Ah sweet, I'll be late too. Gotta get a Halloween costume!

I love the style you used for the text today, Griff! ^-^

Alrighty then. Btw, @Radiant will be late, if they show up at all.

@Fade better get over here soon, I can't RP without her! X'D

I'm here for a quick second!
Hello all you peeps

Hey Griff! :3

*appears using popsicle-inhaling device* I'm heeeeeeeeeere

@Lilly: Would you like it if I roleplayed with my 3ds? I'm just commenting from my computer because I was studying on it.

Hey, @Fade!

@Fade Sure, that'd make it a bit easier for me X3

Muahahaha, I'm excited for today! >:D *rubs palms together*

@Lilly: And I'm quite terrified on account of your excitement. xD

Hey @Aggron!

@Lilly Oh no she's laughing evilly!

Let's see, Turtlee said she'll be late, and apparently Radiant is too, I don't have a clue about Fluffy, and Pika's out of town again... is there anyone else we're missing?

Aggron's here but they went mia for a bit I think

And I'm fully here now :p

Hmmm, alright. Should we start or not?

Small crowd today. :o Glad you're fully here, Griff!

Thanks Fade, and yeah we may as well start so the others can just jump in when they get here.

@Fade Small crowd indeed :s

@Griff Alright, I can start, then :p

@Lilly Alrighty, go ahead XP

(*takes the magic stylus and twirls it around* Time to give Maelstrom a bad day... >:D )

hey nerds :>

(Here's a question, has @Quiscalus officially dropped from the RP? I don't recall seeing a written resignation.)

( @Aggron I don't know, Ive been meaning to go around and find out everyone who's left. But I think it'd be safe to say @Quiscalus left :( )

@Lilly: T-T

@Blood: WRONG RP CHUMP *boots*

Noooo you can't boot meeeee *screeches*

Brb, mom wants me to relocate.

mom: Come on, it's only sixty-seven degrees outside.

me on the inside: Sixty-seven? Are you aware that the temperature has varied between 78-100 degrees Fahrenheit this past summer, yet you expect me to adapt to sixty-seven? T-T

After finishing her popsicles, Sherry bounces off of Xzar's back, putting the left over sticks into a trash bin and also getting a napkin to get the ice cream that had dripped onto her off. Afterwards, she bounces over to the exit of the shop, smiling at Xzar. "I'm all ready now! Ooh, ooh, Mister Xzar, can we walk back to Chrysos? That way we can see all the pretty flowers and stuff!"

Maldius patiently waits outside the shop, waiting for the little dragonet inside...

@Blood: *throws a fish*

You can't throw fish at people, that's rude >:Y

(Maldius: *inhales* Something smells fishy about all this...

@Blood Haha, I myself am totally fine if you snoop, that's actually how I joined TDS in the first place, I was secretly snooping in on of the RPs and was like, "Hey, I want to be a part of this..." 'XD )

( @Griff Yeah, I think so too.
@Blood Yeah, you've got your own RP now! Quit snoopin' in ours! I've already had one idea stolen from me as it is!)

(*one)

Back!
@Blood: *throws boot full of fish*

( @Aggron/Griff I remember @Quis stating in-RP one time that she was dropping out :/ )

The snoop life is my life, besides I want to read what Lilly has planned :P

Having long since given up on resisting Sherry's demands, Xzar slowly dipped his head. "Very well then," he sighed as he approached the bouncy dragonet. Guiding her with his wings, Xzar exited the ice-cream shop and squinted at the street, searching for the correct path to Chrysos.

( @Lilly Oh. :[)

{At the Palace, Ardens continues his conversation with Erwen.}"So, where in the palace are you going to keep all of our Chrysos visitors for the time being?"

Sherry hops away from her guardian, trying to find which direction they ought to go. She pauses slightly, then turns back to Xzar, waving. "I think we need to go this way, Mister Xza-"

The dragonet's sentence ends in a scream as invisible blades tear a large gash in her side, and then another invisible blow slams into her, sending her flying with a horrid crash into the wall of the ice cream shop. Sherry crumples into almost a ball as she screams from both agony and fright, the tear in her side bleeding badly. "M-MISTER XZAAAAAAAARRR!!!"

Erwen thought for a moment. "There aren't many from Chrysos so I believe we could house most of them in the visitor quarters and medical wing. At least for the time being."

//No!// Xzar roared in alarm and fury, charging immediatrly over to where Sherry had crashed. He eyed her wounds before coiling himself around her protectively. //Why did they attack her? Why couldn't it have been me?// Snout curled back in a snarl, Xzar's eyes darted around, searching for their unseen attacker.

Ardens:"That should work. Get the guards to round them up, then we'll question them, just to make sure they weren't involved."

{By the ice cream shop, onlookers gaze in horror at the scene. One of them approaches Sherry.}"Hey, kid, are you ok? Aw, jeeze, that's not looking so good.....Uh, medic?"

Maldius chuckles darkly, though his illusion magic hides it. The merciless dragon then turns, flying up to land on a rooftop, watching his fool of a partner with intrigue.

Sherry shivers and weakly reaches out to her guardian with one hand, her other hand clutching at her painful injury. "I-it hurts, M-Mister Xzar!! Help me, PLEASE!!!" the dragonet cries.

( @Aggron Oops, didn't see your comment XP )

Xzar's head snapped up as he scanned the area for some sort of medic shop. "Hang on," he growled, scooping the bleeding dragonet in his talons and launching himself into the air. Wings beating as hard as his heart was, Xzar raced toward the palace. //Somebody, help her! This is all my fault...//

Erwen nods and calls one of the nearby guards over to him. "I need you to go and bring all of the Chrysos visitors to the palace and get them rooms in the visitor's area. And bring them here peacefully." The guards bows his head. "Yes sir!" The guard then turned and left to gather reinforcements.

{Ardens bows to Erwen}"If that is all, I'll be taking my leave now."

The dark dragon Maldius leaps into the air and silently follows Xzar, but from a distance. //He truly seems concerned about... how terribly horrific for him.//

(*about her)

Macgyver stood in his room, pacing back and fourth, occasionally muttering to himself.
"What will the Queen say? Will she initiate war? It's far too risky to just let them leave, who's to say they won't kill again? Oh why did I pick this as my job? I could of been a Botanist or a Florist...."

