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Claudia
Feb 28, 2014 15:55:04 GMT -5
Post by Judas D'arc on Feb 28, 2014 15:55:04 GMT -5
The following were originally posted as part of a larger Shadows of Change/Demon story-line, but because of their relevance to something I'm currently writing and since they also feel like they stand on their own, I've decided to re-post them together in their own thread.
Originally posted October 22, 2012.
"Bob?" She questioned as she allowed her long blue skirt to fall to the floor. "I don't think I'm built like a Bob. No Bob parts here. I'd like something more feminine and mysterious."
Judas had quickly averted his gaze at the briefest glimpse of Shelley's bare thighs. The two of them were alone in the basement of the Salty Dog Tavern in Britain, and the wrong impression was easy to be had by any unexpected visitors. "You certainly are a mystery."
"The Mistress of Shadows."
"Too dramatic," the bard commented.
"Queen of Darkness."
"Too ... much," he sighed irritably.
"What do you think of Lady British? I'd wager our new king would hate it," she smirked. Or at least that was what he imagined her mouth was doing since he continued to avoid the sight of her.
"Lady British?" The bard groaned. "I have never heard of a more foolish notion. Are you decent yet, Shelley?"
"Clothed if not decent," his employer quipped in retaliation.
Judas turned and saw she had spoken truly. The pug-nosed peasant girl had been replaced by a brown-haired woman in her early thirties. The only indication that they were one and the same was the familiar pair of too-green eyes that stared back at him. He had always considered her penchant for emeralds symbols to be her one vain indulgence. "Jolicia told me you intend to make changes."
"We've a new king and new means and ends. From what I've heard, you're not unfamiliar with what Blackthorn's been up to?"
"You could say that," he nodded. "Our king has not departed from his philosophy of embracing other races as equal. There have been envoys of peace sent to rat-men and orcs, and even conflicts with those that seek to destroy anything non-human. Humanists, they call themselves, although I do not think they have demonstrated much humanity. He also assisted with Skara Brae's crop failure and asked us to investigate a mage who that came into disagreement with the Moonglow Mage Guild. Overall, I think a strong argument exists that Blackthorn has inherited quite the difficult situation."
"I don't disagree," Shelley said. "Still, priorities need shifting. Before there was the risk for too much chaos and that's bad for business. Too much power in the throne is also bad for business."
"What are you suggesting, exactly?"
She shook her head. "Just keep me aware."
Judas took a small, tentative step towards one of his oldest friends. "Is there something troubling you? You have been on edge lately, and your tone has grown harsher. I appreciate your help with finding a safe place for Aingeal and asking Lucas to keep her protected, but you almost seemed annoyed by my request. In fact, ever since I saw you and Cubbins together in Vesper ..."
Her words were led by a scowl. "Don't question me, Judas. Not when there's too much work that's been unattended. I've been waiting weeks for your group to get organized."
"We have been a bit overwhelmed by --"
"Do it," Shelley harshly demanded, "or I'll find someone that will. For now, I'll be spending more time in Britain. If you need me just leave a message here at the Salty Dog. And no more bothering Cubbins, he's got too many other matters that need attention."
"Very well," Judas replied, before slightly bowing his head in a mockery of respect. "With your leave, your highness, I request permission to ask a question of you."
"If you must."
"We are set to meet with the Bartarian soon, and I was wondering if you had managed to learn anything about those demon worshipers that attacked Alisiea and Jolicia's home."
"Unfortunately not," the female thief confessed. "I've a location for someone that might know all about your Khal Ankur and harrowing hands and Seven Deaths, but I don't think you'll be pleased."
"Who ...?" He asked, already knowing he would regret it.
"It's Garrott," Shelley stated, already anticipating the bard's reaction.
His face visibly paled. "Surely he must be dead by now ...?"
