"Mr. Tower you stand accused of the destruction of private property, breaking and entering, and the murder of Micheal Landry. How do you plead?" (Judge Tomas)

The cameras panned to a very plain looking man. He had rough unkempt hair would probably be the first thing one noticed about the man. Next would be the obvious bags under his eyes. Oddly the man didn't look tired instead he bore a confident smile. After noticing the smile ones attention would probably be drawn to his clean shaven face. Perhaps the most out of place thing was his outfit. Instead of being nicely dressed he instead wore his work clothes. A lab coat, khakis, and some sneakers.

"I plead guilty to all charges except the false accusation of murder." (Darren Tower)

Those were words no one wanted to hear. The man said to be the new Einstein or the next Tesla pleaded guilty to murder. Families across the nation sat devastated in front of their televisions. However halfway across the world one man had a smile on his face, David Colt. He simply picked up the phone next to him and made a single phone call.

Publicly David was given the death penalty. However David currently sat in a room across from a group of 5 men. "Darren the way I see it you have a choice. You can either work for the government for the rest of your life. Never receiving credit for what you create. Or you can be ejected." (Middle Man)

"Ahh so you did read my notes. I assume you know why I killed Landry then. I have to ask why let me go? Why give me a choice." (Darren)

"You think after all you've done for the world we would force you to waste away for the murder of some scum. We found enough evidence to convict every member of his immediate family for years. They had a kill list. A kill list. With the locations of the bodies and how each person was killed. That was all we needed to confirm your reasons. Though we aren't doing this strictly for you." (Man farthest to the left)

"You plan to use my death for political gain then?" (Darren)

"Haha, exactly. You see we plan to convict all of Landry's family and present the list in a public trial. This will redeem your public image and raise you to almost martyrdom in the eyes of the other families who suffered at thier hands. This will cause a public backlash against those currently in power. Allowing us to effectively rearrange the playing field in our favor.(Middle Man)

The middle man held a self satisfied smile. Darren simply closed his eyes and leaned back going over his options.

"It's really more than I could ever hope for." Darren thought to himself. After sititng quietly for what seemed like an eternity.

"I choose ejection. On the condition the gateway is destroyed behind me." (Darren)

"We accept." (All five men)

The response was instant and unanimous. A hulking brute of a man then stepped into the room and motioned for Darren to follow. He was lead to a car outside the building and hurridly ushered in.

After riding for about an hour he was brought to the research facility he used to work. As Darren walked in her heard the doors being bolted behind him. There was no turning back. All the windows were barred and any devices that could have helped escape were removed before his arrival. Not that he even stopped to check. He simply walked towards a device in the middle of the facility.

There it stood. The ejector. A device that could bridge Universes. The theory was first proposed in 2021. However it failed to gain traction until 2030 when the existence of parallel universes was discovered. In merely six years Darren had build this device. He left no instructions on its use however it was a fairly straightforward device. There was only one button on the entire machine. He made it that way. An on and off button. Darren stepped forward and pressed it. The machine then emitted a soft hum. the empty hole in the middle of the circular gateway turned into what appeared to be filled with a colorless opaque liquid. Taking a deep breath Darren stepped forward.

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Third Prince Tal'gor Felloron of the High Elves was currently investigating a large mana burst on the outskirts of Oberroth. His group consisted of himself and his mount. Although the prince was dressed in a bright red robe and had a ridiculously ornate staff strapped to his back his mount was more likely to catch attention. Most elves use Troas Large tetra-pedal birds as their mounts. Tal'gor's however was a gorger a large bipedal lizard with an insatiable apatite. As he sped toward his destination he couldn't help but feel childishly excited for what he may find.

(Earlier this same day)

Tal'gor sat silent reading a newer edition of spell theory. The work was published weekly by the Consortium. A multi-racial organization of mages, shamans, and warlocks. The current issue was a special on fire magic.

The door to his chambers suddenly flew open.

"My Prince, the mana-burst outside Oberroth you told us to investigate. Another occurred in the exact same spot."

The soldier looked at Tal'gor as if asking for permission to continue. With a curt nod from the prince the soldier took another deep breath and continued.

"Something came out. A few locals claim it to have been a person. Of what race is uncertain."

"Thank you for the information, however should you ever barge into my chambers again you may find yourself screaming in pain after I set you ablaze. I mean seriously can you not knock. I have a hard time believing you would have forgotten information that important in the amount of time it takes you to knock on the damn door."

The prince made a shooing gesture with his hand and the soldier made a quick bow before departing.

Alone again the Prince's thoughts immediately went to the manaburst. What made it odd is that manaburst never happen in the same place twice. However manaburst have occurred in this spot not twice but three times.

A manaburst most often occurs when a large amount of ambient mana is suddenly displaced by an external force. Two way portals are usually the cause of these burst, but considering how exceedingly rare and expensive they are to cast the Tal'gor was skeptical of that being the cause.

Unable to think about anything else the prince resolved to investigate the matter himself. Grabbing a bright red feathered quill pen and a parchment the prince began to write a message.

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Darren stood in the darkness unable to make out anything.

"Hello?" (Darren)

There was no echo. He reached down to touch the floor but his hand kept going farther and farther down. He jumped up but he never came down as if a plat form would come up to meet him.

"Oh a new comer." (???) said a feminine voice.

Darren raised an eyebrow but said nothing.

"Haven't had one of those in ages. Or ever to be frank." (???)

Darren remembered he had his smart phone. Taking it out he switched on the flash light. All around him was the same unfathomable darkness. However 10 feet in front of him an enormous white wolf stretched out. "Howdy" she said.

"What an interesting device." Said the wolf as she stood up. Taking a few steps forward she sniffed him.

"You don't smell like Hilden. Nor does your outfit match any I've seen on Gallanor."

"Gallanor? Is that what that place is called? So are we in Gallanor right now?"

At his sudden question the wolf's eyes widened with surprise and amusement. "Are you not afraid, most humans regardless of linage, cannot bring themselves to utter a word in my presence."

"Well if you wanted to kill me you would have no trouble doing so. Seeing as you choose to have a conversation instead I figured you had no ill intentions, yet." Adding the last word with bit of caution.

"Yet? Pfft haha. Little one you amuse me greatly. I have nothing to gain from your death. Please sit it has been centuries since I have had the pleasure of a nice chat."

After hearing the joyful tone in her voice Darren nodded and sat down. Motioning for her to continue the wolf nodded.

"O pardon my rudeness, in my joy I've forgotten my manners. My name is Lycan. And yours?"(Lycan)

"Darren, Darren Tower." (Darren)

"So tell me, Darren, how have you come to this wretched place."(Lycan)

"Wretched? I'd describe it more as bleak or dreary."(Darren)

"When you've been here alone for 400 years your outlook tends to change." said Lycan with none of the prior amusement in her voice.

Opening his mouth to question how she could be her for that long he caught himself. Am I really going to question a giant talking wolf on the honesty of her words? Going with his better judgement he decided against it.

"I came from a gateway I built. Perhaps you can show me a way out of this place?"(Darren)

"Why would I do that? I've been stuck her for years and I've finally got company. So tell me how has Gallanor changed in the past 400 years?"(Lycan)

"Your guess is as good as mine." (Darren)

"What do you mean by that?" (Lycan) the annoyance in her voice apparent.

"Never been. The whole reason I built that portal was to leave my old world. Didn't really care were it sent me. But seeing as Gallanor apparently has giant talking wolves I figure it's as good of place as any." (Darren)

"You aren't from Gallanor." (Lycan) Her ears fully perked up upon hearing this information. "In that case perhaps I will help you leave. If you make a deal with me."

"Well seeing as we have plenty of time to discuss the details. I'm all ears."(Darren)

"All I ask is for your body." (Lycan) Impossibly the wolf seemed to be grinning.

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The prince grew more excited as he neared his destination. The canopy grew denser as he went. However only a few hundred meters away from the site a bird swooped down from the canopy. Landing on his gorger's head. It had a note strapped to its left leg. As he reached to untie it he was savagely pecked by the bird. Given it an annoyed glance he pulled a copper piece from some pouch hidden under his robe and gave it to the bird who then grabbed the coin with its beak. After Tal'gor removed the letter was removed the bird promptly took flight and vanished back into the canopy.

My prince, it is with my most humble apologies that I must inform you of my inability to meet you at the requested time and place. However I do have some information that may prove useful to you. Shortly after your departure from Oberroth it was reported that a routine patrol had captured a human in strange garbs. More odd is the fact that he bore the mark of Lycan. I have little doubt that this is in some way connected to the manaburst you spoke of in your letter. I still highly recommend that you investigate the area as you originally proposed as you may find still find something that the patrol missed. I will send word to the guards to let you speak to him before they do anything "unpleasant."

Your Friend and Adviser, Armon

As Tal'gor arrived at his destination there was indeed much that interested him there. A large hole in the canopy was directly above a clearing where the manaburst was reported to have taken place. A small crater about four by four feet was directly below the hole in the canopy. Two things caught his attention. One was the fact that the crater seemed to be a perfectly sphereical shape. Second was odd little metal cylinders littered the ground.

Picking one of the metal cylinders up Tal'gor studied it in his hand. On one the cylinder was flat but had strange symbols carved into it. He assumed these must be some forgotten magical glyphs. He pocketed a few so he could ask the odd human about them later. As he was about to leave he noticed a longer blue cylinder with two flat ends. Picking it up he found it to be more light weight than the metal cylinders. The material was unlike any he had ever encountered. He he fumbled with it the top came off. Revealing a pointed tip. How ever the tip was too blunt to be an effective weapon as he felt the tip he wondered what use this instrument could possibly have. Look after losing interest he put the flat in back over the point only to notice his finger was covered what appeared to be ink.

"Fascinating it's a writing utensil of some sort." (Tal'gor)

He pulled out a parchment and wrote on it with the object only to find it never ran out of ink.

"Incredible a pen that produces its own ink. I've never heard of magic that allows this." (Tal'gor)

Tal'gor was completely overwhelmed by the wonder of such a device.

"You want my body?" (Darren)

Darren took a step back.

"O calm yourself human. I don't mean in the since you're thinking of." (Lycan)

"Ok I was kinda freaking out there a second. I don't know about the people on Gallanor or if it's even considered bestiality but I'm not into that. Sorry."(Darren)

"Funny before being sealed her most male humans would have jumped at the opportunity." (Lycan)

Suddenly Lycan's body was encased in a soft blue light. When the light faded a women in her early 20s standing there. Incredibly beautiful with snow white hair and piercing blue eyes. She also sported wolf ears and a tail.

"Well I take back my prior statement." (Darren)

He coughed slightly before continuing.

"Anyway so what do you mean by wanting my body?"(Darren)

"I've been stuck in this place for a long time. My physical body has long since turned to dust. However, if what you say is true and you came here through a portal then that means you came here body and soul. Add that to the fact you also came from another world." (Lycan)

He gave her a confused look.

