~Worlds Apart~ (18+ - Closed Rp)

[Shi.No.Tobiko]

(Disclaimer: If Rape happens. My character and I are alright with it. It is up to my partner on if they wish to do it or not, since I am not Seme. Things might get... Bad... Read at your own Risk)

 

The sun had ridden high in the sky on another dry day in the desert. Alyvvyl had been up well before sunrise performing his morning ritual of preparing for the high noon blessings. It was a hard regimen... Spending the dark mornings basking in the icy cold sands of the desert, listening to the spirits of the Desert to determine what the day will bring. After which he reports the things that he "Heard" to one of the priests, then he is sent into the bathing chamber of the Temple.

 

He walks down several stone steps before reaching the bottom where a deep reservoir of water resides. Their people had managed to dig and find it, noting that trees and brush grew in this small patch of the desert. He bathes in the cold waters to wash away any impurities that may set in, and must do this several times a day. As he washes he must scrub himself with the soft sand beneath his feet, symbolizing purity beneath the skin. When he is clean he must trudge back up, walk along a path leading from the main Temple to a small building with cut out "Windows" Letting the morning breeze dry him.

 

It was a strict life, but there were times when he was able to sneak outside and play... Like normal people would. He knew he was 72 seasons old (18) but... Because he hadn't much of a childhood, he liked to play as if he were a kid. Though when he skipped his lessons he was buried in the sand out back as punishment. It was harsh...

 

Jade hues gazed out at the horizon, wondering what lay beyond it's boarder... As the bells began to ring he gave a gentle sigh before stepping down the stairs to get down to his chamber. He had to get dressed for the High Noon ceremonies. When he finally made it the Priest's huffed at him.

 

"Where have you been Alyvvyl?! For your tardiness after studies today you will spend an hour out in the cleansing sands." the old man grumped to him as he laid out the ceremonial robes. "Dress and be out in your Chair in 5 minutes. Hurry or we will add an hour to your punishment!" With that he slammed the door shut.

 

Vyl sighed gently as he began stripping his garments. He shivered as he slipped into the cotton white robes and donned the veil. He placed the gloves on as he opened the door and stepped out. Making his way down the halls he came to the ceremony room... He glanced up and opened the door to step on the stage before sitting in the chair ready to bless the passerbys...

[theblackdog]

The ground shook beneath their feet, a quake reverberating throughout a patch of forest not too far from the city limits. The King's army was well on a it's way home, it's 3 year crusade finally coming to a conclusion. In the first battalion, a tall man of statue lead his squad. His armor was drenched in blood, long dried after weeks of journeying home from their final bout against an uprising in the far east. The formation was strict but several of the high ranking officers were casual as they strode next to the prince. One of the men, a few inches shorter with short blonde hair trickled with blood spots and deep hazel eyes, stepped beside him in a familiar manner, panting away his exhaustion. "Ah, I wonder if those apes learned there lesson." His voice hoarse. Rainier's cobalt orbs were trained on the frontier ahead, unmoving. "If killing every last one of them didn't do the trick, we've only to return and finish off the rest of their civilization." His tone was dark and intimidating earning a nervous chuckle from his companion.

 

The blonde nodded slowly and beamed as the horizon revealed their metropolis ahead, beckoning their to return home with vibrant hues and distance bustle of city life. Rainier's deadpan expression broke and he ran a stained hand through his short dusty honey brown hair. A smile cracked on his face but it only lingered for a moment before he frowned deeply. The blonde, known as Henrik, noticed this and stammered for a moment. "H-Hey now, we'll get to the kingdom soon enough. We should be rejoicing ya know!?" The words seem to fall on deaf ears, Rainier shot ahead, ignoring any protocol as he broke free from his squad. There wasn't much argument from anyone, they were mostly afraid of this fearsome young man.

 

The guards at the gate were prepared for anything as they saw a lone warrior running at full speed towards them. But as soon as they noticed who it was they bowed deeply and opened the gates before he reached them so he wouldn't even have to slow down. It was a long run to the palace that sat above most of the city. Their society almost seemed as it was before with key differences where as such technologies that existed before like cars, cell phones, television and other such devices were deemed obsolete. They were an intelligent race, only the highest of geniuses owned super computers and the rest worked off a program linked throughout the city to collect and store records. Despite missing few attributes, it was a sophisticated system, and quite effective.

 

Rainier burst through a large set of doors and found his father and other knights gathered around a large round table. His eyes flashed a piercing blue as he strode up to the table, slamming his hands down. "I should kill you!" He growled loudly causing many of the men around the king to rise to their feet gripping their swords as their sides. "SIT!" The king spouted, a rather annoyed expression on his face. Rainier continued to glare at his father, feelings of utter loathing rising inside of him. "You knew... You knew I would survive but how could you do that to your own son?" He hissed, his body beginning to tremble "I spent 3 years on the front line...!" He shouted, falling silent as his eyes widened searching for reasoning from his father.

 

The king, Eron, lowered his gaze for a moment in thought before returning to the gruff man. "You're not afraid of blood anymore..." This earned a rage of quivering from Rainier who felt that was no justification. "3 years... An ocean of blood later, and yet the victory was ours... You're a demon father." He managed to growl through his teeth. Eron shook his head and rose to his feet. "I believe that is who you have become..." A menacing grin crept on his face as he dismissed himself from the room, followed by the knights around. Rainier was left alone, stooping in the rising anger and hatred that was flooding his mind. Turning sharply about he stormed away to his quarters practically throwing himself in large pond of water after shedding layers of armor and clothing that clung to his skin.

 

It must have been hours later, he sat there scrubbing away at the dried blood that accumulated on his skin. He was never satisfied however, no matter how hard he scrubbed there was still a light tinge of darkened red staining his body. It took time for him to recover his mind from the turmoil that brewed inside of him. He stalked about the palace finding himself in solitary no matter where he traveled. He needed to find a distraction, something to take him away from this place so he resigned himself to a large room below the palace where several men stood about. It was more of a dungeon setting, bars lining the windows and empty cells spread about. "This place isn't what it use to be." A voice appeared from behind him. Rainier turned and almost couldn't hold back a relieved smile. "Sam..." The man smiled broadly and embraced the prince. "God it's so good to see you Rainier!" The prince couldn't help but return the warmth, there was something very familiar about this man and his heart seemed soothed by his presence. "You have to come with us! We are going a little journey so to speak, it might help get your mind off things." His voice was boisterous, echoing against the walls.