Erwen turned his attention back to Ardens. "Yes of course, thank you for your help."

(Hey @Turtlee! ^-^ )

(Hi @Turtle!)

(I SWEAR TO GOD IF SHERRY DIES

I WILL DO HORRIBLE THINGS TO MYSELF)

( @Turtlee *darkly* Then you better hope Xzar finds a healer quickly...)

( @Lilly Maldius is going to be in big trouble if Sherry dies I swear)

(Sorry if my replies will be slow, I really need to get certain studies done.)

Xzar reached the castle in a matter of minutes, and without pause he barged through the palace doors. "A doctor! I need a doctor!" he roared, urgent voice echoing down the wide corriders.

(I know, neither Maelstrom nor myself will be very forgiving if you kill Sherry off. T-T)

( @Lilly- *Holds a lighter over a perfectly yummy cookie* DON'T MAKE ME DO IT. I WILL SET THIS COOKIE ON FIRE)

{As Xzar comes through the doors, Azureus happened to be passing by.}"W-what? What happened?"{She sees Sherry's condition as she approaches.}Oh, no, not you too! Hand her here! I can stop the bleeding!"

Erwen heard Xzar's voice and rushed to the entrance where he saw the three dragons. He ran straight to Xzar, avoiding Azureus so he wouldn't disturb her. "What happened?! Who did this!"

Gradually, Sherry's agonized screams die down to painful whimpers and cries, though the dragonet feels... some unseen force calling her... into a dream, perhaps? "... So... sleepy..." she mutters, her eyes closed despite feeling reluctant.

Xzar hesitated to obey the stranger at first in case she was the dragon who attacked Sherry, but the desparation of the situation finally overcame his wariness. With gentle talons, Xzar handed little yellow dragon over to the dragoness. An unfamiliar feeling was running through the exile, like his heart was being twisted and wrung with violent claws.

//Stay awake, Sherry,// Xzar silently pleaded as he eyed her.

{Quickly, Azureus closes her eyes and begins to mutter words as she gently runs her claws over the wound. As her hand passes over the wound, it clots and closes instantly.}"Sherry? Please say something."{Ardens, having just arrived, watches from the back of the room.}

Mac hears the sound of dragons gathering down the hall. He peeks his head outside the door and looks at the others in confusion.
"Is everything alright?" He calls down the hallway.

The dragonet does not open her eyes, but... after a moment, she quietly whimpers, "... Miss Azureus...?"

(Ah sorry @Griffin, I missed your comment. D:)

Xzar eyed Erwen momentarily, barely hearing his question. "The attacker was invisible... I do not know." The thought reminding him of the danger Sherry was still in, Xzar glanced at the palace doors, eyes straining to catch any movement or signs of a disguised dragon entering.

Maldius waits just outside the doors to the palace, listening. //And here I was, trying to make my mistakes up to him...//

{Azureus sighs in relief.}"Yes, dear, it is I. We need to get you looked at."{Azureus proceeds to carry her to the infimary.}

Erwen stayed silent and watched Azureus' progress with clear worry on his face. "Azureus do you need anything brought to you?" His voice was quiet.

"I'm scared... Mister Xzar...?" Sherry pitifully calls before being taken away to the infirmary.

Unsure of whether Sherry was truly okay or not, Xzar followed Azureus to the infirmary. "Everything will be alright," he muttered comforingly to the little dragonet when she spoke.

{After a moment of silence, Azureus speaks to Erwen as she walks, not even looking at him.}"If I do, one of the medical staff will let you know."{Upon entering the infirmary, Azureus places Sherry into a bed and alerts the medics.}

{She then approaces Xzar. Her voice has an uncharacteristicly cold tone present in it. }"How did this happen? Tell me everything."

At this, Maldius turns and leaps into the air, first to find his blind dragon, Scratch. Not even stopping to speak a word, the dark dragon swoops down and snatches up Scratch mid-flight, then turns and heads toward Vitis' direction.

(Going to get a costume, will be slow to reply.)

Not getting a response, Mac layed back down and soon fell asleep.

( @Turtlee Righty-O :p )

Erwen just stood there awkwardly, he refused to enter the infirmary and instead waited by the doorway, peering inside. His worried expression had changed to one with vague anger.

(Okie dokie @Turtle!)

Xzar turned to Azureus and replied to her question. "We were exiting a shop in the city. She stepped out first, and while I was still coming out, an insivible dragon attacked her," he explained. "Carrying her here was the first thing I did. I do not know who the culprit was or where they went."

{Vitis is casually stealing everything he can get his teeth on and placing it into a large bag. At the moment, he is going through everything he stole on a rooftop. Gold, jewels, knives, food, various potions, a wolf skull, and, of course, antidotes.

Maldius lands close to Vitis, also setting Scratch down. Completely ignoring Vitis' pile of stolen goods, he declares, "Vitis, I have grave news. My partner-Maelstrom-has turned his back on us and our rebellion."

{Azureus thinks for a moment, then abruptly leaves. Upon returning, she places a bag on the floor of the infirmary and pulls out the blanket that Sherry gave her. She puts it over Sherry then speaks to everyone waiting in the hall.}"Everyone, get in here! You too, Erwen."

{Vitis looks up at Maldius with a disbelieving look.}Whaaaaat? Are you sure? How do you know?"

Xzar watched the dragoness, unsure of what she was up to but trusting that Azureus was doing it for Sherry's good.

Sherry has drifted off into a rather peaceful slumber, her breathing steady.

(Hey there, just dropping in to say I'm probably not joining. I don't feel up to doing this RP today, and besides none of my characters have a role in this anymore.)

Erwen slowly walked inside the infirmary and settled himself a few paces away from Azureus. He kept his eyes on Sherry and stayed silent.

"While we are sowing the seeds of rebellion among the citizens of Solaris, he is eating ice cream with a dragonet, whom I assume is an orphan," Maldius explains, pacing to and fro upon the rooftop, "I attacked the dragonet just now, and he seemed panicked, truly concerned about her. He's become distracted from the goal he pledged his life to!"

