{"id":233,"date":"2019-06-22T11:59:00","date_gmt":"2019-06-22T11:59:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/141.148.246.190\/index.php\/single-post\/wings-of-chaos-chapter-34\/"},"modified":"2023-09-29T12:07:55","modified_gmt":"2023-09-29T11:07:55","slug":"wings-of-chaos-chapter-34","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/blog.alexisveenendaal.com\/index.php\/2019\/06\/22\/wings-of-chaos-chapter-34\/","title":{"rendered":"Wings of Chaos: Chapter 34"},"content":{"rendered":"
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Chapter 34: The Sudden Fall<\/span><\/h2>\n
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There were very few cultists left alive, and those that were fled on the backs of injured wyverns. The castle continued its descent, and the companions were on the brink of exhaustion and death. Oszaren and Reverence went to Shale and Fillip, both of whom were bleeding heavily from necrotic wounds. They healed them as best they could, then sat back and caught their breaths. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Keelan walked over to Whisper in a daze, pressing a hand to his chest and healing himself. There were corpses of robed cultists and ogres littering the ground. The ogre deaths outnumbered them two-to-one.<\/span><\/p>\n

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The tabaxi knelt with his charred spellbook clutched tightly in his paws. The fiery wings in his back shuddered and retracted into him. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWhat happened?\u201d Keelan asked, wiping his tired eyes.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Whisper\u2019s face was strained and anxious, and he did not look up from his paws. \u201cIf it tries to run, kill it,\u201d he said through gritted teeth. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cIf what tries to run?\u201d Keelan asked. \u201cWhisper, wh\u2014\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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The tabaxi curled forward in pain. \u201cI BANISH YOU!\u201d He hissed, dropping his book and reaching for a crystal inside his robes. He held the large, milky white crystal up and pressed it to his forehead, muttering under his breath. He was groaning in pain.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Keelan didn\u2019t dare move any closer, but he drew his sword and held it up, ready for anything. He could sense an evil energy surging through the tabaxi, seeping out of him. The crystal in his hand began to glow hotly, and its interior filled with dark energy. It shook, as though ready to burst. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cI banish you,\u201d Whisper said again in a dangerously soft voice. <\/span><\/p>\n

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The crystal vibrated violently. There was a moment\u2019s pause, and then it exploded into a thousand shards. Keelan jumped back in surprise, but the evil energy seemed to fade. After another few moments of silence, the paladin said, \u201cAre\u2014are you okay?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Whisper looked up, his eye oddly blank, and said, \u201cI don\u2019t know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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They moved Shale and Fillip into the tower, where Aidra, who had been hiding inside, came to help. She rolled up two blankets and pushed them under their heads. \u201cYou defeated them,\u201d the elf woman said in surprise. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Reverence shrugged wearily but said nothing. <\/span><\/p>\n

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She nodded in understanding. \u201cI\u2019ll keep an eye on them.\u201d She pulled out a small leather bag full of goodberries and began mashing them. <\/span><\/p>\n

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The tiefling nodded and sunk to the floor, closing his eyes and letting the exhaustion sweep over him. Oszaren, however, excused himself and went out to the courtyard. \u201cWhisper,\u201d the half-elf said, eyeing him where he kneeled on the ground. Keelan had sheathed his blade. \u201cAre you alright?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cIt\u2019s trying to take over,\u201d the tabaxi said. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Rezmir\u2019s body lay near him, and he crawled towards it, reaching out a hand to pull the black mask from her face. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Like a sudden strike of a cobra, Rezmir\u2019s hand shot up and clutched Whisper\u2019s wrist, holding it firm. Beneath the mask, her slitted dragon eyes opened and stared. They all froze, and Whisper wrenched his arm free, hissing. Rezmir put an arm under her, clearly in pain. She stared, not at Whisper, but at Oszaren. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cYou really don\u2019t know what you are, do you?\u201d She rasped. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren\u2019s blade appeared in his hand at once. \u201cWhat\u2019s your point?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cLet me say my piece.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren\u2019s sword lowered a fraction of an inch and he inclined his chin. \u201cSay what you will.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Then, Whisper\u2019s paw was shooting forward, and he dug his claws into Rezmir\u2019s face. \u201cGET OUT!\u201d The tabaxi screamed. \u201cTAKE THIS ONE INSTEAD.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

