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<blockquote data-quote="Nonlethal Force" data-source="post: 3619921" data-attributes="member: 35788"><p>Outside the wizard’s chamber, the hall remained quiet. The foursome standing in the hall had no idea of what was happening within the walls of the wizard’s chamber as they patiently waited in their protective formation. The longer they waited, the harder it became to manage the silence.</p><p></p><p>Finally, Charis broke the silence. <span style="color: Orange">“Do you think that we managed to get in quick enough that they weren’t able to track us?”</span></p><p></p><p>Master Searthu chuckled as Rhema tried to shush Charis. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Charis, they can detect us through sound.”</span></p><p></p><p>The follower of Rhea spoke softly, but did not ignore Charis’ original assertion. <span style="color: Lime">“She is right, Charis, but they should be able to locate us with their magic well before their hearing would tell them where we are. I have no doubt that since we made it past the guards so easily they are formulating a plan. They are likely devising a plan that will take into account the fact that most of us can utilize magic to our own advantage.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ischarus breathed in so that he could speak, but he took a moment to cough instead. Before he could regain his breath he was pulled to the floor. A large tentacle erupted magically from the wooden floor below him. The tentacle took the coloration of the sturdy oak floor paneling, and it was nearly impossible to detect its presence before it struck. In a matter of seconds the tentacle had wrapped itself around his legs and waist and brought him onto his back. As soon as he was on the ground, the tentacle began to squeeze him and suffocate him like he would have expected from a constrictor snake.</p><p></p><p>Similar tentacles leapt up and latched onto Rhema and Charis, dragging each of them to the ground. The two women fell to the ground easily. They had been caught off guard equally as much as Ischarus.</p><p></p><p>Master Searthu was not so easily caught. His hands slide between the tentacle and his body and he used his arms to prevent the crushing assault on his waist. His arms helped him slip out of the tentacle’s grasp. Before the tentacle could reattach itself to him, Master Searthu rolled over his shoulder and quickly ran out of the spell’s area of effectiveness. He called out a quick warning to the other three. <span style="color: Lime">“The attack has begun, obviously. The tentacles will continue to squeeze you until you are dead or the wizard who cast the spell releases it. Free yourself while I find the wizard!”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis stopped struggling against the tentacle for a moment. She hoped that if she could feign death for even a second it might buy her enough time for what she wanted to try. <span style="color: Orange">“Daancrah Pashor Shintar.”</span> The spell was one of her favorites, and the tentacles had eased enough in response to her lack of struggling to give her space to speak the words with confidence. She watched from her position along the floor as three brilliantly clad fire beetles emerged before Master Searthu’s position. <span style="color: Orange">“Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah! Welcome, and go with Master Searthu to find the wizard who cast this spell upon us.”</span></p><p></p><p>Rhema also eased her struggle, focusing on the powers of her mind instead. The tentacles would eventually kill her, of that there could be no doubt. She knew she was weak, and if she wanted to be free she would need to help Master Searthu find the location of the guard who had cast the spell. Her mind focused down the hallway in the direction that Master Searthu had escaped. As she focused her thoughts, she quickly became aware of three intelligent minds focused on their position. Her voice burst down the hall with excitement upon her discovery. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Yes! Go down the hall a bit further. I can sense three of them focusing on our position!”</span></p><p></p><p>Ischarus was invigorated by the excitement in his wife’s voice. He also knew that while Master Searthu was an adept spell caster, he was not likely going to be able to keep his defenses against three magicians who were strong enough to enforce this kind of power upon the party. He focused all of his might and with a mighty cry he forced the tentacle away from around his waist. Once he had a bit more freedom to breathe, he was able to pry the tentacle away from his legs and regain his feet. Before the tentacle could reattach itself Ischarus was charging down the hall after the follower of Reah.</p><p></p><p>Master Searthu noticed the commotion behind him and heard Rhema’s call. He spotted Ischarus and knew that he was better suited to challenge the Wizard’s College guards in a direct physical conflict than he was. Besides, he understood that if he could stay behind Ischarus, his magic would be much more useful and creative in its deployment. He waited for Ischarus and the three beetles to pass him before he cast a spell on them. <span style="color: Lime">“Meion Shintar cadrass.”</span></p><p></p><p>The spell took effect immediately. Each of the fire beetles managed to jump further as their limbs grew stronger. Ischarus could feel his arms and legs grow stronger as well. His heart beat a bit faster, but it beat more confidently as he unsheathed his sword. With a newfound strength, Ischarus and his fire beetle friends surged down the hallway in a speedy search for the spell casters who threatened his wife and friend.</p><p></p><p>He hadn’t taken too many steps before he saw the forms huddling in a doorway. They were trying to stay out of view, but when they saw that Ischarus had broken free of the bondage of the spell they stepped out. One of the Wizard’s College guards extended a hand towards Ischarus and began casting a spell. <span style="color: Lime">“Jiya Diast.”</span> </p><p></p><p>Ischarus knew that he wouldn’t reach the wizard before the spell took effect, so he braced himself to take the brunt of whatever attack the wizard had planned for him. Much to his surprise, an attack never came. The wizard had not cast an offense spell designed for his destruction or capture.</p><p></p><p>Instead, the wizard’s skin began to bubble and smoke as though it had come into contact with a fast working acid. The wizard’s fingers and toes doubled in length and quadrupled in thickness. Each of her fingers developed talons where the nails had once been. The wizard’s hands, legs, arms, face, and torso thickened and developed scales as though he were becoming a reptile adorned in the color of a brilliant citrine gemstone. Her face extended in length, producing a jaw like that of a lizard. Her hair fell to the ground and vanished upon impact.</p><p></p><p>As her body changed, she also doubled over so that she could walk on all four limbs. A long tail developed out of where her tailbone naturally existed. Her eyes began to glow with a bright yellow glimmer. A set of wings grew out of the wizard’s back and remained folded since the hallway was narrow enough to prevent them from unfolding and being used as weapons.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus could not believe the sight before his eyes. The wizard had turned herself into a dragon. Or, perhaps the wizard was a dragon in human form. He felt a small amount of fear develop inside his chest, but he continued forward. <span style="color: LightBlue">“Citrine Dragon!”