The Brotherhood Chapter 2
Before I post, *frowns* I'm upset that I wiped the first revised chapter of this series, it combined the first and second chapters of the old one which had how Aragor and Reignhardt had met. So until I rewrite that one *tears out hair* because of carelessness >.>... this is overall what happened. Reignhardt, who is a descendant of the Van Helsing family has been abandoned and cursed by count dracula, one of the seven sins. However the sins are no longer seven and are now six (will be explained a little more in this chapter.) While resting in Bolvania with his best friend Marrain, they become undersiege by people who think they are Brotherhood followers. The Brotherhood is a clan of God who go out and defend Earth from Hell but a major war had broken out years before and claimed Eidor the holyest of sanctions and killed Reignhardts family which is how he got his curse. Other High Lords of the clan immediately went to the conclusion of exiling Reignhardt and purifying his soul by releasing it from him, in turn killing him. So now Reignhardt is on the run constantly and during that night in Bolvania when he becomes undersiege he escapes though not before Marrain gives himself up to allow Reignhardt to do so. Followed by an angry riot into thte dark forest, he becomes introduced to Aragor who kills the mob around him and saves Reignhardt. Aragor is the Sin of Wrath, known as the Wrathbringer of Hell he is a Wolfish and Bearish hybrid... the easiest way I can describe it is if you've played Castlevania Lord of Shadows, he looks like the large wolves that tend to stay on fall four but can stand up as well. Bleh, I'll definitely have to rewrite it here soon >.> I'm hoping I left in enough detail so that I can support the first chapter and you can get an idea of what's going on.
The Heart Inside Aragor
Morning... the sun crept over the mountains far in the distance. The feeling of warmth shining through the forest awoke me. I prepared myself for the battle. This morning reminded me of old times with the Brotherhood, the soundless stir of the earth, and the gentle breeze of the trees. Just how the preparations of war were with my father and his men. It was silent, everyone was focused on what was ahead, whether it was practicing with their weapon one final time or exchanging conversation and submerging into laughter and idle chatter. The preparations were always different to another. I for one, kept myself distant from everyone; deepened myself into a state of meditation, to fortify my inner walls and ready myself for the shrouds of darkness that would envelope me.
Giving a brief gaze down to my calf, Aragor had been right, the wound was healed, nothing but the daggers scar. There was no pain, only the slightest feeling of soreness as I stretched the muscle. Looking to Bolvania, I was eager to deal justice. Readying myself to plunge into old times, missing this traditional presence just before we engaged. Of course however, these were not battles against other men, always the undead. The Brotherhood had earned the trust of the several small guilds and forces around the province. With our vow to step up against evil, we were the protection, the liaison between men and God. Aragor had been awake the moment I had. I tried to make the suggestion to return to sleep but he simply shook his head and continued to watch. I wasn't sure what he was interested in, but couldn't help to have a second thought that his interest was in me. Truthfully, he was gorgeous, especially the ancient gold eyes, complimented by the exotic tone of crimson red within his fur. From here I couldn't tell if it was part of him or the blood of his enemies. My lips twitched into a smile while I thought this, but shook it away to focus again. Distracting myself with the bits of protection I had left, I moved from bottom to top, tightening the brown leather boots, slipping the cultist dagger into one of the belt loops on my right ankle before proceeding up. My legs had minimal protection, rough leather sewn together though worthless as it was unable to protect me against a blade. The constant moving had forced me to travel light, very light. Last night was the first time we actually had moments to rest, the brief ease did feel nice though. Repositioning my belt, I aligned it perfectly along my hips. It was dyed a dark brown, almost black color and bared a diamond shape steel buckle. Three sheaths angled themselves toward the buckle one set on either side and normally I would have these filled, except for last night's ambush had caught me off guard and gave me no time to gather the daggers. Moving up past my torso, covered just as my legs were, I tied the lengthy brown hair back and shadowed my face with the tan hood. This hair didn't define me; it was rather short most of the time but being exiled I tried to form a false image, to blend myself into the peasantry look. All that was left now was a black silk mouth piece that I kept tucked away around my neck. Its purpose was normally for the cold, but in my situation, I kept it as the only piece left of the Brotherhood. None of my weapons were with me; they were stowed away, sitting in clandestine within a Brotherhood city. I closed my eyes and brought forth my sword. Trinity. I thought. _My most prized blade, most beloved friend to help me in war... stolen from me. _The sword was unique, just as the blades of the Nobels were. I pretended to grip my hand around the perfect handle, each finger fitting perfectly along to the butt of the handle where a gilded emblem of a tiny cross pointed out. It was sharp and pure in heaven's power, capable of destroying a vampire if jabbed anywhere in the body. The blade was beautiful, shining bright in its malevolent steel, my hands guarded by a rectangular guard, decorated with the body of a gryphon, the wings lifted up to present the rest of its beauty. Following it up, several embellished and inscribed symbols ran at the back of the blade reading of an ancient vow: "He who believes, will receive grace." I was left to using the faulty steel of Earth now. "Reignhardt," The deep voice of Aragor came from behind. "don't delay, I've given you freedom to save this friend of yours. Don't waste