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Before Oszaren could object, flames spiralled around Whisper\u2019s arm and shot into Rezmir, who struggled for a moment before her body, now glowing in the hot light, floated into the air. Whisper pulled back and they all watched the half-dragon\u2019s black form straighten in midair, the flames now coalescing around her and forming into her shape. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Shale and Fillip woke to a strange noise outside. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cTake it easy,\u201d Aidra said gently. \u201cThe goodberries helped revive you but you\u2019re both seriously injured. I wouldn\u2019t recommend\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWhat\u2019s happening?\u201d Shale demanded, dizziness hitting her as she got to her feet. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Reverence stood at the door, looking as though he\u2019d just gotten to his feet. His skin was still pale and laced with black tendrils. He looked barely alive. \u201cRezmir. She\u2019s\u2014glowing.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Shale ran out and heard Aidra call behind her, \u201cWait!\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Shale drew her bow at the floating figure of Rezmir, who was engulfed in red flames that didn\u2019t seem to burn her. She released but her arrow shot wide as spectral wings burst from Rezmir\u2019s form, flapped, and brought her a few more feet off the ground. An elated grin split across her dragon-esk face. \u201cAh,\u201d she rasped, \u201cTiamat! I knew she\u2019d come back for me!\u201d Her blade appeared in her hand in a flash and she rammed an elbow into Whisper, who went sprawling across the courtyard and didn\u2019t move. She then looked down at Oszaren. \u201cThe queen never told you what your fate would be, but I<\/em> chose the better one!\u201d She flapped her wings higher in the air. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Keelan ran after Whisper. Oszaren threw up his hands and a dark shadow crawled around his body, writhing and alive. Shale carefully held her arrow, waiting to strike. Reverence had raced around the wall and was scaling it, ready to strike at the airborne half-dragon. He paused, then jumped at her, wrapping his arms around her throat. Rezmir\u2019s reddish glow flickered and she dropped a few feet before the wings reappeared. She clawed at the tiefling, and Shale took her chance to put an arrow in her torso. She grunted, and the magical light dimmed, barely holding her aloft. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Rezmir still looked at Oszaren through the shrouding shadows. \u201cThe sword the champion won\u2026You and I can never rest.\u201d Her grip on Reverence\u2019s arms slackened. \u201cYou\u2019ll never find rest\u2026 Is this really the deity you want to serve?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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From the shadows came Oszaren\u2019s voice. \u201cWhat do you mean?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Whisper was crawling away to duck behind bits of broken stone. Keelan gripped his sword tightly in his hand and the divine light of his god seemed to radiate in his dark eyes, crackling along the blade. With a roar, the paladin charged. He kicked a boot into a fallen boulder and jumped, and the sword plummeted into Rezmir\u2019s chest. She gasped and Reverence released her as her wings disappeared. <\/span><\/p>\n

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She fell to the stone and Keelan planted his foot on her chest, slowly sliding the blade free and flicking off bits of dark blood. She gasped again, still alive but barely breathing. Keelan placed the tip of his blade at her throat as her eyes slid shut. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cI think now\u2014is your time for answers,\u201d Reverence said, jumping off the wall and looking at Oszaren.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren\u2019s hands lowered and the shadows around him fell. He stared at the half-dragon thoughtfully. He walked over, bent, and wrenched the black mask from her face with a grimace. The mask immediately remolded, losing its shape until it was flat with simple eye holes. Shale didn\u2019t doubt that it would mold to the next wearer. The warlock, however, simply held it in his hand and continued to stare at Rezmir. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cAlright,\u201d Oszaren said, \u201cI\u2019ll talk to her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Reverence nodded to Keelan, and the two of them heaved her up, leaning her against the wall. She coughed, and a bit of blood and spittle dribbled down her square jaw. \u201cShe won\u2019t live for very long,\u201d Keelan told the warlock as Reverence wrapped a length of rope around her wrists. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Shale very much doubted the half-dragon could stand, much less cast a spell. She stood a fair distance away with an arrow notched and ready.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren crouched in front of her, staring contemptuously. \u201cI know when I\u2019m beat,\u201d Rezmir retched, nodding toward the mask. \u201cCareful with that.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWhisper? Where are you hiding?\u201d Oszaren called, and the tabaxi stepped almost immediately out of the tower looking wounded but alive, his fey owl perched on his shoulder. Oszaren held up the mask. \u201cTake it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Whisper looked shocked and shook his furry head. \u201cI don\u2019t want it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren looked confused.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWatch her,\u201d Keelan growled to Reverence, then took the mask from Oszaren\u2019s hand and dropped it on the ground. He stared at it for a moment, then lifted his sword and slammed it back down. The mask didn\u2019t crack. It didn\u2019t even dent. He tried again, but nothing happened. The paladin stepped closer and stomped on it with his boot in frustration. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cI\u2019ve been defeated by a bunch of fools,\u201d Rezmir hissed, watching them with disdain. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Keelan swiped it up and stuffed it in his bag, turning his sword back on her. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren pulled his gaze from where the mask disappeared and looked back at Rezmir, and their eyes met. \u201cNow is the time for you to come clean,\u201d he said dangerously. \u201cTell me everything you know.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Rezmir snorted. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cIf you tell me what you know, it might postpone your meeting her<\/em>.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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The half-dragon studied him, her breathing pained. \u201cHear me, then. Perhaps you\u2019ll decide the same as I did.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren tilted his chin.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cI was once like you. I fought fervently for the Raven Queen\u2014until I found out what she truly is, what she truly does to her\u2026\u201d she spat the word, \u201cchosen<\/em>. The sword and the champion are one. You\u2019ve formed an eternal bond with the sword. You\u2019re no longer mortal. The spirit is connected to the sword. Even in death, you will not find peace\u2014always being a slave to the Queen. I tried to find a way out,\u201d she coughed, which turned into a hacking fit, bringing up more blood from her mouth. \u201cThis is what I get<\/em>,\u201d she finally managed to say. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cIt\u2019s not a good deal,\u201d Oszaren admitted, sounding troubled. \u201cHow did you end up with the Raven Queen?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cLike you. I was searching for something of great power. I stumbled across it, picked it up\u2014unknowingly\u2014didn\u2019t know what it was. Until I was tied to it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cAnd you think Tiamat was the better option.\u201d It wasn\u2019t a question, but Rezmir smiled, showing bloody teeth. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cTiamat has given me the strength to disconnect myself from the Raven Queen. Tiamat\u2019s spirit,\u201d she seemed to lose her breath, and nearly fell into another coughing fit. \u201cHer spirit sustains me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cSo, what you\u2019re saying is that,\u201d Oszaren\u2019s forehead creased, \u201cwhen we die, our soul becomes part of the weapon?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cExactly,\u201d Rezmir said, her eyes gleaming maliciously. \u201cNow you see. The Queen is insane. The blades are evil,\u201d she hissed, \u201cwe should destroy them.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren straightened and stood. \u201cI don\u2019t think Tiamat is much better.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cTiamat,\u201d she said, \u201cknows the purity and power of dragons. She does not enslave. She frees.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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There was a silence, and Reverence said impatiently, \u201cAlright, Oszaren\u2014are you about done with this scum?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren nodded slightly. \u201cYes. I think I am.\u201d He looked at Rezmir for the last time and said, \u201cYou are alone in this.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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In one swift movement, the tiefling grabbed Rezmir\u2019s head and twisted, hard. Shale could hear the neck break even where she stood, and she saw the body slump down. Oszaren summoned his blade and severed the head from the body. The scaly flesh around the blade turned to ash and there was an airy gasp as Rezmir\u2019s essence floated up like a dark mist and was sucked into Oszaren\u2019s blade. The sword next her body disappeared in a flash, and the rest of her body crumbled into ash.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren stared at his blade, then cleared his throat. \u201cI guess there is one less of the chosen, now,\u201d he said, and his blade flashed away. <\/span><\/p>\n