</span> He lifted his sword as he charged, but his mind was not far behind his desire to set Rhema free. If this was a citrine dragon, it was not his enemy. Citrine dragons followed Reah and were on the side of justice. They should not be an enemy.</p><p></p><p>The other two Wizard’s College guards stepped behind their changed associate. They saw the confusion begin to develop on Ischarus’ face as they stared over the scaly back of their friend. Each one spoke quietly in turn. <span style="color: Lime">“Doithican Fundar.”</span> They vanished from sight, becoming completely invisible to the unaltered eye. In spite of the magical display, the fact that a dragon had now filled the hallway meant that neither Ischarus nor Master Searthu took notice of their alteration.</p><p></p><p>Charis could not see the dragon, but she heard Ischarus’ cries from down the hall. She continued to refrain from struggling, hoping that the tentacles would consider her near death. Her voice rang down the hall as she called to the fire beetles that she had summoned. <span style="color: Orange">“Do not be afraid, Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah. Remember, you cannot be harmed here in my world. You can only be dismissed and returned to Bemme’s side. Fight hard, and do not fear.”</span></p><p></p><p>The tentacles began to squeeze her hard once she called out and revealed that she was not dead. They did not grip her severely, however, because she was making little effort to escape. Her mind struggled hard to maintain her composure. She knew that her freedom rested in Ischarus’ capable hands. She could outlast the spell if she needed. </p><p></p><p>She was not so sure that this was true of Rhema. <span style="color: Orange">“Bondras-tol Egro.”</span> Her eyes closed as she focused on Rhema, sending a small ray of Bemme’s love across the space between herself and Rhema. Rhema’s wounds caused by the groping tentacles were healed through the magical words.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus’ mind continued to work as he charged down the hall. Suddenly, he knew he had to stop. There was no way that he could explain attacking a citrine dragon, even if it was a Wizard’s College rouse. He came to a halt within ten feet of the dragon, well within the creature’s striking range with its sharp teeth. <span style="color: LightBlue">“I follow Ausaphaborishan and am a friend to Llywessiar. They are both members of the Assembly of Virtuous Dragons. I cannot slay one of their own kind.”</span></p><p></p><p>In her mind, Rhema swore at her husband’s hesitation. Even with the healing that she had just received there was no guarantee that she could resist the effect of the spell for its duration. Her mind raced in search of a way to resolve this conflict quickly. Finally, she focused her mind on the thoughts of the wizard who had turned herself into a dragon. <span style="color: PaleGreen">“Listen to my husband, Wizard’s College guard. He is honorable, and does not desire to act out in violence against those who are also honorable.”</span> Her mental power surged through her voice, and Rhema hoped that her power was enough to implant the suggestion of peace into the mind of the Wizard’s College guard.</p><p></p><p>Master Searthu spotted the standoff between Ischarus and the Wizard’s College guard. It had not yet come to blows, but a fight was not far off. The beetles had gathered around Ischarus’ feet and were waiting for the sign to attack. Master Searthu turned and pointed to Charis. <span style="color: Lime">“Meion Shintar.”</span> The energy that Master Searthu unleashed shot straight for Charis and engulfed her.</p><p></p><p>Charis did not feel the same effects that Ischarus had felt from the related spell that Master Searthu had cast earlier. Her muscles did not grow strong. Instead, Charis was enveloped by a radiant light, and her voice suddenly felt pure and strong. Her hair began to sparkle as if it had been blessed by some divine spirit.</p><p></p><p>Master Searthu shouted back to Charis. <span style="color: Lime">“I have given you a silver tongue. Use it, for your tongue may be the quickest answer out of this.”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis knew what Master Searthu meant. She was the most charismatic of the foursome. Her natural skill with people had begun to reassert itself over the past year. The same charisma that had made her a significant member of her clan in Quehalost had brought her into power within the people of the villa.</p><p></p><p>Charis breathed in deeply and searched her minds for the words to speak. She breathed in deeply once more and smiled. <span style="color: Orange">“Wizard’s College guard, I ask for a truce. You can see that we do not wish violence. But the truth is that we seek to stop a member of your order. One of your order has begun using dark means to brainwash his servants. We have spent much of today capturing his servants so that they could do no harm in the world. Now we have come to find answers for his actions, specifically regarding why he has used the Arum Dracunculus root excretion. If you can sense any honor in this, release us from the spell and speak with us.”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis’s voice had rung clearly through the hall. Master Searthu’s magic had given her greater power than normal to speak smoothly and confidently. Her eyes flared with confidence, although the Wizard’s College guard who had turned himself into a citrine dragon would be too far away to see the change.</p><p></p><p>Suddenly, the tentacles that had wrapped themselves around Rhema and Charis released the women and were reabsorbed into the floor. Before Rhema and Charis could stand, however, they felt cold steel across their throats. A mysterious voice sounded out above Charis. It was about as high as one might expect a person to speak from a kneeling position. <span style="color: Lime">“You cannot see us, but we are here. If you make any moves, we will slit both of your throats and our guard in dragon form will attack. Your story is intriguing, however. If there is truth in what you say, we must know.”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis swallowed hard. For the moment, she was glad that she wasn’t Ischarus. The invisible Wizard’s College guard kneeling above her held the steel blade to her throat tight enough that if she had an Adam’s apple she would have likely just cut her own throat open. She spoke softly as she heard Master Searthu approaching down the hall. <span style="color: Orange">“If you allow it, we submit. I have no desire to die, just to find answers. You may have my weapons as a sign of my faith.”</span></p><p></p><p>The blade pressed in harder as Master Searthu approached. <span style="color: Lime">“I accept your terms. Tell your follower of Reah to also submit. Speak to the one facing against my counterpart at the end of the hall and dismiss your celestial servant beetles. Then we will speak more.”</span></p><p></p><p>Master Searthu had heard the exchange. <span style="color: Lime">“I submit as well, if that is what you desire. But I have no weapons, just my magic. You above all others should know that I cannot give that up so easily as a knife.”</span></p><p></p><p>The voice above Charis spoke again. <span style="color: Lime">“Very well, stand against the wall. What about my other demands, madam?”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis smiled nervously. She tried to speak loudly, but to do so the blade dug into the skin on her throat. The cut was not serious, but it would leave a mark for a few days while it healed. <span style="color: Orange">“Ischarus, they are willing to talk. Give your blade to the dragon.”</span></p><p></p><p>Ischarus sheathed his sword and allowed the scabbard to slide down his leg to his feat. The voice standing over Charis spoke again. <span style="color: Lime">“And your beetle friends?”