@Radiant: Aww, alright then. Are you not going to attend today or are actually leaving? :0)

(Aww, I'm sorry, @Radiant... I hope maybe next time you'll join us :/ )

Vitis:"Well, that sucks. You know what, no. He promised us a rebellion, and he's going to help! If he cares so much about that little brat, than we'll kidnap it and use it as leverage!"

(Aww alright @Radiant, I hope you can join us next week.)

(Fade: If I feel like joining in next week then I will. Haven't decided yet. I actually have more fun just watching you guys.)

( @Radiant Awwww, ok.)
{ As Ardens walks in last, Azureus reaches into her bag and pulls out a metal box with runes carved into it. It's like the one Dr. Zolaf used with Nox, only much bigger.}"Listen up! I'm not sure who it was who attacked Sherry, but whoever they are, they were apparently invisible. This is a Sacred Lamp. Normally, small ones are used to ward off dark spirits. This one, however, is strong enough to strip away illusion magic. Until the culprit is caught, guards will be posted in the infirmary, and this lamp will remain on."{Azureus places the lamp on the wall above Sherry's bed and undoes the latch, preparing to open it.}

The dark dragon chuckles at Vitis' suggestion. "I had supposed we ought to kill the child, but I like your idea more." Maldius curls his tail around, taking a scrap of bloody yellow and orange fluff off the blades at its end, offerring it to Vitis. "The dragonet is absurdly tiny, with fur the color of sand and fire, eyes a bright blue, like the sea, and large ears. I'll leave the task to you, my Great Plumed Serpent. Try not to make a scene, would you?"

(OH MAN XZAR U BETTER RUN BRUH)

(I WILL NOT LET IT HAPPEN
Xzar: YOU SHAAALL NOOOT PAAAAAAASSSSS!!!)

{Vitis grins and bows.}"Leave it to me!"{He smells the patch of fur}"Any idea where she is now?"

Remembering with a start that he himself was under a disguise illusion, Xzar stepped forward. "Wait!" He paused, scrambling for an answer for his actions. "Give the lamp and box to me. I will go out and hunt the culprit myself."

"In the infirmary inside the palace, along with Maelstrom, who is disguised as a plain red dragon that goes by the name 'Xzar.' It sounded like the dragonet has friends in high places, however, be on your guard." Maldius looks down at the bloody fur, and begins playing with it, moving it along his claws.

Erwen glanced over at Xzar. "We hardly know you or your status here, we cannot trust you with such an item." He stood up and blocked Xzar's path to the lantern.

{Azureus turns and tilts her head towards Xzar.}"While I appreciate your willingness to help, this is a very rare and powerful artifact from the an ancient league of daedra hunters. I can't just give it to you."

Sherry mumbles something about Lennox and Erwen in her sleep, her dreams now seeming troubled by nightmares, judging by the worried look on her face.

{Vitis grins.}"Okay, come nightfall, she will be ours."

The dark Exile grins, his expression as cold as the Frozen Wastes he came from. "Yes... she will be ours... and now, we wait..."

Xzar narrowed his eyes at Erwen and flicked an ear toward Azureus, but he maintained his calm. "Then please protect Sherry as I go out to find the attacker. They are most likely going after me. I have.... enemies, so it would be best if I departed from her and confronted him myself." He turned and took a step in the direction of the door. "Please escort her to Chrysos once she is well, and tell her that she will no longer see me for her own good."

Erwen kept his gaze on Xzar and was about to say something but hearing Sherry he directed his attention back to her.

{Ardens steps in front of Xzar.}"Hold on, enemies? Going to confront 'him' yourself? Clearly, you know who did this. Exactly who is after you?"{Azureus once again reaches up to open the lamp.}

A growl started up in Xzar's throat and his head lowered, but he had little choice but to answer. "Maldius."

Sherry had gone quiet again, though she wasn't at ease. Suddenly, she jumps in her sleep, tears starting to run down her face. "M-Maldius... go away...! Stop... don't hurt him... Stop it...!" The dragonet grips at the blanket, trying to cover herself, as if to hide from her nightmares, as her breathing quickens.

{Ardens' expression changes to one of hatred.}"So, it's true. He's here."{Azureus turns once again from the lamp}"What? Maldius! How do you know?"

Scratch hissed loudly at Ardens and Azereus, but Maldius' magic mutes it.
"Pesky heathens!"

(Maldius: Wow Scratch, you sure can move fast. I thought you were with me and Vitis on the rooftop?)

(Ah forgot to add that he was looking through Azereus' eyes, whoops)

Xzar paused and turned to watch Sherry, listening until her mutterings quieted. "He is capable of all forms of illusion magic, and... one of the only dragons who knows who I am." //But why is he after me? Has he finally decided to get rid of me and ascend to the sole place of leadership in my rebellion?//

( @Turtle Ahh, alright XP )

Being distracted from the fur in hus claws, Maldius turns his head to look at Scratch. "What is it?"

(*his)

The old blind dragon scowled at the floor. "They're aware of your prescence here...."

Mac, who was unable to return to sleep, wandered the halls of the palace again. He whistled a tune as he walked, getting used to his new leg.
(Don't really know what do do right now)

Erwen growls. "We need to get rid of Maldius, I'm finished with the chaos he's causing!" He dug his claws into the stone floor, making it crack. He turned to Xzar. "I don't care who you are, but I'm going with you to find him."

{Ardens tilts his head.}"Is that so? And who are you really?"{Ardens motions towards the lamp. Azureus, taking a second to understand exactly what that meant, throws the door on the lamp open. The light floods the room. Ardens can feel it burning, but pays it no mind.}

(RIp Xzar)

(Oh nooo)

Mac heard Erwen speaking to a stranger, and walked towards where he heard them. "Is everything alright, your Magesty?"

(Oh noesssss
Oh well, this makes it exciting. Maybe Mael will finally get to fight for the first time in existence.)

Maldius narrows his slit yellow eyes. "What else do they know, Scratch? Tell me everything."

(Necromancer to Maelstrom:"Your move, Dr. Robotnik.")

