Author: Firesong, Posted: Mon Mar 19, 2018 12:53 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

Drake thought for a moment, "Well, if you're going to help me procure supplies…"  He held out his hand, counting off the few other things he knew he needed.  "Provisions can wait, but I'll need a new map and a new tinderbox.  My bag…"  He pulled the pack off of his back, "It seems in okay shape.  I'll keep this for now…but I think I could use a torch as well."  He crossed his arms and pondered for a moment longer.  "I think that should be everything for the moment."

As Magnus and Drake made their way to the necessary stalls and bought the remainder of Drake's supplies, Drake made a secondary list in his head of things he might need in the future, once he had more funds to allocate.  New weapons would be nice.  He shook his head.  No.  I'll just keep up with the maintenance on these blades here that I already own.  

"Okay. Magnus," Drake said finally.  "I think I have everything else I need.  We can go ahead and go to the bathhouse now, if you would be so ever kind as to lead the way."  Drake did a joking bow, and waved Magnus to the lead.  

Author: Magnus, Posted: Mon Mar 19, 2018 12:11 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

Magnus chuckled. "Really, Drake, if it was going to be a hassle, I would not have made the job offer in the first place," he said, however, he was very happy to hear that Magnus was quite happy to take the job. As for the magic bit, Magnus merely gave him a slight shrug. 

"Not everyone can do it, it's true," he said with a nod. "However, it is very possible you have hidden potential that has yet to be made manifest," Magnus pointed out. "But if you are sure, then I won't press it," he chuckled. "Well, let's hope that a fight won't be happening. Its not really something we WANT to have happen. But, I think we are in good hands if it happens, I am sure. Though, I do hope that it won't cost you your life. If it does, however, fortunately, I know people who can help bring you back," he said with a chuckle. 

"Well, first thing, we should probably get you and your gear settled in. Then, if you are interested at all, I would like to take a visit to the bath house," Magnus admitted. "It might do you some good too," he said. "The medicinal waters might help your memories fall in line so you can sort them better. I know they've helped me with a couple things, this mummy rot included."

Author: Firesong, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 11:14 PM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

Drake's eyes lit up at the prospect of a potential job.  "If I can handle it?  Of course I can handle it!" he replied with a cocky smile.  His sudden change in mood got a few stares from the locals, but Drake didn't mind.  He had found someone not only willing to help him monetarily, but who was a decent individual.  That seemed to be a mass rarity, as many of the previous jobs Drake had completed was done under a contract with, well, not the most savory of sources.

"I accept, if you're sure that I won't be too much of a bother," the young man said.  "As for magic, I…I'm not very, erm…mana inclined.  I've tried some basic spells in the past, with less than acceptable results.  I don't think it's really my forte."  He smiled, "But when it comes to a fight, even if it's against magic, I can promise that I'll protect you, even at the cost of my own life."  

"So, Magnus, what would you like to do next, if I'm to escort you through the city?"

Author: Magnus, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 4:19 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

"I said finding a job here would be difficult, not impossible. Iria and Karith have lots of high born families always looking for security details to protect families. Especially people who have wealth in magical items. And even though Parvpora may be a magic driven continent, that drive is what becomes its weakness. The Void Storms makes using magic a dangerous thing when the magic is pushed back into the world. One who doesn't rely on magic would not be as prone to danger as the many mages who make this place their home," Magnus said. 

"And if it is magic you are wanting to learn, you'll want to learn from the best, which would put you closer to your goal than not," Magnus suggested. "Don't feel like you are rushed. You are welcome to stay with me as long as you are here. As a matter of fact, if you think you can handle it, I'll pay you to help me out around Abed. Believe it or not, but this city isn't as safe as it looks, and unfortunately someone like me in my state is going to be a bit of a target," Magnus said. "This way, you don't have to feel like you are taking advantage of any hospitality," Magnus said. "And here you won't have to deal with the sticky mess that comes with the deities," he added with a bit of a laugh. 

Author: Firesong, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 3:05 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

As soon as the meat pastry was forced into Drake's hand, it was gone.  He hadn't realized just how hungry he had been.  He barely had the chance to chew before swallowing, and almost choked.  With a spur of coughs, he apologized to Magnus on his unruly behavior, and thanked him for the food.  As he listed off the possible opportunities for work, Drake ticked each one off in his mind.  "It doesn't seem as though I'll be able to find any decent work here…I haven't the slightest inclination to magic, and being human doesn't really sit well with teaching myself even the basics.  I don't have enough coin either to invest in some lessons…"

"My trip North might have to wait awhile…" he mused to himself.  "If I work in Canelux for awhile, I might be able to get back here within the next…"  He sighed.  "Why does living have to be so complicated?" 