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He brushed through the ash with his boot and clanked against something metal. He picked it up and saw a pair of brass knuckles. He pocketed them with a shrug and turned to Whisper. \u201cCan you help Reverence?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Reverence looked surprised. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Whisper tilted his head at the monk, whose pale orange flesh was still tightly knit with darkened veins. Shale could still sense the undead aura around him, and became suddenly, uncomfortably aware of it again. The hairs on her neck stood. \u201cI can\u2019t. Not now,\u201d Whisper said. \u201cMaybe later.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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The tabaxi looked exhausted. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWhat happened to you?\u201d Keelan asked, putting a hand on the wizard\u2019s shoulder, which he had to reach up to do. \u201cI thought I was going to have to kill you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cI thought so too,\u201d Whisper said, chuckling softly. \u201cThere was a dragon. A red dragon. It possessed me. I\u2014I can\u2019t speak draconic anymore.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cDragon?\u201d Oszaren asked. \u201cHow?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cIt was in the book,\u201d Whisper said quietly, clutching his paws in front of himself nervously. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Shale slung her bow over her shoulder and stepped closer to them, and Fillip stumbled out of the tower with Aidra to join them. \u201cWhat book?\u201d Keelan asked. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cMy spellbook,\u201d Whisper said.<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWhat\u2019s happening?\u201d Fillip asked wearily, showing almost no sign of his usual gusto. Aidra stayed back but listened. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWhisper was possessed by a red dragon from his book,\u201d Keelan provided. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cOh, great,\u201d Fillip said, sauntering nearer. He eyed them all in their haggard state and said, \u201cI think we could all use some healing!\u201d With that, he made a flourish in the air and a healing spirit in the shape of himself, but unclothed, appeared before them. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWonderful,\u201d Shale said sarcastically, but stepped through the healing spirit anyway. A warmth filled her.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Aidra laughed nervously. <\/span><\/p>\n

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The castle, Shale noticed, was slowing its descent now. \u201cWe should check on Blagothkus,\u201d she said, looking up at the tower. She realized it was strange they hadn\u2019t heard from him. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cI\u2019ll come with you,\u201d Keelan offered, and Whisper trotted after them as they made for the tower. <\/span><\/p>\n