Scratch looked empty, like he usually did when he read minds and conversations. "They're looking for you..."

Xzar sensed his disguise faltering, and in the moment that the infirmary was flooded wuth light, he leapt over Ardens with a pump of his wings and made a desperate gallop toward the exit. //They cannot find out. Sherry cannot find out. It will endanger her!//

(If I happen to meddle with your plans, please tell me. I'm just really bored and can't really do anything.)

Maldius quickly rises to his feet, spreading his wings. "Scratch, stay with Vitis. I'm leaving the area, I can't let them find me here, in the city. Tell Vitis what they're thinking, so maybe you'll know if I am in danger. Vitis, if all goes well, your order to kidnap the dragonet remains in effect. I shall return... eventually." Without another word, the dark dragon leaps into the air, ready to fly a long way, if he has to.

(Mael to Mal: You cannot escape from meeee...!!)

(Maldius to Maelstrom: Perhaps not, but you'll be easier to kill when you're alone...)

{Ardens ducks as Maelstrom leaped over him. For a second, he can see through part of the disguise. All he caught was what looked like a shiny gold breastplate.}"What the-"{Ardens then gives chase to Xzar}"Hey! Get back here!"

( @Turtlee None of this was planned. Go ahead and throw Mac or someone into the fray!)

Mac watches what was going on, not getting a proper response from anyone. "Sooo...." He said, watching Maelstom run away.
"What did I miss?"

(Walmart sucks.)

Xzar was seconds away from escaping, but just as he reached the doorway, he collided straight into Macgyver, sending both of them tumbling into the corrider outside the infirmary.

(Whoops, my comment was late. Go with whayever you guys prefer.)

( @Turtlee You pick)

( @Fade I think this works perfectly XD)

(The only thing I had planned today was Maldy-boi attacking Sherry and Sherry's dream, lol :p )

When Xzar bolted out of the room, Sherry started muttering again, tears still dripping from her face. "... It's... so dark... Why... is the moon black...? ........ No... no, I don't like that song... It scares me...! AAAAHHH!! Mister Xzar, help me...!! She's gonna get me... Ma'vare's going to get me!! Don't leave me...!" Suddenly sitting upright in bed, Sherry screams, "MISTER XZAAAAARRRRRR!!!!"

(Poor Maelstrom has a record of colliding into random dragons. xD)

(Aaand, a comment that contradicts the current situation. How to react to everything that's going on...)

Mac shreiked in alarm as a dragon collided with him. He struggled to get up, dazed and quite dizzy. "I-I'm ooof- Im sorry..."

{Finally noticing Sherry's plight, Azureus approaches her.}"Shhhh, it's ok. It was just a nightmare. You're safe."

(... I'm sorry, I was afraid I'd be terribly slow :s )

(It's alright. xD Were you wanting Maelstrom to stay because of Sherry's dream?)

{Taking advantage of Maelstrom's misfortune, Ardens jumps upon Maelstrom and grabs on to his neck, attempting to drain his energy. It does not work, however, because Ardens is in contact with metal, not flesh.}"Where do you think you're going?"

( @Fade Either way is fine with me, I only really needed to just have that last post said. It'd probably be better, in the current situation, if Maelstrom ran away XD )

(What is even happening)

( @Griff Um, what exactly does that type of energy do?)

Mac wiggled helplessly around, trapped under Maelstrom. "Sir, I hate to say it, but you are really heavy..."

(Toss you around? I'm tired I don't know anything at this point)

( @Ardens HE'S GOING TO DISNEY WORRRLLLD)

Sherry reaches over and hugs Azureus tightly, crying hysterically. "M-Ma'vare's coming for me... M-Mister Xzar?" The dragonet turns and wipes the tears from her eyes as she searches for her guardian, but, seeing as he has fled, Sherry sheds more tears. "Wh-where'd Mister Xzar go?"

(I am so confused right now. XD)

Maelstrom snarled, now a deeper and more hollow sound, and violently shook Ardens off. Through all the chaos, his mechanical ears detected Sherry's pleas, but he blocked them out and pumped his mechanical wings, fleeing by air. //I'm sorry Sherry... it will be better this way. You're better off without me.//

( @Fade you and me both)

(Aaand, I missed Griffin's comment yet again. Do I want Xzar to be caught or no? Either way would be interesting.)

(Nah do what you want, I'm deleting my random comment .-.)

(I'm jumping onto my ds brb)

( @Griffin: Haha, alright then.)

Maldius, meanwhile, has flown to a familiar forest, the same one he arrived at when he first returned to Argo. He lurks in the shadows. //Now, let's see if they find me, or if I came out here all for nothing.//

(And I'm back in the world of 3d)

( @Griffin Why are you jumping on your 3DS?! You're gonna break it!!

jk, jk XP )

(Uhhh, as far as what's going on, I think Azureus is comforting Sherry, Ardens is getting thrown off of Maelstrom and into the nearest wall, Erwen is derping out, Mac was being crushed by Xzar/Mael, but is now free, and Maldius is the biggest troll known to RP history.)

Mac struggled to his feet, coughing. Smoke lightly billowed off of his back, and it was obvious that he tried to set himself on fire. "Ow...."

( @Aggron: Yup, sounds about right.)

( @Lilly: Really? T-T)

( @Aggron XD )

(Welcome back to the world of 3D, Griffin!)

{Azureus leans to look down the hallway.}"Erm, let me get back to you on that......."{Ardens hits the wall hard and falls to the floor dazed.}".....Ow........Mac.....Don't let him......get away........"

After standing confused for the entirity of all these events happening Erwen snapoed out of his daze and ran into the hall. "Mac, Ardens...are you two alright?"

(Erwen's derp is going to 100 percent.)

(snapped* my god my spelling is terrible)

(Maldius: *eats popcorn while watching all this on a random TV*)

{Ardens gives Erwen a reassuring hand signal.(like a thumbs up)}"I'm....good. J-Just.....give me a minute."{The light magic sapped more of his strength than anticipated.}

Before Mac could respond, he zipped after the strange dragon that bumped into him. "HEY! Ummm... I order you to stop! Visitors are not permitted to leave!" He beat his wings as quickly as he could.