it; we have a difficult path ahead. You have an hour to save your friend, from the moment you disappear from my view, you have one hour." I casted my eyes back. "One hour until what?" "I will intercept and drag you out." "No... don't come in for me, if they see you and I together, they'll have enough reason to know that I am undead... Bolvania has a Nobel hiding somewhere, I know it, he won't come out to face me, not alone. He already knows the only way he can defeat me is with the help of others. I know all the secrets of my creeds combat he won't show himself. But Aragor," I turned. "Don't come for me, I'll be fine. I don't intend to be gone for an hour; they'll hang Marrain at day break, as soon as the sun leaves the highest mountain peak. I'll be done before then, I won't need your help." He snuffed and lied his head back down. "Go then... prove me wrong, if you want to do a trial than go for it. I will resist for as long as I can, just be quick and try to avoid detection." "... I don't intend on them not knowing how Marrain escaped... I'll do what I must." "Fool." He growled. "Just finish what needs to be finished, do not delay!" Nodding, I plunged into the plains, low and out of sight. I favored swift movements; movements of an assassin, my father never liked this style, always the shed of blood spewing from his victims kind of person. I desired the quick merciful deaths, even for the undead, to finish off quickly what should be finished off quickly. Watching the small tower posts I moved in sync with the archers on guard, stopping and leisurely treading through the plains soon sliding against the outer wall until I found part where I could gain entrance. (Thank god this wasn't a city with great wealth...) I thought moving through the shadows of alleys. The guards were fairly armored, patrolling in routes over the city, along with other casual gangs. Bolvania was known for its high criminal status, but the gangs were just in numbers.
Weaving in and out of the shadows, I took to the roof, lingering over the tops of several buildings before spotting the central court where the hanging was designated to take place. It was empty... was I too late? Had they hanged Marrain the night of? My eyes traveled to the sun which had barely left the rigid mountains. They couldn't have hung him so quickly... they leave the hanged there for people to witness. I sat back in hope waiting several minutes for the doors from the prison to burst open. The time went by slowly and I was losing track, had it been an hour yet? It felt almost longer. I was beginning to lose faith, looking back to the forest, waiting for Aragors figure to appear. I told him to stay put... but would he listen? A faint beat caught my ears then, slow and steady, realizing they were drums as they approached. Suddenly a pair of doors creaked open and the beating became louder. I grinned feeling the advantages of Aragors gift starting. Listening, my eyes followed, spotting two double doors at the far end of the court. Two collumns on either side of the door along with its pointed arch was built around its borders. Between the column and arch there were relief sculptures, looking as if Brotherhood made. T_hat must be where members of the Brotherhood gather... They must have taken Marrain down to deal with his punishment._. The doors opened slowly, and a group of guards came stomping out prompt and perfect in their stance. Sulking in the new power I pushed it even further, able to capture the sound of their hearts beating and their very breathing. My attention returned to the group, I spotted Marrain, being tugged by a chain at his wrists. Head down, hiding myself from the guards below, I waited a few seconds before lifting again. The house I was on was the highest of all that surrounded the execution stand, a good three stories. Drumer boys followed at the end of the formation softly playing a fast rythm, with each step toward the stand, the beat of the dumbs became louder. By the time they reached the stand a large group of citizens had gathered to watch the fall of a betrayer. I did not though, I was moving, quietly and purposely, the serpent dagger held in hand. I had one chance at this and one only. My target was the head covered executioner who stood next to the lever that burdened Marrains life. Watching the noose fall around his neck and tugged tightly, my footsteps came closer. The drums played a steady beat while the executioner readied himself hand moving to the wooden lever.
Dirk thrown, flying fast and silently through the air, I was behind it ready to pounce in case it did not kill him. Creating a quick silver glimpse before splitting the head of the executioner, a mess of red spilled into the open air just before the body collapsed. The role to being an assassin was to be unpredictable. The cunning speed that was faster than the blink of an eye and a keen enough mind to stay a step ahead of your target... Sparing him the fear of death and instead presenting him with only death. My boots landed hard against the wooden stand, breaking the fall with a roll. Sword flying from its sheath and slicing through the thick rope that prisoned my friend, I continued forward with the momentum and cut through the closest victim.
Marrain fell to his back bringing his chained hands under his legs to help me. He fought as best he could against the wave of guards who came up the backside. "I told you the angels would take me Reignhardt!" Marrain yelled before knocking a man breathless with a powerful blow of the knee.
I twirled my blade performing a quick feint then thrusted through the chest of a poorly armored guard. "I promised I'd be back for you, the angels aren't ready for you--" An arrow split the wood beneath me and both our heads shot up to the towers. "Fire!" I heard the word and quickly pushed Marrain from the stand and dove myself. Loud thuds hit where we were seconds after and the word came again. I grabbed for him, practically pulling his body up to a stand. "Move Marrain!" The two of us ran breaking the line of sight. We found our way down an alley way, kneeling for a moment to catch our breath. Peering around I gave a look back. "We've got to go, I promised someone we wouldn't be here long."