</span></p><p></p><p>Charis swallowed once more. <span style="color: Orange">“Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah: you have once more served me well. Give my regards to Bemme when you see her next!”</span> Charis closed her eyes and negated the magic that she had called upon to summon the creatures. They vanished from their position beside Ischarus.</p><p></p><p>The invisible figure above Charis lifted his blade off of her neck and stood up. The sound of a dagger slipping into a leather sheath lightly rustled from above Charis. The voice spoke once more. <span style="color: Lime">“You have my assurance that there is no more reason to protect this hallway. I think it is time for you four to be escorted into the chamber by my associate in dragon form. As for my invisible friend and myself, I believe it will be in the best interests of truth to remain invisible until we hear what the master of these quarters has to say in his defense.”</span></p><p></p><p>[Sblock=Color-Free Speech Section]</p><p>Outside the wizard’s chamber, the hall remained quiet. The foursome standing in the hall had no idea of what was happening within the walls of the wizard’s chamber as they patiently waited in their protective formation. The longer they waited, the harder it became to manage the silence.</p><p></p><p>Finally, Charis broke the silence. “Do you think that we managed to get in quick enough that they weren’t able to track us?”</p><p></p><p>Master Searthu chuckled as Rhema tried to shush Charis. “Charis, they can detect us through sound.”</p><p></p><p>The follower of Rhea spoke softly, but did not ignore Charis’ original assertion. “She is right, Charis, but they should be able to locate us with their magic well before their hearing would tell them where we are. I have no doubt that since we made it past the guards so easily they are formulating a plan. They are likely devising a plan that will take into account the fact that most of us can utilize magic to our own advantage.”</p><p></p><p>Ischarus breathed in so that he could speak, but he took a moment to cough instead. Before he could regain his breath he was pulled to the floor. A large tentacle erupted magically from the wooden floor below him. The tentacle took the coloration of the sturdy oak floor paneling, and it was nearly impossible to detect its presence before it struck. In a matter of seconds the tentacle had wrapped itself around his legs and waist and brought him onto his back. As soon as he was on the ground, the tentacle began to squeeze him and suffocate him like he would have expected from a constrictor snake.</p><p></p><p>Similar tentacles leapt up and latched onto Rhema and Charis, dragging each of them to the ground. The two women fell to the ground easily. They had been caught off guard equally as much as Ischarus.</p><p></p><p>Master Searthu was not so easily caught. His hands slide between the tentacle and his body and he used his arms to prevent the crushing assault on his waist. His arms helped him slip out of the tentacle’s grasp. Before the tentacle could reattach itself to him, Master Searthu rolled over his shoulder and quickly ran out of the spell’s area of effectiveness. He called out a quick warning to the other three. “The attack has begun, obviously. The tentacles will continue to squeeze you until you are dead or the wizard who cast the spell releases it. Free yourself while I find the wizard!”</p><p></p><p>Charis stopped struggling against the tentacle for a moment. She hoped that if she could feign death for even a second it might buy her enough time for what she wanted to try. “Daancrah Pashor Shintar.” The spell was one of her favorites, and the tentacles had eased enough in response to her lack of struggling to give her space to speak the words with confidence. She watched from her position along the floor as three brilliantly clad fire beetles emerged before Master Searthu’s position. “Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah! Welcome, and go with Master Searthu to find the wizard who cast this spell upon us.”</p><p></p><p>Rhema also eased her struggle, focusing on the powers of her mind instead. The tentacles would eventually kill her, of that there could be no doubt. She knew she was weak, and if she wanted to be free she would need to help Master Searthu find the location of the guard who had cast the spell. Her mind focused down the hallway in the direction that Master Searthu had escaped. As she focused her thoughts, she quickly became aware of three intelligent minds focused on their position. Her voice burst down the hall with excitement upon her discovery. “Yes! Go down the hall a bit further. I can sense three of them focusing on our position!”</p><p></p><p>Ischarus was invigorated by the excitement in his wife’s voice. He also knew that while Master Searthu was an adept spell caster, he was not likely going to be able to keep his defenses against three magicians who were strong enough to enforce this kind of power upon the party. He focused all of his might and with a mighty cry he forced the tentacle away from around his waist. Once he had a bit more freedom to breathe, he was able to pry the tentacle away from his legs and regain his feet. Before the tentacle could reattach itself Ischarus was charging down the hall after the follower of Reah.</p><p></p><p>Master Searthu noticed the commotion behind him and heard Rhema’s call. He spotted Ischarus and knew that he was better suited to challenge the Wizard’s College guards in a direct physical conflict than he was. Besides, he understood that if he could stay behind Ischarus, his magic would be much more useful and creative in its deployment. He waited for Ischarus and the three beetles to pass him before he cast a spell on them. “Meion Shintar cadrass.”</p><p></p><p>The spell took effect immediately. Each of the fire beetles managed to jump further as their limbs grew stronger. Ischarus could feel his arms and legs grow stronger as well. His heart beat a bit faster, but it beat more confidently as he unsheathed his sword. With a newfound strength, Ischarus and his fire beetle friends surged down the hallway in a speedy search for the spell casters who threatened his wife and friend.</p><p></p><p>He hadn’t taken too many steps before he saw the forms huddling in a doorway. They were trying to stay out of view, but when they saw that Ischarus had broken free of the bondage of the spell they stepped out. One of the Wizard’s College guards extended a hand towards Ischarus and began casting a spell. “Jiya Diast.” </p><p></p><p>Ischarus knew that he wouldn’t reach the wizard before the spell took effect, so he braced himself to take the brunt of whatever attack the wizard had planned for him. Much to his surprise, an attack never came. The wizard had not cast an offense spell designed for his destruction or capture.</p><p></p><p>Instead, the wizard’s skin began to bubble and smoke as though it had come into contact with a fast working acid. The wizard’s fingers and toes doubled in length and quadrupled in thickness. Each of her fingers developed talons where the nails had once been. The wizard’s hands, legs, arms, face, and torso thickened and developed scales as though he were becoming a reptile adorned in the color of a brilliant citrine gemstone. Her face extended in length, producing a jaw like that of a lizard. Her hair fell to the ground and vanished upon impact.</p><p></p><p>As her body changed, she also doubled over so that she could walk on all four limbs. A long tail developed out of where her tailbone naturally existed. Her eyes began to glow with a bright yellow glimmer. A set of wings grew out of the wizard’s back and remained folded since the hallway was narrow enough to prevent them from unfolding and being used as weapons.