 

Rainier could always rely on this man, despite being much older than the prince he as always there for him even throughout his childhood when his father was not. He was a mentoring figure, always a sight for sore eyes when he was distraught or at a complete lose in his way. The idea was appealing and he had to mull it over for a moment. Sam noticed the prince's silent contemplation and patted him on the shoulder gruffly. "Come on! We've got auctions coming up and not a single thing to show for it. Besides, there's a small desert city off to the west that I hear has cleansing waters. The purest around. We leave in 2 so get ready." He didn't give room for argument as he strode away gathering the other men in the room and taking his exit. He wanted to decline but the thought of moping around the kingdom wasn't exactly ideal to him.

 

2 hours later he was mounted a great steed, dawned in the kingdom's crest and colors of black and gold hues. He felt apprehensive but excited about the trip, the first journey he'd been on that didn't require spilling blood. It was a day and half trip, he rode behind the slave trader's group in silence admiring the slow and subtle change of environment as the forest sank into sand and all that remained was a bleak desert plain for as far as the eye could see. The colony wasn't nearly as vast as their city but it held promise, warmth, and plenty of potential. Sam was first off his horse followed by the rest in unison. "Ok, we will take a break here... Go check the garrison and see if our affiliates have any thing for us." His voice was low, eying between the men. This if course meant they were to go see if any prisoners were promising enough to enter their trade. Sam strode up next to Rainier and placed a hand on his shoulder. "Come on, I want to show you something." He nodded and led the man to a temple bathed in white. It was breathtaking and as they entered a pure feeling washed over him.

 

Something in him stirred, he felt the blood on his skin burn and he wanted to stop, turn around and leave. He didn't belong here, not a man who had done such horrid things but his guilt only lingered for a moment before it dissipated. He was far use to the feeling of malice, it had become second nature to him. He was too intrigued by the interior, the promise of getting away from all the killing and torturing as a change of pace. Sam appeared in front of him and walked ahead, eying a form covered in white robes. "Say boy, we are interested in the cleansing water your little city harbors. Take us too them." His voice was stern but held persuasion in it. Rainier was in the background his eyes lingering on the outside world. He was rather looking forward to it, perhaps these waters would be able to wash away that blood that haunted his body.

[Shi.No.Tobiko]

A soft breeze blew through their small desert oasis town. Vast Desert surrounded a small sandstone wall that symbolized the towns limits. Off white canopies were draped over market stalls, shielding the goods and the owners from the heat of the suns rays. Past the bustle of the small market lay the clay houses, topped with straw brought in from the boarders of the forest. The structures were built as best as possible given the material of the land, however the Desert Gods shined down upon the small area for reasons unknown to them, so they seemed to avoid disaster whenever it came across the desert. As people passed by the residential portion, what came into view was a large sandstone building, with many different parts trailing off of it. Trees were scattered around the town, drawing their moisture from the healing waters below. The large Temple surrounded the healing waters, most would have thought that it monopolized it, however whenever anyone came in need of water for their home or market stall it was offered freely. No one abused the water, being desert dwellers, they respected the life force, and to give back to it, every person set up a device to catch the early morning dew to give back into the spring pool.

 

When the newcomers first arrived at the front of the village, many stared on in fear. There were other Sacred Oasis' scattered around the Desert much like theirs, that had been over taken by warring lands wanting control of the waters. When they had been captured, the invaders took hold of the spring pools and guarded them without so much as giving a drop to the villagers. The greed of their actions had lead the Springs to lose their Spiritual powers, along with them protection of the harsh desert. In order for them to have retained their freedom from warring lands, they had to protect themselves from outsiders by casting a Sand Prayer, hoping the sand of the desert would hide their little town from invaders. So far it had brought them peace for years.

 

A young Boy with dirt smudged over his tan cheeks smiled and pointed to the Prince in armour, not knowing his status or anything but seeming amused by the shiny metal that gleamed. His mother promptly placed a hand over his and brought it down before hurrying him along, speaking to him in a language different from the Forest Dwellers. He frowned and looked back at his mother before muttering something and following behind her. As he did, Dark hues gazed back with a gleam of happiness as he waved happily to the men, greeting them with innocent enthusiasm. Many market stall workers averted their eyes as the steeds trotted through the town. The people hadn't seen much of horses or any other animals outside of Desert Snakes, coyotes, Scorpions, vultures, or the occasional spider. So it was an entire spectacle seeing them come straight through town.

 

White curtains billowed out of the stained glass windows of the Temple. A great bell hung from the highest point of the tower above making the place almost seem, surreal with the splash of green amongst a sea of gold. When people began to first colonize here, the Bell was already present, a relic of the distant past depicting a large animal on all fours, claws and a long tail swishing behind it as it stepped down rocks.Stripes were carved on its back while its face contorted into a snarl. There was only one door to the Temple that was offered to the public, the rest of the alcove buildings that branched off were walled off only permitting Priests and the Prophet. Simple doors were already open, permitting a small trickle of to enter and another small trickle heading out. Some people were holding buckets filled with healing spring waters.

 

Once inside the room there were curtails of white draping down from the ceiling. A figure dressed in white sat on an Ornate chair up a small set of stairs on a platform. He was leaning down speaking with one of the locals, his gloved hand reached out and patted the elderly woman's hand, as if assuring her. Then they both bowed their heads and spoke in that Desert Tongue. Finally the woman stood up as much a she could and turned away to walk out. She stopped when she saw the men in armour. She had seen much in her time and recognized them immediately from the Forest Land. Their pale skin and lighter hair and advanced weaponry... She bowed her head and stepped past. Soon everyone in the room was looking at the men, many stepped aside as they made their way to the Alter Stand where the Prophet sat.

 

Alyvvyl looked up from underneath his veil, hiding his appearance from them, but not the complexion of his flesh or hair. Jade hues flickered with wonder as he gazed upon the new people. Fear of the unknown possessed his body and he shrank back from the request of the other male in shining scales. immediately a priest stepped in and nodded to him. He knew the language he spoke and had been teaching it to Alyvvyl slowly, knowing Alyvvyl might be shocked from the sudden intrusion like meeting.