Marrain looked back at me confused, but followed. We raced through the market district knocking over pots and baskets and up roaring its sellers. Guards behind us shouted for our surrender but neither of us ever thought of stopping. I lead us into the shop of a poorly built blacksmith and began rummaging through several things to find something that could cut the chains on Marrains wrists. The only thing I spotted useful was a large axe mounted on the shack walls. I could hear the footsteps of heavy plate coming our way. I smiled having such a great advantage because of Aragors gift. We used the anvil where Marrain tightened the chain and I aimed the axe at its center. "Hold still."
"Swear to God, you better not miss Reignhardt!"
I ignored him and swung down shattering the chain into two. "Let's get out of here." With one palm on the door I suddenly leapt back. Splintered wood exploded in front of us as a giant mace came crashing through. Rage filled, I drew my blade again eager to spill this ones blood but as the figure entered, my eyes widened in disbelief. He was without any plate shoulders, but had chain mail and the holy leggings and boots, a Nobel! They were stronger than any normal human, infused with the might of God, however so was I. Strength may have been my lack, but I was taught more, trained with more expertise. Their only advantage was strength, and I knew that holding out against every blow was inevitable. I had to avoid what I could until an opening was exposed. He came in with a rush, dividing me and Marrain from one another. Taunting with a brief movement of the fingers, we danced, harmonizing in each other's quick movements and counteracting attacks we tried to use. I could see Marrain dealing with a group of soliders who stepped in to intercept us.
"So the Nobel of Bolvania finally reveals himself?" I tried conversing to draw down his guard. He knew better and quickly strutted forward with his plate boots, leaving me to mimick the same motions back. Blades sending sparks through the air, the placement of our feet made us look like dancers, pivoting precisely as the other would, quick steps backward and forward to gain and defend advantages. Movements tight, his mace swung down and I took a chance, feeling the rush of wind as it grazed my body. Practically in his grasp, the end of my blade dove forward, jabbing into the chain mail. To my rotten luck, the rings caught the blade protecting him. My body was knocked through the air crashing out of the blacksmith splinters of wood slicing the exposed skin. Before I had time to stand, the Nobel was over me, holding me down by the chest with his mace up high. I struggled against his arm, terrorized by the incredible strength this Nobel had. They were never this strong before! Marrains triumphant howl came next along with the deadly axe slamming against the chain mail, knocking the Nobel from me and into the dirt. Quickly on my feet, I scavenged for a blade. Old blade in hand I stepped toward the Nobel. "Come on Reignhardt!" Marrain tugged for me, but I only stood confused as the Nobel lied there. Some new presence was boiling, a dark presence. Something sinister was rising up, threatening my holy tenets... There was this taste for revenge I saw when Marrain hit him. My knuckles bled white, holding the blades handle.
"Reignhardt!" He yelled again, pulling harder. "Let's go while we have the chance! He's practically dead!" "We have to finish him... if he gets up, he'll be healed..." Stepping forward, I rose to finish. I noticed him twitch and suddenly my eyes burned with blindness. Stumbling backward mind irritated by the white ringing noise. His footsteps came to ear and I readied, listening to the placement of his feet. They strutted forward and I practically fell back in attempt to avoid a blow, feeling the tip of the blade hook the inner thigh rending flesh. Yelling in pain, I grabbed for the wound, moist and fresh in touch and smell. Scrambling from his reach, I was too late as his tenacious hold hoisted me up into the air. By now the vision was starting to clear and I could see his old face. "I bring you solace Van Helsing! Heaven can claim you once again." "Heaven carries him already!" Marrain was at him again holding back the mace that yearned for my death and sending a kick to his lower back. His hand released me and I fell back. The Nobel turned for a moment to deal with Marrain giving me enough time to jump to my feet and help. A bright flash left his hand and I was blinded again. What in the Hell is that? Hands restrained me seconds after and I looked up to see the two figures of Marrain and Nobel fighting one another. What had me? Eyes up, guards had me circled, spears directed at my neck ready to kill. "Gregory, finish up with that one, we have him." This voice was older, yet strong and came from behind me. "You've gone on with your rein far too long Van Helsing, but don't worry, Bolvania will cheer in empathy at your hanging, we will praise as you're uplifted into heaven." I spat as the man circled me. "You pretend to be Brotherhood men? It is more corrupt than I thought!" Marrain dropped lifeless before me. The Nobel leaned in. "You're the one corrupt boy, the reason why the Brotherhood would have fallen... But now we will live on... triumph over Satan... Your centuries of ancestors were powerful... it's a shame your corruption ended it." "I am not corrupt!" For a second their shadows caught my eye, as if they had rippled, but my rage instantly retorted me back to the Nobel. "You bastards have soiled everything we had fought for!" "Hmph." He turned away from me. "Children are ignorant, unable to listen and see reason... this is why you are corrupt... and to answer your query- I've hidden here for this very reason... to foil your search for retirement, to try and conceal yourself in the shadows and restart life. The Brotherhoods taught me enough to deal with you. You've managed to avoid us for a time being, but no shadow can linger forever in the dark. Like always, light has desecrated its path... The hanging won't suffice; I cannot risk losing this child!" He took a moment to present himself in a more proper manner. "Reignhardt Van Helsing and friend, I am condemned by Lord Vaine and High Meister Rial to execute you of your will and free your soul of Hell... By this authority I shall keep my word, I pray that God will have mercy on a soul that was once as pure as yours." He withdrew a side blade at his belt. The blade itself was intricate and complex, beautiful with a rich gold edge that molded into the embellished hilt. Two gold angel wings acted as its guard arched toward one another so that the tips of the wings touched yet opened up so that a hand could firmly grasp the hilt. The very end was a halo, obvious with its gold and circular figure. "From Lords eyes you came... From his mind you were built... From your fall, justice shall be heeded." The blade prepared itself at my throat.