"Still, it seems I'm better suited for work there than I am here."  Drake let out another sigh, "Though I'm not sure I'm keen on the Gods and their…'problems' as you put it.  We mortals have a load of our own issues…wouldn't the Gods issues just be like ours but…well, more catastrophic?"  He shivered at the thought.  Though, secretly, he was amused at the thought of a pink haired God, even if it was from some uncontrollable magic. 

"I guess once I'm done here, I'll be heading across the Nyella."

Author: Magnus, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 2:53 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

He heard Drake's stomach rumble and pushed one of the meat pastries into his hand. "Eat," he insisted with a bit of a laugh. "Parvpora is a continent of magic. Magic and advancing technology that Canelux doesn't have. The ingenuity of the dwarves and gnomes and the unique magical properties of this land have made it a thriving one if you are talented in magic. If not, well, then a sword for hire or a physical laborer is about all there is to have offered. People tend to let magic do the talking here, and very few actually pay heed to the deities here, even the ones that come from among them," Magnus said. "Though if you have a stomach for it, you could always take to the trader's work here. If it isn't coming from the sea, it's coming from the sky. Most trade routes are taken through the skies because of their speed and efficacy, however periodically they are forced to go by foot if a Void Storm has rolled through the city or area they are trying to deliver goods to," Magnus explained to Drake. 

"There is also the option of skipping over the Nyella to Canelux. You'd find good work there as a sword for hire. A land with rife with Gods is never short on people needing aide from those willing to help. First Darkness and Desire, creating their problems, now Life and Death locked in a wager over the wills of the mortals they oversee," Magnus laughed. "I only can imagine what will befall us when the Keeper and The Mother's newest child comes. Still in the womb and I've seen the things the child can do to affect her parents. Lord Drae's been walking around Tar Eisalae with pink hair of all things," he chuckled. 

Author: Firesong, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 2:38 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

The travel to the city was indeed pleasant.  Even at a slow pace, Drake enjoyed the relaxing stroll into Abed.  The city of Abed was indeed as grand as it had been built up to be.  Drake had heard other travelers and their tales of the grandiose street stalls of exotic foods and trades. 

It was lucky for Drake that he managed to keep a hold of a small amount of currency, since indeed his coin pouch had been stolen.  With the aid of Magnus and a silver tongued merchant, Drake came away with a well crafted cloak, though he had an inkling he may have overpaid.  Still, for the quality, Drake was plenty okay with what he spent.  It was, of course, then that Magnus mentioned that he would likely need more cold resistant gear. 

"I…may not have the coin for that, even if they sold the equipment here, to be honest," Drake replied sheepishly.  "I haven't exactly had the opportunity to work around here yet."  It was here, that Magnus asked of Drake's trade.  "Well, I've kept up mostly doing sword for hire, odd jobs.  Mostly monster hunting or deliveries.  Nothing that can be considered a real job.  I can hold my own in a fight, if it comes to that, though…"  His stomach grumbled.  "I might not eat as well as I should…"

"I think I'd like to do something that lets me travel a lot.  Maybe a trader or merchant.  But…I've not had the funds to really start a business.  It's probably nothing more than a fools dream."  He looked down.  "Still, there's always a chance for the future, right?"  He smiled once more.  "I can't let that get me down."

Author: Magnus, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 2:23 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

"We should be able to find you something functional enough for your needs then," Magnus said confidently as he began walking again. He reached into his pocket and retrieved what looked like thin wooden rod. However, it rapidly grew in width and length until it was a suitable staff and walking stick that allowed Magnus to move a little easier and quicker. 

"Heh, I'm not about to be condemned to an immobile life because of a curse that was wrongly bestowed. Besides, the more I move about, the more it flushes life to these withered limbs of mine. Try and keep up if you can!" the Sea Spirit chuckled as his hair was caught by the wind and tossed. 

It was slow going back to the city walking with Magnus but it proved to be a pleasant walk. Once in the city they were met with the opulence the holy city was known for. Spice carts and exotic food stalls lined the streets, and streamers of bright colors created a festival of color above their heads. The smells of cooking meats, and breads were divine, and children laughed and ran past the two men as they played their games. 