 

"Gentleman... This is our Prophet... He speaks with the Desert Gods.. Escorting others around the Temple is not his job... He must perform the daily blessings for the visitors... He is why the Gods protect us and answer our prayers... Please I will take you, however... Young Prophet... You may benefit from this meeting. Please come." He offered to take the Gentlemen to see the Spring Pools. Besides, only those who don't wish to take control of the springs could find the town. They were safe... The old man turned to the villagers who lingered back in the ceremony room. "Folks. We have visitors from afar and need to cut the blessing hours short. We will start early tomorrow and end late to accommodate everyone." He turned back to the Visitors and nodded. "Follow us then gentlemen..."

 

Alyvvyl stood and followed close behind the priest. He glanced back at the taller men every now and then, his expression unreadable from underneath the veil. The corridor lead them from the Ceremony Hall over to small bathing chamber. Something had told the Priest they weren't looking to drink from the waters but to bathe. As they stood at the top of the hole, at the top of the stairs that lead down into the dark, the Priest stopped and blocked Alyvvyl from the line of sight of the warriors. "Down there is the bathing waters. If you are looking to drink I can take you to the other opening..." His voice sounded stern and absolute. His body language was defensive, placing himself in the line of anything that may come at his Prophet.

[theblackdog]

The aura of the room seemed pure, there was much history in this little dwelling and Rainier took in as much detail as he could stand. A battle in his heart, the inner turmoil he fought constantly about his home land, raged furiously even as he fingered the soft white material falling from the ceiling. He couldn't help but imagine it bathed in blood, a thought he couldn't just easily dispel. A tendril of cloth brushed against his face as a breeze whispered through the temple. It appeared peaceful but he knew well of the history. Every city was built upon death, constructed over bodies, stained in blood that will never wash away. He was taken from his thoughts as Sam motioned for him, signalling him to follow. "Prince, this will be very good for you!" He assured, smiling broadly. He was the only one who seemed in the least content with the situation. There were 4 other men with them, all held the same steeled expression unmoved and unwavering as they followed behind Sam, ready to obey or act on any given notice.

 

Rainier sighed slightly and started off in a slow, methodical stride towards the group. His hands drew behind him and he grasped them together, a less than serious demeanor falling over him. Sam had hardly noticed but he knew well of the Prince and his mannerisms, this was rather typical of Rainier, he was always a very discerning man, perhaps too over analytical. It kept his mind busy, his hands tied and his heart content for the most part. As they were being lead through the foyer he began to lag behind but shortly caught with them noticing the men talking amongst each other. Sam's eyes shot towards him and he bound towards him, practically pulling him towards the hole.

 

"Look here, Prince. You will bathe here. Me and the boys will go and refresh ourselves. Please, take your time and whenever you are ready we will be here." He offered a small smile rather reluctantly. There wasn't much emotion in Rainier's gaze, and as void as he was it pained Sam to see him this way considering he was now a shell of a man he had been since the war had started. He nodded and turned to the Priest bowing slightly before disappearing around another corner towards the drinking waters followed by his men. The air around was still, quiet, and rather calm. The passageway was dimly lit perhaps by hidden lanterns or torches strategically hung to give the corridor an omnipresence.

 

He hadn't acknowledged any of the conversation up till now and simply proceeded to the waters, shedding his armor and under clothes. The aqueous texture was unlike any he had felt before, an airy silk like feeling against his skin as if the water held a breeze within it as it embraced him. He lowered his body, his skin beginning to tingle against the coolness. It wasn't abrasive which he appreciated but since the sun could not offer it's warmth it would take a little getting use to. At home, the water that flowed through his city was hard, heavy and coarse against his skin. A thought that his father had not resigned to taking these waters crossed his mind but perhaps it was to his advantage not to delve into it. For now, he would enjoy the soaking and could only hope the promise these water's spoke of could strip away the blood that crawled beneath his skin.

[Shi.No.Tobiko]

Alyvvyl stood there at the hole as the other men stepped away to quench their thirst. The Priest looked back and nodded to him, knowing that he was only staying just in case the warrior came out before the others got back. He wanted to be there to help escort him to the rest of his party. Curiosity set deep into his body as he gazed down into the darkness. The sound of something clanking against something else echoed up to chime in his ears. Delicate hands reached down and lifted up the skirts of his robes as he began to tip toe down the stairs.

 

Was the man naked? He had never seen another naked being except for himself when he looked at his own body when he bathed... The walls were damp, as if perspiring away all the toxins that were cleansed in the water below. His heart was thumping fast as he moved quietly, making no more a sound than a butterfly, as he stopped at the bottom. There was a soft glow from the water, offering a tranquil light to illuminate the stone walls. He stood there peeking around from the corner and watched as Rainier bathed himself in the waters only he had done so in. The muscles that corded in his shoulders seemed to ripple with impressive strength. His chest gleamed with the remnants of waterdroplets. Vyl couldn't help but be fascinated by the strangers physic.

 

He was so impressively strong... A soft sound escaped his lips as he exhaled, taking in the sight before him with curiosity and interest. His expression, if seen, was unreadable through the white veil.

 

(Sorry for short reply.. There isn't much to do~)

[theblackdog]

A sensation tingled across his skin as he bathed. Lowering his body further into the water he exhaled a long breath of air as his every muscle began to relax. He breathed in slowly and fully immersed himself, sinking to the bottom. The world around him become utterly silent, only a low muffled hum could be heard. His eyes remained opened, staring into the darkness of the water watching small glints of light dance across the surface. It was the first time since his crusade that he had actually felt tranquil, it seemed the waters were capable of alleviating some of his woes, at least the afflictions that lingered on the surface. He could never rid himself the demons that lay dormant.

 

After a while his lungs began to feel tight, urging him to return to the surface and take in a gulp of air. He laid his head back and suspended himself on the top of the water mindlessly floating where ever the inertia would take him. His only qualm was there was no breeze or current to carry him off. For a moment he was at peace with the water, content to bathe in them for as long as time allowed it. But his ease of mind could never last that long. His eyes rolled back and his skin began to feel heavy, weighed down by a substance unlike water. He could feel something gripping him suddenly, a skeletal hand grasping hold of his sides and arms yanking him underneath a pool of blood. He felt a sharp stab in his back, his skin tearing and ripping as a blade pulled back and stabbed again and again.