Then again my eyes were drawn to the shadows of the men, I was confused. Their angle didn't match up with the suns... They were like puddles beneath the body. Was this part of death? Once the mind knew this was the end, it would shut down to reduce the pain? It couldn't be I had faced so many deathly situations... The men suddenly screamed their shadows became alive and formed like tentacles. With their lower halves entangled, the shadow tentacles pierced the very armor of the men entwining themselves in and out of the body like a weaver. "Damned boy!" The Nobel cried, jabbing the blade forward. I watched the blade thrust toward me, waiting for the sting before a monstrous roar shook my body instead, deafening my ears and sending Gregory into an uncontrollable shake giving me time to move. Eyes searching, they found the black beast-- it was Aragor.... No! He influenced the darkness even more, allowing it to swallow the men whole. "What are you doing here!" I cried instantly to my feet." He growled over his shoulder. "I told you to be quick and not to cause such a riot! Get on now, you've delayed long enough!" "You're ruining everything!" I scowled fists in the air careless of the charred bodies surrounding us. Forced down by a heavy paw I gasped from the pressure. He growled over me, pricking my chest with his claws. "Which ones your friend?" His eyes burned with fire, pupils covering the cornea, he was near his demonic state. Here wasn't the time to argue, looking to Marrain I gestured with my hand. He wretched me of the earth and slung me over his back. Marrain was dizzy and barely conscious, but enough to stay balanced and hold on. I held myself against him, hunched over and practically baring his weight. Aragor dived past the guards, sending off dark ripples of madness, stunning anyone who had been near the fight. It was one of Hells defenses, pulsing the area around them with darkness. Outside the gates, Aragor leapt into a full on sprint, forcing Marrain and I to tuck into his thick mane. Arrows blew past us in flashing darts and I clenched Marrain closer in an attempt to miniature ourselves. Only a single volley could be launched, Aragor's speed was unbelievable, Bolvania becoming hidden by the thicket of the forest within seconds. Shortly after, Marrain slipped into sleep. It was obvious, his movements were rough and he swayed while we ran. I took control of him and tucked my arms under his shoulders before taking hold of Aragors mane. The moist ooze of ripe skin and the harsh stinging reminded didn't let me forget that my wound was still there. I felt as if it had melted into my linen pants. The blood was beginning to seep onto Aragors fur. It surged with heat and pained every time he lifted his thighs as it would rub against him_. How far was he taking us?_ To my relief, we were slowing. Up ahead a river appeared; loftily moving downstream. Aragor halted feet before and tended to Marrain, lying him straight in the dirt then turned to me. "You're hurt, show me where." He eyed me up and down, immediately noticing the damp red along my inner left leg.
He made an attempt to clean it, but I stopped him, shaking my head. "It will heal... the gift you gave me."
He shook his this time. "The gift hasn't reached its full affect yet and we need you well enough to walk." I didn't argue and stripped down to nothing but my trousers and even then had to lift them up so Aragor could cleanse it. His chest rumbled as if he had growled. "What a dangerous part to get hit." He said as his tongue came down on my groin. I grimaced at the pained touch feeling the burning heat run up through me pushing out an exhale for solace. The tongue sent erotic shivers down my spine, stimulating me. I forced back the sexual tension with a remark. "Why did you come and save me? Now the Brotherhood, are going to be sure that I'm undead!" He laughed looking up from his healing. "Without my help, the both of you would have been dead... and so what if the Brotherhood noticed you... You said they were corrupt anyhow... why would you want to rejoin?" "What else am I suppose to do? I wanted to try and beg for forgiveness, to be uplifted of this curse." He smirked with a hmph. "Beg for forgiveness... why would you beg forgiveness for something that never happened? Isolating yourself from the Brotherhood is going to lead you toward a new part of your life. A much more worthy part at that." His tongue came against my thigh and the ripples of passion started again. "I thought you said you were better than the Nobel?" His comment erupted a glare. "He cheated and blinded me.... Nobels were never taught to use Gods power like that... Not even Highlords were taught!" I grounded my teeth with another lap of his tongue. "Can you lighten up? It feels like you're pulling the skin off." "I'm getting as deep as I can, you're lucky I'm even helping you at all." "I didn't ask for your help, you threw yourself at me!" I pulled at his furry ears trying to lessen the pain. "Alright enough, Aragor enough!" With a torque of his neck he leaned to the side and eventually rolled over pulling me with him. My cheeks lit with red at our position: I straddled his neck, his muzzle close enough to breathe my briefs, his paws at my back as if holding me up. The moment was awkward, but I was lost in the amber flamed eyes, sparkling with an intense tone of gold and crimson. As we stared longer, I felt my body lean in, as if lured by him and was inches from the black snout. Suddenly, I grasped myself, pulling off him and rolling onto my back. "Sorry." I muttered quickly distracting myself with the wound. "You're... you're healed for now." His tone confused as he stood up and diverted from me. I blinked realizing what had just happened .... We had... almost... kissed. My eyes lifted to his massive figure lingering to the stream, where he submerged himself. Unable to help the