With a sigh she elaborated "You aren't bound here. I can open a gateway to Gallanor but since I have no body. It would only function as a small window for a few moments and leave me drained of mana for days. What I propose is that I stick my soul in your body. You would still have full control but I would be able to leave this place. Of course I'm really just trading one prison for another."(Lycan)

"You seem to be gaining quite a bit while I simply get an exit. My body may a prison but it's a luxury one." (Darren)

Lycan smiled at this. "Then let me sweeten the deal. One thing I've noticed about you that puts you at a severe disadvantage to the inhabitants of Gallanor is your lack of magic. I didn't even know you were here until you started shouting hello. By the way for future reference if you find yourself in a dark room shouting is probably something you should avoid." (Lycan)

"While I inhabit your body you will have full access to my mana pool. This will help offset your innate disadvantage. As a bonus if i find a way to house my soul in a more "uninhibited" vessel I will leave you have of it permanently as thanks." (Lycan)

Upon seeing his questioning gaze. Lycan decided it was best to let him weigh the advantages and disadvantages.

"Don't answer immediately you literally have all the time in the world to decide. Time doesn't work here. You don't need to eat, sleep, or defecate. However since your physical body is here it will still age so don't take to to long to decide." (Lycan)

Darren pondered on her offer for a long while. On one hand he wasn't sure if he could completely trust a large magical talking wolf who could transform into a woman. On the other hand she was a talking wolf/woman and saying that he knew one on a personal level wasn't something he had on his bucket list, but it would make a great addition. After a few more minutes of deliberation he stood.

"Deal."(Darren)

A smile that seemed to big to be physically possible stretched across Lycan's face upon hearing that word.

"Actually can I do a take back that smile doesn't scream trust worthy." (Darren)

"Nope no take backs." (Lycan)

Rolling her eyes Lycan walked forward stopping inches away from Darren. She leaned forward and kissed him on the lips.

"I Lycan Lord of the wolves and aspect of ice bind myself to thee. Do you accept Darren Tower."(Lycan)

"Yes" (Darren)

He figured it was to late to back out now so why not.

Pain erupted on Darren's chest. He ripped open his shirt to claw at his chest. Directly above his heart a symbol seemed to burn itself into his skin. He was unable to discern what it was, and unable to bear the pain he collapsed.

Lycan spoke her next words softly "So long as we are bound your life is mine and my soul is yours. This is an equal partnership. Never forget that." She then lifted her hand and the the darkness around them shattered.

The next thing he saw was that he was on the floor of a forest in a spherical pit. Unable to keep himself conscious he simply fell forward. The contents of his lab coat pockets spilling out.

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Darren awoke to the unpleasant sensation of bouncing up and down on his stomach. The first thing he noticed was that he was drooling. He also noticed he was blindfolded and that his hands and feet were bound together. Coming to the conclusion that he was probably taken prisoner was an easy one to make.

"Pleasant sleep? You drooled more than most wolves I know, and I know all of them." (Lycan)

Lycan's voice sounded much too merry considering the situation.

"Where are we?"(Darren)

It occured to Darren that maybe this wasn't the best moment to banter with Lycan.

As if on cue the moment he spoke whatever he was riding on came to an abrupt halt. He suddenly jolted forward hit the person riding in front of him and rolled right off the back of what ever it was. The fall was less than pleasant. What ever they were riding on was atleast as big as a horse. He heard a thump as whoever was riding the creature along with him hopped off. The culprits footsteps drew closer until stopping inches from Darren's face. Suddenly his vision was flooded with light as his blindfold was removed.

"At least you can speak Elven. That'll fetch you a nice price." (Unknown Man?)

The first thing Darren noticed about the man was his height. He was atleast 6 inches taller than Darren (who is 5.10) and sports a patch of hair on his chin. His actual hair is blonde and tied back. The next thing Darren noticed was the man's long pointed ears.

Seeing Darren's surprise the man laughed.

"What's wrong boy never seen an elf before?" (Unknown Elf?)

Still not believeing his eyes Darren continued to stair.

The mans grinning face suddenly turned sour. A moment later he delivered a swift kick to Darren's abdomen.

"When I ask you a question you answer." (Unknown Elf)

Darren coughed, but otherwise showed no reaction to the kick. Not even a grimace.

"You know I thought after meeting a talking wolf I'd be hard pressed to show surprise at anything. Is he really an elf?" (Darren)

The elf immediately stood up and looked around for the third party that Darren was addressing. Darren noticed that he seemed to be staring past Lycan rather than at her.

"You didn't have elves in your world. Did you have dwarves? Or orcs?" (Lycan)

She also ignored the elf. Not because she didn't notice him. She simply found him below her notice.

"No we just had humans in regards to intelligent races. O we also had neanderthals up until about 10000 years ago. We kinda killed them off." (Darren)

"If the humans of your world killed them off 10000 years ago how come you know about them?"

"Mostly fossils and recreations."

"So you've never seen one of these nee-an-dra-tals." (Lycan)

"Still counts." (Darren)

"If you don't shut your mouth I will rip out your tongue." (Elf)

After yelling this the elf delivered another kick to Darren this time in the face.

"Ouch! Shit! That FUCKING hurt." (Darren)

Quickly rolling to the side and pulling his legs, he then delivered a two-legged kick to the elf's chest knocking him off his feet. The elf was quickly back on his feet this time a dagger in hand.

"I'm going to teach you the respect you should show to a superior race."(Elf)

He took two steps forward then a clang was heard. The dagger flew out of his hand and landed close to Darren's feet.

"The prisoner is no longer under our care, Opellan." (???)

Another elf came into view. She held a short bow in her left hand. However that wasn't what caught Darren's attention. Rather her outfit was.

Skimpy was a bit of an understatement. Unfortunately both she and near noticed him staring. However before either could say anything. He burst into laughter. This earned a confused look from Lycan and an angry one from the female elf.

"O god. Gimme a sec. (Continued laughing) It's for mobility." (Darren)

An arrow flew past Darren's face and stopped his laughing. But only for a moment.

"O man you're gunna have to shoot me. I.... I can... I can't stop. (Darren)

"Had you not been purchased I would kill you. I still have half the mind to do it anyway." (Female Elf)

"Which half is missing? Common sense?"(Darren)

This time two other voices joined in the laughter. One was Lycan, the other was an exceptionally handsome elf, in a flamboyant red robe who walked into the clearing from behind the woman.

"I can tell you and I will get along famously." (Red Robed Elf)

The newcomer took a step towards Darren, however the first elf stepped in to intercept him. Seeing this the woman quickly stepped forward and using the bow struck the first elf across the face.

"Fool, how dare you act as if you are on the same level as the third prince." (Female Elf)

"Prince?"(Darren)

"Ahh forgive my rudeness. I am Tal'gor Felloron third prince of the high elven kingdom of Talrassa. Technically speaking I now own you. However I hope that this will not affect our future prospects of friendship." (Tal'gor)

The elf who was just hit suddenly went pale.

"M....Mmm.....My L....Lord I apologize for my transgression." (Male elf)

The prince turned away from Darren to look at the elf. Then he turned back to Darren. As if the other elf was beneith his notice.

"So what should I call you? Tal'gor?" (Darren)

Darren was just hoping Tal'gor wouldn't ask him to call him something like master.

"Insolent fool! You will call him master!"( Male Elf)

As the original elf stepped forward to strike Darren he suddenly stopped moving. Lycan's arm was sticking through his chest. Pulling back her arm Lycan smiled contently to herself. Where her arm had been there was no hole. Or any noticeable damage. Then suddenly Ice burst forth from where Lycan had pierced him. Only after his whole abdomen was frozen over did the ice stop. Then like a statue he fell forward. He abdomen shattering while his limbs simply hit the ground.

The female just stood there open mouthed.

"A little too messy for my taste but atleast now I don't have to smell charred flesh." (Tal'gor)

Darren shot Lycan a look that seemed to scream We will discuss this later he then turned to Tal'gor.

"Charred flesh?"

"Ahh hold that thought."

Tal'gor then produced a dagger from his robe and used it to cut Darren's bindings.

Darren then stood up and rubbed his wrist. He then proceeded to stretch. Tal'gor stood patiently waited for him to finish before he elaborated on his prior comment.

"O I was going to kill him. He sits there and acts like he is sorry for offending me then he makes a move to attack my property. First off that's very rude, and unprofessional."(Tal'gor)

"Well I'd imagine slavers aren't the type to really take pride in their job.( Darren)

"Slavers? They are just a guard patrol. Anyway I specialize in fire magic. Hence the charred flesh remark It's a bit of an obsession of mine if we're being honest." (Tal'gor)

"Well seeing as you're a prince I assume you have a more practical place to talk than the middle of the woods." (Darren)

"It just so happens that I do. Also your chantless casting was quite astounding. I've never seen anyone able to do that while bound before. Anyway lets continue this discussion at my cottage in Oberroth. By the way do you know how to ride one of those?" (Tal'gor)

"Tell him yes." (Lycan)

"Apparently I do." (Darren)

Tal'gor nodded. Then he once again reached into his robe and pulled out a leather satchel. Taking 3 gold coins out he tossed them to the still stunned female.

Then he grabbed the reins of the creature and led it over to Darren. Lycan then grabbed his shoulder and everything went black. The next moment he was expertly riding the creature. Along side him was Tal'gor riding something akin to a miniature T-Rex. He realized that he really did know how to ride the creature. Unable to comprehend it he made a face. Tal'gor saw this and assumed he must have offended his new "friend."

"Something wrong?" (Tal'gor)

"No just... just a weird day."(Darren)

"I can understand that. In case you're worried I plan to sign your release documents when we get to Oberroth though I ask that you stay as my guest for a good while."(Tal'gor)

Darren simply nodded.

"Still confused." (Lycan)

Darren then noticed that a large white wolf was running along side him. Yet again Tal'gor seemed unable to see her. So Darren assumed it best not to draw attention to her. So he simply nodded in response.

"Allow me to elaborate for you. When I touched your shoulder I temporarily gained control of your body. I used it to ride the creature until your mind started to recognize my experience as your own. It's a neat trick but really isn't practical. For more actively involved things such as spell casting it takes years to start subconsciously registering things. And I'm sure you don't want me in control for such long periods of time." (Lycan)

After that Darren spoke very little for the rest of the ride. After another 40 minutes they reached a small village. Darren had some anticipation to see what level the technology of this world filled with magic was at.

The elf who was just hit suddenly went pale.

"M....Mmm.....My L....Lord I apologize for my transgression." (Male elf)

The prince turned away from Darren to look at the elf. Then he turned back to Darren. As if the other elf was beneith his notice.

"So what should I call you? Tal'gor?" (Darren)

Darren was just hoping Tal'gor wouldn't ask him to call him something like master.

"Insolent fool! You will call him master!"( Male Elf)

As the original elf stepped forward to strike Darren he suddenly stopped moving. Lycan's arm was sticking through his chest. Pulling back her arm Lycan smiled contently to herself. Where her arm had been there was no hole. Or any noticeable damage. Then suddenly Ice burst forth from where Lycan had pierced him. Only after his whole abdomen was frozen over did the ice stop. Then like a statue he fell forward. He abdomen shattering while his limbs simply hit the ground.

The female just stood there open mouthed.

"A little too messy for my taste but atleast now I don't have to smell charred flesh." (Tal'gor)

Darren shot Lycan a look that seemed to scream We will discuss this later he then turned to Tal'gor.

"Charred flesh?"

"Ahh hold that thought."

Tal'gor then produced a dagger from his robe and used it to cut Darren's bindings.

Darren then stood up and rubbed his wrist. He then proceeded to stretch. Tal'gor stood patiently waited for him to finish before he elaborated on his prior comment.