 

The pain was intense, his body stiffened and before he let out a horrendous scream he awoke staring at the ceiling of the bathing room. His breath was quickened and his pulse was high as his heart jumped in his chest. He quickly sat up and turned to his side, noticing someone peeking around at the entrance. It took every ounce of willpower to keep his body from instinctively bolting for his sword. The figure was deformed, its face melting and it's body decaying. He blinked and narrowed his eyes, struggling his mind to see until the form came into full view. He recognized it as a boy from the alter and sighed harmoniously, almost relieved to see it was only him.

 

He stepped further out of the water, the water slipping down his body as he made his way towards his armor. There were distant footsteps but a clanking noise caught his attention. Sam's hand suddenly grasped hold of Alyvvyl's arm and yanked him out of sight of Rainier. His voice was thundering as he threw the boy into the arms of the three men that were with him, holding him tightly in their clutches. "You boy! You should know it's a crime to cast one's eyes on the prince's naked form! It's not just of royalty but it is sacred and it will not be defiled by the likes of your kind!" His tone was low and intimidating as he towered over Alyvvyl, keeping only a few inches of distance between them. Rainier began to dress himself in silence before coming around the corner and stopping some feet away from them. Sam immediately turned and bowed. "Forgive me Prince Rainier, please allow me to administer his punishment." His hand grabbed the hilt of his blade but Rainier raised a hand and slowly shook his head, his eyes meeting Alyvvyl for a moment. "Those only work in the kingdom, Sam. We are in the land of the desert where they have their own system. " He fell silent then turned his body towards the men, a curious expression on his face. "Did you find anyone yet that you can use?" Sam widened his eyes and shook his head, glancing back at the boy.

 

"Prince, are you suggesting...?" Rainier nodded slowly and a faint smirk curled onto his lips before disappearing into a void expression of indifference. "Do what you must, waste not want not." With that he turned away and headed back through the corridor. Sam nodded towards the men and relaxed his hand, letting it fall to his side. "The Prince has shown you mercy... Come, for your crime you will be taken with us." He started off followed by the men who pulled Alyvvyl along with them. He stopped before the priest and narrowed his eyes. "We have respected your ways and this is your people's way of showing us your respect?" He scoffed and shoved past him, his eyes daring the man to retort.

[Shi.No.Tobiko]

The man was a specimine to behold. The way his body was built was completely different from his own. He found himself to be thin, delicate, nothing like the masculine figure that bathed so serenely. Jade hues flickered over his armour, never seeing such an exotic object he tip toed closer to the metal mass and gently traced his fingers over the metal surface. It was warm still, from the beating sun overhead on their ride through the desert. These outsiders were different and fascinating, so full of change and something unknown to him. He knew it was forbidden to touch anything that was not made there in the desert, however Alyvvyl couldn’t help himself as he slipped the white cotton glove off of his hand and allow the pale skin to caress over the shiny metal. It was smooth, and had a few indents in it, probably from a warriors battle. He heard many stories about warriors and how they fought. He daydreamed often about fighting along side one.

 

His head snapped around as the man in the water cried out. Immediately Vyl shifted back around the corner. His heart thumped wildly as fear snaked it's way into his body. He wasn't exactly sure what had happened, or what was happening to him, but it was scary... Never in his life had he seen someone suddenly yell out like that. As Rainier looked at him as if he were a creature, he shied away from him, not wanting to be caught on the other end of that metal device... Just before he could turn however, a large hand gripped him tightly before thrusting him back. He easily stumbled back into the men's arms. Too afraid to move, he just stood there, staring back at the man who spoke in a language that he didn't fully understand. He was able to catch Boy and Eyes. Other than that his words were foreign to him.

 

As Rainier spoke to the man who had Shoved Alyvvyl aside, the priest came down in a shock as the Prince made his way up the stairs past him. “What are you… Please Sir, you must unhand him! He is a holy Prophet of the Desert Gods! Whatever he must have done you must forgive him. He has lived quite the sheltered life!” The Priest spoke in that unrecognizable language as well, saying words he couldn’t comprehend. The small blond haired boy began to shiver as he stood there, fearing of what was happening that he didn’t understand. The Priest knew exactly what they were going to do with Alyvvyl, recognizing the symbols of slavery. When the men refused to listen to him the Priest looked at them with a grave stare. “If you take him now… I cannot guarantee you a safe trip out of the Desert. He belongs to the Gods… “ As he said these words the ground was racked with a debilitating shake. Already anger was beginning to be shown for the disrupting of the Desert order.

 

Alyvvyl did not protest, nor did he struggle against the men who captured him. He simply looked over at the priest and spoke in that soft delicate voice of his. “Am I going to be going with them to help them…?” The priest nodded to him, not wanting to upset his mind. He should be okay to just believe that he will be helping them out.

 

“You will be going away to a new home… But do not fear… Things will be alright…” The priest’s voice was shakey as he assured Alyvvyl, though once the boy was gone, their desert city would be reduced to nothing… Without him they had no protection… He turned to the one known as Sam. “Your city and every one of your Kingdom’s citizens will be cursed for taking him away from us. We have not the means to fight you, and we will not resist. I only hope that you heed my warnings of cautions…”

[theblackdog]

Rainier stopped in his tracks, having made it halfway out of the temple. He felt a tremor beneath his feet and tilted his head slightly, the indifference in his eyes flashing a look of momentary curiosity. In the midst of such a holy land, he found it very unfamiliar and the reaction to their presence was intriguing to him. He turned about and watched the entrance way until Sam appeared followed by the men and Alyvvyl in their clutches. The priest hastened himself to them sending warning signs from which Sam merely shook his head and shrugged away. "We thrive on a cursed land. Your words, holy man, mean little to nothing to us." He snapped back, the words hissing from his mouth as he stormed away.

 

They climbed onto the horses and awaited the Prince, who was still enthralled by the way the land shook and cried out in anger. "Look at it..." His voice was low almost in a whisper as if to not disrupt what was taking place. "A land that relies on one solely. Perhaps it's time they be reborn... " His eyes darkened as he scanned across the horizon before turning around sharply and climbing onto his horse. "Fools..." As quickly as they had come they departed, leaving behind them whatever would become of the holy land in the absence of their catalyst. The winds had begun to change and a cold foreboding aura set about them. The earth beneath their feet trembled angrily threatening to give out and swallow them whole. "Make hast! The Gods will have us if we idle here much longer!" Sam hollered out against the wind that slammed into them, dust and dirt piercing their skin.