They located a clothing stall and Magnus helped find Drake a sturdy traveler's cloak that would last him quite a while on the road and keep him warm on the chilliest of nights. He did insist however, that even with rapid advance of Terra, if Drake planned on going to Zets'Ki, he was most definitely going to want cold weather gear in the mountains. That wasn't something he was likely going to find in Abed however, where it was typically warm all year long. 

"Do you have a trade Drake?" Magnus asked as they walked. "You are built like a fighter, but you look a bit underfed," he commented. They passed a vendor selling meat pastries and Magnus paused and bought a couple before offering one to Drake. "But if you've been on the road a lot, you probably have to hunt for your food. That's a tough task during Glaciem…"

Author: Firesong, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 2:00 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

It seems as though Magnus has a high standing, even with the Gods here.  I wonder if that's because of what happened to him.  Drake stood up alongside Magnus, though with much less effort.  Part of the young man wanted to help, but there was a sense from Magnus that the Sea Spirit had a form of pride in doing it himself, so Drake instead took a few steps towards the ocean to strethc.  As Magnus motioned for him to follow, Drake turned away.

It's strange how things like this can happen.  This…destiny.

"I should be fine on weapons.  My cloak is pretty much in tatters, and I'm fairly certain my coin pouch was stolen a few days ago…unless I just lost it."  He made a quick mental note of everything else he might need.  He was running low on food and water, but those were easily hunted without wasting much coin.  Maybe camping supplies.  Stars are fun and all, but it does get cold at night…

"Are you sure you're up for it though?  I don't mind doing the most of it myself…"

Author: Magnus, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 1:48 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

"There is a difference, there is a choice," Magnus confirmed for Drake. He waited for his questions to be answered before he looked back at Drake. 

"I've been granted a private apartment while I stay here to recover. There's an extra bed if you are in need of a place to stay. It may not look it, but Abed has a dark side, and people have been snatched up off the street, especially outsiders who don't have a place to go," he said. He slowly began getting to his feet again. It was a slow, painful process but he did manage to get up. 

"We can get you outfitted with new gear too. Abed has fine wares as far as fabrics and textiles. Weapons and such, you'd be better off going to Karith or Iria, at least on this side of the Nyella," he said. He motioned for Drake to follow him. 

Author: Firesong, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 1:32 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

Drake slowly nodded at Magnus as he explained how Lady Angela and Lord Drae would probably be able to answer his questions.  Still, it's not a guarantee.  I'll keep searching, though… 

As a strange feeling came over Magnus, a similar feeling came over Drake as the Sea Spirit started speaking as if having read the young man's mind.  "You speak as though you know of this…as…"  He looked away.  No.  It must be the same for him as for me.  This is definitely something destined.  

As with Magnus, the strange feeling was fleeting, and as the Sea Spirit gazed back to the ocean and asked of Drake's lodgings, the young man replied with a shake of his head.  

"I don't have anywhere to stay.  I was probably headed for an inn if I could find one.  At worst, I could sleep under the stars again like usual.  And there is still a but of daylight left, so I had planned on doing some basic shopping.  I'm in need of some simple necessities, as a lot of mine are falling apart, or have broken.  Do you know of a good place to stay?"

Author: Magnus, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 1:18 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

"I was one of the lucky ones," Magnus replied. With the bandages tightly back in place, he noticed that Drake was getting increasingly perplexed about what he was telling him. 

"That isn't something I can really answer you," Magnus admitted. "Simply, because I don't know for sure," he said. "I was still in Asyut when the Time Death took place," he told Drake, being completely honest. "But, I know people who CAN tell you, or at least explain it better. Lord Drae and Lady Angela, specifically. The Keeper didn't experience it, but as the God of Knowledge he can explain better. Lady Angela, however, she was like you. Part of her came from another world, possibly even the same world," Magnus said. 

"As far as the angel you seek… Chances are she was from the other world, but there is no saying that she might not be here as well, in the same way you are," he said, trying to give Drake some hope. 

He suddenly felt something come over him and he looked at Drake, an almost stern, fatherly expression coming over his face. 

"Sometimes, Drake, people are sent to you because you need them. Destined, not fated." 