"O I was going to kill him. He sits there and acts like he is sorry for offending me then he makes a move to attack my property. First off that's very rude, and unprofessional."(Tal'gor)

"Well I'd imagine slavers aren't the type to really take pride in their job.( Darren)

"Slavers? They are just a guard patrol. Anyway I specialize in fire magic. Hence the charred flesh remark It's a bit of an obsession of mine if we're being honest." (Tal'gor)

"Well seeing as you're a prince I assume you have a more practical place to talk than the middle of the woods." (Darren)

"It just so happens that I do. Also your chantless casting was quite astounding. I've never seen anyone able to do that while bound before. Anyway lets continue this discussion at my cottage in Oberroth. By the way do you know how to ride one of those?" (Tal'gor)

"Tell him yes." (Lycan)

"Apparently I do." (Darren)

Tal'gor nodded. Then he once again reached into his robe and pulled out a leather satchel. Taking 3 gold coins out he tossed them to the still stunned female.

Then he grabbed the reins of the creature and led it over to Darren. Lycan then grabbed his shoulder and everything went black. The next moment he was expertly riding the creature. Along side him was Tal'gor riding something akin to a miniature T-Rex. He realized that he really did know how to ride the creature. Unable to comprehend it he made a face. Tal'gor saw this and assumed he must have offended his new "friend."

"Something wrong?" (Tal'gor)

"No just... just a weird day."(Darren)

"I can understand that. In case you're worried I plan to sign your release documents when we get to Oberroth though I ask that you stay as my guest for a good while."(Tal'gor)

Darren simply nodded.

"Still confused." (Lycan)

Darren then noticed that a large white wolf was running along side him. Yet again Tal'gor seemed unable to see her. So Darren assumed it best not to draw attention to her. So he simply nodded in response.

"Allow me to elaborate for you. When I touched your shoulder I temporarily gained control of your body. I used it to ride the creature until your mind started to recognize my experience as your own. It's a neat trick but really isn't practical. For more actively involved things such as spell casting it takes years to start subconsciously registering things. And I'm sure you don't want me in control for such long periods of time." (Lycan)

After that Darren spoke very little for the rest of the ride. After another 40 minutes they reached a small village. Darren had some anticipation to see what level the technology of this world filled with magic was at.

The elf who was just hit suddenly went pale.

"M....Mmm.....My L....Lord I apologize for my transgression." (Male elf)

The prince turned away from Darren to look at the elf. Then he turned back to Darren. As if the other elf was beneith his notice.

"So what should I call you? Tal'gor?" (Darren)

Darren was just hoping Tal'gor wouldn't ask him to call him something like master.

"Insolent fool! You will call him master!"( Male Elf)

As the original elf stepped forward to strike Darren he suddenly stopped moving. Lycan's arm was sticking through his chest. Pulling back her arm Lycan smiled contently to herself. Where her arm had been there was no hole. Or any noticeable damage. Then suddenly Ice burst forth from where Lycan had pierced him. Only after his whole abdomen was frozen over did the ice stop. Then like a statue he fell forward. He abdomen shattering while his limbs simply hit the ground.

The female just stood there open mouthed.

"A little too messy for my taste but atleast now I don't have to smell charred flesh." (Tal'gor)

Darren shot Lycan a look that seemed to scream We will discuss this later he then turned to Tal'gor.

"Charred flesh?"

"Ahh hold that thought."

Tal'gor then produced a dagger from his robe and used it to cut Darren's bindings.

Darren then stood up and rubbed his wrist. He then proceeded to stretch. Tal'gor stood patiently waited for him to finish before he elaborated on his prior comment.

"O I was going to kill him. He sits there and acts like he is sorry for offending me then he makes a move to attack my property. First off that's very rude, and unprofessional."(Tal'gor)

"Well I'd imagine slavers aren't the type to really take pride in their job.( Darren)

"Slavers? They are just a guard patrol. Anyway I specialize in fire magic. Hence the charred flesh remark It's a bit of an obsession of mine if we're being honest." (Tal'gor)

"Well seeing as you're a prince I assume you have a more practical place to talk than the middle of the woods." (Darren)

"It just so happens that I do. Also your chantless casting was quite astounding. I've never seen anyone able to do that while bound before. Anyway lets continue this discussion at my cottage in Oberroth. By the way do you know how to ride one of those?" (Tal'gor)

"Tell him yes." (Lycan)

"Apparently I do." (Darren)

Tal'gor nodded. Then he once again reached into his robe and pulled out a leather satchel. Taking 3 gold coins out he tossed them to the still stunned female.

Then he grabbed the reins of the creature and led it over to Darren. Lycan then grabbed his shoulder and everything went black. The next moment he was expertly riding the creature. Along side him was Tal'gor riding something akin to a miniature T-Rex. He realized that he really did know how to ride the creature. Unable to comprehend it he made a face. Tal'gor saw this and assumed he must have offended his new "friend."

"Something wrong?" (Tal'gor)

"No just... just a weird day."(Darren)

"I can understand that. In case you're worried I plan to sign your release documents when we get to Oberroth though I ask that you stay as my guest for a good while."(Tal'gor)

Darren simply nodded.

"Still confused." (Lycan)

Darren then noticed that a large white wolf was running along side him. Yet again Tal'gor seemed unable to see her. So Darren assumed it best not to draw attention to her. So he simply nodded in response.

"Allow me to elaborate for you. When I touched your shoulder I temporarily gained control of your body. I used it to ride the creature until your mind started to recognize my experience as your own. It's a neat trick but really isn't practical. For more actively involved things such as spell casting it takes years to start subconsciously registering things. And I'm sure you don't want me in control for such long periods of time." (Lycan)

After that Darren spoke very little for the rest of the ride. After another 40 minutes they reached a small village. Darren had some anticipation to see what level the technology of this world filled with magic was at.

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The town of Oberroth was a small hamlet a few miles south of the Elven capitol. The population was only about forty villagers. Mostly elves and maybe a half-elf here or there. The atmosphere was a relaxed one year round. One could almost always find the villagers working on their town. The only real economic factor in the town was it's wine. Which was widely sought throughout Tallrassa. Almost every shop in the town sold it. Even the blacksmith.

It was late in the evening by the time Darren and Tal'gor arrived in the hamlet. Few words were spoken between the two. They building they were heading towards was the second largest in the town behind the local adventures guild office.

After they entered the building Tal'gor showed him the living room and bade him to sit.

"I will return momentarily. We have much to discuss, and I would not want any unwanted ears breaching our privacy. I'll have the servants start dinner while I place wards around the house." (Tal'gor)

"Thank you for your hospitality. Had you not shown up when you did I am unsure what the outcome would have been." (Darren)

"I'm sure your patron wouldn't have let anything happen." (Tal'gor)

Darren's eyes widend in surprise, and his body tensed.

"How did you know about her?" (Darren)

"Calm yourself friend. I had heard about your mark before I even showed up. Quite frankly I didn't even believe that part of the report until that idiotic guard was shattered. Lycan hasn't bestowed her mark in over 400 years. So why choose you? However I'm getting ahead of myself. That conversation will have to wait." (Tal'gor)

Tal'gor then left the room leaving Darren alone with Lycan.

"Seeing as we have some time wanna go ahead and explain this to me." (Darren)

He pointed to where the mark on his chest.

"Ahh that mark symbolizes our contract. He seems to have misinterpreted that as a blessing. A blessing would simply mean I favored you. However our contract is a little more complex than that. I believe we covered the fact that it allows you access to my mana pool. However it also provides other benefits."

Darren raised an eyebrow.

"Such as?" (Darren)

"Certain animals will see you as one of their own and refrain from attacking you. Others, such as wolves, will go out of their way to protect you. Women will see you as taken. I can use my mana to interact with the world and help you if I feel the need. And a few others that I'll keep as a surprise." (Lycan)

Darren had a very annoyed look on his face.

"I'm sorry what?" (Darren)

"What?" (Lycan)

A smile played on her face.

"Repeat that middle part." (Darren)

"Wolves will go out of their way to protect you?" (Lycan)

"After that." (Darren)

His annoyance had turned into a visible scowl.

"I can use my mana to help you?" (Lycan)

"Okay now I know you're messing with me." (Darren)

"Actually the part about women was true." (Lycan)

He gave her a very leveled look. He breathed in and out for a few seconds before procedeing.

"And why, is that?" (Darren)

"Ahh I believe I should have clarified this earlier. The only contracts that bind souls are......."(Lycan)

"Are what?" (Darren)

"Those of matrimonial nature." (Lycan)

Darren face changed colors. From pale to red and back to pale.

"So are you saying we're...." (Darren)

"Married? Technically yes. Now do you want the good news or the bad news?"

"I'm sorry one would think I would have been entitled to those before we the contract." (Darren)

"The good news is I've never had a mate before." (Lycan)

Darren simply sighed in defeat. Seeing as she had no physical body some issues can be left as is. We'll cross that bridge when we get to it.Darren thought to himself.

"And the bad news?"(Darren)

"On second thought lets not discuss that right now. How good are you at controlling your anger." (Lycan)

"Fairly good considering I haven't broken anything yet." (Darren)

Lycan simply nodded. She opened her mouth to say something, however Tal'gor choose that moment to return.

"I apologize for the wait. Dinner will be ready soon. Before that I do have one thing I wish to discuss with you."

Tal'gor reached into his pocket and pulled out two items and placed them on the coffee table. One was a ballpoint pen. The other was a bullet the pistol that Darren forgot he still had.

"Please tell me truthfully what is this marvelous device." (Tal'gor)

The prince held the pen as if it was some holy relic.

"That would be a ball point pen." (Darren)

"How does it work. I must admit I've used it quite a bit. At first it seemed to have an unending amount of ink. However it just randomly stopped working." (Tal'gor)

Instead of answering Darren held out his hand. Tal'gor slowly placed the pen in his hands. Darren then unscrewed the top of the plastic pen.

"Ehh, it just needs some more ink. If you provide me the resources I'm sure i can make you some. They are very simple devices." (Darren)

"Incredible, so there is no magic involved at all?" (Tal'gor)

"Nope." (Darren)

"And then what about this object?" (Tal'gor)

The prince picked up the bullet. Darren picked it up.

"Well this one would be more fun to show you." (Darren)

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Deep within a crypt far to the south of the high elven kingdom, an enormous sepulcher started to shake. Suddenly the entrance exploded. A hooded figure stepped out of the darkness of the sepulcher into the dimly lit crypt.

"Ahh, how long have I been resting?" (Gernam)

The figure brought a skeletal hand up to it's chest and started scratching. The figure then started walking in the direction of the disturbance that woke him. It carefully observed it's surroundings as it kept moving forward.

"Seems someone found my "bed" and thought it must have been an average crypt. If I ever find the person that did it why I'll thank him properly." (Gernam)

The figure came to a halt in the middle of a large circular room. The walls were covered from floor to roof with tombs. The figure meticulously examined every last date.

"If I were to go by the most recent date, that would mean i slept for....." (Gernam)

The figure's speech drifted off and he calculated how much time had passed.

"7... no... 800 years? That's much earlier than my calculations predicted. This must be an older part of the tomb." (Gernam)

The figure started walking towards the doors opposite of the one's he came in through. He came to an abrupt halt as he heard voices approaching.

"...so I bought him a drink." (First male voice)

"I still don't understand why you felt like you owed him. He bumped into you and made you spill your drink." (Second male voice)

"Yea but how often do you get to share a drink with a forge master." (First male voice)

"I see your point. Even if I don't agree with it." (Second male voice)

The figure stopped listening at the point and simply pushed open the doors, and was greeted with an immediate response.