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus could not believe the sight before his eyes. The wizard had turned herself into a dragon. Or, perhaps the wizard was a dragon in human form. He felt a small amount of fear develop inside his chest, but he continued forward. “Citrine Dragon!” He lifted his sword as he charged, but his mind was not far behind his desire to set Rhema free. If this was a citrine dragon, it was not his enemy. Citrine dragons followed Reah and were on the side of justice. They should not be an enemy.</p><p></p><p>The other two Wizard’s College guards stepped behind their changed associate. They saw the confusion begin to develop on Ischarus’ face as they stared over the scaly back of their friend. Each one spoke quietly in turn. “Doithican Fundar.” They vanished from sight, becoming completely invisible to the unaltered eye. In spite of the magical display, the fact that a dragon had now filled the hallway meant that neither Ischarus nor Master Searthu took notice of their alteration.</p><p></p><p>Charis could not see the dragon, but she heard Ischarus’ cries from down the hall. She continued to refrain from struggling, hoping that the tentacles would consider her near death. Her voice rang down the hall as she called to the fire beetles that she had summoned. “Do not be afraid, Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah. Remember, you cannot be harmed here in my world. You can only be dismissed and returned to Bemme’s side. Fight hard, and do not fear.”</p><p></p><p>The tentacles began to squeeze her hard once she called out and revealed that she was not dead. They did not grip her severely, however, because she was making little effort to escape. Her mind struggled hard to maintain her composure. She knew that her freedom rested in Ischarus’ capable hands. She could outlast the spell if she needed. </p><p></p><p>She was not so sure that this was true of Rhema. “Bondras-tol Egro.” Her eyes closed as she focused on Rhema, sending a small ray of Bemme’s love across the space between herself and Rhema. Rhema’s wounds caused by the groping tentacles were healed through the magical words.</p><p></p><p>Ischarus’ mind continued to work as he charged down the hall. Suddenly, he knew he had to stop. There was no way that he could explain attacking a citrine dragon, even if it was a Wizard’s College rouse. He came to a halt within ten feet of the dragon, well within the creature’s striking range with its sharp teeth. “I follow Ausaphaborishan and am a friend to Llywessiar. They are both members of the Assembly of Virtuous Dragons. I cannot slay one of their own kind.”</p><p></p><p>In her mind, Rhema swore at her husband’s hesitation. Even with the healing that she had just received there was no guarantee that she could resist the effect of the spell for its duration. Her mind raced in search of a way to resolve this conflict quickly. Finally, she focused her mind on the thoughts of the wizard who had turned herself into a dragon. “Listen to my husband, Wizard’s College guard. He is honorable, and does not desire to act out in violence against those who are also honorable.” Her mental power surged through her voice, and Rhema hoped that her power was enough to implant the suggestion of peace into the mind of the Wizard’s College guard.</p><p></p><p>Master Searthu spotted the standoff between Ischarus and the Wizard’s College guard. It had not yet come to blows, but a fight was not far off. The beetles had gathered around Ischarus’ feet and were waiting for the sign to attack. Master Searthu turned and pointed to Charis. “Meion Shintar.” The energy that Master Searthu unleashed shot straight for Charis and engulfed her.</p><p></p><p>Charis did not feel the same effects that Ischarus had felt from the related spell that Master Searthu had cast earlier. Her muscles did not grow strong. Instead, Charis was enveloped by a radiant light, and her voice suddenly felt pure and strong. Her hair began to sparkle as if it had been blessed by some divine spirit.</p><p></p><p>Master Searthu shouted back to Charis. “I have given you a silver tongue. Use it, for your tongue may be the quickest answer out of this.”</p><p></p><p>Charis knew what Master Searthu meant. She was the most charismatic of the foursome. Her natural skill with people had begun to reassert itself over the past year. The same charisma that had made her a significant member of her clan in Quehalost had brought her into power within the people of the villa.</p><p></p><p>Charis breathed in deeply and searched her minds for the words to speak. She breathed in deeply once more and smiled. “Wizard’s College guard, I ask for a truce. You can see that we do not wish violence. But the truth is that we seek to stop a member of your order. One of your order has begun using dark means to brainwash his servants. We have spent much of today capturing his servants so that they could do no harm in the world. Now we have come to find answers for his actions, specifically regarding why he has used the Arum Dracunculus root excretion. If you can sense any honor in this, release us from the spell and speak with us.”</p><p></p><p>Charis’s voice had rung clearly through the hall. Master Searthu’s magic had given her greater power than normal to speak smoothly and confidently. Her eyes flared with confidence, although the Wizard’s College guard who had turned himself into a citrine dragon would be too far away to see the change.</p><p></p><p>Suddenly, the tentacles that had wrapped themselves around Rhema and Charis released the women and were reabsorbed into the floor. Before Rhema and Charis could stand, however, they felt cold steel across their throats. A mysterious voice sounded out above Charis. It was about as high as one might expect a person to speak from a kneeling position. “You cannot see us, but we are here. If you make any moves, we will slit both of your throats and our guard in dragon form will attack. Your story is intriguing, however. If there is truth in what you say, we must know.”</p><p></p><p>Charis swallowed hard. For the moment, she was glad that she wasn’t Ischarus. The invisible Wizard’s College guard kneeling above her held the steel blade to her throat tight enough that if she had an Adam’s apple she would have likely just cut her own throat open. She spoke softly as she heard Master Searthu approaching down the hall. “If you allow it, we submit. I have no desire to die, just to find answers. You may have my weapons as a sign of my faith.”</p><p></p><p>The blade pressed in harder as Master Searthu approached. “I accept your terms. Tell your follower of Reah to also submit. Speak to the one facing against my counterpart at the end of the hall and dismiss your celestial servant beetles. Then we will speak more.”</p><p></p><p>Master Searthu had heard the exchange. “I submit as well, if that is what you desire. But I have no weapons, just my magic. You above all others should know that I cannot give that up so easily as a knife.”</p><p></p><p>The voice above Charis spoke again. “Very well, stand against the wall. What about my other demands, madam?”</p><p></p><p>Charis smiled nervously. She tried to speak loudly, but to do so the blade dug into the skin on her throat. The cut was not serious, but it would leave a mark for a few days while it healed. “Ischarus, they are willing to talk. Give your blade to the dragon.”</p><p></p><p>Ischarus sheathed his sword and allowed the scabbard to slide down his leg to his feat. The voice standing over Charis spoke again. “And your beetle friends?”