 

Rainier kicked hard against the horse, unable to see or even hear. Of the three men that were riding amongst them, one had Alyvvyl and held him tightly but was quickly losing his grip. The dirt had become thick and soft causing one of them tumble off their horse in which the ground took no time to claim him, smothering him in a blanket of sand. The remaining two could not look back but Rainier couldn't stop himself, the earth was eating his people whole; not a man or a beast, but the earth itself. Sam ushered Rainier back to the front and slipped down his face shield. "Prince, you must hurry. This is no time for sighting seeing!" His voice thundered through the rushing wind causing Rainier to snap his head forward. He rode up alongside the man carrying the boy and snatched him quickly before moving away as soon as the earth claimed the man and his horse, again enveloping him completely.

 

A forest up ahead was a welcoming sight having been on the desert's unforgiving terrain for almost half a day. They found a spot nestled at the edge of the trees and stopped briefly to catch their breath. Sam gave Rainier a good look over before silently approving his appearance, reassuring himself the Prince had not been harmed. Rainier shifted on his horse, still holding the boy at his side with an arm wrapped around his waist. "Prince, give the boy here. You should head back now and get some rest I'll take care of it from here. " Sam held a hand out and was about to approach him but stopped when Rainier began to pull away. "As much trouble as it was to get him here, I think I'd like to be the one to take care of it myself." He retorted, his eyes glancing down over Alyvvyl's form then back at Sam who seemed a little shock to hear this. "But... Prince we have to put him up for auction. Isn't that-" He suddenly stopped, falling silent. If there was one thing he knew to never do, it was to question the Prince and the look in Rainier's eyes were convicting.

 

"As you wish Prince, we will escort you safely back to the kingdom." A quick nod towards the other man and the three set off into the forest. It wasn't too long until they reached the border and were permitted into their city by the guards. Sam and the other man took their leave from Rainier as soon as they reached the palace. The Prince made his way around the building until he found a hidden entry way which lead directly to a large set of stairs. He pulled Alyvvyl along behind him, almost carrying the boy over steps, not stopping if he were to stumble or trip. Once he found his room he made his way to another hidden doorway which behind it was a slightly smaller room, damp and dark with only a few odds and ends stored away inside which vaguely resembled devices and machines whose purposes were too dark to make out.

 

"Stay here a minute. I need to change." He could tell Alyvvyl coudn't quite understand him, but he figured it wouldn't matter much if he understood what he was saying only that he understood what he was doing. He threw the boy through the door and shut it behind him. He began to change out of his armor, hanging it delicately along the walls on hooks and prongs that protruded outward. He slipped on the Prince's silk robes and garments, dawning a more royal attire. He came back through the door and had with him a candle that lightly illuminated the room. He rummaged around for a bit before pulling out a pair of cloth pants and long sleeve shirt than tossed them towards the other male. "Put these on. Be a shame to get blood on those robes..."

[Shi.No.Tobiko]

The priest knew he was right. Even before they could fully remove the young boy from the temple, the earth was becoming enraged. Alyvvyl stumbled along the pathway as the men pulled and tugged on him. His delicate flesh gleamed in the bright sunlight, as if the rays were beating down on a piece of white parchment. Though the one named Sam claimed to live on cursed ground regardless, The Priest knew he had endured nothing like the wrath of the desert. The streets were empty, and the markets had been left abruptly. The town looked deserted as everyone holed up in their homes. From their shutters they watched fearfully as they brought their Prophet out of the temple. No one had seen him elsewhere but there. The men struck fear deeper into the citizen's hearts as they watched how they dared lay hands on him.

 

Alyvvyl looked up at the men from one to the next rapidly as he stood there. The Priest told him he would be going with them to help them, and yet the Gods whispered to him otherwise. As Alyvvyl caught eyes with one of the men, he spoke softly the words that the Gods spoke to him, urging him to repeat it for their ears. Though he did not understand the language he spoke, he recited the words without flaw. "They are not the ones who will be reborn... If you take the boy from here, another will take his place. But who will take yours?" As the last few words slipped from his lips he was raised onto horseback, and asif coming out of a trance, Vyl looked around and clung to the beast firmly. A soft whimper escaped through his lips as he held on, afraid that he would fall off. The beasts feet began to thunder beneath him and all he could do was gaze forward at the only land he had known, the only life he had known thus far. Where would they be going he wondered absently to himself as the earth begun to shake beneath them.

 

With the winds picking up, Vyl sat there as if completely unaffected. Though the dust and wind appeared to the men who had dared break Holy Law Alyvvyl sat through it, like a child in a gentle flurry of snow. Dirt smeared on the armours of the men, but not a lick clung to the pure white robes that Alyvvyl donned. A cry pried Alyvvyl from his trance. Jade hues flickered back wild with fear as he watched the ground suck one of the men in like quicksand. It was a horrifying view... Vyl turned and bruied his face into the man's chest as if to hide from that grave sight. As he held onto him, he could feel the man losing his grip. Fear gripped his tight as he gently clawed the man's armour like a declawed kitten. He wished he could get a grip on something!

 

As Rainier pulled up Alyvvyl wasted no time in clinging to him as he pulled him onto his horse, watching in horrified silence as he saw the man who had just been carrying him be swallowed up whole. that could have been him... Couldn't it? Up ahead he saw something green he'd never seen before. They had brush at the Oasis, but nothing that looked like this. As they stepped off of the sand, the wind quietted suddenly, and the earth tremors ceased. Once they had passed from his land to the next, the laws of the earth had changed, they were safe, at least from the earth now... The small desert village would soon find that with the downfall of the forest men, they were reborn. But not into chaos. Another young man stepped foot into the town, same build, hair, flesh... But his eyes gleamed bluer than the oceans that lay west. They would be protected still, for not trying to horde their supplies from visitors, and for giving back what they take from the land.