"HOLY SHIT!" (Second male voice)

"WHAT IS THAT?"(First male voice)

The figure first looked at the sources of the two voices. Two dwarves one that sported blonde hair (and beard) and one that sported red hair (And beard). The figure gave them a confused look. He then assumed they must mean his flamboyant robe.

"This was a gift from the love of my life. It seems so long ago now. And it was. And though she is gone. She will always be with me." (Gernam)

The figure smiled sadly.

"IT TALKED!!!" (First male Dwarf)

"Okay now thats just rude." (Gernam)

"Since when can undead talk?" (Second male dwarf)

The figure pinched the bridge of it's nonexistent nose.

"Are you serious? Have you really never seen nor heard of a lich? Also most undead can talk they just have very little to say to the living." (Gernam)

"Are you not going to attack us?" (First male voice)

It was at that point the lich noticed both dwarves were shaking in there boots.

"Why would I do that? Are you planning to stab me in the back?" (Gernam)

Both dwarves vigorously shook their heads.

"HAHA good. Now can one of you show me the exit?" (Gernam)

"I...I.. can w.w...walk you there." (Second male dwarf)

In a single step the lich was upon them. His face mere inches from the second dwarf's. Both his skeletal hands on either of the dwarf's shoulders.

"I cannot thank you enough my friend. Remind me to buy you and your friend a drink once we get out. O by the way. What are your names?" (Gernam)

"Urvos and Nigel sir." (Urvos*) *The first dwarf. Or the blonde one, whatever's easier to follow.

"Great to meet you. The name my saintly mother bestowed upon me is Gernam." (Gernam)

The kindly voice of the lich surprised the dwarves.

"Gernam, sir. If you don't mind me asking. How long have you been down here?" (Nigel)

"Dunno, atleast 800 years. What day is today?" (Gernam)

Both Dwarves stood open mouthed at this date. This thing predated their country by 300 years.

The first dwarf then choose to answer.

"Why I do believe it's Tuesday." (Urvos)

Nigel promptly struck his friend on the back of his head.

"The year is currently 1501 A.S."

"Ahh so then it was 830. Ahh forgive me we appear to have gone off topic. Let's see how much this world has changed." (Gernam)

Nigel nodded and motioned for Gernam to follow. The dwarf had a feeling today was going to be very surreal.

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This one would be more fun to show you." (Darren)

The elf's excitement peaked upon hearing this.

"By all means go ahead." (Tal'gor)

The elf vigorously motioned for Darren to proceed.

Darren looked around the room. He was immediately thrown off by the extravagance of the place. The far wall was fashioned into an elaborate bookshelf. The bookshelf seemed to have been fashioned after the buildings construction since a window was slightly noticeable behind the books. Two of the other walls were covered in beautiful paintings. Even the space above the door was utilized. A large great-sword was Horizontally hung above it. On the wall were the furniture was turned towards was a large fireplace. Above the fireplace hung an elaborate shield.

The shield would probably make the best example. Darren reached under his lab-coat for his concealed pistol. However it wasn't there.Shit I've been so preoccupied I hadn't noticed it was gone. Darren needed only a moment to guess that his captors had probably searched him. He turned to Tal'gor.

"Did either of those two guards happen to give you a strange metal object?" (Darren)

Tal'gor scrunched his eyebrows for a moment as he ran through his memories.

"Ahh did you mean this." (Tal'gor)

The elf reached into his robe and pulled out a P250 pistol. However he held it by the barrel and had a finger next to the trigger. Darren jumped up and held out his hands.

"Careful!" (Darren)

Tal'gor tensed up at the sudden outburst. In the process he accidentally squeezed the trigger. A low click was heard but nothing more. Darren's paled face released a sigh of relief as he fell backwards onto the sofa.

"Thank what ever deity you worship that I practice gun safety. If that thing were loaded you'd be a eunuch." (Darren)

It was now Tal'gor's turn to turn pale. Very slowly he lowered the gun to the coffee table. Placing it down he shakily removed his hands. He then looked to Darren.

"I never figured such a silly looking tool would be so dangerous. I thought it was simply some sort of trinket they found on you. In all honesty I'd completely forgotten about it until you brought it up. Anyway seeing as am still potent would you care to continue your demonstration." (Tal'gor)

"Yes please continue. A tool that could make a man impotent with the pull of a trigger would be quite advantageous." (Lycan)

Darren's face again turned pale. However Tal'gor either didn't care or didn't notice and impatiently motioned for Darren to proceed. With a slight nod Darren picked up the P250. He removed the clip and slid the bullet into it. Reinserting the clip he then pulled back the chamber to finish loading the gun. He carefully took aim at the shield above the fire place. A deafening bang followed by a clink resounded throughout the room. In the center of the shield was a small hole. Both Tal'gor and Lycan stood open mouthed. Slowly Tal'gor walked towards the shield. Reaching up removed the shield from the wall. Behind it stood another hole. Tal'gor's jaw seemed to drop lower. The flipped the shield in his hands. Then he put his finger through the small hole. Checking to make sure this was no illusion. Lycan's face slowly turned from astonishment to one of her impossibly large smiles.

"Incredible. I can now see how this would have made me impotent." (Tal'gor)

The elf shook his head as if still unable to comprehend what he saw. After his disbelief faded he began to imagine Talrassa in a new light.Imagine, what a country could do with such a weapon. The elf looked towards Darren.

"Can you make more of these?" (Tal'gor)

"I can, but I won't." (Darren)

For a moment Tal'gor regreted giving his word to free Darren. However he would not go back on his word.

"May I ask why?" (Tal'gor)

Darren nodded.

"Under normal circumstances I wouldn't see a problem with showing you. However since coming to this world I've seen a few things that give me reason not to. For one I've met a giant talking wolf who can turn into a girl, Second I saw a man turn to Ice and shatter, third you ride around on a minature tyrannosaurus-rex. A gun is currently my only advantage, excluding Lycan. Without this I'm down to everyone else's level." (Darren)

As Tal'gor listened to Darren his face suddenly turned very questioning.

"Since coming to this world?" (Tal'gor)

"You know you probably shouldn't tell people your life's story so easily." (Lycan)

The wolf snickered and continued.

"Good luck explaining that." (Lycan)

Darren rolled his eyes.

"Oh please I'd hardly count one day as my life story." (Darren)

Tal'gor jumped up and looked around. Then he turned back to Darren confusion on his face.

"Who are you talking to?" (Tal'gor)

Maybe this will be a little difficult to explain.

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Gernam, Urvos, and Nigel were currently approaching the exit to the crypt. While both dwarves were still very nervous around him they slowly started to warm up to him.

"So why choose this cavern of all places." (Nigel)

"Ahh, this cavern is very close to a Vein of Tillium. I figured while I waited I may as well work on my mana reserves." (Gernam)

Nigel and Urvos exchanged a look.

"I've never heard of any Veins of Tillium being anywhere near this place." (Urvos)

"Well that may have to do with the fact that it dried up 300 years ago. A shame really I figured it would have lasted atleast 900 more. However, it's depletion may have been sped up by whatever civilization choose to build itself so close to my sepulcher." (Gernam)

Nigel nodded.

"Well that lines up pretty well with alot of this places history. Those who specialized in earth magic used to flock here in droves. The Consortium's magic academy here used to be very well known. However around 300 years ago the academy's funding was significantly decreased and most of the Professors transferred. We still use alot of the facilities but not as academic buildings. Some of the buildings were turned into taverns, others brothels, and still some became public buildings. Our townhall is located in one of the old auditoriums." (Nigel)

"What a waste. They used it to enhance earth magic. Those fools probably didn't even realize that Vein was attuned to soul magic." (Gernam)

"Soul magic?" (Nigel)

They had finally reached the ascending stairs that led to the crypts exit.

"Ahh I figured it would fall into obscurity. It was seldom practiced even in my day. Most considered it taboo. Though the Arcanist Association put enormous funding into its study. Hence how I came to master it." (Gernam)

As Gernam finished explaining the group of three had just opened the doors. A group of 5 dwarves was waiting right in their path. All heavily armed. A red faced burly dwarf stepped out from the center of the group. He looked over the smaller group of three, but was unable to see Gernam's face.

"See I told you some guards went down there." (Crossbow wielding Female Dwarf)

"Look they brought a human too. Look at that robe, I bet we could get a fortune for that." (Armored Male Dwarf)

A smile broke out on the burly dwarf's face. "

"My friends your luck has run out." (Burly great-axe* wielding dwarf) *Size of a regular human axe.

Both Nigel and Urvos started shaking. These were members of Nulguard a large gang with sects in almost every dwarven city.

"pffft hahaha. Oh my this is simply too good. My dear boy you seem to have the situation reversed." (Gernam)

At that moment the lich reached up and pulled back his hood.

"Your luck has run out." (Gernam)

"Oh I'm talking to Lycan." (Darren)

Tal'gor arched a questioning eyebrow at Darren.

"I'll vouch for that claim." (Lycan)

Tal'gor then fell out of his chair as the wolf suddenly appeared in front of the fire place. His eyes darted from Lycan to Darren very quickly. Suddenly he was on his knees bowing before Lycan.

"You honor me with your presence deity." (Tal'gor)

His face was pale and cold sweat was starting to leak from his pores. Darren arched an eyebrow at Lycan.

"Deity?" (Darren)

"Goddess of wolves." (Lycan)

"And this is why I'm atheist." (Darren)

Tal'gor tensed up at this blatant disrespect towards the Goddess. Though she was not one typically worshiped by most elves the druids revered her as one of the Four Hunters. When he was younger he spent much time training under druids learning the basics of healing magic.

"Show some respect. Do you realize who you are trifling with. Apologize before she ends both of us." (Tal'gor)

Darren simply rolled his eyes.

"I'll talk to my wife however I damn well please." (Darren)

Tal'gor looked at the great wolf who simply nodded in confirmation.

Darren walked over to him and helped him off the floor. Fixing Tal'gor's chair Darren slowly ushered him back into a sitting position.

"I need a drink." (Tal'gor)

"Haha, buddy I haven't even answered your first question, yet." (Darren)

This world? As Tal'gor remembered the first question he came to the realization that the person he just gained custody of was much more than he bargined for.

Tal'gor simply stood up and walked out of the room. The exit was right there. He could run and pretend this never happened. His world view would be unchanged and this could all be a memory. Instead he walked past the door. He walked past one of his maids.

"Master, can I get you anyth...." (Maid)

Tal'gor raised a hand to silence her and kept walking. He reached a set of stairs leading to his wine cellar. Slowly he descended and entered the cellar. He grabbed four bottles and started walking up. He was halfway back before he realized this wasn't enough.

"Stella. Grab me four more of these." (Tal'gor)

The maid saw how many bottles he held. However that wasn't what surprised her. All of these bottles were worth more than she made in a year. She wondered how important the human he brought in earlier must be. Stella said nothing though and simply followed her command.

Tal'gor returned to the room with the bottles. Stella following closely behind, holding a tray with four more bottles and two glasses. She seemed unable to see Lycan. After setting down the tray and filling both glasses. Stella bowed to both Tal'gor and Darren then left the room.

The moment she was out of the room Tal'gor had downed the first glass. Darren reached down and picked up the glass. Expecting this worlds wine to be inferior to his own he gulped. Slowly he took the first sip.

It was the best wine he ever tasted.