(Sorry, I gotta roleplay from my computer for a little bit. I need to get a drawing done in less than an hour, and I've only just started it. xP)

( @Fade That's alright with me XP )

(Alrighty @Fade)

Xzar glanced through the corner of his eye at his pursuer before beating his wings harder, trying to lose him. He swept through the hallways, wingspan so large that his wingtips touched either wall, yet he dared not slow down. //Almost out,// he thought, eyes narrowing in determination.

Macgyver followed Maelstom's every move, knowing the hallways by heart. //He's gonna try to escape out the entrance!//

"Please Sir, I highly advise you to stop!"

Erwen watched Mac follow Xzar then offered a paw to Ardens. "You don't look so well, do you need anything?"

Sherry goes quiet for a while, but after a momen, she covers her face and cries. "I don't want him to go, Miss Azureus..."

(BRB)

(I'm so used to typing Xzar that I'm still writing that even when he's no longer under disguise. x'D)

A second glance behind him told Maelstrom that Macgyver was not going to fall behind that easily. Flaring his wings, the cyborg swooped to a stop and spun around, hovering in the spot. Inhaling deeply, he let out a huge burst of fire, igniting the stone floor and creating a blazing barrier between him and his pursuer. Not waiting to see if he had stopped, Maelstrom turned and continued to weave through the hallways.

{Ardens accepts Erwen's paw and stands up.}"Thanks, but I'm alright, really. I'm just not good with blunt force trauma. We can't let him escape. He might know where to find Maldius. C'mon!"{Ardens then follows the sounds of the chase through the cooridoors.}

{Azureus sits for a moment, unsure what to say to the dragonette. Azureus saw more than the others from where she stood. She clearly saw a golden furnace occupying the thorasic cavity of that dragon. She knew who Xzar was, but was unsure what to make of it.}"I'm sorry, Sherry, but Mr. Xzar has to go figure some things out on his own. Perhaps after that, he will return."

( @Fade He's not disguised anymore?)

Erwen quickly followed after Ardens, his speed helping him catch up in seconds. "He seems strong, how're we going to stop him?"

( @Aggron: I don't think he is. How far does Azureus' lantern magic go?)

"I don't want him to go..." Sherry repeats, quietly, then sobs quietly for a couple minutes. "... I had scary dreams, Miss Azureus..." the dragonet says after she's calmed down somewhat.

(Derp, I put "quietly" two times in one sentence. I guess Sherry's being doubly quiet.)

(Haha, I hate it when that happens.)

{Ardens thinks for a moment.}"He has a furnace in his chest. That might be the source of his power. I'll go around and throw off his bearings. Once he crashes, I need you to hold him down with your telekenesis. While I can't manipulate his furnace with my fire magic, I might be able to suffocate his flame with an even bigger one. Get ready and mind that fire wall."{Ardens goes out a window, exiting the cooridoor where Maelstrom put up his wall of fire.}

( @Fade Just the infirmary and into the hall a little ways. If he's still diguised, disregard everything Ardens just said.)

Mac leaped through the fire wall, smoke sizzling from his scales. "That's it, no more mister nice Mac. GET BACK HERE!" He ran off again, using his wings to propell of of the walls as a boost. He shot a plume of fire, hitting one of the coridor shelves, setting it ablaze. Mac wasn't far behind Maelstrom, but still couldn't quite catch up.

(I sense a battle coming on.... At laaaaast....! *dark laughter*)

(Oops, sorry Turtlee! Let me rewrite my comment.)

Erwen nodded in confirmation and sped up, he kept running until he was right in front of the wall of fire. Without stoping he charged through the fire then went down a seperate hallway, a shortcut to the palace entrance.

In a matter of moments, Maelstrom found the the palace entrance and burst out of them the same way he had entered. He hovered outside the doors for a moment, scanning his surroundings for where his next destination was. //Where would Maldius hide...?// The sound of approaching wingbeats caused him to whip around and watch as Macgyver exited as well. //Persistent, are we?// The exile exhaled another plume of fire in his direction before taking off down one street.

(Ok, we rollin' with it then.)
{Ardens follows Maelstrom from the side, pushing through his exauhstion in order to keep at the same pace as him.//C'mon, Erwen, catch up allready!//}

(Oh, whoops, had you guys wanted to tackle Maelstrom while he was still in the palace? I can definitely rewrite that, I won't mind.)

Maldius lies down in the shadows of the trees, anxiously awaiting some kind of battle, and insanely bored. He lays his head on his paws, sighing as he curls his tail around himself. //Hurry up and come looking for me so I can beat the life out of you, whoever's coming for me...//

Mac followed him, ducking behind a crowd to hide himself. He sidewinded behind shops and tents, so Maelstrom wouldn't see him.

A few dragons were screaming , as Maelstrom's fire set a tent aflame.

Erwen opened his wings and took flight then burst through the entrance. He saw Maelstrom heading down into the streets and darted after him, diving down towards the ground to gain speed.

{Azureus smells the smoke and sees the chase from the infirmary window.}"Sherry, I'll be back very soon. Here."{Azureus calls over a nurse.}"Her name is Cathrine. If you need anything, she'll help. I won't be long, I promise."{Azureus heads down the hall.}

Eyes flickering over his shoulder, Maelstrom detected two more pursuers, but the first one was nowhere to be seen. He readied himself for the unavoidable battle to come.

"B-but Miss Azureus...!" Sherry helplessly watches the dragoness leave, powerless to do anything. For the first time in a while, Sherry feels... well and truly alone. "I'm sorry, Adrianne," she sobs, covering her face once more, "we should've never gone to the mountains... Please come back... Adrianne... Mister Xzar... I miss you..."

( @Fade No need, this is a street fight now! Shoryuken!)

{//Finally! Get ready, kid!//Ardens swoops in, grabs Maelstrom's wing, and uses his weight to drag Maelstrom to the floor.//Ooohhh, this is going to hurt.....//}

Mac was closer to Maelstrom, still doing his best to hide behind the crowds of dragons shopping.

Erwen spread his wings again and circled over the street. He watched Ardens as he dragged Maelstrom towards the ground and swooped down to attack.

