accustomed to the cold weather that was a constant in the area. "Come on then. You can walk, right? Because I seriously doubt I'll be able to carry you."

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

He climbed up to his feet, dusting off his shins of loose snow, and nodded, "Yep, I think I've had enough recovery time for now." he lightly punched her in the shoulder, "Lead on, Sora."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Melfice had to carry you halfway down here." she smirked shortly, then turned and began walking away, looking over the ruins thoughtfully, then shaking her head.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

He followed her eyes back to the ruins of the shrine, "Sorry that I dragged you into this. I did not mean to..." He shook his head, his hair gently blowing in the northernly wind.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Not your fault. I should know better than to let strangers in." she was teasing, no scorn in her voice, nor dismay. "Besides, Everything happens for some sort of reason, aye? This was meant to be, or else you'd be around frozen somewhere."

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Nodding, he added, "It is kind of like we were supposed to meet, like that fate thing that keeps flying around towns to the south." he laughed, smiling once more.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

She grinned faintly. "That's what's been going around up here. except we call it destiny." she smirked, continueing to walk, "Same difference, none the less."

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

"Just the reversal of words, is all it is. That is how religion gets started, no?" he grinned, starting to shrug off his churchboy attitude.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Is uppose so, but I wouldn't exactly know much of the subject." she appeared a lot more comfortable that he wasn't being totally proper anymore. Made things seem a bit more normal. ha.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

"Well, I always thought religion was just my duty, being born a deacon and all. Now that the odds are stacked against me of retaining that title, I might as well turn my back on it..." he sighed and smiled, a sad smile, all the same.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"We could always go after him. Tell the truth about what happened. You're giving up so easily without a fight - not that you're really in any condition to fight, mind you - but if it means that much to you. now I'm preaching. Oi." she shook her head.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

He grinned at her irony, "The thing is, I do not really want to fight back. Then again...I don't think I can stand for that man to become one of the Chosen..."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Then let's go stop him, hrm? ou'll just have to give me a while to figure out exactly how to work all the ice manipulation, but it doesn't seem *that* hard. I'm sure we could stop him." she shrugged, then looked ahead, squinting.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

"It probably shouldn't be too tough...should it?" he said, looking over at her. The two of them, if they could just work out the kinks in their fighting, could be quite powerful.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Not in the least, I don't think." she shrugged shortly, "but then again, you're the one that blew up the temple back there."

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

Folding his arms into each other, he mumbled, "That technically wasn't me, it was Tiana..." raising his voice, he said, "I sure did, didn't I? We should be fine, at least by my knowledge."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"What were you muttering about?" she questioned, tilting her head but continueing to walk, "And of course we'll be fine. Why wouldn't we?

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

He cleared his throat, trying to make it easier for her to hear him, "You see, if Melfice becomes a Deacon, which he probably will, Tiana's favour over me will switch to him...Even though she is all-mighty, she is really superficial." he laughed, then added, "Basically, from here on out, no magic for me, at least not healing."

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

SHe stared. "Ah..so then no more exploding things?" she frowned slightly, "And he gets to explode things. That could complicate things a bit more than is good..."

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

"As well as he can create shields to protect himself, heal himself, heal OTHERS, create hurtful weapons, and probably turn into Tiana himself." he giggled, semi-nervously.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"Oh joy. Let's go commit suicide." Sora sighed, shaking her head and walking to her house, then opening the door and motioning for him to go ahead.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

"Oh, don't go and get worried, we'll be fine, you said so yourself." he said, sitting down on the bed once again, and smiling over at her in a funny, mocking way.

~*~Time is a tyrannical beast that will eventually consume everything.~*~

"That was BEFORE I knew he could blow things up. Now I'm not so sure." she frowned, plopping down on the floor. "Along with healing himself and others..arg..the most I can do is manipulate ice and snow and create it.."

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

"That shouldn't deter us. You and me will be fine, teamwork, Sora. Teamwork. Can't fight a war alone." he smiled, trying to change the mood a bit, from death and destruction to...he didn't quite know what.

Sora frowned, but nodded slightly. "Suppose you're right about that, so might as well not sulk about it, really." she offered a faint smile and a shrug, looking up and closing her eyes, taking a deep breath.

~^~"It's Soh-ra! Not Soar-a! Sora, like Sorry, got it?!" ~^~

He stood up, buckling up the buckles on the sides of his boots, and putting his gloves back on, "If you'd sooner I go alone, I can. I wouldn't want to burden you with such a great task."