"Wow!" (Darren)

Tal'gor was already done with his second glass. After filling a third he nodded to Darren.

"Proceed." (Tal'gor)

Darren nodded and began. Both Tal'gor and Lycan listened intently as he went described his former world. He told them about his worlds entertainment. Video games, movies, and sports. However he said nothing regarding his personal life.

"Your world sounds incredible why did you leave? (Tal'gor)

Incidentally the elf was so absorbed by Darren's tale that he had yet to take a sip form his third glass.

"Because I hated that world. " (Darren)

"Why?" (Lycan)

Darren simply looked at her. He opened his mouth to speak but no words came.

"Not.... not yet."

Lycan was taken aback. All of Darren's arrogance was gone. His eyes were empty as he recalled his reasons.

"I'm personally fine with that. I think that's enough for one day. Stella!!" (Tal'gor)

A moment passed before the maid entered the room.

"Take him to the large guest room. Darren, for now get some sleep there is much to do tomorrow." (Tal'gor)

With a nod the prince left the room. Stella escorted Darren to a room the size of an apartment. After seeing if he needed anything she nodded and left.

Slowly Darren stripped down to his briefs. After laying down under the covers he soon felt a weight on top of him. Lycan in her humanoid form was laying directly on top of him.

"Get off." (Darren)

"You have me for the rest of your life and after get used to it." (Lycan)

Darren was about to argue. However he saw the wisdom in those words. They were bound. He might as well make the most of it. The dark room was silent for a few minutes before Darren suddenly spoke.

"How do you even have weight if you're just a disembodied soul?" (Darren)

"I'm not disembodied, I'm bound to your body and soul. I can interact with you physically with no effort. How ever..." (Lycan)

Lycan reached towards the bed and her hand simply phased through. She then pulled it out and pressed down again this time her hand didn't phase through and she made a small indention.

"..with mana I can interact with the world." (Lycan)

Darren had more questions about this world and magic, but decided to hold off. With Lycan laying on top of him he slowly drifted off to sleep.

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All five of the Nulguard members took a step back upon seeing German's "face." The first one to act was the dwarven woman with the crossbow. The bolt flew true racing towards Gernam's skull. Thud. The bolt bounced off an invisible barrier and fell to the floor. Again the group stood stunned. German stood still for a second waiting for any further attacks. A fireball sudden flew from the hands of a dwarf wearing dark blue robes. All German did in reply was wave his hand. The fireball fizzled out of existence inches from German's face.

This time however German waited for no further attacks. He pointed towards the woman with the crossbow. The next instant she was ablaze and covered in black flames. Upon seeing this the other group members bolted in the opposite direction.

"Should I let them go?" (Gernam)

"NO!!!" (Nigel and Urvos)

With a nod German turned back towards the distant figures of the still running gang members. He then lifted his outstretched hand in the direction of the fleeing muggers.

"Damnation!"

Each of the four remaining muggers suddenly dropped to their knees and started screaming in agony. Suddenly one stopped. Then the next. And the Next. Then silence.

"Okay, now what were we talking about?" (Gernam)

The lich turned back towards his two dwarf companions to see them open mouthed and staring in the direction of the still kneeling corpes of the muggers.

"I'm sorry to wake you, but Prince Tal'gor request your presence in the dining room." (Stella)

Darren tiredly opened his eyes. Lycan was still ontop of him and wide awake.

"Sleep well?" (Lycan)

"Eh, so so." (Darren)

Lycan choose that moment to hop off of Darren, morphing into her wolf form before touching the floor. As she stretched out Darren got out of bed and started getting dressed. He then walked over to the window. Pulling back the blinds he was given a full view of Oberroth. The hamlet was quite small however the whole town seemed to be up and about.

Two children raced after a large dog between the buildings. One of those bipedal birds had a wagon hitched to it, and was currently bringing it out of town by the looks of it. What caught Darren's attention was the largest building in the town. Many interesting individuals walked in and out of it. One wore exotic looking plate armor and had a large warhammer resting on his shoulder. Another was a woman wearing flamboyant robes similar to Tal'gor's however her's were green. She was accompanied by a handsome human male with a collar around his neck. Another group was comprised of a bird-like person, a Naga, (or so he guessed) a centaur, and a human. What really through off Darren was that this human was the most interesting of the batch. He wore very light armor and had a short-sword on his side. On his back was a longbow made of a naturally aqua blue colored wood. The mans back was currently facing Darren as he discussed some unknown topic with is group. Then as if he felt he was being watched the man turned around and looked strait at Darren.

"That's pretty spooky." (Darren)

The humor in his voice was made apparent. Lycan suddenly interested walked over to the window.

"What's so funny?" (Lycan)

"O this guy is just giving me the evil eye. " (Darren)

Lycan rolled her eyes after Darren pointed out the man.

"Just flip him off and come on. It's rude to keep new friends waiting." (Lycan)

Darren shrugged and casually flipped off the man. Upon seeing Darren's gesture the man started reaching for his bow. Seeing this a smile spread across Darren's face. Do it. He mouthed at he man. Slowly Darren reached for his pistol. The man seemed to have found his better judgement and spat on the ground instead before turning away.

After entering the kitchen he was greeted by Tal'gor.

"Good morning my friend. How would you feel about visiting the capitol?" (Tal'gor)

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"Your highness, I believe you should sign the document. We have nothing to lose. These Razielonians are utter filth. What chance do they have against the full might of the Talrassan military?" (Finance Minister Giddeon)

Crown Prince Val'strath gave the man a look of utter contempt. Why is this fool allowed in every war council? The arrogance of elven nobility disgust me. Lowly curs have never worked a day in their lives.

This was the Crowned Prince's first council meeting. He had served in the Talrassan military for upwards of 124 years*. After he recently left the military, he was welcomed by his father into the council as the minister of war. However since the king was currently dealing with the Nizolm immigration crisis to the south, Val'strath was left in charge. During his time with the military he had achieved the rank of Legate. He was a person who valued the life of every elven citizen. This was not his view point prior to joining the military. Most elven nobility that joins the military is immediately given the rank of centurion. However the king showed no favoritism. He started off with all commoners, as a Munifex. He achieved the rank of Legate through merit. All who served under him were extremely loyal. The commoners loved him because they saw him as one able to comprehend their plight. This in turn made most nobles hate him. However, seeing as he was king Tal'strath's favorite son the nobility could do nothing about it.

"What you believe I should do is of little importance, Giddeon. Why should elven lives be pointlessly risked over an empty plain with little or no resources besides history, and that would be tarnished should a battle happen on top of it." (Val'strath)

The finance minister gave him a deep chuckle. The minister of spellcraft, Kaborean, took this opportunity to interject.

"But your highness, surely you do not wish to show weakness in the face of lesser races. What are the lives of a few commoners to the pride of Talrassa." (Kaborean)

"Hear, hear!" (All present, save Val'strath)

The prince stood up from his seat. Walking over to Kaborean, he leaned in slowly. When he spoke it was so that all could hear.

"What would you know about the value of a life? You have never faught with them, bled with them, ate with them, starved with them. You are pampered swine, and if you give me a reason I will send you to the slaughter and put a more qualified citizen in your place." (Val'strath)

The Minister of Spellcraft made an audible gulp.

"That goes for all of you. Your citizens lives are only as expendable as your own. Remember that. Or I will make an example to remind you. Pride will not save you. It will not bolster your coffers. It will get you a sword to the gut, or poison in your veins." (Val'strath)

The doors to the council room were flung open. A single elf walked in followed by two more and a human wearing strange clothing.

"Brother what is the meaning of this?" (Val'strath)

Third Prince Tal'gore raised an eyebrow. Then pointed to the single elf who entered first.

"O us we're not with him. We were waiting by the door. I have some business to attend to in the capitol and wanted to drop by and have a talk with you before that. I was simply waiting for a moment when you were free. So I went to the lobby and chatted up some civilians to see why a high council meeting was called. Then this fellow simply waltz in like he owned the place. Figured I'd follow him, seems that wasn't the best idea." (Tal'gore)

"No, shit Sherlock. If a stranger offered you candy as a child would you follow him to his....... uhhhh bird?" (Strange Human)

"They're called terror beaks, and why would someone store candy on a terror beak?" (Tal'gore)

"Okay, would you follow a stranger if he offered you candy?" (Strange Human)

"What kind of candy?" (Tal'gore)

"Man this goes right over your head doesn't it?" (Strange Human)

All present save the Third Prince's party stared open mouthed at the human.

"You filth, how dare you talk to the prince in such a casual and rude manner. You will speak to him only with the utmost respect." (Kaborean)

The Minister of spellcraft had gotten some of his courage back after seeing such a display.

The human turned to look at the minister. A grin spread across his face.

"Oh no." (Tal'gore)

The prince's whisper was unheard by all save himself.

"How old are you?" (Strange Human)

The minister was taken aback by the random and blunt question.

"Who are you to question a minist..." (Kaborean)

"Answer the question." (Strange Human)

Again all present (save the princes party) were aghast at how a human would dare order a minister.

"I am the minister of spellcraft I will not be ordered around by a hu..."

"You are a minister and yet compared to me you know nothing save in the area of magic. Which I am confident I will soon trump you in as well. Do not be so presumptuous as to place yourself on a pedestal equal in height to my own. Your intelligence is a mere pinprick whereas mine is an ocean. Tell me do you know what stars are made of? Do you know how to rip one apart and harness its resources to fuel productivity on levels unheard of?" (Strange Human)

The human noticed the confusion and rage on the Minister's face. He let out a sigh.

"Well seeing as you won't comprehend this in any reasonable amount of time I'll get to the point. The original question was asked to set up the premise, that though you are older than me your years are wasted. You will never know an iota of what I do. Trying to place yourself above me on something as arbitrary as race, is pointless. Regardless of your race, pedigree, or position of power you will never be comparable to me. For you see I have a limitless amount of the second most valuable resource. Knowledge." (Strange Human)

The air of pompousness leaked by this human was unheard of even for elves. Kaborean was red as a tomato.

"Guards seize this human and bring him to the dungeons." (Kaborean)

The human gave the minister a level stare before smiling wider than before.

"Glad we agree." (Strange Human)

"Agree on what?" (Kaborean)

The minister said with a snap of anger.

"Well that I'm above you. Obviously."

"How so, are you not about to be escorted away by the guards?" (Kaborean)

The human clicked his tongue and shook his head.

"Are you blind. Or just slow. That's precisely the reason why I'm above you. Rather than refute my point. Or argue the illegitimacy of my words you simply send the guards on me. Showing that you are a rather simple minded person who would rather throw man power at a problem until it goes away." (Strange Human)

All looked towards the minister of spellcraft for a response.

Cough, Cough

"Darren I hate to interrupt you, but we are being quite rude." (Tal'gore)

Darren raised an eyebrow before a look of realization came upon him. He turned to the elf who barged in originally.

"I believe I owe you an apology. You seem like you have something important to say." (Darren)

The elf jumped in surprise after suddenly being addressed. Everyone else was taken aback at the sudden change in the demeanor of the human, who genuinely seemed sorry for having delayed the man.

The elf nodded at the human and then addressed the entire assembly.

"Razielon has made a declaration of war." (Messenger)

*(Elves live upwards to 1500, but elven royalty is blessed by Utvossan the deity supposedly responsible for their creation, and thus can live for thousands of years. FYI the oldest elf to ever live was only 3000. After reaching a certain age, entities such as primals and lower deities view said elves as threats and take measures to end them before they peak.)