 

When they stopped to rest in the forest. Vyl couldn't help but walk up to one of the trees. Removing his only remaining glove, he allowed his fingers to pass over the rough bark. A soft sound of excitement was elicited from his lips as he giggled. It was new! Everything was new! He was like a child in a new fascinating place. He walked over to a bush and began touching all of the leaves. A few of them had been dead, but upon caressing them they sprung back to life. He cocked his head, it was strange... He had never been allowed to touch anything living before directly with his hand, but as he did, things came back to thriving life. A smile spread across his lips as he walked over and tugged on Sam's arm a little, impatient to show him what he discovered. But as he had, he shrugged him off before lifting him onto the horse. They were on the move again. The entire ride back to the city, it was as if Sam's horse never tired. Strange...

 

The city was large and thriving. Alyvvyl couldn't help but be in awe at the look of it all. Strange new things all in one day. It was magnificent. He bounced excitedly on the horse as they passed through. While the horses trotted along, Alyvvyl reached up with a tremble... So many rules had already been broken, would it be so bad if he removed his veil? In a slow motion he lifted the white cloth and pulled it back, revealing a soft white face, jade hues gleamed in amazement in everything. As they rounded a corner though, they stopped. They were outside of a large stone building, massive in size compared to the temple. He was lifted off the horse and place in the other man's care that he had watched. A smile sprea across his face as he gazed up at him. Though the look was not ricprocated, Vyl still felt happy. He followed quickly, only stumbling a few times as Rainier pulled him along firmly.

 

They passed through a large wonderfully decorated room. His eyes widened as he looked at all of the things around him. The temple had never been laid with so many riches. The Priest said if they had it would set in the desire of greed and with those foundations the Town would crumble. Alyvvyl passed through another hallway before being thrown into a dark room. He couldn't see well after being exposed to so much light. He fumbled around, to find something to hold onto but instead, he finally stopped and stoood there. The man came back soon and turned on the lights. Vyl looked around at the odd things, he had never seen them before and couldn't fathom their purpose. He look back at Rainier who shoved clothes at him. He spoke those words he didn't understand but somehow knew he wanted him to change. As he took the garments from Rainier, his hand gently touched his, and instantaneously, his scars from battle began to heal from the contact, the pain of the past began to heal as well, only until the contact ceased.

 

Vyl gently removed the robes, placing them up on a hook on the wall. He had no idea its purpose, but back at the Temple that was how they hung things up. He stood there, naked and white as snow. His flesh was unscarred and unmarked, save for around his wrists where there were faint bruisemarks from the men's grip. He slipped into the pants and tightened the tie before donning the shirt. It was oversized for his small frame. He looked back up at Rainier, green eyes flickering with tenderness as he reached up to stroked his hand.

 

"Thank you..." Was all he whispered.

[theblackdog]

Blue orbs flickered in the dimly lit room, inspecting the boy with a careful gaze. As soon Alyvvyl's hand touched his, a tingling sensation shot up through his arm and he instantly pulled away, a look of scorn crossing his face. He felt something more, a contentment wash over him momentarily until it subsided as soon as he drew away. He had heard about the prophet of the desert but never imagined it was such a lovely creature, untainted by the corruptness of the outside world. He stepped back and turned to a counter by his side. There were several layers of items stacked upon each other consisting rolls of rope, loose chain, and several bars varying in size. He glanced back to the boy and narrowed his eyes stepping towards him as he pulled a thick string of coarse rope along with him.

 

When he reached him he leaned in and grasped hold of one of his wrists tightly and began to wrap the rope around his hand and repeated the process with the other until both his hands were tightly woven together. "Keep your hands to yourself, boy." His voice was low and husky as he whispered to him, stepping back slightly. He felt a tinge of annoyance that Alyvvyl could hardly understand his language but he seemed to pick up rather quickly, which might or might not be an advantage at this point. Crossing his arms he shifted his weight to his right and tilted his head observing Vyl with mild amusement. "It's a pity Sam won't be able to parade you about the city, it's rare we catch something of your caliber." He paused, moving in to trace a hand down Vyl's soft, pampered skin. He found it readily yielding to touch, as if too much pressure applied could easily puncture the delicate flesh.

 

"You may think of this place as home, and me?" His eyes were dull, his expression void. "I am the master of this home." He moved back to the counter and pulled more rope down, proceeding back to Vyl and moving behind him. He shoved the boy forward onto the floor and pulled his legs out, wrapping the rope around his ankles. The crude material was rather grating against Vyl as Rainier did not heed to the redness developing beneath the skin as he pulled it hard in a tight knot. Satisfied with his work he pulled the male up to his knees and stepped around him, back to the counter. He sifted through a few items before he found a small leather strapping. He fingered it for a moment then turned back to Vyl approaching him slowly. "Prāṇāyām... it's a deeply meditated breathing exercise. You restrict the breath, the life force, the vital energy that keeps us alive... Then you draw out, extend... For now we'll practice it's use as a basis of my mercifulness. You are only alive now because of me." He touched the boy's hair, his fingers floating between the satiny strands.

 

"You will come to respect and honor every breath I allow you to take, never take life for granted." His fingers clasped down pulling against the scalp to whip the boy's head back. He placed the leather strapping around Vyl's face which when fitted, smothered his mouth and nose, restraining him from taking in air. A thinner leather piece dangled down and he proceeded to tie it around his neck, tightening it until he could almost no longer pull against the rope. He squatted down and observed the boy, curious to his reaction. His head tilted slightly, his eyes flaring with life as he saw the first signs of struggle as the oxygen in the boy's lungs was beginning to deplete.

 

"The most subtle material form of our spirit energy is our breath. Every time we breath we are either extending or drawing out our vital essence." He stood and let his arms fall to his side, his eyes never leaving Alyvvyl's. "It's essentially an exercise that is preliminary to concentration, we simply need to discipline our bodies enough. With concentration, we are capable of withstanding such things as... Pain, even agonizing torture. Or at least learning to cope, everyone is different." His voice seemed playful at the moment, the subject matter he found very interesting as he explained away to Alyvvyl who either could or couldn't comprehend him. He knew of one thing, however, that somehow the message would get through and this he took great pleasure in. A smirk curled upon his lips as he moved in on Vyl, watching the wavering in the boy's demeanor the longer his airways were constricted. "Don't worry, this isn't the only practice I have to teach you."

[Shi.No.Tobiko]

He stood there with a smile as he gently soothed his fingers over Rainier's hand, when he pulled away though so abuptly, Alyvvyl pulled his hand back and kept close to himself. He was good at reading body language. When someone made the motion to pull back, it meant they did not want to be touched. He looked up at him as the man examined himself like something was wrong. He looked up at him with a sadden look as he focused on him. He didn't know what any of the devices before him were for, but they looked menacing.