</p><p></p><p>Charis swallowed once more. “Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah: you have once more served me well. Give my regards to Bemme when you see her next!” Charis closed her eyes and negated the magic that she had called upon to summon the creatures. They vanished from their position beside Ischarus.</p><p></p><p>The invisible figure above Charis lifted his blade off of her neck and stood up. The sound of a dagger slipping into a leather sheath lightly rustled from above Charis. The voice spoke once more. “You have my assurance that there is no more reason to protect this hallway. I think it is time for you four to be escorted into the chamber by my associate in dragon form. As for my invisible friend and myself, I believe it will be in the best interests of truth to remain invisible until we hear what the master of these quarters has to say in his defense.”</p><p></p><p>[/Sblock]</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Nonlethal Force, post: 3619921, member: 35788"] Outside the wizard’s chamber, the hall remained quiet. The foursome standing in the hall had no idea of what was happening within the walls of the wizard’s chamber as they patiently waited in their protective formation. The longer they waited, the harder it became to manage the silence. Finally, Charis broke the silence. [Color=Orange]“Do you think that we managed to get in quick enough that they weren’t able to track us?”[/Color] Master Searthu chuckled as Rhema tried to shush Charis. [Color=PaleGreen]“Charis, they can detect us through sound.”[/Color] The follower of Rhea spoke softly, but did not ignore Charis’ original assertion. [Color=Lime]“She is right, Charis, but they should be able to locate us with their magic well before their hearing would tell them where we are. I have no doubt that since we made it past the guards so easily they are formulating a plan. They are likely devising a plan that will take into account the fact that most of us can utilize magic to our own advantage.”[/Color] Ischarus breathed in so that he could speak, but he took a moment to cough instead. Before he could regain his breath he was pulled to the floor. A large tentacle erupted magically from the wooden floor below him. The tentacle took the coloration of the sturdy oak floor paneling, and it was nearly impossible to detect its presence before it struck. In a matter of seconds the tentacle had wrapped itself around his legs and waist and brought him onto his back. As soon as he was on the ground, the tentacle began to squeeze him and suffocate him like he would have expected from a constrictor snake. Similar tentacles leapt up and latched onto Rhema and Charis, dragging each of them to the ground. The two women fell to the ground easily. They had been caught off guard equally as much as Ischarus. Master Searthu was not so easily caught. His hands slide between the tentacle and his body and he used his arms to prevent the crushing assault on his waist. His arms helped him slip out of the tentacle’s grasp. Before the tentacle could reattach itself to him, Master Searthu rolled over his shoulder and quickly ran out of the spell’s area of effectiveness. He called out a quick warning to the other three. [Color=Lime]“The attack has begun, obviously. The tentacles will continue to squeeze you until you are dead or the wizard who cast the spell releases it. Free yourself while I find the wizard!”[/Color] Charis stopped struggling against the tentacle for a moment. She hoped that if she could feign death for even a second it might buy her enough time for what she wanted to try. [Color=Orange]“Daancrah Pashor Shintar.”[/Color] The spell was one of her favorites, and the tentacles had eased enough in response to her lack of struggling to give her space to speak the words with confidence. She watched from her position along the floor as three brilliantly clad fire beetles emerged before Master Searthu’s position. [Color=Orange]“Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah! Welcome, and go with Master Searthu to find the wizard who cast this spell upon us.”[/Color] Rhema also eased her struggle, focusing on the powers of her mind instead. The tentacles would eventually kill her, of that there could be no doubt. She knew she was weak, and if she wanted to be free she would need to help Master Searthu find the location of the guard who had cast the spell. Her mind focused down the hallway in the direction that Master Searthu had escaped. As she focused her thoughts, she quickly became aware of three intelligent minds focused on their position. Her voice burst down the hall with excitement upon her discovery. [Color=PaleGreen]“Yes! Go down the hall a bit further. I can sense three of them focusing on our position!”[/Color] Ischarus was invigorated by the excitement in his wife’s voice. He also knew that while Master Searthu was an adept spell caster, he was not likely going to be able to keep his defenses against three magicians who were strong enough to enforce this kind of power upon the party. He focused all of his might and with a mighty cry he forced the tentacle away from around his waist. Once he had a bit more freedom to breathe, he was able to pry the tentacle away from his legs and regain his feet. Before the tentacle could reattach itself Ischarus was charging down the hall after the follower of Reah. Master Searthu noticed the commotion behind him and heard Rhema’s call. He spotted Ischarus and knew that he was better suited to challenge the Wizard’s College guards in a direct physical conflict than he was. Besides, he understood that if he could stay behind Ischarus, his magic would be much more useful and creative in its deployment. He waited for Ischarus and the three beetles to pass him before he cast a spell on them. [Color=Lime]“Meion Shintar cadrass.”[/Color] The spell took effect immediately. Each of the fire beetles managed to jump further as their limbs grew stronger. Ischarus could feel his arms and legs grow stronger as well. His heart beat a bit faster, but it beat more confidently as he unsheathed his sword. With a newfound strength, Ischarus and his fire beetle friends surged down the hallway in a speedy search for the spell casters who threatened his wife and friend. He hadn’t taken too many steps before he saw the forms huddling in a doorway. They were trying to stay out of view, but when they saw that Ischarus had broken free of the bondage of the spell they stepped out. One of the Wizard’s College guards extended a hand towards Ischarus and began casting a spell. [Color=Lime]“Jiya Diast.”[/Color] Ischarus knew that he wouldn’t reach the wizard before the spell took effect, so he braced himself to take the brunt of whatever attack the wizard had planned for him. Much to his surprise, an attack never came. The wizard had not cast an offense spell designed for his destruction or capture. Instead, the wizard’s skin began to bubble and smoke as though it had come into contact with a fast working acid. The wizard’s fingers and toes doubled in length and quadrupled in thickness. Each of her fingers developed talons where the nails had once been. The wizard’s hands, legs, arms, face, and torso thickened and developed scales as though he were becoming a reptile adorned in the color of a brilliant citrine gemstone. Her face extended in length, producing a jaw like that of a lizard. Her hair fell to the ground and vanished upon impact. As her body changed, she also doubled over so that she could walk on all four limbs. A long tail developed out of where her tailbone naturally existed. Her eyes began to glow with a bright yellow glimmer. A set of wings grew out of the wizard’s back and remained folded since the hallway was narrow enough to prevent them from unfolding and being used as weapons. Ischarus could not believe the sight before his eyes. The wizard had turned herself into a dragon. Or, perhaps the wizard was a dragon in human form. He felt a small amount of fear develop inside his chest, but he continued forward. [Color=LightBlue]“Citrine Dragon!”