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"They already have a army of 30,000 occupying Juda. They plan to incease this by ten-fold come next spring." (Messenger)

"Brother take your guest and servant and go. I will meet you at my house. Whatever business you have can wait." (Val'strath)

Tal'gore shot the strange human a look.

"Darren?" (Tal'gore)

"For now it can. Besides we need to get in contact with this adviser of your's anyway." (Darren)

The human turned to Val'strath.

"By the way prince. The matter your brother came to discuss with you is fairly important. More so now that the matter of this war been brought to light." (Darren)

Without another word the three departed.

The moment Tal'gore he turned to Darren.

"To harness stars?" (Tal'gore)

Darren grinned.

"Call it a half truth. I do believe I know how to do it. I just don't know of the technology that would allow me to put my theory into place. Bluffing is a valuable skill. However I find the more prideful the person the easier it is to fool them." (Darren)

Tal'gore let out a sigh and chuckled lightly.

"Let's go. I'd rather finish our business in the capitol and get back to Oberroth." (Tal'gore)

Darren nodded.

"Agreed." (Darren)

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So I realize I made a few mistakes last chapter. It was a long weekend forme and I apologize. I also realized I posted the wrong chapter. Rather than delete it and confuse more people. I'll make the travel chapter a flashback. Again sorry long weekend. I'm still rather tired. Anyway on with the chapter.

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"Hmmm as much as I love seeing people awed by my magical, we should go. Even if we are in the right. It would be kind of hard for you to explain me and the bodies. So before the guards come to investigate the source of that screaming* we need to get going." (Gernam)

The lich then winked at his dwarven companions.

"Lucky for you two I happen to have a spell that will allow us to slip away unnoticed." (Gernam)

The lich used the bottum of his staff to draw a glyph into the ground. The glyph expanded to encompass both dwarves as well. After a brief flash all of them appeard to be a tad darker. As if a brown screen.

"I'm going to assume this is your first day being invisible. So don't talk and tread lightly." (Gernam)

Nigel stared at his hands. He made a spastic motion then looked at Gernam's shape.

"I think you messed it up." (Nigel)

"4000, 4000 years I've been around. Sure about 1900 of them sleeping but still. I think I know how to draw an invisibility glyph." (Gernam)

Urvos however was already thinking of a gameplan.

"I know someone who you should be able to talk to without being attack on sight. As long as you show your friendly." (Urvos)

Gernam nodded.

"Lead the way." (Gernam)

The dwarves and the lich walked through the town unnoticed. The many beautiful structures were impossible to appreciate due to the entire city being in an underground cavern. The crypt was merely a small offshoot. Most building were simple cubes with circle carves out for windows. As they neared the center of town they passed a large wall. Suddenly the buildings became more luxurious. No longer simple cubes but now large pavilions made of solid rock. They seemed to be entering the area that was once the old academy. After another small bit of walking they reached perhaps the smallest building that Gernam had seen since entering the academy grounds. Urvos led Gernam inside this building. The interior was not much more impressive than the outside,being completely empty save for a bookshelf on the right-hand wall, and a desk in the rooms center. A Short elf in mage garbs sat at the desk. Writing a letter.

"Welcome please sit down." (Short Elf)

"Oh? Howcome he can see us?" (Nigel)

Gernam chuckled.

"It's been a long time since I've met someone who has true sight." (Gernam)

The elfs head shot up.

"How do know about that?" (Short elf)

"If it was simply mana detection you wouldn't have noticed us. I have my mana stored elsewhere and these two aren't mages. Quite simply there was no mana to detect. Also last time I checked elfs don't have a keen since of smell. So that leaves true sight. Or it could also be my bones scraping the floor. But, judging by your reaction it's true sight." (Gernam)

The elf made a confused look and muttered "bones scraping the floor?" he then reached down and picked up a pair of glasses. Putting them on his face, his skin went pale. However Gernam only laughed in response.

"True sight on a person with poor eyesight. That's the best joke I've seen in a while." (Gernam)

The elf was still shaken but finally mustered up the courage to ask a question.

"A... a... are you a l....li...lich?" (Short elf)

"Yes indeed, and here I though the world forgot about my kind. Now I believe introductions are in order. My name is German. A pleasure to meet you."

Upon hearing the confirmation of his fear the elf was again speechless. No lich has been seen for hundreds of years. And now one was in his office talking to him as if he genuinely wanted to have a nice chat, and not kill him.

Gernam made a tired face. However he soon realized his two compainions couldn't make it out so he snapped his finger. The brown film over each of them shattered.

"Speak up boy I don't bite. If I wanted to kill you you'd be dead. Seeing as you're still iving please allow me the pleasure of your name."

The elf gulped but did answer.

"I am Armon, sir. Advisor and friend to prince Tal'gore Felloron and upper B class mage."

German gave a jovial laugh.

"There we go. Now how about we have a nice chat. Also do you have anything to eat I'm starving." (Gernam)

The dwarves and the elf all gave the lich a look of doubt.

"Hey, I get hungry. You sleep for nearly a thousand years and tell me you're not hungry. Just because I don't need to eat doesn't mean I don't like to eat." (Gernam)

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Tal'gore and Darren sat in the middle of a luxurious office. The floor was hardwood. It was the same color as the bow of the adventurer that Darren had pissed off before leaving Oberroth. The bare walls were bright yellow. Not a single decorative Item or window was on them. The only noticeable feature of the room aside from the floor was the table in the middle of the room. It was circular with a hole in the middle. Like a giant wooden donut. Suspended above this hole was a an orb. The orb seemed to be in the grip of a golden claw. The decoration was quite beautiful when observed closely.The office belonged to Tal'gore. He called it his meeting room. The building it was located in also belonged to Tal'gore. It was a branch of the Consortium which Tal'gore happens to be a high ranking member of.

The trip to the capitol originally had two primary purposes. First was to get Darren's release forms. Second was to see if Darren was to see what elements he had good attunement with. Darren figured if he was in a world of magic he should atleast make an attempt to learn it. This stop was simply a way to kill time while Tal'gore determined who he should have test Darren's attunement.

"So what's this?" (Darren)

Darren pointed to the stone.

"Ahh, that's a gate stone." (Tal'gore)

Tal'gore then returned to the unopened letters in front of him. Apparently he doens't have his mail come to Oberroth. Instead he has it come to his office. When Darren asked what if the letter was an emergency, Tal'gore rolled his eyes and said if it was an emergency they wouldn't use a letter. Darren raised an eyebrow at this but didn't prod. He figured Tal'gore would explain when the situation called for it.

"Look you can't just say the name of a magical object and expect me to know its use." (Darren)

"My apologies. Gate stones are used for non emergency long distance communication. They also act as conduits for portals." (Tal'gore)

As Tal'gore explained the functions of gate stones he continued opening letters. However halfway through the pile he came upon one with his advisers seal. Using his letter opener he broke the seal and read the contents of the parchment.

My prince, I assume it will be a while before you come across this message, but when you do please inform me of your findings. I am extremely interested to learn more about that mana burst. I believe it may be linked to multiple phenomenon occuring all over Gallanor. Please make arrangements meet with me at your earliest convenience.

Your friend and adviser, Armon

"Haha, I think I've found someone." (Tal'gore)

"See this is why you check the mail. You really should reroute your mail to your actual house." (Darren)

Tal'gore waived a dismissive hand. It was at that moment Lycan phased into the building.

"Just in time. We're about to leave." (Tal'gore)

"O where to?" (Lycan)

"We're going meet a friend of mine." (Tal'gore)

"So what did you learn?" (Darren)

"The meeting ended shortly after you three left. However I tailed that Kaborean fellow. He must really want you dead. He hired like three guys to kill you. By, the way where's Stella?" (Lycan)

"She'll be here shortly I sent her to buy some lunch. Darren and I are starving." (Tal'gore)

Darren had a noticeable frown on his face.

"Worried?" (Lycan)

"Nah, im just a little downtrodden that he only sent three. I'm worth way more assassin's than that. Ehh maybe he'll send more if we kill these guys." (Darren)

Lycan and Tal'gore both rolled thier eyes.

"I've heard alot of stupid comments but feeling down because someone only hired a few assassins to kill you is pretty high up there." (Tal'gore)

"So are we going to wait on them or?" (Lycan)

At that moment the gate stone started vibrating.

"Well it looks like we won't have to make the trip. Armon's coming here." (Tal'gore)

Tal'gore waived his hand and the stone stopped vibrating.After a moment a doorway appeared on one of the walls and 4 figures stepped through. Two of them were short men with beards and large noses. Another was a rather short elf. However the last one was who caught Darren's attention the most. It was a skeleton wearing a flamboyant robe and holding a large staff.

"Which one's your friend?" (Darren)

Darren turned his head to see Tal'gore was pale and shaking. The prince was staring at the skeleton.

"Tal'gore manners. These are your guest." (Darren)

Tal'gore then turned an incredulous gaze towards Darren.

"Oh your not afraid. I have to admit this is a first since I've woken up." (Skeleton)

"Ehh, I've learned not to judge people based on arbatrary features such as appeArances." (Darren)

"He's a fucking lich stop chatting with him. And Armon why did you bring him here." (Tal'gore)

"Long story." (Armon)

"Pardon my friend. I'm Darren pleasure to meet you." (Darren)

Darren held out his hand to the lich. The lich shook it and laughed.

"Ahh that's refresh.... It was you. HAHA IT WAS YOU." (Lich)

Even Darren was taken aback by the sudden outburst. All eyes then went from the lich to Darren.

"I don't know what he's talking about." (Darren)

"Pardon me. We can discuss that later. My name is Gernam. A pleasure to meet you." (Gernam)

Darren grinned.

"Likewise." (Darren)

Though she didn't reveal herself to the lich. Lycan looked at Gernam with nostalgia filled eyes.

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After Gernam had finished one of the Dwarves stepped forward. He then offered his hand. Taking it Darren found his handshake was like he imagined. Strong and firm. While he didn't share the superstitions of his father that it was a good judge of character, Darren still found it to be an admirable trait.

"The names Urvos. This here's Nigel, pleasure ta mee'cha." (Urvos)

After Urvos took a step back his place was taken by Nigel.

"I'm Nigel as my friend just said. We have been traveling with Gernam for a little over a day now." (Nigel)

Urvos nodded.

"Believe it or not we............... What was that?" (Urvos)

"Outside the door and to the left. Atleast three people. They're trying to hid their presence." (Nigel)

Gernam looked towards both of them quizically.

"How come you heard that but not the people outside the crypt?" (Gernam)

"Crypt was made by superstitious people who have long since turned to dust. Thought if they didn't sound proof it we would hear the wailing of the dead." (Urvos)

Gernam laughed lightly. Darren already had his gun drawn. He looked extremely calm except his eyes were very cold.

Lycan walked towards the wall and phased through. AFter a moment her form came back into the room. Turning to Darren she relayed what she saw.

"Definitely the assassins. All elves. None of them very powerful in magic. Your gun should work fine." (Lycan)

Darren nodded in response. The room was silent.

A sound was heard outside the door. Tal'gore was the first to move. Without a word he channeled an enormous amount of mana into an exceedingly large fireball. With a slight motion from his hand the ball shot forward. A red film appeared in front of the group before the fireball hit the door. The moment it hit the door a powerful explosion rocked the room. When the smoke cleared two assassins lay dead. One blackend beyond recognition. The other a pile of pale white ash. The group was still alert knowing that the third was still near.