 

His long spun gold hair drifted down around his shoulders as he stood there, looking up at the man who was in possession of him now. Even though he outwardly didn't understand him, the Gods still hummed to him low in the back of his mind, helping him to understand what was happening. Some things though, didn't make sense to him that they said to him. As Rainier came back with rope he indicated for him to hold his hands out. As he held them out, the rope wound tightly around his wrists, binding them tightly together. He winced as he looked down and moved his arms, they were literally fused together. Though he couldn't understand why, he was frightened... The Priest told him he was being taken to help him... But, it didn't seem like he was helping him...

 

He looked up at Rainier and blinked, jade hues flickering in the low light as he nodded. But he only understood the word Home and Master. Did he mean to tell him that this new home of his... Was the other's home, and he was the Master? It made sense enough. But after that he couldn't understand anything he said. He huddled down against himself as he watched the other man come at him again, this time, he felt a little more foreboding. Vyl's heart raced as he lost sight of him when he went behind him. In too fast an instant, the floor came up hard to greet him. “Ahh!” His lips formed the cry as he exhaled. Panic began to rise within him, and he began to struggle. As he did, the ropes pulled more fimly on him, rubbing his skin a little raw. The ground was cold and the ropes were harsh. In a way he could attune them to the cold desert nights, and the harsh desert sand. When he was pulled up, moisture began to gather at the corners of his eyes as he silently stared at the other man.

 

He began to wonder if he ever would understand his words. As he tried to comprehend what he was saying. All the Gods had whispered to him were the words, Serenity, Patience, Relax... It sounded like a warning within his mind as Rainier came back with something foreign to him. He nuzzled up into his hand, loving the feel of real human contact for once in his life. It felt satisfying. He sighed gently relaxing... When the fingers pulled on his hair, his body protested with a jerk, but he was nowhere strong enough to resist him. Looking up with fear embedded deep within his eyes, he inhaled deeply before Rainier placed his device on him. He tried to dislodge it from his face, but his hands were large bundle of clumbsy now. Again, the words came to him. Serenity, Patience, Relax... Slowly, he calmed himself, looking up at the other male as he tried to breath. He could not expel the breath from his lungs. Relax... He had to relax, in order to endure this. He had to find a place of Serenity if he was going come out of this... Practice? Safely... He needed to have Patience until he was released from those bonds.

 

Without airflow, he could not make a sound. He sat there in agonizing silence as his lungs began to burn. His eyes squinted as he tried to adjust himself to find a more comfortable spot. And yet... The longer he sat there patient and relaxed, the longer the other man seemed to keep him like this. His body began to panic and he began to wriggle in his binds. He needed to breathe! He was going to pass out at the rate he was going! Tears struck down his face as he shook his head, hoping the device would loosen around him and fall. He had lost count of the paces that passed after a few rounds (Minutes) and slowly, he began to relax as his body began to suffocate. His eyes were half lidded as dark spots began to form at the edges of his vision while his body began to convulse from the lack of fresh oxygen.

[theblackdog]

He stood for a moment longer then took a step back to a cabinet across from the counter he was previously at. The air about the room was becoming stifling and small drops of sweat began to bead on his body. Ignoring this, he simply shed a layer of his robe revealing a lose grey silk textured tank top and a pair of darkened blue baggy pants of equal thread with a black sash carefully wrapped around his waist. Tossing the robe aside he opened the doors to the cabinet and rummaged through it for a moment before pausing and turning to Vyl, glancing over his wavering form. He approached the other male and knelt down, carefully observing his demeanor. "Innocence... Where I come from we call it ignorance. You must always be prepared... For anything." From a hidden pocket flashed a gleaming metal knife as his hands moved quicker than the eye could perceive.

 

He pressed the edge against Vyl's face, tracing along the exposed skin around the leather strap leaving a small incision line. He wanted to wait just a second more, to capture that feeling one gets before truly dying. As Vyl's body began to convulse he gripped the boy's arm and shoved him into the floor, kneeling down further to catch his eyes whose was beginning to roll back into his head. "Not yet." He whispered as he slowly began to cut away the strap allowing oxygen to reach inside his airways. "But you're going to wish you could." He added, moving away to a standing position a few inches from him. He let out a small sigh and turned about to the cabinet continuing his search until he finally let out a sound of satisfaction. "Ah! Look." He pulled out a small concave spoon device with a serrated edge on a side that scooped out.

 

"When did I become this?" He said to himself, deep blue eyes staring blankly through Vyl's form on the floor. However there wasn't much of a feeling associated with this thought and he merely dismissed himself and took a few steps towards Vyl before bending down and pulling him back to his knees by his hair. He stooped to a knee and looked hard into Vyl's eyes, guiding his head to try to regain the boy's consciousness. "It's just not the same if you don't understand me. I suppose I will have to do something about this." He reached down and began to untie the ravels of rope wrapped around the boy's hands and legs and threw it aside. He grabbed a small piece of cloth and leaned in closely, lightly dabbing the blood away from Vyl's face to reveal the small cut the razor edge had made.

 

Tossing the cloth aside he stepped away and beckoned Vyl to follow him into the other room. He had never taught a language, his talents laid in war and combat, hardly a teacher of such a simply subject. He fingered through a large collection of books that filled up an entire wall and pulled one out, titled "West Germanic: Anglo Frisian" and set it down on a table, offering a chair to Vyl. "This is our dialect, it has a very long history but when we import foreigners we have a system of introducing our language to them. This is the crash course, very popular among our slaves. It has several translations from various tribes, however since the beginning of our new civilization it has been improved very slightly, retaining most of our previous dialect." He explained his eyes examining Vyl even though he was certain the boy didn't understand him.

 

He sat down in a large wooden chair a few feet away and stretched out, feeling a tension in his body begin to relax. He hadn't realized how weary his body had become over the course of the time he had come back from the crusade until the time he had taken the trip with Sam. He felt incredibly tired and opted for a quick spout of rest while the other looked through the book he had just placed down for him. Even at his most exhausted, however, he was very aware and kept a mind's eye on the boy. Yawning quietly he let his eyes slowly shut, his eyelids feeling very heavy until he slipped away into a peaceful slumber.