Mac stopped in front of the three dragons. He set a ring of fire around them, making sure no outsider would approach the battle.

A few dragons screamed and ran away in alarm.

(Sorry for disappearing! I'll be a couple more minutes.)

( @Fade No worries!)

(Alright, phew I'm back. Sorry for holding you all up.)

(wb @Fade! :) )

Maelstrom roared angrily when a weight suddenly landed on his wing, wrecking his flight and sending him plummeting downwards. Twisting around, the cyborg exhaled fire toward Ardens.

{Ardens extends his hand towards the flames and uses his magic to warp them around himself. He braces for impact as the ground draws ever closer.}

Snarling loudly, Maelstrom curled his wing, pulling Ardens closer to himself and clamping his jaws around his throat. He then pulled as hard as he could in an attempt to wrench his attacker off. //I'm not falling for that!//

(Brb real quick :p )

(Haha, do you see the brilliant pun I accidently made just then? XD)

(Okay, @Lilly!)

{Ardens roars in pain when Maelstrom grabs him by the throat. However, he refuses to let go.//This could be our chance to finally find Maldius! You're not getting away that easily!//}

(sorry for disappearing, I'm back)

Maelstrom's attempts to remove Ardens from his wing were not successful in time, and he finally crashed onto the street below, his golden breastplate ringing loudly when it struck the cobblestone.

Erwen landed and swiftly ran towards where Maelstrom had struck the ground. He jumped and pinned Maelstrom's other wing under his claws.

The cyborg dragon let out a steamy hiss and snapped at Erwen while at the same time pushing against the ground, trying his best to not be pinned down. //They cannot defeat me! I must escape!)

{The shock of hitting the ground finally throws Ardens off of Maelstrom. He hits the ground and tumbles across the cobblestones.//Up to you now, kid.//}

(I think I was late....)

Erwen shifted his position so that Maelstrom's wing and part of his body was pinned under him. Bright, golden fire formed around his maw as he clung onto Maelstrom with his six limbs.

//That's IT!!!// Sick and tired of waiting, Maldius finally decides to go searching for his enemies himself, but as he gets up, he spots a small creature out of the corner of his eye. A four-legged, brown, fluffy thing watches him. Grinning sadistically, the dark dragon eagerly turns to the strange creature, almost drooling at the prospect of a fight. "YOU THERE! FIGHT MEEEE!!!" he roars, causing his opponent to turn and flee in a panic. "I WILL MURDER YOU AND YOUR FAMILY AND BURN DOWN YOUR HOUSE!!! HehehahaHAHAHAHA!!!" Maldius declares, chasing the poor deer through the forest like a dragon who's lost his marbles.

(I'm back, guys X3 )

(Hey, @Lilly! So, Maldy-boi wants to fight something? I'll give him something to fight! Mwahahahahaha! >:D)

(Oh my goodness, Maldius... Don't lose your cool as well... TuT)

(Hey @Lilly!

oh no Maldius.)

His other wing now free, Maelstrom beat it madly and at the same time exhaled another burst of fire, this time toward Erwen.

( @Aggron Go for it XP

@Fade Hey, at least he isn't trying to half beat, half clean the deer with a mop.)

Macgyver opened his mouth, dark plumes of smoke escaping his jaw. It successfully blinded Maelstrom's vision, but also blinded everyone else.
//Ooops...//

Erwen stiffened for a split second, there was no way he could get out of the fire's way in time and prevent Maelstrom from escaping. All he could do was shut his eyes as the fire burned parts of his face and neck but he kept a firm hold on Maelstrom.

( @Lilly: Haha, true that. XD)

(Oh noes, now that I've said that, I'm imagining Maldy-boi going around, smacking people on the head with a magic mop while laughing maniacally.

*falls to knees overdramatically* WHAT HAVE I DONE!?)

While Erwen was not focused on him, Maelstrom pulled his mechanical wing from under Erwen with a mighty tug, the canvas-like material shredding as he did. //I won't be able to fly far, but at least I will be able to go some distance.// Just as he readied himself to take flight, Macgyver's black smoke obscured his vision, confusing him for a split second. //What the--?//

(First Candy Land and now this... I'm disappointed in you, Maldy-boi...)

{Ardens crawls towards the fight, despite his injuries.//I hate having to hide. If I was wearing my armor, I wouldn't be in this position. But, I have no choice. I have to suffocate that furnace.// Ardens then begins to manipulate the fire ring that Mac created, causing it to burn hotter and spread to debris in the street.}

Erwen felt the wing get removed from his grasp. With his balance unstable he stumbled off Maelstrom and fell. Erwen brought a paw to his face, his burns beginning to flare in pain. The smoke surrounded him making it harder to see and stung his eyes.

(Nice going, Mac.)

(Maldius: @Fade Lilly made me do it!)

(*turns to Lilly* I'm disappointed in you too.)

( @Fade *plays the Rick-Roll theme*)

( @Lilly Omg No!)

Finally free from the grasp of other dragons, Maelstrom beat his wings, chasing away the black smoke before taking flight. However, his damaged mechanical wing threatened to buckle under him, and he made slow progress.

(I WILL BURN YOU AND ALL THAT YOU LOVE)

(Or should I say...

WYVRICK-ROLL)

(I am so done)

{As Maldius chased the deer, a voice rises from the forest.}"Oi! Moldius! What's your rotten vegetable rear end doin' back in our neck of the woods?"{It's the voice of the draugr commander that won't stop insulting Maldius.}

(See you. *exits room and TDS universe and curls up in a dark corner*)

Mac shot upwards out of his smoke cloud, into view of Maelstrom. "OH NO BUDDY, YOU AIN'T GETTING AWAY! YOU HAVE TO PAY FOR PROPERTY DAMAGE AND...." Mac continued to ramble, while attempting to fly after the mechanical dragon.

(Brb, I need to eat something or my stomach is going to consume itself.)

(Maldius just gets his trollishness from me, lol

@FADE NO COME BACK, I'LL MAKE WHALE CALLS UNTIL YOU RETURN *shrieks whale calls*)

Erwen struggled up to his feet, one of his eyes sealed shut due to his burns. He spread his wings and took to the air, just managing to make Maelstrom out. He flew past Mac and crashed into Maelstrom, grabbing onto one of his legs.