He looked away again, the expression vanishing as he gazed out over the ocean. "Do you have a place to stay while you are here in Abed?"

Author: Firesong, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 12:57 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

Drake was appreciative of the healing aid that was given to him, but it was afterwards that he wondered if it had cost Magnus something to do it.  As the Sea Spirit unwrapped his bandage, Drake couldn't help but stare.  "It took a deity to keep you alive," Drake said, his eyes not wavering until the bandage was reapplied.  Something like that.  Maybe a God could…  He frowned.  I have a feeling I shouldn't trust them…at least, not yet.  

Drake closed his eyes again.  He had taken everything Magnus said, and was now taking the time to process it.  What the Sea Spirit said made sense, but there were things that didn't click.  Why now?  When did this happen?

"So what exactly should I expect, then?  If this is really something you've heard about…am I going to lose a sense of who I am?  Am I suddenly just going to cease being me?  Or will I suddenly start hearing this…second soul in the back of my mind?  And, I…"  The dark angel's silhouette flashed through his mind.  "Does that mean this dark angel is…from another world?"

It would mean that she doesn't exist here.  Or…maybe if she's like me, a version of her exists…  But does that mean she's like me, or unaffected by the Time Death that Magnus mentioned?   It was almost as if the more Magnus answered, the more questions that formed.  Which brings to question…why did I stumble across someone who could answer my questions so readily just as these dreams start coming  

The feeling of 'fate' once more crossed his mind.  It's all so…convenient.
 

Author: Magnus, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 12:41 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

Magnus put a hand on Drake's back as he said his head had begun to hurt as he tried to remember where he was from. Magnus's eyes narrowed slightly as this happened but he let a soft warm light push through his hand into Drake's back and neck to try and help abate the pain. Magnus shook his head slightly as Drake recovered and said he couldn't really remember. It wasn't something Magnus hadn't seen before. He took his hand from Drake's back and put it back down in the sand. 

"You aren't from Revaliir, Drake. That's why it feels wrong," he explained. "There are many here who are like you. Many who crossed the Void when the rifts opened during the Time Death. You are having a hard time because what is going on here, essentially, is two souls fusing and inhabiting one body. Memories superimposed over one another, making it hard to distinguish which memory corresponds to this world in particular," Magnus explained. "Many many people have had this, it isn't uncommon. This world, was very very similar to the world that almost all those I've read about have come from," the Sea Spirit explained. He absently began scratching at one of his hands and paused after realizing what he was doing. 

"I apologize for this, but it appears it is time for a fresh application," he said, sounding very tired. He pulled a tin of balm from his pocket and proceeded to unravel the bandage from the hand he had been scratching at. With the bandage pulled away, could now see what ailed the Sea Spirit. Part of Magnus's hand was completely mummified, the rot running up his arm and into his sleeve. He dabbed the balm on the rot with his clean fingers on the other hand, and up his arm before he resealed the balm and rewrapped his hand. 

"Mummy rot… It affects most of my body. I was doing some research in the ancient city of Asyut when it fell foul of Sardon Tiger-Iron's curse of decay and ruin as he fell from the grace of the World Tree. The city and all its inhabitants were lost beneath the sands of the Harenian desert and me along with it, each of us either mummified or reduced to nothing more than a specter. An extreme case of being in the wrong place at the wrong time," Magnus explained. "I've been back among the living only a few months now… the rot is healing, but slower than I would like. It's why I have come here. The bath house here in Abed is known for having medicinal properties that can speed the healing process of things like this," he said. "Lord Drae was the one who recommended it. Lady Angela offered to heal me on the spot, but the damage was so extensive and so chaos riddled that it was all she could do to just keep me alive."

Author: Firesong, Posted: Sun Mar 18, 2018 12:08 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

Drake probably should have been more on guard, but the sea spirit seemed harmless.  

"For the most part, I've always been wandering.  I've never really had a place that I consciously came from."  Drake looked down at the map that Magnus had drawn in the sand.  For the most part, Drake understood the basics of the map, but everything felt…wrong.  The names were off, the places seemed different.  Now that he brings it up…  He closed his eyes.  "Sorry…my…my head hurts suddenly."

The world was wrong.  But that can't be.  I've traveled it for my entire life, but…  His eyes opened slowly, and the pressure in his skull dissipated.  Does this have to do with my dreams?  