[/Color] He lifted his sword as he charged, but his mind was not far behind his desire to set Rhema free. If this was a citrine dragon, it was not his enemy. Citrine dragons followed Reah and were on the side of justice. They should not be an enemy. The other two Wizard’s College guards stepped behind their changed associate. They saw the confusion begin to develop on Ischarus’ face as they stared over the scaly back of their friend. Each one spoke quietly in turn. [Color=Lime]“Doithican Fundar.”[/Color] They vanished from sight, becoming completely invisible to the unaltered eye. In spite of the magical display, the fact that a dragon had now filled the hallway meant that neither Ischarus nor Master Searthu took notice of their alteration. Charis could not see the dragon, but she heard Ischarus’ cries from down the hall. She continued to refrain from struggling, hoping that the tentacles would consider her near death. Her voice rang down the hall as she called to the fire beetles that she had summoned. [Color=Orange]“Do not be afraid, Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah. Remember, you cannot be harmed here in my world. You can only be dismissed and returned to Bemme’s side. Fight hard, and do not fear.”[/Color] The tentacles began to squeeze her hard once she called out and revealed that she was not dead. They did not grip her severely, however, because she was making little effort to escape. Her mind struggled hard to maintain her composure. She knew that her freedom rested in Ischarus’ capable hands. She could outlast the spell if she needed. She was not so sure that this was true of Rhema. [Color=Orange]“Bondras-tol Egro.”[/Color] Her eyes closed as she focused on Rhema, sending a small ray of Bemme’s love across the space between herself and Rhema. Rhema’s wounds caused by the groping tentacles were healed through the magical words. Ischarus’ mind continued to work as he charged down the hall. Suddenly, he knew he had to stop. There was no way that he could explain attacking a citrine dragon, even if it was a Wizard’s College rouse. He came to a halt within ten feet of the dragon, well within the creature’s striking range with its sharp teeth. [Color=LightBlue]“I follow Ausaphaborishan and am a friend to Llywessiar. They are both members of the Assembly of Virtuous Dragons. I cannot slay one of their own kind.”[/Color] In her mind, Rhema swore at her husband’s hesitation. Even with the healing that she had just received there was no guarantee that she could resist the effect of the spell for its duration. Her mind raced in search of a way to resolve this conflict quickly. Finally, she focused her mind on the thoughts of the wizard who had turned herself into a dragon. [Color=PaleGreen]“Listen to my husband, Wizard’s College guard. He is honorable, and does not desire to act out in violence against those who are also honorable.”[/Color] Her mental power surged through her voice, and Rhema hoped that her power was enough to implant the suggestion of peace into the mind of the Wizard’s College guard. Master Searthu spotted the standoff between Ischarus and the Wizard’s College guard. It had not yet come to blows, but a fight was not far off. The beetles had gathered around Ischarus’ feet and were waiting for the sign to attack. Master Searthu turned and pointed to Charis. [Color=Lime]“Meion Shintar.”[/Color] The energy that Master Searthu unleashed shot straight for Charis and engulfed her. Charis did not feel the same effects that Ischarus had felt from the related spell that Master Searthu had cast earlier. Her muscles did not grow strong. Instead, Charis was enveloped by a radiant light, and her voice suddenly felt pure and strong. Her hair began to sparkle as if it had been blessed by some divine spirit. Master Searthu shouted back to Charis. [Color=Lime]“I have given you a silver tongue. Use it, for your tongue may be the quickest answer out of this.”[/Color] Charis knew what Master Searthu meant. She was the most charismatic of the foursome. Her natural skill with people had begun to reassert itself over the past year. The same charisma that had made her a significant member of her clan in Quehalost had brought her into power within the people of the villa. Charis breathed in deeply and searched her minds for the words to speak. She breathed in deeply once more and smiled. [Color=Orange]“Wizard’s College guard, I ask for a truce. You can see that we do not wish violence. But the truth is that we seek to stop a member of your order. One of your order has begun using dark means to brainwash his servants. We have spent much of today capturing his servants so that they could do no harm in the world. Now we have come to find answers for his actions, specifically regarding why he has used the Arum Dracunculus root excretion. If you can sense any honor in this, release us from the spell and speak with us.”[/Color] Charis’s voice had rung clearly through the hall. Master Searthu’s magic had given her greater power than normal to speak smoothly and confidently. Her eyes flared with confidence, although the Wizard’s College guard who had turned himself into a citrine dragon would be too far away to see the change. Suddenly, the tentacles that had wrapped themselves around Rhema and Charis released the women and were reabsorbed into the floor. Before Rhema and Charis could stand, however, they felt cold steel across their throats. A mysterious voice sounded out above Charis. It was about as high as one might expect a person to speak from a kneeling position. [Color=Lime]“You cannot see us, but we are here. If you make any moves, we will slit both of your throats and our guard in dragon form will attack. Your story is intriguing, however. If there is truth in what you say, we must know.”[/Color] Charis swallowed hard. For the moment, she was glad that she wasn’t Ischarus. The invisible Wizard’s College guard kneeling above her held the steel blade to her throat tight enough that if she had an Adam’s apple she would have likely just cut her own throat open. She spoke softly as she heard Master Searthu approaching down the hall. [Color=Orange]“If you allow it, we submit. I have no desire to die, just to find answers. You may have my weapons as a sign of my faith.”[/Color] The blade pressed in harder as Master Searthu approached. [Color=Lime]“I accept your terms. Tell your follower of Reah to also submit. Speak to the one facing against my counterpart at the end of the hall and dismiss your celestial servant beetles. Then we will speak more.”[/Color] Master Searthu had heard the exchange. [Color=Lime]“I submit as well, if that is what you desire. But I have no weapons, just my magic. You above all others should know that I cannot give that up so easily as a knife.”[/Color] The voice above Charis spoke again. [Color=Lime]“Very well, stand against the wall. What about my other demands, madam?”[/Color] Charis smiled nervously. She tried to speak loudly, but to do so the blade dug into the skin on her throat. The cut was not serious, but it would leave a mark for a few days while it healed. [Color=Orange]“Ischarus, they are willing to talk. Give your blade to the dragon.”[/Color] Ischarus sheathed his sword and allowed the scabbard to slide down his leg to his feat. The voice standing over Charis spoke again. [Color=Lime]“And your beetle friends?”[/Color] Charis swallowed once more. [Color=Orange]“Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah: you have once more served me well. Give my regards to Bemme when you see her next!”