"Behind you Darren." (Lycan)

Darren spun and shot 3 times. The others, excluding Tal'gore, jumped back in surprise. However the surprise vanished when three holes appeared in mid air. Blood freely flowing from each of them. The holes fell forward onto the floor. The cloak on the assassin dissipated leaving a black garbed elf dead on the floor.

"What an interesting tool." (Gernam)

Darren then bent down and began to search the body. He found three daggers, four throwing knives, and a ring.

"Kaborean's seal. These are professionals." (Tal'gore)

"These are professionals? That's underwhelming." (Darren)

Darren considered what to do with the body.

"Ahh may I have the body?" (Gernam)

The whole party looked at Gernam with skepticism. The lich simply shrugged in response.

"What do you think I'm going to eat him?" (Gernam)

"I figure you'd raise him as an undead servant or something along those lines. That's what I would do as a lich back when I played DnD." (Darren)

"You were a lich? I find that hard to believe. Especially since you said they had no magic in your world." (Tal'gore)

Darren sighed at himself.

"We had a concept of magic. My world used it extensively in our books and video games. Although I think actual magic is much different from the magic in RP...... I mean role playing games. One of the classes was mage which could specialize into necromancer, which could then specialize into lich. To transition from Necromancer to lich one must first put their soul in phylactery. Which required a large amount of exotic items." (Darren)

The room stared at him in silence.

"That's surprisingly acurate. The fact you even know what a phylactery is, is astounding. You'll have to explain this DnD to me later." (Gernam)

"I agree a game where you can become a lich interest me greatly aswell." (Tal'gore)

"I'd enjoy watching that." (Lycan)

"Nigel and I think it sounds neat." (Urvos)

Nigel nodded in response. Armon remained silent.

"I think you guys have the wrong Idea but I'll see what I can do." (Darren)

The body suddenly stood up and walked to the corner of the room. and sat down. Everyone looked at Gernam.

"What I figured it was ok since none of you openly objected." (Gernam)

"If you had lips you'd be smiling. Right?" (Darren)

"Yep" (Gernam)

"O my you have more guest than when I left. SHould I call some servants to clean this?" (Stella)

The maid had returend at an odd moment. She looked at Gernam fearfully for a moment. Then she let out a breath and resumed her former composure.

"Is he also a guest of your's Prince?" (Stella)

"Long story." (Tal'gore)

"I'll go get more food."( Stella)

As she turned to leave, but Tal'gore told her to wait.

"Forget it. I'll order some the people down below to get some." (Tal'gore)

"Allow me. I shall return shortly." (Stella)

The elf maid walked towards the direction of the stairs.

Tal'gore then turned to Armon. Walking over to him he put his hands on Armon's shoulders.

"My friend would it be possible for you to sense Darren's attunement?" (Tal'gore)

Armon shook his head.

"While it is within my capabilities, we have someone infinitely better at such a task than me." (Armon)

The short elf turned his head towards Gernam.

"You can sense attunements?" (Tal'gore)

The lich nodded.

"When your as old as I am, you tend to learn some support spells for such occasions. Mana sensing was taught alongside attunement. So I learned both." (Gernam)

"Then would you do me the favor." (Darren)

"It requires no particular effort besides I've taken an interest in you. Offworlder." (Gernam)

Those who came with the lich all looked towards Darren.

"That's right he did say in his world." (Urvos)

"I thought he was being egotistical. We've met plenty of people like that today." (Nigel)

Darren, Tal'gore, and Gernam scowled at the dwarf.

"How about this, Darren. You tell me your story, I check your attunement, and then I owe you one." (Gernam)

"Fine only on the condition that you tell me what you meant when you said "It was you."" (Darren)

"Deal" (Gernam)

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Dwarven guards are required to undergo extensive training. One of their training routines involves listening for those who don't want to be heard. Dwarves who've trained for years can even see through spells that hid presence.

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"Deal." (Gernam)

The pair sat in silence for a moment. Gernam silently stared at Darren. Neither of the pair made any movement. The awkwardness soon spread to the rest of the moon. Cough Darren scratched the back of his head.

"So are we gunna do it now............" (Darren)

"DONE." (Gernam)

The whole room jumped back at the sudden sound that emerged from Gernam.

"How, you didn't even use a glyph or a spell." (Tal'gore)

"When you master soul magic you can do plenty of things. Of course you have to know the traditional methods of sensing attunement for this method. I would explain it in detail but you have no concept of soul magic. So it wouldn't make sense." (Gernam)

"Soul magic?" (Armon)

"Were to begin.... Soul magic is one of the most primal fo....." (Gernam)

"Save it for another time please. I just want to here the results." (Darren)

Gernam sighed but relented.

"You may not like the news. Your attunement isn't to any element. It's to weight. A very undesirable attunement." (Gernam)

Tal'gore winced and Armon shook his head.

"Why is it undesirable?" (Darren)

"Because the only way one can grow stronger in magic is through an understanding of what your manipulating. For example Tal'gore probably has a firm grasp on what fire is. How to make it and how it interacts with the world. Weight is different. No one knows why it exist. Or what it does other than make things heavier." (Gernam)

"Hmm sounds like you just have the wrong concept. Weight is just the force gravity exerts to keep you grounded." (Darren)

"Gravity?" (All present)

"Ok. Sit down children. Allow me to teach all of you some science." (Darren)

His emphasis on the last word made everyone raise an eyebrow.

"So lets establish the basics. You understand this world is a sphere right?" (Darren)

All present nodded except Urvos and Nigel.

"That's just silly human superstition." (Urvos)

Darren glared at the dwarves.He slowly breathed outward.

"To explain why all planets are spheres, even those that aren't solid......" (Darren)

"Wait what do you mean even those that aren't solid?" (Nigel)

"Well you have three main categories of planets. Solids, gas giants, and ice giants. Both Ice giants and gas giants are bigger than solid planets. Now can I answer the original question?" (Darren)

Urvos and Nigel pondered on his explanation for a moment before Nigel spoke up.

"Why are "gas and ice giants" bigger? (Nigel)

"Okay this is going to take a while. Does everyone else want to hear this?"(Darren)

"I've got nothing better to do." (Tal'gore)

"I could always learn something new." (Armon)

"I'm in agreement with the short one." (Gernam)

"You couldn't get rid of me if you wanted to." (Lycan)

Darren smiled at that last comment.

"Alright then."

"The term gas giant was first used in 1952........."(Darren)

About three hours later....

"Now that I've explained all of that onto gravity." (Darren)

"Aggghh" (All present including Stella)

A collective sigh was heard throughout the room. Empty plates were next to everyone as Stella had returned with food. The previous joviality gone. Replaced with aching heads from all the new and sudden information.

Darren frowned but continued regardless.

"Don't give me that attitude the whole point of this was so that I can explain gravity without sounding insane. Besides Gernam where do you have to be?" (Darren)

"Just because I'm old doesn't mean I don't value my time." (Gernam)

"Anyway, the best way to describe gravity is to think of a rock in the ocean water pressing it from all sides. Trying to fill up the space where the rock is. Think of space as the ocean and Gallanor as a rock." (Darren)

"That's it?" (Tal'gore)

"For the most part yes. THe more complicated bits come from how gravity gets stronger. Generally the larger the object the stronger it's gravitational pull. However gravity isn't determined by size. It's determined by mass. So say you're holding a 1 inch in diameter ball of copper and a 1 inch in diameter ball of lead. The lead has a stronger gravitational pool because it has more mass." (Darren)

"Interesting." (Nigel)

Darren rolled his eyes.

"If only you showed that much interest in the earlier discussion. Anyway I think that's about it for now. How about I try out my theory. It would be a shame to have explained all of that and not have it be gravity magic."( Darren)

"Great idea. Now all you have to do is learn how to channel mana. That should only take a few months with how smart you are." (Tal'gore)

Darren's eyes widened.

"Woah woah woah. A few months. That may not be that long for an elf but for me that's a pretty large chunk of time." (Darren)

"I got this." (Lycan)

Darren and Tal'gore exchanged a skeptical look. Lycan morphed into her human form and stepped forward to place a hand on Darren's shoulder. Everything went black.

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Darkness surrounded everything.

"Deja vu." (Darren)

However in the distance a faint light could be seen.

"No where to go but forward." (Darren)

With no goal or reason Darren started towards the light. Hours passed as he moved towards the light. When he could walk no more he collapsed. However something pushed him forward. He crawled. And crawled. For an apparent eternity he dragged himself through the darkness. Suddenly the light grew. With each inch claimed the light grew more intense. Then it became blinding. However, Darren could not look away. As he reached the center he saw it had a small solid core. Achingly he reached up and slowly grasped the sphere.

Darren's eyes fluttered open. He was greeted with Lycan's face. Her passive expression widened into a smile.

"Two days not bad. The only other instance of forced perception I've heard of took a week." (Lycan)

"Forced percep...." (Darren)

He then noticed he felt different. More energized. He innately felt a need to channel it. Lycan suddenly planted a kiss on his cheek, but said nothing. Sliding off of him she phased out of the small room. As Darren leaned up he noticed someone sitting in a chair in the corner. As his eyes focused on the person he realized it wasn't Tal'gore as he expected. Instead it was Gernam.

"Gernam?" (Darren)

The lich's made no response.

"Hello?" (Darren)

Still no response. Darren looked at the bedside stand to his left. A pen sat there with a note attached to it.

My friend as you can see Armon and I have reversed engineered one of these. I hope you do not mind but I've given the go ahead to mass produce these. All credit for there creation has been given to you. In regards to the funds I expect nothing. All profits shall go to you. Get well soon my friend. We have much more to do together.

Your friend, Tal'gore

Darren experienced an odd sensation. He had only known Tal'gore for a day. For some reason seeing the elf as a friend felt right. It left a mark on Darren. It occurred to him that before coming to Gallanor it had been a long time since he had called anyone friend. Indeed his life before coming to Gallanor was a lonely one. A hallow shell of a man with no purpose or reason for anything. Simply seeking knowledge because it was something to do. His home life revolved around a daily routine of exercise and online gaming. He was famous for the wonders he introduced to the world.It amounted to nothing. The feeling emptiness that followed him so closely had been absent from the moment he arrived in this world. Lycan and Tal'gore. Two people he had known for less than a week. Were his only friends. And indeed his only family in Lycan's case.

"Your effort shall not be wasted my friend." (Darren)

He picked up the pen and admired it then with all the might he could muster he flung the pen at the skeleton's skull. As the pen raced towards Gernam Darren made a mental note to teach Tal'gore how to make plastic. With a thud the pen bounced off the lich.

The lich jumped up and took a defensive stance.

Noticing Darren and then the pen on the ground he put two and two together.

"You're lucky I can't feel pain." (Gernam)

"Oh yea so I believe I can perceive my own mana now." (Darren)

The lich's jaw fell open.

"Well if you can cast a spell for me." (Gernam)

Darren Reached forward and channeled all his energy in an effort to pull Gernam down. And nothing.