(Alrighty Fade.

Run just run!)

(Ooooh, things are about to get salty up in these woods!)

Maldius stops in his tracks, his eyes glowing like a yellow flame as he lets out a deep, distorted growl. "YYYYOOUUUUU..." he snarls, Mystic flames building in his throat as he searches for the source of the voice.

(*freezes in place when hears whale sounds* They...They're calling me... *comes back to TDS universe and floats into room*)

( @Fade Hooray! Haha, you can go eat, though XD )

Maelstrom roared upon the unexpected impact and, wing unable to take it, toppled back toward the earth and crashed yet again into the stone streets. He twisted around to snap at Erwen again. "Get of of me!" he spat.

( @Lilly: XD My dinner is gonna take ages to cook, so I'm roleplaying until then.)

( @Fade Alrighty then :p )

(Also, I'm not gonna be able to roleplay much longer today. I have gotten practically no homework done, and I'm gonna feel the effect of it tonight.)

( @Fade Awww, that's a bummer... well, I understand :s )

{With Maelstrom out of range, Ardens extinguishes the fires and just lies in the street. //Ugh, of all the dragons that could have appeared, why the one that I'm completely not equipped to deal with?//}

( @Fade That sucks...I haven't done any homework either if that helps.)

(ITS SO HARD TO SKIN A PUMPKIN MY GOD)

Erwen growled and sent a blast of fire towards Maelstrom's face. He then leapt to his feet and prepared to fight.

Not able to dodge in time, Erwen's fire struck Maelstrom's face, although it could only burn the leather sails along his spine. The cyborg scrambled to his feet and faced his opponent, letting out a challenging roar. Almost unnoticeably, his eyes flickered to the horizon and then immediately returned back to Erwen.

Erwen returned the challenge with a roar of his own that sounded more like an earsplitting screach. Erwen's scales were glowing fainly, the light magic running through him was healing his burns until he was glaring at Maelstrom with two healthy eyes.

{Azureus made her way from the palace and lands behind Maelstrom.}"Maelstrom. Stop this."{Suddenly, a flood of water crashes into Maelstrom from underneath him. The water rises, attempting to extinguish the furnace.}

{In the forest by Maldius, the draugr's voice originates from a dark cave.}"Didn't we tell you? You'll never be rid of us, no matter how many times we die!"

Maelstrom scraped his claws along the cobblestone beneath him, preparing to charge Erwen, but he froze when he heard his name called out. Caught off guard, he twisted around just as Azureus' torrent of water collided with him, knocking him over. //No!// he gasped, feeling the water rush inside his furnace and drench most the flames within. When the water cleared and leveled out, Maelstrom's mechanical body was revealed, lying limply on the ground. His jaws lay parted as he gasped for breath, damp air rattling his golden frame. Only a small flicker remained inside the furnace that was his heart.

Maldius growls, the sheer hatred he feels giving him a headache--or is it something else? "I hate you... ALL OF YOU!!" the dark dragon roars, charging furiously to the cave the draugr's voice came from.

(Cont really do anything, just gonna watch :/ )

After seeing Maelstrom limp on the ground, Erwen fell over in exhaustion. Breathing heavily he looked up at the three other dragons. "Are you three alright?"

{The cave is completely black. Absolutely nothing can be seen.}"Heheheh, you fool! I set a trap, and you sprang it gloriously!"{While they can't be seen, a legion of human draugrs stab Maldius from all sides with poisoned spears.}

(Maelstrom: Derp, there goes my partner-in-crime-who-tried-to-kill-my-only-friend. I'm not sure whether I should feel bad for him or not. U-U

XD)

( @Maelstrom Yep, he just dun goofed. That's why you should never leave your partners-in-crime all by themselves X'D )

{Ardens does not answer, as he passed out a little while ago. Azureus walks up to Maelstrom.}"I know your not a puppet of Maldius. No creature under him would have the heart to protect an innocent child. You didn't need to run. Help us find Maldius. Help us end his reign of terror. If not for us, do it for Sherry."

(Vitis to Maldius:"What did you do? Didn't I tell you to be careful? What are you thinking, Maldius!?")

(Maelstrom: *shakes head* I can't believe you. First you wreck my evil plans, then you attack my friend, which leads to my capture, and now you get stabbed by a billion zombies?)

Still limp, Maelstrom narrowed his eyes at Azureus. "You think it's that easy to defeat Maldius?" he rasped, a challenge in his voice. "I know him, and he's much more powerful than you think he is. Be warned." His eyes darted to the horizon again, then reverted like it had never happened.

Maldius roars furiously as purple lightning arcs around him. The dark dragon quickly unleashes a shockwave of his Mystic element in an attempt to throw back his attackers.

(Maldius: HE INSULTED ME *pouts whilst being stabbed*

Sorry, got distracted for a moment XP )

{The shockwave blows the draugrs back. The momentary light reveals that the cavern is not only immense, but absolutely stuffed with draugrs of all types. And at the back of the cavern stands the monster Vitis described. Thick armor, a helmet made into the likeness of a bull, a massive double-bit axe, and it stands as tall as Maldius.}"We're not letting you get away this time!"{The draugrs once again crash into Maldius from all sides.}

(I'm afraid I have to leave now, I need to get some things done while I have the chance. It's been fun everyone!)

(Alright then, Griffin! See you!

I won't be able to stay for more than an hour and a half longer.)

(Yeah, I've gotta go too. I've got a swim meet tomorrow.)

{Azureus walks around Maldius and looks him straight in the face.}"We know just how strong he is, which is why I'm asking for your help. Do you honestly think Maldius will forget about Sherry if you leave her alone. That monster won't stop until we're all dead."

(lol, Azureus got her Mals/Maels mixed up XP
Aww, alright, see you @Griffin and Turtlee!)

Mac stood behind them, staying silent. His claw tapped against the floor occasionally as he stared down at the dragon that he once-feared, in his now pathetic and defeated state. "They're right, Maelstrom. Join us, you could be great help."