[/Color] Charis closed her eyes and negated the magic that she had called upon to summon the creatures. They vanished from their position beside Ischarus. The invisible figure above Charis lifted his blade off of her neck and stood up. The sound of a dagger slipping into a leather sheath lightly rustled from above Charis. The voice spoke once more. [Color=Lime]“You have my assurance that there is no more reason to protect this hallway. I think it is time for you four to be escorted into the chamber by my associate in dragon form. As for my invisible friend and myself, I believe it will be in the best interests of truth to remain invisible until we hear what the master of these quarters has to say in his defense.”[/Color] [Sblock=Color-Free Speech Section] Outside the wizard’s chamber, the hall remained quiet. The foursome standing in the hall had no idea of what was happening within the walls of the wizard’s chamber as they patiently waited in their protective formation. The longer they waited, the harder it became to manage the silence. Finally, Charis broke the silence. “Do you think that we managed to get in quick enough that they weren’t able to track us?” Master Searthu chuckled as Rhema tried to shush Charis. “Charis, they can detect us through sound.” The follower of Rhea spoke softly, but did not ignore Charis’ original assertion. “She is right, Charis, but they should be able to locate us with their magic well before their hearing would tell them where we are. I have no doubt that since we made it past the guards so easily they are formulating a plan. They are likely devising a plan that will take into account the fact that most of us can utilize magic to our own advantage.” Ischarus breathed in so that he could speak, but he took a moment to cough instead. Before he could regain his breath he was pulled to the floor. A large tentacle erupted magically from the wooden floor below him. The tentacle took the coloration of the sturdy oak floor paneling, and it was nearly impossible to detect its presence before it struck. In a matter of seconds the tentacle had wrapped itself around his legs and waist and brought him onto his back. As soon as he was on the ground, the tentacle began to squeeze him and suffocate him like he would have expected from a constrictor snake. Similar tentacles leapt up and latched onto Rhema and Charis, dragging each of them to the ground. The two women fell to the ground easily. They had been caught off guard equally as much as Ischarus. Master Searthu was not so easily caught. His hands slide between the tentacle and his body and he used his arms to prevent the crushing assault on his waist. His arms helped him slip out of the tentacle’s grasp. Before the tentacle could reattach itself to him, Master Searthu rolled over his shoulder and quickly ran out of the spell’s area of effectiveness. He called out a quick warning to the other three. “The attack has begun, obviously. The tentacles will continue to squeeze you until you are dead or the wizard who cast the spell releases it. Free yourself while I find the wizard!” Charis stopped struggling against the tentacle for a moment. She hoped that if she could feign death for even a second it might buy her enough time for what she wanted to try. “Daancrah Pashor Shintar.” The spell was one of her favorites, and the tentacles had eased enough in response to her lack of struggling to give her space to speak the words with confidence. She watched from her position along the floor as three brilliantly clad fire beetles emerged before Master Searthu’s position. “Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah! Welcome, and go with Master Searthu to find the wizard who cast this spell upon us.” Rhema also eased her struggle, focusing on the powers of her mind instead. The tentacles would eventually kill her, of that there could be no doubt. She knew she was weak, and if she wanted to be free she would need to help Master Searthu find the location of the guard who had cast the spell. Her mind focused down the hallway in the direction that Master Searthu had escaped. As she focused her thoughts, she quickly became aware of three intelligent minds focused on their position. Her voice burst down the hall with excitement upon her discovery. “Yes! Go down the hall a bit further. I can sense three of them focusing on our position!” Ischarus was invigorated by the excitement in his wife’s voice. He also knew that while Master Searthu was an adept spell caster, he was not likely going to be able to keep his defenses against three magicians who were strong enough to enforce this kind of power upon the party. He focused all of his might and with a mighty cry he forced the tentacle away from around his waist. Once he had a bit more freedom to breathe, he was able to pry the tentacle away from his legs and regain his feet. Before the tentacle could reattach itself Ischarus was charging down the hall after the follower of Reah. Master Searthu noticed the commotion behind him and heard Rhema’s call. He spotted Ischarus and knew that he was better suited to challenge the Wizard’s College guards in a direct physical conflict than he was. Besides, he understood that if he could stay behind Ischarus, his magic would be much more useful and creative in its deployment. He waited for Ischarus and the three beetles to pass him before he cast a spell on them. “Meion Shintar cadrass.” The spell took effect immediately. Each of the fire beetles managed to jump further as their limbs grew stronger. Ischarus could feel his arms and legs grow stronger as well. His heart beat a bit faster, but it beat more confidently as he unsheathed his sword. With a newfound strength, Ischarus and his fire beetle friends surged down the hallway in a speedy search for the spell casters who threatened his wife and friend. He hadn’t taken too many steps before he saw the forms huddling in a doorway. They were trying to stay out of view, but when they saw that Ischarus had broken free of the bondage of the spell they stepped out. One of the Wizard’s College guards extended a hand towards Ischarus and began casting a spell. “Jiya Diast.” Ischarus knew that he wouldn’t reach the wizard before the spell took effect, so he braced himself to take the brunt of whatever attack the wizard had planned for him. Much to his surprise, an attack never came. The wizard had not cast an offense spell designed for his destruction or capture. Instead, the wizard’s skin began to bubble and smoke as though it had come into contact with a fast working acid. The wizard’s fingers and toes doubled in length and quadrupled in thickness. Each of her fingers developed talons where the nails had once been. The wizard’s hands, legs, arms, face, and torso thickened and developed scales as though he were becoming a reptile adorned in the color of a brilliant citrine gemstone. Her face extended in length, producing a jaw like that of a lizard. Her hair fell to the ground and vanished upon impact. As her body changed, she also doubled over so that she could walk on all four limbs. A long tail developed out of where her tailbone naturally existed. Her eyes began to glow with a bright yellow glimmer. A set of wings grew out of the wizard’s back and remained folded since the hallway was narrow enough to prevent them from unfolding and being used as weapons. Ischarus could not believe the sight before his eyes. The wizard had turned herself into a dragon. Or, perhaps the wizard was a dragon in human form. He felt a small amount of fear develop inside his chest, but he continued forward. “Citrine Dragon!” He lifted his sword as he charged, but his mind was not far behind his desire to set Rhema free. If this was a citrine dragon, it was not his enemy. Citrine dragons followed Reah and were on the side of justice. They should not be an enemy. The other two Wizard’s