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They crossed over the scattered bodies of slain ogres. There were few dead cultists among them. Keelan shook his head sadly at the fallen stone giants. \u201cThey fought well,\u201d the paladin said. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cWait for us,\u201d Reverence called, and the rest jogged through the door and up the blood-streaked stairs. The ever-burning blue flame still burned up the central column of the spiral stairs. <\/span><\/p>\n

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They reached the top of the tower and saw immediately that something was wrong. Blagothkus leaned against the transparent wall holding his gut. The front of his robe was soaked in blood and he wasn\u2019t moving. The giant\u2019s skin was pale and his eyes were open but unseeing. Keelan drew in a breath at once, and Shale knew there was nothing they could do for the giant. He was dead. \u201cA necrotic wound,\u201d Keelan said as they walked over to Blagothkus. She saw the black veins running along his skin now that they were closer. Keelan bent anyway and tried to heal him. Light filled his hand as he touched the wound, but he shook his head. An amulet hung around the giant\u2019s neck, and Keelan glanced at it, then took it and stepped back to examine it. <\/span><\/p>\n

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The steering column was dripping in blood and its light was dim. Oszaren walked to it and placed a palm on the sphere. \u201cI feel\u2026 anger and shame inside the castle.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cDo you think it\u2019s him?\u201d Shale asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren was quiet for a moment, concentrating. \u201cI think so. I can still feel the sadness from before, from his wife, but it\u2019s far off now. Only he’s here.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cCan you\u2014move his spirit\u2014to join his wife?\u201d Reverence asked. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren looked at him blankly, then reached into his bag and took out a silver raven\u2019s statue. Hesitantly, he touched it to the sphere and closed his eyes, his other hand on his chest. The snake tattoo around his forearm glowed green and shifted. He stayed like this for a full minute while the rest waited quietly. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Oszaren\u2019s eyes closed and he concentrated, reaching out for the Raven Queen. He felt her presence drift into his mind, and a hollow female voice said, That\u2019s our job. I\u2019m glad you realize it now.<\/em> In her voice, he could hear pleasure. Death is not the end. Spirits, souls, they lead a new life after this. Whether these two end up together\u2026 well, that is up for them to decide. I sense a lot of turmoil between them.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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Watch over their souls,<\/em> Oszaren whispered in his mind, and the presence faded. He opened his eyes and looked at his friends. \u201cI did what I could,\u201d he said. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cCan we bring the castle down?\u201d Shale asked quietly. \u201cI\u2014I need to get off.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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Whisper used a spell to clear the blood from the column. <\/span><\/p>\n

\u201cWe can\u2019t forget the dragon beneath the castle,\u201d Keelan pointed out. \u201cThis fight isn\u2019t done yet.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cI wouldn\u2019t mind going to the beach when all of this is done,\u201d Fillip sighed dreamily. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cI\u2019ll try to bring it down,\u201d Oszaren said, touching the runes on the sphere. Nothing happened, but he felt resistance. He shook his head. \u201cI can\u2019t control the castle. I just sense shame and anger. It won\u2019t listen to me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cTry talking to it,\u201d Keelan suggested.<\/span><\/p>\n

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Again, Oszaren closed his eyes, this time projecting his mind into the castle. Tell us where they\u2019re keeping your children. We can save them.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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The frustration boiled up, and the voice of Blagothkus came into his mind. It\u2019s no use. It\u2019s over. I failed. <\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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You didn\u2019t fail,<\/em> the warlock told him. You have us. We can help them. We can save your legacy.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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My legacy is nothing\u2026 I remember, now\u2026 I\u2019m not the giant I thought I was\u2026<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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What does that mean? <\/em>Oszaren asked but received no response. We all have a chance at redemption. This is yours.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

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The rage and pain subsided somewhat, and the castle continued drifting Northward. Oszaren released the sphere and his hands dropped to his side. <\/span><\/p>\n

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In the silence, Shale looked around at the people she\u2019d travelled with for the past half year and felt a sorrowful emptiness. \u201cI think I\u2019m done,\u201d she said hopelessly. \u201cI can\u2019t go on. I,\u201d her voice cracked, \u201cI have nothing left in this fight.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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They all looked at her. \u201cThe cult\u2014is still out there,\u201d Reverence said. \u201cWe haven\u2019t stopped Tiamat, only slowed her progress.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cAnd we still have our promise to fulfill to Blagothkus, to find his family,\u201d Oszaren said. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Shale\u2019s shoulders fell and she said, \u201cI need to rest.\u201d With that, she descended the stairs of the tower, going down until she reached the lowest landing, then moving over to the curtained staircase that led to Rezmir\u2019s chambers. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cShale,\u201d Keelan called. <\/span><\/p>\n

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She\u2019d been so wrapped in her thoughts she hadn\u2019t heard him following, even in his plated armour. She turned to look at him. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cYou don\u2019t have to be alone,\u201d he said, somewhat awkwardly. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Whisper peeked around the stairs and stood next to Keelan, smiling in a very uncharacteristic way. There was something very different about the tabaxi. The darkness that had always been in him seemed to have gone. What was left was a naivety. He tilted his head, the ruby gem in place of his missing eye sparkling curiously. \u201cWe\u2019re all friends,\u201d he said. <\/span><\/p>\n