(I'll stay for a bit longer)

( @Lilly cut me some slack! They both start with M. Bye @Griff and Turtlee.)

(Mmmm okay bye for real! I'm tired!)

(Or not @Turtlee.)

(Jeeze, I'm late. Again.)

Sherry's petrified face during the attack flashed through Maelstrom's mind, reminding him of the impending danger he had put her in. "I know that," he rumbled, then met Azureus' gaze, eyes unwavering. "...Which is why I must face him alone." Just then, the quick approach of wings could be heard, but before anybody could react, three mechanical dragons, nearly as big as Maelstrom in size and just as heavy, swooped into the clearing. One dropped on top of Azureus, pinning her down, a second planted itself between Maelstrom and Macgyver, and a third landed beside the cyborg. The latter robot exhaled flames onto Maelstrom's furnace, bringing life back into him, and he rose to his feet, energy restored. "Do not think I am abandoning Sherry," he said to Azureus. "But I cannot both protect her and fight Maldius. I leave her in your talons." With that, the cyborg turned and departed, two robot dragons staying behind and the last one accompanying Maelstrom.

*perilous, not impending, geez.)

The dark dragon's eyes widen upon beholding the horde of undead for the slim moment he is able to do so, the sight enough to return some sense to his crazed mind. Maldius growls and shuts his eyes as the attack resumes, flinching as the poisoned spearheads pierce through him, but he unleashes another shockwave of lightning, this time acting with a plan. He sends his magic into the cave itself, creating an orb-like shield of stone around himself as he brings the cavern crashing down upon them all.

(Maelstrom: *wipes forehead* Phew, so he's still got some sense in his head after all.)

(Maldius to Maelstrom: Now's not a good time to be coming to face me, can't you wait until I'm not poisoned...!?)

(Maelstrom: Aww, why not? I think it'd be nice to laugh in your face with you unable to fight back in return for hurting Sherry. Then I'll use threats to get you to call off your assassins on her.)

Sherry lies curled up in her bed, having run out of strength to cry anymore, but unwilling to fall asleep, for fear of further nightmares.

{The cavern collapses around Maldius, revealing the sky above. Seemingly, no draugrs survived.}

{Azureus shrieks in surprise as a mechanical dragon lands on top of her. Once again gathering water from the ground, she forces her assailant off of her with a torrent of water.}(I'm going to finish this duel of mechanical monsters vs Aquilam Next week.)

(Maldius to Maelstrom: That's if you can find me! Hahaha... haha... *curls up underneath the collapsed cavern*)

( @Aggron: Does that mean you're done for the night?)

(Maelstrom: You suck, Maldius. Does the collar you gave me have a tracking device that allows me to find you?)

Macgyver doesnt even notice or seem to care about the artificial dragon, but watches the Cyborg fly away. "...I was wrong about him."
(Okay goodnight for real!)

(Lol, goodnight @Turtlee. XD)

( @Fade No. Not until I'm the last one in the room.)

(Maldius: Haha, no, it doesn't. Now, excuse me while I become DarkStalker 2.0.)

Once everything goes silent, Maldius raises his head, using his magic as an aid as he digs upwards out of the protective orb. Seeing sunlight, the dark dragon pauses a moment, looking at the sky, his breaths deep and raspy, from poison and spear injuries both. //It's good... to be free...// he considers, but only for a moment, dragging his lower half out of the ground while trying to stay alert. Just in case...

(Maldius: Jk, I'm not staying under there.)

( @Turtlee MAKE UP YOUR MIND! *throws cotton candy at you*

XD )

(GAHH MORE SPOILERS I HAVEN'T READ DARKSTALKER OR TALONS OF POWER YET!!)

( @Fade I HAVEN'T READ THEM EITHER BUT IN THE LAST WOF BOOKS DARKSTALKER WAS TRAPPED UNDER A MOUNTAIN SO YEAH

IDK WHAT SPOILERS YOU'RE TALKING AOUT)

{As Maldius frees himself, the rock explodes outward a good distance from Maldius as the Monster frees itself from the tomb. In the sunlight, its armor shines brilliantly, reflecting light in all directions. This humanoid creature is Minos, former king of the southern reigon of Argo in the time of the humans.}

(*ABOUT EVEN)

(WELL THE WAY YOU WORDED THAT MADE IT SOUND LIKE THE ANSWER TO ONE OF MY THEORIES ABOUT DARKSTALKER (I won't say it directly in case I spoil anything for you) SO I PANICKED BUT EVERYTHING'S OKAY NOW)

( @FADE OK I GET IT NOW.)

Maldius glares at the creature, his vision blurring slightly. He doesn't speak a word, but he silently attempts to plot a strategy of some sort. //Fire doesn't do much... lightning is the same... I can't crush him with the earth... perhaps ice will work...// The dark dragon closes his eyes but a moment, his wings drooping. //My head... is killing me...//

(Maelstrom to Maldius: Now do you need me? e-e)

(Maldius: YES. I DO... Please...?)

{Minos pulls out throwing axes and begins to circle Maldius. There's something different about this draugr. No insults, no chit-chat, just silence as it glares at Maldius.}

(Uuuuuunfortunately I'll have to leave in a couple minutes, so you'll have to wait till next week if you want Maelstrom to rescue the damsel in purple distress.)

When he hears the draugr's movement, Maldius quickly opens his eyes and watches Minos carefully. //If it throws those at me, will I be able to react quick enough? If I attack him, what kind of counterrattack should I expect? ... My telekinesis... If I can't move fast enough, I can use that...// The dark dragon waits, glowing purple blood dripping from his numerous wounds.

( @Fade Alright :p

I suppose we ought to quit for the night, then, I'd like for Maelstrom to come rescue Maldy-boi XP )

{From behind Maldius, more rubble shifts as a dragon draugr and some human draugrs emerge.}"Guess whooooooo, Planty!"

( @Lilly Ok, that's probably for the best.)

( @Aggron Alright. See you guys next week, it's been a blast! :D )

(Ok, bye @Lilly. See you next week!)

(Woohoo, Maelstrom gets to wreck the zombie party! Looking forward to it! XD)