grin, I watched him swim through the wide water. Red streams followed the running river and my eyes looked down. The wound was sealed, a very faded pink and covered in Aragors saliva. I wanted to follow him and bathe myself... but the awkward feel was holding me back. I still didn't know Aragor enough, did he enjoy the moment? His reaction wasn't there... I practically went the entire way... But his eyes... the way he looked back at me. Tastes of compassion and want, a desire for lust all starring back at me during that moment. Whatever the case was, it would have to wait. After all falling in love before war was never a good thing. I looked away from him now and focused Marrain who lied undisturbed. His figure looked unharmed from the outside, but during the fight I wasn't sure if he had been hurt or not. One thing was for sure, he definitely needed to be washed. Blood along his torso and pants, bits of his hair stuck together and colored red. A smile met me, we really engaged in some blood work. I weighed both ends and finally gave in, glancing back at Aragor. He was watching me, stance half covered by the pool of water. "Can... can you help me get Marrain in the water?" I wasn't sure what his response would be, or if he would bother even answering. I sat waiting, nervous. For several seconds he said nothing and finally I gave up turning away to try and carry Marrain in my condition. Taking one arm over the shoulder I slowly lifted him, thigh shaking in weakness. Suddenly Aragor was here, lifting Marrain from me. "Don't get in the water until that seals, there's nothing I can do against an infection." "Be careful with him then, I don't know if anything's broken on him." "He would have yelled out by now, he's fine. Small scratches around his arms but that's it. Besides, I'm only laying him at the coast of the river. The running water will pull away the blood. He can clean himself when he wakes." I noticed Aragor had a thick aura around him while we walked to the river, it was somewhat odd smelling, yet somehow luring and pleasant. It sort of made my head swirl while we walked. It hadn't been there before which was the oddest about it... but it definitely fit him. My mind retracted to the awkward event... Could that have been the reason? Male animals releasing their musk odor to lure the female in? Aragor was a demon though... wasn't he? I didn't speak out about it, instead I departed myself, taking refuge beneath a low shade tree and sat watching as Aragor laid out Marrain. He was gentle at least, for being known as the Wrathbringer of Hell. Laughing at the irony I ran my hand through the thin blades of grass and let out a yawn. Yawning was wonderful, my body relaxed with each exhale and the soothing sound of the downstream sent me into a state of meditation. Somewhere I hadn't been for awhile because of the endless situations.
The sway of branches and silence created a scene within my mind. I was sitting cross legged before the ocean, at the far end of a harbor that stretched out over the waters a good hundred yards. Below me was twenty feet of air and then water. Crystal blue water that changed to a pure white each time it washed up onto the beach behind me. The wind swayed past my hair, dragging its tangled mess across my face and leaving behind a salty taste of the waters. _ Starring down, I was dressed in loose white attire, which would follow the path of the gentle breeze. Around my neck was a pure gold chain, along with a silver and gold cross, embellished with a small sapphire stone. I touched the cross, remembering its meaning: My families crest. I tightened the chain, feeling a strange presence before me. Ahead, the clouds became darker, rushing toward me bringing high tides at its tail. Nearing closer and closer, the wind picked up and several high pitched whistles sliced through the air. Beneath me the swaying of the dock created an uneasy feeling and very soon the harbor rocked violently with the crashing of waves and a sinister heat destroyed the once cool breeze. Standing to all fours, a massive wave covered the very sun that once left its warm rays against me leaving the world in a shroud of havoc and chaos. It collapsed over me and my eyes opened._ Aragor was there, less than a few feet away, watching me. I made no try to speak, only stared back at him. "How are you feeling?" A hint of compassion in his voice. "Fine...Nothings broken." I said with a shrug averting my gaze to Marrain. "So he'll be alright?" Aragors head turned and responded with a nod. "He's fine... but I meant your wound..." His eyes lowered to my other half. "I never thoroughly finished sealing it." I pulled my legs together wrapping my arms around my knees. "its fine, not bleeding or anything, you sealed it enough." He huffed. "That's for me to decide. Strip down again." I glared, but did what he said, returning to my trousers and lifting the soft cloth showing the tender red skin. He neared and I pulled back a little causing him to eye me. "The last time you did it, felt like you were tearing the skin off... If I can heal without feeling that again I will... Unless you can promise not to be so rough." With a grin he nodded. "I give you my word." Allowing him to lower, he began by licking, long yet gentle licks. His tongue was nearly the size of my hand and by the clutch of it had strong muscles. Feeling a paw slide against my opposite leg I couldn't help but get a zip of excitement. The treatment was much more than a healing process for me. It stimulated my sex drive, and no matter how hard I tried, I couldn't keep the tenting action from appearing. Though to my surprise, Aragor didn't take notice to it, in fact, his eyes were closed giving the appearance that he was concentrating on my thigh. Shuffling a little bit, my hand slipped into my pants and tucked my member against my belt, making it easy to hide from him. I knew