College guards stepped behind their changed associate. They saw the confusion begin to develop on Ischarus’ face as they stared over the scaly back of their friend. Each one spoke quietly in turn. “Doithican Fundar.” They vanished from sight, becoming completely invisible to the unaltered eye. In spite of the magical display, the fact that a dragon had now filled the hallway meant that neither Ischarus nor Master Searthu took notice of their alteration. Charis could not see the dragon, but she heard Ischarus’ cries from down the hall. She continued to refrain from struggling, hoping that the tentacles would consider her near death. Her voice rang down the hall as she called to the fire beetles that she had summoned. “Do not be afraid, Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah. Remember, you cannot be harmed here in my world. You can only be dismissed and returned to Bemme’s side. Fight hard, and do not fear.” The tentacles began to squeeze her hard once she called out and revealed that she was not dead. They did not grip her severely, however, because she was making little effort to escape. Her mind struggled hard to maintain her composure. She knew that her freedom rested in Ischarus’ capable hands. She could outlast the spell if she needed. She was not so sure that this was true of Rhema. “Bondras-tol Egro.” Her eyes closed as she focused on Rhema, sending a small ray of Bemme’s love across the space between herself and Rhema. Rhema’s wounds caused by the groping tentacles were healed through the magical words. Ischarus’ mind continued to work as he charged down the hall. Suddenly, he knew he had to stop. There was no way that he could explain attacking a citrine dragon, even if it was a Wizard’s College rouse. He came to a halt within ten feet of the dragon, well within the creature’s striking range with its sharp teeth. “I follow Ausaphaborishan and am a friend to Llywessiar. They are both members of the Assembly of Virtuous Dragons. I cannot slay one of their own kind.” In her mind, Rhema swore at her husband’s hesitation. Even with the healing that she had just received there was no guarantee that she could resist the effect of the spell for its duration. Her mind raced in search of a way to resolve this conflict quickly. Finally, she focused her mind on the thoughts of the wizard who had turned herself into a dragon. “Listen to my husband, Wizard’s College guard. He is honorable, and does not desire to act out in violence against those who are also honorable.” Her mental power surged through her voice, and Rhema hoped that her power was enough to implant the suggestion of peace into the mind of the Wizard’s College guard. Master Searthu spotted the standoff between Ischarus and the Wizard’s College guard. It had not yet come to blows, but a fight was not far off. The beetles had gathered around Ischarus’ feet and were waiting for the sign to attack. Master Searthu turned and pointed to Charis. “Meion Shintar.” The energy that Master Searthu unleashed shot straight for Charis and engulfed her. Charis did not feel the same effects that Ischarus had felt from the related spell that Master Searthu had cast earlier. Her muscles did not grow strong. Instead, Charis was enveloped by a radiant light, and her voice suddenly felt pure and strong. Her hair began to sparkle as if it had been blessed by some divine spirit. Master Searthu shouted back to Charis. “I have given you a silver tongue. Use it, for your tongue may be the quickest answer out of this.” Charis knew what Master Searthu meant. She was the most charismatic of the foursome. Her natural skill with people had begun to reassert itself over the past year. The same charisma that had made her a significant member of her clan in Quehalost had brought her into power within the people of the villa. Charis breathed in deeply and searched her minds for the words to speak. She breathed in deeply once more and smiled. “Wizard’s College guard, I ask for a truce. You can see that we do not wish violence. But the truth is that we seek to stop a member of your order. One of your order has begun using dark means to brainwash his servants. We have spent much of today capturing his servants so that they could do no harm in the world. Now we have come to find answers for his actions, specifically regarding why he has used the Arum Dracunculus root excretion. If you can sense any honor in this, release us from the spell and speak with us.” Charis’s voice had rung clearly through the hall. Master Searthu’s magic had given her greater power than normal to speak smoothly and confidently. Her eyes flared with confidence, although the Wizard’s College guard who had turned himself into a citrine dragon would be too far away to see the change. Suddenly, the tentacles that had wrapped themselves around Rhema and Charis released the women and were reabsorbed into the floor. Before Rhema and Charis could stand, however, they felt cold steel across their throats. A mysterious voice sounded out above Charis. It was about as high as one might expect a person to speak from a kneeling position. “You cannot see us, but we are here. If you make any moves, we will slit both of your throats and our guard in dragon form will attack. Your story is intriguing, however. If there is truth in what you say, we must know.” Charis swallowed hard. For the moment, she was glad that she wasn’t Ischarus. The invisible Wizard’s College guard kneeling above her held the steel blade to her throat tight enough that if she had an Adam’s apple she would have likely just cut her own throat open. She spoke softly as she heard Master Searthu approaching down the hall. “If you allow it, we submit. I have no desire to die, just to find answers. You may have my weapons as a sign of my faith.” The blade pressed in harder as Master Searthu approached. “I accept your terms. Tell your follower of Reah to also submit. Speak to the one facing against my counterpart at the end of the hall and dismiss your celestial servant beetles. Then we will speak more.” Master Searthu had heard the exchange. “I submit as well, if that is what you desire. But I have no weapons, just my magic. You above all others should know that I cannot give that up so easily as a knife.” The voice above Charis spoke again. “Very well, stand against the wall. What about my other demands, madam?” Charis smiled nervously. She tried to speak loudly, but to do so the blade dug into the skin on her throat. The cut was not serious, but it would leave a mark for a few days while it healed. “Ischarus, they are willing to talk. Give your blade to the dragon.” Ischarus sheathed his sword and allowed the scabbard to slide down his leg to his feat. The voice standing over Charis spoke again. “And your beetle friends?” Charis swallowed once more. “Tinko, Hubrah, and Di-Ehlah: you have once more served me well. Give my regards to Bemme when you see her next!” Charis closed her eyes and negated the magic that she had called upon to summon the creatures. They vanished from their position beside Ischarus. The invisible figure above Charis lifted his blade off of her neck and stood up. The sound of a dagger slipping into a leather sheath lightly rustled from above Charis. The voice spoke once more. “You have my assurance that there is no more reason to protect this hallway. I think it is time for you four to be escorted into the chamber by my associate in dragon form. As for my invisible friend and myself, I believe it will be in the best interests of truth to remain invisible until we hear what the master of these quarters has to say in his defense.” [/Sblock] [/QUOTE]
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Into the Moral Darkness: (Now a Completed Story!)
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