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Shale cleared her throat and blinked quickly. \u201cYes, I suppose you\u2019re right.\u201d She gave a weak smile. \u201cAlright, come on then.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

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The three of them descended the smaller stairs, leaving the stench of ogre behind, and found the lavish room beneath. It was unscarred by the battle. The thick rugs and large bed looked incredibly inviting, but Shale moved first to the wardrobe and opened it, checking for traps. Keelan checked the rest of the room, sensing what she was doing. Inside the wardrobe, she found a leather cloak. She took it out and wrapped it around her shoulders curiously. <\/span><\/p>\n

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She looked at Whisper as the tabaxi bent and started a fire in the hearth. It flared up at once, crackling warmly. \u201cLooks nice,\u201d the tabaxi said lightly. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cOszaren said he\u2019d be first on watch,\u201d Keelan told her, eyeing the bed, then sighing and planting himself next to one of the armchairs. He began unhooking his bracers but kept the breastplate on. They were still in the company of a dragon, after all, albeit a hiding one. Then, he settled in and Shale tossed him a blanket. Whisper had already curled up in front of the fire where the drake had been before. It seemed like ages ago, now, when they\u2019d first landed on the castle tower atop wyverns. Shale crawled into the large bed and leaned into the thick pillows, looking over her friends. Their faces were peaceful, but battle-worn. She let her eyes drift closed, and a dreamless sleep swept over her. <\/span><\/p>\n

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\u201cThere\u2019s something moving through the fog,\u201d Oszaren whispered, waking them.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d Keelan murmured sleepily. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cIt\u2019s cold.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cThat\u2019s nice,\u201d Shale added groggily, then rolled over and went back to sleep. As she did, she heard Oszaren mutter, \u201cReverence didn\u2019t care, either\u2026 Honestly, you people\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n
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\n
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\n

Keelan\u2019s sleep was filled with visions. He was thirteen. He was standing in the forest, and the scenes seemed to shift before him, fading in and out of memories. The trees rustled in the breeze, and he sat with his friends as they laughed. He stood with his old teacher, the elven prince. They were both mounted on horses. Then they were swinging wooden swords at one another, practicing their steps. He felt a calmness fill him and the dreams faded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Then, he was standing in blackness. There was nothing except the sound of his own breathing. A wall of fire erupted in front of him, exploding in a burst of blinding light. He was encircled in flames that licked hundreds of feet in the air. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Some of the fire folded back into a hundred-foot tall figure, made entirely of the flames. The figure sat and a chair of fire appeared beneath it. It looked down at Keelan and spoke in a rumbling, primordial voice. \u201cWell done, my little phoenix. These wizards have violated my name for too long. I trust in you. Go, now. Keep doing what you\u2019re doing. Show the world the purifying power of our flame.\u201d Our flame<\/em>. Yes, Kossuth<\/em>, Keelan thought. The flaming face seemed to smile, and the dream faded. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n
\n
\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n
\n

Oszaren woke Shale for her watch, and she climbed the stairs, wrapped in Rezmir\u2019s leather cloak. She went up to the tower and peered out over the expansive courtyard, which was shrouded in fog. An unnatural chill filled the castle like a disease.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

She jumped when she heard Aidra\u2019s voice. She hadn\u2019t noticed the elf was sleeping in the tower. \u201cI can tell you\u2019ve felt great loss,\u201d she said and gave a sad smile.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cI have,\u201d Shale admitted, feeling a lump in her throat.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWe all have,\u201d she said quietly. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWho did you lose?\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Aidra reached into her cloak and pulled out a large, crumpled brown feather. \u201cThis was Nero. I raised him, fought with him\u2026\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Shale squinted at the elf and saw something she hadn\u2019t noticed before. \u201cYou\u2019re a follower of Gwaeron?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Aidra dipped her head. \u201cThat blade you carry,\u201d she pointed at Shale\u2019s back, where her moonblade was sheathed, \u201cGwaeron must really trust you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cI thought I was worthy to carry it, once,\u201d Shale told her, \u201cbut now I\u2019m not so sure. I\u2019m not the ranger I was.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

She seemed nervous, hopeful. \u201cI\u2019ve heard he can bring back the things we love.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Shale reached into her pocket and pulled out the tied bit of fur she\u2019d cut from Trigger\u2019s tail. \u201cYou think he can bring back something that\u2019s died?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cI\u2019ve heard of a place,\u201d Aidra told her, tucking the feather away. \u201cA small forest. The last resting place of Gwaeron. I planned to go there, before I was captured.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Shale pressed the bit of fur to her chest, and the two rangers shared a look. \u201cWill you take me there?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cOf course,\u201d Aidra said.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Shale looked back over the foggy courtyard, feeling suddenly hopeful. \u201cWithout my fox, I have nothing left to live for,\u201d she said. \u201cNo one else to love.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Aidra stepped away and returned to her bedroll. Shale stood and waited out her watch, then woke Fillip and went back to Rezmir\u2019s chambers to sleep, allowing the warmth to take hold. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n
\n
\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n
\n