"I came from Talis-…"  The name disappeared from his lips as he uttered them.  "No…I came from…"  He frowned.  "Traveled.  I traveled a lot…I cant remember the name of the place I started.  I guess I never paid it much of mind," he said finally.  Something…about that feels just wrong, but I can't push it now.  I'll just deal with it the best I can.  

"I'm still not making much sense, am I?" the man said, staring back at the makeshift map in the sand.  It was already being distorted by the sea breeze.  "What about you?  You seem to have lived through some harrowing times…"  Oh.  I said it.  Stupid…

Author: Magnus, Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 10:57 PM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

"Well, Zets'Ki is high in the Zujiuchu Mountains at the northern most portion of Parvpora. It's perpetually cold and wintery up there, but it is beautiful. If you are thinking of heading up that way, take an airship to Karith and then head west across the Jasumin Plains until you reach Tar Eisalae, the temple of Adraejen Porthyrius, the Keeper of the Keys and Secrets of Knowledge of the Arcane. From there, you go north into the mountains," Magnus explained to Drake, drawing him a rather simple map in the sand. "The Keeper should be able to provide you with any maps you might need for the trek," he added. 

"No, nothing specific. Most of the half-celestials come in lighter colors. While not completely unknown, black wings are a bit of an oddity among half-celestials. So if this angel of yours exists, then people are bound to know who she is," Magnus said. He quirked a pale eyebrow at Drake's comments about not knowing much about angels or celestials. Survival was his thing right now. This made Magnus chuckle. He didn't mean to be rude. 

"Well, this is one hell of a world to just be 'surviving' in," he chuckled. "I take it you aren't originally from here then. Wanna tell me where you came from?"

Author: Firesong, Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 3:16 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

It was surprising, to say the least, at the sudden mass exposition of knowledge that was handed over without a pause.  This person might very well be a walking library…  

That within itself wouldn't be a bad thing.  If anything, it was a strange twist of fate.  Drake's thoughts paused.  Fate?  There was an odd anger that stirred in his chest at the word, as if to defy it's very existence in the young man's thoughts.  As abruptly as it came, it left with nothing to quench it.  What is wrong with me today?

"It sounds as though I may need to make my way up there sometime," Drake replied as he noted the names mentally.  I'll need a map eventually.  I can't keep relying on my memory. 

As Magnus spoke of resting, Drake couldn't help but agree.  The sea spirit seemed barely alive as it is; denying his rest would be an affront to the kindness that was already gifted to Drake.  The young man followed suit, and saw back down into the sand.  Oh…great.  More sand in places….  He let out an audible sigh.  

"Curious?" Drake questioned.  "Is there something about dark angels?"  Drake hadn't the slightest idea of angel-kind, though there was a nagging feeling in the back of his head like he probably should.  Well, to be fair, if I'm having dreams about them, I probably should know at least something.  Fire, destruction, and an dark, raven haired angel.  "To be honest, I don't know a lot about angels, or even celestials.  I haven't really taken the time to learn much about the world.  I've…mostly been just surviving."  It was almost a revelation of sorts.  Perhaps I'm wasting potential…

Author: Magnus, Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 3:02 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

There was no doubt that he had noticed, Magnus could see that in his uncertainty. And when he finally did take the offered hand, there would be no doubt he could feel the only half re-formed hand beneath the bandages. He wanted to ask. Magnus could tell. The quickly blurted question made Magnus chuckle and he scratched his chin. 

"It's abrupt to say the least, but I'll answer you anyways.My friend, true angels haven't been seen in Revaliir since before the fall Vada, and that was a VERY long time ago," he commented. "However, if it is celestials you want, then you are quite a ways off. All those of celestial decent, or half-celestials as they are commonly known around here all live up in Zets'Ki," Magnus answered. "They come in all colors and sizes up there. If this angel you seek is anywhere, she might be there," he explained. A sudden bought of fatigue, and he felt very winded. 

"I understand the out of it-ness," he chuckled. "Tell you what, how about we both sit down," he said. "Give me a chance to catch my breath and you a chance to really wake up," he said. He didn't really wait for Drake to reply before he was dropping to the sand breathing hard. "Forgive me," he apologized. "I don't have the physical capabilities I once did," he apologized. "I can barely get around these days, it is well and truly a pain," he explained. 

"Now you got me curious. You are looking for a dark angel. Not something a lot of people are looking for."