[Shi.No.Tobiko]

The ground was cool against skin as he fell clattering against it. The voices in his head grew stronger, louder as he lay there watching the man move about the room so easily. The other man’s movements were fluid and for once, Vyl felt like a real person. Not like something that was delicate and needed to be protected. He was a person… The realization hit him fast. There was no more protection, there was no more Cold tenderness. His first touch of human contact without clothing… Harsh and mean… The church was a safe haven, and he was no longer in it. Had he been offering hope to people who endured this every day? His heart sank as he came to the realization of the world. It hurt… The world was not a kind place and neither was the fascinating figure before him…

 

Vyl tried to force himself back, to put distance between them. However the lack of oxygen going to his limbs had his body seized. The knife was clean and sharp, he faintly felt the edge nip at his flesh, but his concentration was gone. His brain could no longer focus. Alyvvyl felt as if he were lost in existence. Unable to move, protest, or escape. Nothing mattered anymore and he was left to the hands of the cruel being before him. That feeling of attachment and thanks to him had been long gone now. He was going to let him die like this, and he knew it. Drool began to seep out from around the leather, though air could not get in from suction when he tried to inhale, and though it was still difficult for something to get out, the spittle easily found its way down his chin.

 

His focus was hazy as he locked onto the object. It looked like a spoon… Nothing more, nothing less interested him. His body began to calm no longer fighting for life as he began to slip away. There was the faint memory of being pulled up as he slipped into the darkness. A sudden release filled his body as his chest swelled with it. What was it? How long had he been in the shadows before he noticed the veil slowly being lifted away. His eyes fluttered open as he wobbly forced himself to sit up. Air… HE could breathe. He drew his hand back before looking down shocked. He was released! He looked back up to the male, his jade hues wild with fear as he simply saw him stand up and beckon him with him.

 

Vyl was frightened, he didn’t want to follow. And yet, he didn’t want to stay there either. Going for the lesser of two evils, Vyl slowly crawled after him. His legs still refused to follow lead and work. As they reentered the other room, he looked around. It was decadent and gorgeous. He still followed him, fear making him not want to anger the other further. From his spot he saw the chair indicated for him to use and he crawled up to place himself in it. It was soft, softer than the ones back at the Temple. The Temple… Vyl remembered how cold it always felt and looked, and yet that look hid the true gentle intention of it’s dwellers. Where the look and feel here was soft and gentle, but that was only a veil for the torture and fright it truly was.

 

He looked down at the book as the man spoke. He flipped through the pages, not understanding any of the words or the symbols. Vyl turned back up a moment later to see the other man drifting off to sleep in the chair. He couldn’t read this… Closing the book he sighed and rubbed his cheek. It was tender and sore… So were his wrists and ankles… All touches seemed cruel… Looking up he tried to figure out what had made the man so cruel…? He didn’t look it…. Slowly he rose to his feet. Gently whispering to himself, he prayed the Gods to give him understanding of the dialect he heard. He knew basics, but not large words. Walking over, Vyl began massaging the Prince’s shoulders. The worn flesh began to heal beneath his touch as he massaged, trying to make a connection… Slowly as he made a spiritual connection with him, he began to understand him…

[theblackdog]

Dreams evaded him, subliminal imagery flashing through his mind. He could hear men crying out in agony, the pierce of skin being sliced open, and the cracks of bones snapping as metal collided with the fragile human body. There he stood, in a field of death. Looking past him, over the hill the waters ran red and the sky was tinged with a bloody mist lingering in the air. Cerulean hues imperceptibly examined the frontier with mock disdain, a mere expression of equity playing on his expression. He had stopped dreaming years ago and now was only plagued by the nightmare he lived for years on the battle field. He hardly noticed how much it really had changed him from such an honest, caring boy to this callous and sadistic brute.

 

The fields about him began to dip and rise, the blades of grass becoming tips of waves flung through the air by a monstrous gust, the bodies strewn sinking into the depths as the earth became a raging tidal storm. Behind him were yards of emptiness, a blanket of dust whirled up by the wind. He began to step away from the water, the tide rising well above his waist even as he advanced further towards the shore. Languidly the terrain became more vast, widening into a horizon awakening with the warm glow of the sun. Suddenly the noise around him went placid and the wind settled to a quiet hum in the distance. Dust turned to sand as it laid out for as far as they eye could perceive.

 

He could feel the warmth of the blazing star almost as if a tangible pair of hands had gently gripped his shoulders and was slowly wrapping around his entire being. Suddenly, he awoke, stirred by a gut wrenching pain. His eyes blinked open and found the empty chair across from him. He hadn't realized how deep of a sleep he had gone in before he felt hands on his shoulders. He moved away and quickly turned about, grabbing a wrist at random before pulling and shoving the body to the floor. His eyes narrowed dangerously, taking slow steps towards Vyl. He grabbed the boy again and yanked him around to the desk. He wrapped his fingers around both of the small wrists and pinned them against the wood. Pulling out his blade he proceeded to draw it up then in one fell swoop bring it down slicing a small sliver of skin from the boy's fingers.

 

Looking into his eyes his expression almost emotionless as he threw Vyl back to the ground, leaving his knife cut into the wood on the desk. "I will remove your hands next time, you will not touch me again." He voiced in a demanding husk. He eyed the blood on the table soaking into the porous wood and pulled out a cloth from a satchel sitting nearby. He gently rubbed away the red tinge and stepped away, abandoning his knife for the time being. Folding his arms he let out a quiet sigh and found himself at a grand window gazing out into the plaza. "Soon they will begin the auctions. I'm almost half tempted to get another slave, you don't seem obedient enough." His tone was cold as he turned back to Vyl but slowly a smile played on his lips. "But I suppose I will just teach you, they always say it's more fun that way.. Hm?" He held his eyes on the other for a moment longer then turned back away. "Come, we are going to the square for some items, clean yourself up." He turned around and stepped past Vyl and from a small chest pulled out several articles of clothing.

 

He tossed them onto the bed and motioned for Vyl with a hand gesture to come to him. "We can't have you running around like a filthy bloody dog so put these on." He also set down the cloth he used to clean the desk, in indication he could use it for his wounds as well. Folding his arms he took a step back and observed the boy quietly, allowing him space to change but not the privacy.