Oszaren\u2019s sleep was not made for rest, either. He stood in a low-lit, familiar forest of dead trees. The sky was dotted with sparse stars, and there was a winding dirt path. Without thinking, he walked the path, and his steps seemed to bring him farther than they had before. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Ghostly apparitions passed him in a blur, half-formed and noiseless as they moved swiftly by, all headed in the same direction. His head snapped back and forth as he watched them. Ahead of him, the trees cleared, and a fortress appeared in the distance. Then, a new apparition stopped in front of him and formed into something solid.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The figure was tall, elven, wrinkled. He had a bald head, but in his pointed ears were jewels. He was cloaked in black, and at his belt was a dark flail. He looked Oszaren up and down, expressionless. \u201cThe Queen wants to see you,\u201d he said. \u201cFollow me.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Oszaren didn\u2019t recognize the elf but walked after him. As they continued toward the fortress, some of the ghosts crossed their path, but the elf paid them no mind. Some followed for a while, then drifted away. There were men and women of all ages. Some were elves, half-elves, humans, dwarves. People of every race and gender.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The elf noticed Oszaren staring at them and halted, \u201cThis is where the departed come to find their way. It is our job to guide them home.\u201d He turned, then, and continued walking. \u201cCome. Our Queen seeks an audience with her new champion. There will be tests.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Oszaren finally found his voice. \u201cThat\u2019s not very reassuring,\u201d he said uncomfortably, the fortress looming closely now. \u201cWho decides where the souls go?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cThe souls are all destined to be judged in the next plane. Every soul is tethered to the wheel. We\u2019re born, we die,\u201d he gestured to some of the souls surrounding the walls, and Oszaren noticed pale, ghostly umbilical cords hooked into the backs of their necks. The cords all came from the fortress. They were there for a moment, then flickered out of his vision. His glimpse of it was gone. \u201cThat is what ties us to the planes,\u201d the elf explained. \u201cIt keeps the world tethered.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

They silently walked beside one another for a minute before they reached the massive black iron gates, which opened for them without prompt. The fortress itself was made of sharp, dangerous stones. It was not a welcoming sight. They came to a large door, and the elf threw it open and pointed inside. \u201cIn,\u201d he commanded.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

There was only inky blackness. Oszaren glanced at the elf uncertainly. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cThis is where she\u2019s called you,\u201d he said. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Oszaren hesitantly touched the darkness with his hand and it instantly vanished. He retracted it, and it reappeared in front of him. \u201cWhere does this lead?\u201d He asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cIt leads to her.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Steeling himself, he stepped through. He looked up and saw an entryway lit by pale, whiteish lanterns that seemed to burn without flame. Within, more spirits milled around. Now he could clearly see the cords hooked to the base of their heads, all converging upwards into the ceiling. He looked up and saw stairs to a second level. A few of the ghostly figures looked terrified or unsure as they drifted by. From the distance, he could hear wailing cries and mournful shouts. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The elf said, \u201cThis is where mortals go to die.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWhy do all of them look so tormented?\u201d Oszaren asked softly.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He sighed, drawing his black cloak closer to himself. \u201cIt\u2019s not possible for mortals to know where they go when they die. Even you seeing this has caused your connection to fade.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Oszaren looked up and saw a cord extending from his own spine and up into the ceiling. He grabbed for it and his hand passed through. It flickered, as though dying. \u201cWhat happens if the cord is severed?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cIf the cord is broken, you are no longer part of the wheel. Without that, you cannot return to the astral sea when you die. You cannot be reborn.\u201d The elf started up the stairs and Oszaren followed. \u201cThis is your first test. And as a champion of the Raven Queen, your cord will <\/em>be broken.\u201d They continued up the stairs with soft footfalls. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWhat will happen with my soul when I die?\u201d Oszaren finally asked. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The elf gave him a sideways look. \u201cThat is for the Raven Queen to decide.\u201d At the top of the stairs, there was a door. He put a hand on it and turned to Oszaren. \u201cIf you go through this door, you will see her, but you will also lose your connection completely. This is your chance to turn back.\u201d He warned. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Oszaren drew in a breath and stared at the door.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cThe Queen has seen something in you,\u201d the elf said. \u201cShe\u2019s called you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWhat happens if I don\u2019t go in?\u201d he finally asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The elf dipped his head. \u201cShe is not unmerciful. She understands this is a hard step for mortals to take. But know that if you do decide to enter, you will become stronger. As the Queen\u2019s chosen, you will be greatly rewarded.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWhere did Rezmir turn away?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The elf smiled. \u201cI say \u2018when you go in, there\u2019s no going back\u2019, but that is not the case. One person has done just that, with the help of another, powerful god.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Oszaren stared at him, then pressed his hand to the door, pushed it open, and stepped through. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