I could experience the effect full on now, and allowed my cock to throb as his tongue worked the flesh. Soon my eyes drifted close, body relaxing while his hot tongue pressed itself against the inner leg. I wanted to let out a moan, but wouldn't dare. Several erotic scenes filled my head, tempting me to try and play a few with Aragor, I was beginning to get the hint that he was enjoying this. Suddenly I jolted, as his tongue dipped closer to the center of my legs, I swore he had nicked the start of my pubic area. Then again he did it and I couldn't help but moan. His tongue was becoming rougher again, sliding closer and closer. "Ah... Aragor?" I groaned stunned as the beautiful amber eyes opened. They had the same affect in them, passion. I became lost for words at that moment and dumbly mumbled part of his name again... "A-Ara-" The muzzle responded. "Reign..." He gave a growl before leaving my groin and lifting himself to me. "There... there's something about you." I felt his hot breath, stirring me toward him, uplifting my mindful will and intoxicating me toward another route. "I've never felt this before..." Snout inches from my lips; I stared at it, feeling myself lean in ready to taste what was waiting for me. My eyes began closing and our lips nearly touched when I heard coughing. As if the entire thing had been an illusion, Aragor was off me, creating a good ten yard distance with a single bound. I held my own defenses as well as all barriers shielding me of my sexual interest flew up. Stretching my neck to look past the black beast a warm smiled appeared... Marrain had awakened... Aragor grumbled and cursed under his breath, somewhere mixed within the jabber I heard damned boy. I quickly pulled my leggings up."Marrain?" His head rolled around along the lake sand and I stood to greet him. Casting a shadow over his body, he looked up at me. "Reignhardt?" His voice was weary hushed half by whispers, showing that he was nowhere near ready for travel. "Hey, thanks for leaving me to deal with everything back there." I said sarcastically with a laugh. "We're... we're alive?" His eyes looked around but his head remained still. I felt insulted. "What do you mean? You thought I wasn't strong enough to get you out alive?" "No." Aragors voice irritated. I shot death glares back and suddenly heard Marrain swear. He was on his feet in a second. Eyes widened as he spotted Aragor. "Who... a... A demon!" It was almost a question, sort of mixed like a surprised, yelled remark. He reached for his blade, horrified that it wasn't on his person. He was showing a slight psychotic appearance and I instantly turned him from Aragor. "He's with us... remember in Bolvania I said we were meeting someone?" Marrain tried to turn, but I held him facing me."His names Aragor... and he's an ally. He saved me the night you were captured and has cleaned two wounds that should have led to my death." Again Marrain tried to turn and I allowed it this time taking a stand by his side. "Reignhardt, he looks like one of those Shadow Beasts that you always mention." His eyes were uneasy, glimpsing back and forth nervous about whether or not Aragor would attack. "You've heard the tale of the Six right?" Marrain nodded. "He's the one that made them the six, the one that escaped from Hell. He's pure now." I looked to Aragor. "Well... more pure than he was before. He doesn't have that hellish look to him." "I don't like it." A growl from Aragor spooked Marrain cutting him off for a moment. I quickly reassured him with a hand. "...To trust something as demonic as this... It just feels wrong, my body is literally shaking." I had forgotten Aragors madness, I was so well trained that it practically made me immune. "I need to strengthen your mind then... What you're feeling is the madness we talked about." "He's not even pure." Aragor interrupted with another growl, making Marrain all the more tense. I quickly shook my head to Aragor, trying to warn him to back off. "Marrain, he's more pure than what he was, he can actually control himself. He's not bound to Hell's will like he use to. Watch." I stepped away from Marrain and approached Aragor, placing a hand over his snout and running it up his forehead than down his back. I got some kind of a compliment from Aragor, a strange purr like growl as he pushed his body against me. "I don't like this." He said again. I sighed, knowing convincing Marrain out of everything I had trained him to would be hard. "...Just... get yourself clean, we'll talk after. We've set up camp right here so we're not far." Marrain finally took a second to eye himself up and down, blood stained shirt and sticky hair. Not to mention the reek of the overnight stay in a Bolvanian dungeon. "Fine..." He said plainly, turning away from me and stripping down to wash himself and clothes. "If he kills you while I'm cleaning myself, I take no responsibility!" "Just get cleaned off." I grumbled turning away. "Your friends going to be difficult to convince." Was Aragors remark just as Marrain submerged himself under water. I gave a nod eyes down at my blood and tattered clothes. "We'll talk about it when he's finished." He gave a chuckle. "He can't stay with us." My head lifted. "Not you too..." His face didn't change. "Why not, he's a superb warrior, both with and without a blade. The both of us have killed countless Hunters across these parts. Marrains more than capable of-- "I'm sure the both of you are extremely powerful as your example in Bolvania showed it..." "I told you the Nobel cheated!" I quickly argued. "None the less, Marrain may be strong... But I tested him while you two were talking, I sent the smallest bit of pulse outward and he reacted to it. I felt his inner self strain and his mind bounce... The madness the parasites gave out wasn't enough to penetrate his mind at the time. Most likely because of an adrenaline effect."