"Feel anything?" (Darren)

"A slight weight on my shoulders but not much. If your theory was correct you'd have brought me to my knees." (Gernam)

"Do I need to say something?" (Darren)

"Only for glyphs and unattributed spells." (Gernam)

"Then I guess my gravity theory was wrong." (Darren)

He started to guess what else it could be. A

"You said you learned soul magic. Does that mean it's unattributed?" (Darren)

"No soul magic is an attribute onto itself. I think I know what question that's going to lead into. Anyone can learn spells from any school. It's just that being attuned to a particular attribute greatly increases the rate at which you learn and develop your magical abilities in that attribute. It also removes the inherent limiter." (Gernam)

"Limiter?" (Darren)

"For example someone not attuned to water magic can never learn above Intermediate grade water spells." (Gernam)

Darren nodded. What could his magic actually be. It couldn't be weight. Weight was just a measurement of the force gravity has on something. Maybe instead of a force of nature it was something that exerted gravity.

"I think I may have been going around this the wrong way. Before I try what I'm about to. How do I destroy something I materialize say fire?" (Darren)

"Stop channeling mana. Remember that enormous fireball Tal'gore cast against those assassins. If he would have stopped his mana flow to that object it would have dispersed. However remember it takes a conscious effort to stop channeling. After You've cast a spell you naturally keep channeling into it." (Gernam)

"I see, well here goes nothing." (Darren)

Darren raised his hand. As he started to channel his mana into a physical form focusing on Gernam. A small black ball the size of a marble appeared on mid air in front of Gernam. The lich's body jolted forward at an ungodly speed toward the ball. After reaching it his body started to slowly crack as it bent to enclose the ball. Sensing this could be bad Darren conciously made an effort to stop channeling and Gernam fell to the floor.

Pulling himself off the floor the lich gave Darren an awed stair.

"What was that?" (Gernam)

"That was dark matter." (Darren)

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"Dark matter? I've never heard of such a thing. Though I suppose that's to be expected considering matter is a term I only learned two days ago." (Gernam)

"Even in my world very little is known about it. It was only proven to exist a few years ago. For the longest time it was simply a hypothetical substance. As you've just experienced though, it is very real." (Darren)

The lich scratched it's skull.

"I remember you saying that an object had to have an enourmous amount of mass to have a gravitational pull. How did that tiny ball pull me off my feet and nearly crush me to deat.... Ahem re-death?"(Gernam)

"Believe it or not dark matter represents most of the universes mass. However it's so dense that one about a 100th the size of that marble would weigh as much as the largest mountain in my world." (Darren)

"And weight mages can conjure this at will? That is very unnerving. I'm also surprised that none of them every realized it was a materialization type of magic instead of a force type." (Gernam)

"I'm sure they did. However not knowing full well what they were handling they may have inadvertently materialized one larger than the marble sized one I did and without the restrictions. Most likely killing themselves. Even worse they may have dissipated it to fast. As you noticed mine was small enough to where the gravitational field could be disrupted easily thus allowing me a few seconds to dissipate it. If I would have done it to fast a super nova could have a occurred. Or worse a black hole. An anomaly with gravity so great not even light can escape it." (Darren)

"Incredible, would you mind going into more detail on these black holes?" (Gernam)

"Do you want another 6 hour learning marathon?" (Darren)

"Point taken. Lets go ahead and tell everyone else you're awake. By the way Urvos and Nigel took the portal back to Armons study. They'll be back. They are resigning as guards. As Urvos put it "We need more excitement in our lives." That and something else about how the dwarven mob might come after them after they find out that those two are connected to the deaths of five of its members." (Gernam)

"Dwarven mob?" (Darren)

"Only thing I know about them is that they are called the Nulguard." (Gernam)

"That's hilarious. I mean I'm sure one doesn't want to piss them off. I just can't help but laugh at that situation though. I mean come on getting a hit put on you by a 4 foot mobster is comedy story waiting to write itself." (Darren)

"Ha, sounds like it. Anyway lets go get Tal'gore and the rest." (Gernam)

Darren Nodded and got out of bed. The two of them then walked out of the room.

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Two beings stood facing each other. One a warrior clad in gleaming white armor. Wielding a sword as bright as the sun. The other his face shadowed so that it couldn't be seen. He wore a pure white overcoat, under it was clothing unrecognizable by the warrior in white. The warrior squeezed his sword and charged. However as the sword arced downward, a sword of pure darkness appeared in the unarmed man's hand. The moment the two swords clashed the sword of light shattered. However the sword of darkness did not stop and continued racing towards the warrior. It easily sliced through the armor narrowly missing the man underneath. Seeing his chest plate was useless the man discarded it. Revealing himself to be extremely handsome. However one would notice the white wings which spread out to be longer than 4 meters from tip to tip. The angelic man extended his hands and in each of them two more swords of light appeared. However, the man in the strange clothes bent his knees. Lifting a hand above his hand a monstrous double sided spear of darkness appeared in his hand. With little effort he hurled the spear at the angelic man. Obliterating him in an instant.

Grand General Saphiel shot up drenched in a cold sweat. The general felt something he hadn't felt in a very long time fear. Hurrying out of bed he dressed himself. He had to see the king, and quickly. Or else all of Razielon was at risk.

Saphiel stood in the royal court waiting for the king and the other generals currently in the capitol to arrive.

Unsurprisingly the king was the first to arrive. Danforth Raziel II was the ninth in his line. If you didn't include his brother Cornelius. The circumstances surrounding Cornelius's death screamed suspicious. He died of food poisoning a week before he was to take the throne. Danforth was a man of hulking proportions. Raised as a warrior he loathed his brothers political tactics. Many of the generals suspected this was Danforth's doing, but the king denied these suspicions.

The first general to arrive was 3rd general Nelfin. Like all the generals he was blessed by one of the archangels. Nelfin was blessed by Azreal the Angel of Death. While most of the generals were revered by the worshipers of Tillium the Redeemer, Nelfin was the only one who was reviled. His greataxe, Hades, was said to age anything it cut. His armor was the only armor among the generals that was black.

After Nelfin came 1st General Xavius. Unlike the other generals Xavious wore tight fitting leather armor. On his left side hung two daggers. Rend and Tear. These daggers were indeed misnomers. As they did not tear or rend. They possessed the ability to phase through skin and armor. Only cutting the internals. Or the eyes if you were unlucky. Xavius was the chosen of Uriel. The Archangel of Confirmation whose goal was to bring all humans into Tillium's light.

The final general Present in Fullguard (The Capitol) was 6th general Octurus. Octurus while loved by the people was perhaps the most enigmatic of the generals. With a contingent of only 4 underlings most people knew nothing of him. He was never seen without his heavy white platemail known as Heaven's Ward. Blessed by Tillium himself the armor was impenetrable. On his back was the greatsword, Gehenna. The sword itself was what stood out the most about the man. With a rounded tip akin to a semi-circle. The sword itself was pitch-black providing a stark contrast with his gleaming white armor. If one were to look closely one might notice a small groove running right down the middle of the flat of the blade. This groove is where the blade split into two. When split the greatsword would become two black longswords, Sodom and Gomorrah. When swung this blade would send out a wave of pure mana. Cutting down all in its path. Octurus was blessed by Micheal the archangel of war.

Sephiel was blessed by Tillium himself hence why he was called the Grand General.

With all present the king turned towards the grand general.

"Why have you called us Sephiel?" (Danforth)

"I have received a vision." (Sephiel)

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"So you think that is the best course of action? If I remember correctly that place is run by Kaborean's brother." (Lycan)

"Oh it is. That's one of the reasons I'm sending him there instead of one of the more pretegious academies. He will no doubt surpass the material taught there. After that point I will teach him what I can."

"I'm assuming by him you mean me?" (Darren)

The man stood in the doorway of the room. The four occupants looked at him for a moment. Smiles broke out on each of their faces. Excluding Armon.

"Glad to see you're awake my friend. After Lycan informed us of what she had done we decided to plan ahead. Assuming your guess is correct and your magic is indeed based on gravity and not w...." (Tal'gore)

"I was wrong. In the best of ways. After experimenting with German we figured out it wasn't gravity. It's a materialization type magic that allows me to create dark matter. The densest material in the universe. So dense that it has its own gravitational field." (Darren)

"Care to provide and example." (Armon)

The short elf seemed indifferent about everything. However if one was good at reading body language they could see the subtle signs of excitement.

"Sure, although I'd prefer to use something that isn't living. I already almost killed German." (Darren)

The skeleton shifted uncomfortably.

"I can help with that." (Lycan)

The wolf deity pointed her human hand towards the air. A huge block of ice formed and fell to the floor.

"So they can see you now?" (Darren)

He asked the question he already knew the answer to.

"Yep. I figured if you were going to get to know these people that it's only natural that I do." (Lycan)

"Why is it only natural. You still never told us why you are with Tal'gore. You won't even let him tell us." (Armon)

Lycan chuckled.

"That's because I'm not with Tal'gore. I'm with Darren. Due to a series of complications he is my husband." (Lycan)

Armon's jaw dropped. Gernam looked at Darren then back at Lycan. He repeated this process once more before laughing. Stella made no response.

"Oh that's grand. You will have to tell me that story one day." (Gernam)

Eager to change the subject Darren interjected.

"Anyway lets get this show and tale out the way." (Darren)

He started channeling the spell. Mentally applying properties and restricting its influence. Finally a sphere of darkmatter the size of a pea came into existence. It was made only to effect the block of ice. In and instant the ice was picked up and wrapped around the dark matter. Whirling and compressing until it was at a state in between liquid and gas.

All eye's were filled with awe. Even Lycan herself was quite impressed.

"So this is what wieght mages are capable of." (Tal'gore)

His awe was overshadowed by his dread. He could only imagine what an army of those even unnattuned to such a magic could do. Seeing the distress on his friends face Darren spoke to quell his fears.

"Calm down most wouldn't know about it's properties until it's too late. Anyway lets talk about what I overheard when I came in. What plans have you made?" (Darren)

"Ahh yes. While you will have to make your own advances in your field of attunement perhaps attending the local Magic Academy would help you better understand basic casting and the like." (Tal'gore)

Darren saw the wisdom in Tal'gore's words. He also sensed an ulterior motive.

"What else?" (Darren)

The elf prince smiled. He didn't expect Darren to not find out.

"There is an annual competition of sorts where mages from around the country come to test their skills against one another. If a certain human was to outmatch the elves at the academy that happens to be run by Kaborean's brother, it would agitate the man quite a bit. That and it would boost your own reputation." (Tal'gore)

"Sounds fun when do I start." (Darren)

"Actually I think you mean when do we start." (Gernam)

Darren raised an eyebrow and looked at Tal'gore.

"The lich will be teaching at the academy. In disguise of course. While the academy has wards against Illusions he was able to bypass them and squire a job." (Tal'gore)

"It's been a while since I taught. Besides since you've show me so much I thought it would be good to return the favor." (Gernam)

"This is going to be a surreal experience isn't it?" (Darren)

The wolf deity wrapped her arms around his neck.

"Think of it as a learning experience instead." (Lycan)

"Of that I have no doubt." (Darren)

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In the human kingdom of Yuria a man sat cross legged on a snow topped mountain. A sudden pressure pulsed past him. He was not unused to the aftershocks of manaburst. Meditating in these mountains such things passed on a daily basis. However another passed him him making him open his eyes in surprise. Two in a row was unheard of. Then a third passed. Nearly knocking the man over. The power in that pulse was so immense it could only mean the birth or rebirth of a deity. If his suspicions were true it could mean the end of the current era and the beginning of a new one. Picking up his hood he ended his meditating. He would return to Yuria's capitol and consult the others of this. Truly these were marvelous times to live in.

Arc End

Next Arc: The flamboyant lich and his student.