More blackness. He took a few steps forward and could hear things moving in the darkness around him. A creature entered his vision: pale skin pulled taut over bone, sunken eyes, completely white and blind, and arms turned to sharp claws. It looked back at him, and he felt a sense of loss. Sudden regret pulled at his stomach as he felt himself moving into nothingness. Is this what his life had been leading to, all along? He\u2019d always excelled, pushing himself to higher learning. First, he\u2019d been a mercenary, fighting and serving others in wars that were not his. Then, a scholar, learning everything he could from the pages of books. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Now, he told himself, was his chance to fight for a nobler cause. For a calling higher than his own. He clenched his fists and kept walking, and the figure passed out of his vision. He felt himself pulled further along the path.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Now, he saw beady-eyed creatures, their backs hunched and pained, their skin brownish and decaying. One creature had a rope attached to a severed arm, and dragging at the end of the rope was its hand. He sensed incredible loneliness in them. To be immortal was to be without friends. There would be no connection for him to mortals if he carried on. He would be alone. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

But, he could guard souls through their journeys. He could protect his friends from the darkness of the world. He would see them go through their mortal cycle, yes, but he would be there for many lifetimes. He could meet others. He could help them, too. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He continued forward, and the scene shifted.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Small, spiny creatures with leathery red skin and wide mouths filled with dozens of tiny sharp teeth were crawling about at his feet. They hissed and growled, moving in restless circles. He felt an overwhelming anger at the injustice of it all. He looked around and could suddenly see again the many souls passing through the dead forest around the fortress. Many were young. Some were clutching each other fearfully, looking desperately lost. If not for the mysterious gift the Queen had bestowed on him, he might\u2019ve ended up like any of these souls, their lives shortened before their time. What separated him from them?<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Nothing separated him from them. He was the same, if not for the Queen. She gave him his strength. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He pushed ahead. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He entered a large chamber. At the end was a throne with a woman seated at it. He approached, his footsteps echoing eerily in his wake. He reached the foot of the throne and saw the woman was pale, elven, and not fully there. When he tried to focus on aspects of her, they seemed to flitter away, then reform. At her feet was a writhing mass of black feathers, constantly churning as though trying to stretch out to her. On her lap, she held a sword, and Oszaren recognized it as Rezmir\u2019s. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

She inclined her head with a grim smile. \u201cCongratulations, Oszaren,\u201d the Queen\u2019s voice was familiar and deep. \u201cYou\u2019re one of mine, now. You now live to help with the turning of the wheel.\u201d She shifted on her throne and more of her form fluttered, then reformed. \u201cWe deal in dark things. We must not latch onto the darkness itself, however. We are apart from it. You must remember that.\u201d <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He felt a tug on the back of his neck and looked up as his cord pulled away and vanished. He felt strange, but not unwell.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

She spoke again. \u201cMy hexblades were once my greatest warriors. They protected me as I built my empire and formed myself a place amongst the other gods. They were, regrettably, wiped out. But, now,\u201d she smiled again, \u201cthe first of them is back.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cI\u2019m the first?\u201d Oszaren asked. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The Queen\u2019s eyes flashed with a hint of darkness and her grip tightened on the hilt of Rezmir\u2019s sword. \u201cYou are, now. The other betrayed me.\u201d She held up the blade to him and said, \u201cThis is now yours.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Oszaren stared. \u201cI have one, already,\u201d he managed to say. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cTake them both, and find the next who is worthy, and shares your desire to make the world better. This,\u201d she held his gaze, \u201cis your first task. There should always be three.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

The warlock took the sword and knelt at her feet, ignoring the churning mass of black wings, and turned his gaze back to hers. \u201cThank you, my lady.\u201d He said humbly. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

She seemed amused at his expression. \u201cDo you have any more questions for me, Oszaren?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

This time, he didn\u2019t hesitate. \u201cWhat happened to our giant friend? There were two souls in the castle, but I think one left.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

She leaned back. The Raven Queen\u2019s dark eyes seemed to look at something far off. She watched for a while, then returned. \u201cOne is trying to get to this place, but the other is\u2014stuck.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Oszaren dipped his head. \u201cI will try to help.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

She arched an eyebrow. \u201cAnything else?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He thought. \u201cWhat will happen when I die?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cYour soul,\u201d she said wistfully, \u201cwill go into the sword and live on. They were made from their previous owners. It\u2019s the price we must pay for controlling the wheel, since we can\u2019t be a part of it.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWill I be able to connect, and pass on the knowledge and skills I acquired during my life?\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cYes. Just as you will learn and grow with your blade, and soon acquire the knowledge and skills from the one who wielded it before you.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