"He just needs to train... Ar- "I don't have time for training!" His voice was crude and harsh that time, carrying an oddly deeper tone. "I barely had time for you to save his life... This is yet another reason I told you to leave everything behind!" "What are you in a rush about? Where are you planning on taking me that requires such swiftness? It's barely been a day, if that and you're rushing everything so quickly..." "I intend on teaching you about the undead. The faster we get to Eidor the easier it will be to train you. One of the six is bound to step out from Hell and patrol. Unless Lucifer's changed it, they patrol about mid month for a week at least." "Eidor!" I shouted. "That's the closest vessel to Hell... You're planning on giving my life up that easily? Do you know the dangers that could lead to? Hell already has the Count searching for me, one of the six already snuffing me out somewhere here in the Neridian province..." "You've had the Count at your back for this long? I'm impressed... Dracula enjoys hunting... but when something or someone like you is the prey, he doesn't toy with it." "Marrain and I have only encountered Dracula once, up in the Shear Ruin Mountains, we took refuge in a rundown inn and he attacked that very night." Aragor laughed. "Of course he would strike in the mountains, that was his best opportunity for capturing you yet somehow you managed to escape... Thinking back on it now... we beings of Hell can sense the living... but you..." He sniffed in deep. "I can't decipher you; it's almost as if you're a being of Hell." Those words made me feel awful, like I was some kind of half undead monster. Like I had betrayed all of humanity! Angered, I gripped my chest in disgust. "That's because Lucifer destroyed everything I once had! This stupid scar, this stupid curse!" I felt heavy with tears. "Took everything from me!" Feeling the frigid ice of lonesomeness I turned my eyes to the trees and slouched to a sit. "He ruined my entire life, all my valuables, all my morals flushed away with blood!" Breathe heavy I swelled up inside, heart aching as I relived the grief of my families death. "Everything from me... My mother and father, sister..." I was sobbing now, one hand over my eyes hiding my shame, while the other tightly held my scar. One paw wiped the tears from my face. "Things happen for a reason... Don't let the darkness of the past interfere with your future. It is what happens in the future that allows you to reflect the pasts meaning." I lifted my head, not sure if I understood his meaning, yet somehow it soothed me. Or was it the fact that he was now holding me in his embrace, close to his heated chest and pulsing heart? It almost felt like a dream the way he gave his affectionate smile, sharp white canine fangs revealing themselves. I leaned my head in, listening to the beat of his large heart allowing it to calm me. Waiting there, feeling the rapids of anger slowly still into a calm pool; his snout came down and met my cheek. I was in shock... he had kissed me, vibrating my feelings into curiosity as I stared at him. He gave a sheepish grin after that."I've had time to study you humans, study how each of you react to certain emotions... You especially are interesting... You somehow soothe me; give settle my heart down, it doesn't seem to race as fast when you're here."
I stared blankly in his eyes lost for something to say. What I did know was that I was falling for him.
"Now, show me this scar of yours." He moved close again, nudging me with his nose. At first I was hesitant and he nudged again. "Show me Reign." Gently nodding, he sat me down as I slowly began removing the torso around me. On my chest, just next to the heart, was the smallest looking circle, little curved rays reaching out, looking as if my skin had been infected. Aragor analyzed it for several seconds then unexpectedly licked the scar adding to the already curious mood. "The flesh isn't rotting. Meaning you cured it before it could start spreading." His eyes suddenly lifted, probably watching Marrain and his hold on me loosened.
Moments after I heard his footsteps walk up. "Let's talk Reignhardt!" He announced tone frustrated. I had hoped the bath would simmer him down but to no avail. A low grumble came from Aragor. "Stop it." I warned. He only huffed and created distance between us. Getting to my feet, I faced him. "You look much better." His eyes continually watched Aragor. "What's the plan then? Is it staying or what?" "Yes, Marrain he's staying. However... we've sort of been talking and we'll..." "You're the one not staying." Aragors remark was awful, and left both Marrain and I glaring. Though I longer than Marrain as his eyes pierced over to me.