Author: Firesong, Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 2:17 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

He's limping along.  Drake nodded at the Sea Spirit's comment.  "It does seem that way.  It's very relaxing."  As he got closer, Drake couldn't help but stare at the state Magnus was in.  Despite his appearance, it almost seemed as though the spirit was almost half dead.  The young man shivered slightly, wondering if it would be offensive to note that in conversation.  

I'd probably best not, Drake thought.  It dawned on Drake that the individual had said his name and extended a hand.  How long have I been staring?  Drake took the hand and shook it.  "D-Drake," he replied in kind.  "I…uh…"  

Don't think about it.  Don't ask.  Just…think of something else.

"Have you ever heard of a raven haired angel with black wings?" Drake blurted out.  Stupid.  That makes no sense.  Come up with something better.  "Sorry, that's not a very…good conversation starter, is it."  What's wrong with me today?  That dream must of really put me out.  Drake glanced down, realizing he should probably let go of Magnus' hand.  

"I'm….sorry.  I seem to be a little off at the moment.  Must be still waking up from just now…a quick nap, you see…"  Because what weird person takes a nap on the beach so randomly?  Ugh, this isn't really panning out.  Maybe I should just…leave?  No, that would seem super awkward and weird.

Author: Magnus, Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 2:03 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

He drew closer to the figure on the beach and heaved a sigh of relief when the individual lying on the beach got up and stretched. If anything he appeared frustrated with it. Magnus wondered if such a young individual would have seen enough to keep him from sleeping. The young man looked fit, even ready for a fight, but Magnus was in no fit state to give him what he might have wanted. However, the wave was a pleasant one, and Magnus waved back as he limped up to the man who by all appearances was his own opposite. 

"Quite a fine day for a stroll on the beach wouldn't you say?" the sea spirit asked as he came up to the stranger. Despite his obvious lacking of physical capabilities to move properly, Magnus really didn't look any older than the stranger did. He offered the man a heavily bandaged hand. 

"Magnus," he said introducing himself. 

Author: Firesong, Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 1:14 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

It had been a foolish thing to do, and Drake should have well known better, but the peaceful waves crashing against the shoreline had lulled him into some strange sense of security that he had not felt in some time.  It was here that he took some time off to relax; it was here he had another dream.  The now ever constant dreams of flames and fear, of the world crashing down around him, of a raven haired angel reaching out for him, calling his name.  

Her name whispered back, his own hand held out.  And then silence and darkness.

Drake's eyes slowly opened to see the sky above, his hand outstretched to reach the phantom angel.  The sounds of the ocean came back, and he let out a sigh.  Am I not even allowed a nap?  He sat up slowly, noting that sand had unfortunately gotten everywhere.  Great.  Standing up, he stretched out, and shook himself off.  His hair swayed annoyingly in the sea breeze, and he continuously swept it out of his face.  

It was then he noticed a figure standing off in the distance, moving towards him.  It's not running.  Probably not hostile.   Drake raised his hand to wave.  Another gust of wind whipped around him, and he smiled.  Maybe he'd come away with something worthwhile in this encounter.  

Author: Magnus, Posted: Sat Mar 17, 2018 12:31 AM, Post Subject: Turning of Tides [PR]

The Nyella was the only thing that could be heard or smelled this far out from the town. The crash of the waves thundered and roared on the sandy beaches, while hermit crabs and gulls moved about the clumps of seaweed. Further south, the waves crashed down on the tide pools where the younger denizens of Abed might find starfish and shells. He sat on the rocks, and for the first in the longest time, could actually feel the spray of the surf on his face. His long white hair tossed on the ocean breeze and  he inhaled deeply. The feel of the spray, it was like new life returning to his half decayed body. He stood after a few minutes, his long robes lightly dampened by the spray, and carefully picked his way down the rocks again, the stiffness in his torso, legs and arms making it a bit of a feat. However, it was nice to be able to breath fresh air and not have to inhale through his mask. 

He waded in the surf, feeling the place of his origin touching the parts of him that were still flesh. Abed was a place of paradoxes, truly. Pristine, holy, and healing, while at the same time dirty, deadly and corrupt. He could see it. Years of being trapped in the warped reality of a chaotic god he had been forced to serve, had left him quite disillusioned. Nothing was ever as it seemed, the same way he was not what his half dessicated body portrayed him to be. 

As he walked along the shoreline he saw a form further down along the beach. Curious, he moved toward the shape.