He tried to comprehend that, and his gaze drifted down to the black wings.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Suddenly, he was plummeted in darkness and awoke with a gasp. He sat up and saw Rezmir\u2019s blade lying next to his own. He reached for them both, and they vanished, but he knew he could call them back when he needed. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n
\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n
\n
\u00a0<\/span><\/div>\n
\n

Shale woke hours later with a dull headache but felt more rested than she had in ages. She pulled off the covers and saw Keelan and Whisper were still asleep. She stretched, cracking her neck and drawing the leather cloak back around her. The last time they\u2019d properly slept had been in Fillip\u2019s sister\u2019s lodge. She could hardly believe how much had happened since then. Reverence wandered in to wake them and gave her a nod as she passed him on the stairs. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

She climbed to the top tower and saw Fillip and Aidra were already up and talking. The elf was quiet and withdrawn, but Fillip made up for it with his usual cheeriness. Shale was surprised to see that he didn\u2019t seem to be flirting with the elf. Perhaps something had happened to him during that battle. They had all nearly died, after all. She gave them both a polite smile, then looked down on the courtyard. It was still foggy. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cWe need to kill that dragon,\u201d Oszaren said seriously, stepping up beside her. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

She looked over at him and crossed her arms. \u201cAgreed.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cDo you still have that vial of oil I gave you?\u201d He asked.<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cThe one from the swamp castle?\u201d She dug into her pack and pulled it up from the very bottom. <\/span><\/p>\n

\n

\u201cThat\u2019s oil of etherealness,\u201d he explained. \u201cIf you put it on your skin, it will change you\u2014momentarily\u2014into a spirit. You can pass through the castle unhindered, and unseen by any living creature.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Shale smirked, clutching the vial in her fist. \u201cI can look through all the tunnels and find out exactly how to get the dragon.\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

\n

Before the warlock could say anything else, Shale rushed from the room.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/article>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n

<\/main><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

The adventure continues as the companions fight their way through the flying, frozen castle and speak with the defeated Rezmir. They deal with the aftermath of possessed friends, dying spirits, and lost souls, and must decide where to go next.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":769,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"episode_type":"","audio_file":"","cover_image":"","cover_image_id":"","duration":"","filesize":"","date_recorded":"","explicit":"","block":"","filesize_raw":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[11],"tags":[18,19,17,14,15,13,16,21,20],"series":[],"class_list":["post-233","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-wings-of-chaos-dungeons-and-dragons-series","tag-campaign","tag-cult-of-the-dragon","tag-dnd","tag-dungeons-and-dragons","tag-fantasy","tag-hoard-of-the-dragon-queen","tag-series","tag-wings-of-chaos","tag-wizards-of-the-coast"],"episode_featured_image":"https:\/\/blog.alexisveenendaal.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Giants-Gamble-Blog-PhotosArtboard-3-copy-12.png","episode_player_image":"https:\/\/blog.alexisveenendaal.com\/wp-content\/plugins\/seriously-simple-podcasting\/assets\/images\/no-album-art.png","download_link":"","player_link":"","audio_player":false,"episode_data":{"playerMode":"dark","subscribeUrls":{"amazon":{"key":"amazon","url":"https:\/\/music.amazon.ca\/podcasts\/09c34bbc-b359-49af-a286-31830ed5634c\/short-stories","label":"Amazon","class":"amazon","icon":"amazon.png"},"apple_podcasts":{"key":"apple_podcasts","url":"https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/short-stories\/id1621456328","label":"Apple Podcasts","class":"apple_podcasts","icon":"apple-podcasts.png"},"google_play":{"key":"google_play","url":"https:\/\/podcasts.google.com\/feed\/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbGV4aXN2ZWVuZW5kYWFsLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Qvc2hvcnQtc3Rvcmllcw","label":"Google Play","class":"google_play","icon":"google-play.png"},"google_podcasts":{"key":"google_podcasts","url":"https:\/\/podcasts.google.com\/feed\/aHR0cHM6Ly9hbGV4aXN2ZWVuZW5kYWFsLmNvbS9mZWVkL3BvZGNhc3Qvc2hvcnQtc3Rvcmllcw","label":"Google Podcasts","class":"google_podcasts","icon":"google-podcasts.png"},"spotify":{"key":"spotify","url":"https:\/\/open.spotify.com\/show\/0lcQCRs52MfYlKs35lVX4K","label":"Spotify","class":"spotify","icon":"spotify.png"},"itunes":{"key":"itunes","url":"https:\/\/podcasts.apple.com\/us\/podcast\/short-stories\/id1621456328","label":"iTunes","class":"itunes","icon":"itunes.png"}},"rssFeedUrl":"https:\/\/blog.alexisveenendaal.com\/feed\/podcast\/default-podcast","embedCode":"

Wings of Chaos: Chapter 34<\/a><\/blockquote>