"I assume you're going to leave me behind then huh? While you run off with this demon whom you've barely met?" His tone increased with its hatred. "Hey!" I yelled to silence Marrain. "I'm not leaving you, only getting you a trainer!" That steamed him up with a frown and furious brow. "I'm not finished; this is a Brotherhood trainer Marrain, someone that actually is more skilled then you. Especially at fighting and especially at necessary parts of fighting off scourge." His arms crossed while he listened clearly unconvinced. "Have you Met Highlord Malorak?" "No." "He's going to train you." "You're exiled from the Brotherhood, how can someone like a Highlord train me? They wouldn't risk the odds of someone finding out." Again, Marrain was unconvinced. Aragor let loose a snarl and this time I allowed it. "Because," I was starting to feel irritated to his tone as well. "Malorak was my Father's best man, greatest colleague and friend. They met through the Brotherhood at a young age. He won't refuse me for help, especially since I won't be there training. He's told me countless times that he would be there for me and that if I needed anything he would be there to help. Malorak isn't a man to go against his word, besides I won't be there so the other members won't know." "Then where will you be?" His tone was normalizing. "And what kind of things will the two of you be doing?" "He wants to teach me the best way to fighting against monsters in Eidor." "Eidor, why the Hell there? That's practically diving straight into Hell!" His eyes darted back to Aragor. "You're planning on taking him to Hell aren't you beast!" Threatening Aragor with the point of his finger he stepped closer "No." Aragor plainly replied. "Liar, you're waiting for him to depart from me so that you can take him into Eidor without any risk!" Aragor laughed in amusement. "Stupid boy, I could have done that already. You're ignorant and foolish, carry no trust in your friend or in others." "I trust who I want to trust, I don't trust Shadow Beasts, spawns of Hell! Especially those seeking to tear my friend from me! If you're one of the seven, then do something, make me believe that you are! I won't back down against you, prove me from my level!" "Marrain, enough! Aragor don- A ripple of dark energy ran over the earth and I knew... Knew that it was too late, Aragor was changing, the air around us had stilled and a pressure pulled on me. The gentle tug of madness as it soaked into Aragor. His fangs stretched from his muzzle and took a jagged more feral look. Black shadows split from the growing mane on his back and reached out toward the sky becoming tentacle like as they reached their peak. Though he did not bare the demonic red symbols of a regular Shadow Beast, instead he was pure black, except for his eyes that now glowed with intense fire. His claws reached out from his paw, tearing tracks of flame as he raked the earth. Marrain had already lost his will, suffering the disease of insanity as Aragor stared into his soul. "Aragor, that's enough!" I bellowed standing before Marrain protectively. "You say you're fighting out of Lucifers will? Then pull yourself from your demonic form, return to your normal self!" He ignored me and rushed forward in an attempt to fear me from Marrains vulnerable self. Eyes to eyes we stared at each other, I had my hands out as if ready to embrace his attack, but his shadows did not harm me, instead reached around me desperately clawing out for Marrain. He snarled. "Move Reignhardt!" Surprisingly, his tone was not demonic, neither twisted nor distorted. Though that didn't mean he was in control. "Prove yourself!" I yelled back stepping closer, pushing his thrusting tentacles back. He made an attempt to dash around me but I stood close over Marrain, keeping myself between the two. His shadows were starting to tear my armor, slicing the light leather while we danced around. "Prove yourself!" I yelled again. "I have proven myself!" He grumbled. "He is weak! Your friend can not, nor will not stay with us, drop him off at your precious Brotherhood and we will venture to Eidor! He is completely lost with madness; I feel his entire will in me!" "You and I both knew you were stronger at the start! I'm talking about your control! Pull yourself out of this demonic state; pull yourself out without Lucifer's help! You're on your own remember?" He said nothing to me, but backed away. "Bring yourself back!" The winds picked up, swirling around the two of us, knocking up dirt. Suddenly a tentacle lashed out, cutting through my shoulder piece and slicing the skin. The scent of blood revealed itself. I winced. Another lashed out, cutting the inside leg, dropping me to one knee. "You're not even fighting!" I tried to anger him, hoping that it would encourage him to triumph. His corrupted face snarled. The sting of another swept across my chest forcing the breath from my lungs and leaving me to all fours. "Great Sin of Wrath... unable to control his own power!" I laughed. "I guess this is where the path you had for me ends huh? All because you can't control your emotions?" The tentacles rose up and arched, preparing to strike me through the back like the tail of a scorpion. I gave another faint chuckle. "Kill me... yes do it... kill the boy who sees more than a demon in you..." I saw him jerk, catching my eyes as he backed away. I lifted my head, eyes in hope, gazing into his great balls of fire. The tentacles had ceased and were starting to lower; the wind had also taking a different turn, flowing into a steadier breeze. "Come on Aragor!" His figure twisted and he raked the earth swiping his paw back, sending fire skittering across the earth. He was fighting now, digging his claws into the gravel as if grasping something. Suddenly he twirled himself around, and everything blew from his body, the Satanist aura shooting out into the trees, leaving them dead, leaves crumbling to the now charred earth. A howl followed after that, and he turned to me, showing he had conquered the demon in him. "... Leave... me and Marrain." I gasped, feeling my head spin as the adrenaline faded. "Reignhardt... forgive me." He tried to say but I simply shook my head avoiding any kind of eye contact. "Leave so I can bring Marrain back, you've done enough to the two of us today." I let out a pained groan as I got to my feet, limping to Marrain's petrified figure. When he didn't move I turned to him again."I said leave! Get out of here; I can't bring him back with your presence here!"
A sudden pounding in my head sent me stumbling forward; stars burst over my vision and ran rampant across followed by an irritable ringing. "Get out." I said again, eyes heavy. "Get... out... get... out." Vision blurring a wave of heat blew past me and things started spinning, the ground holding me, swayed and I reached out trying to stable everything. The next thing I knew, Aragors distorted figure hung over me and the familiar warmth of his tongue moved over my body leaving short zips of pain as he went over the wounds. "Reign... I am sorry; there was no intention to causing you this... " Head foggy I smiled, somehow able to see those pair of gorgeous eyes. Lifting a weak hand to his cheek, he leaned in to it. "I... I forgive you." With a gentle smile he tucked me into the black fur and I fell unconscious.