"We're a hardier breed than you give us credit for, Judas," she countered. "You and me, Lucas and Cubbins, even old testicless Sokus is still out there somewhere. And Garrott, for all his madness and perversion, he always was a survivor. So it's a yes or a no? He's the only lead I've got."
"Fuck."
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Claudia
Mar 1, 2014 10:07:26 GMT -5
Post by Judas D'arc on Mar 1, 2014 10:07:26 GMT -5
Originally posted November 3, 2012.
Eight Years Ago ...
"I'll kill you for this." A questionable threat from tired and blood-shot eyes.
"Garrott, I -- " Judas struggled for a reason. "I cannot."
"A promise is a promise is a promise!" The other man shouted in retaliation. His spittle, like his rage, was everywhere inside that small room of Shelley's safe house. "And you promised!"
The young bard simply shrugged away the accusations. He wanted to argue. He wished to explain himself. But all he could do was turn his back on his once-friend. "I am leaving."
"Then I'll kill you tomorrow."
Without looking back, Judas continued. "No, I am leaving for good. I have informed Shelley, and while she is ... displeased, I think she understands it."
"Filthy fucking coward!" Each word hit a higher octave than its predecessor.
"A bit of parting advice, Garrott," The young bard spoke as he placed his hand on the door knob. "These things you do to yourself are destroying your mind. Please, for your own sake ... stop."
The other man emitted a strange giggling noise. "She was right about you, Judas."
He twisted the knob and opened the door.
"You really are no good."
********
"A favor for a favor. A secret for a secret. One that you keep from the world. One that you keep from your friends. And one that you keep from yourself."
This was what awaited Aingeal, Anna Evanovich, Gaius, Jolicia, Judas, Lucas, and Nythrax when they arrived at the meeting with Garrott that Shelley had arranged for them. The small farm house on the southern coast of Verity Isle seemed pleasant and quite the ordinary, until the interior was revealed to be decorated with blood and bones.
"New Tricks ... 'ey, Garrott?" Lucas observed almost immediately after they were greeted.
For the mage was indeed changed. When the bard last saw him, Garrott was a shattered man, his mind and his body withering away from all of the abuses he enjoyed inflicting upon himself. Since that day, almost eight years ago, his physical appearance had improved significantly. All two of them. Through his use of unnatural magicks, the strange mage communicated to them through the elven woman and a young boy that occupied the farm house. His consciousness moved liberally between them, his true self nowhere to be seen.
"I find that sometimes being yourself is boring," Garrott-as-a-female-elf explained to those assembled. "Sometimes I enjoy being other people."
"I've been around," added Garrot-as-a-young-man. "But I've never been a dog. I've also never been a rioter."
The group agreed to his terms -- three secrets each in exchange for whatever Garrott knew about the cult of demon worshipers that plagued them. After sharing their first secret with those gathered, the body-swapping mage split them up into pairs for the second one. Aingeal and Nythrax. Anna and Lucas. Gaius and Jolicia. And, due to the odd number present, Garrott chose Judas for himself. Once this part was completed, each of them met privately with their host for their final confession.
When they were alone in the back room, Judas began his telling. "Another secret ..."
Garrott-as-a-female-elf shook her head. "I got enough earlier. Share a drink with me, and we'll leave it at that." They briefly touched their drinks together, and the mage watched as the bard sipped from one of the bottles of wine he had provided to his visitors. "We can join the others."
********
At the first touch of daylight, Judas slowly stirred from slumber. His head was a dull pain, his nipples unusually sore, and the rest of his body ached throughout. Quietly, he slipped from their bed, trying his best not to disturb Jolicia. He dressed quickly, but was dismayed by discomfort of the clothes against his body. The bard stepped outside the bedroom and onto the patio that led to the rest of his Yew home. He took a deep breath and tried to determine what exactly was bothering him.
Not all of their group had reacted well to the information provided by Garrott. The mad mage had warned them that Khal Ankur, the evil spirit of Khaldun, walked the lands of Sosaria. The Keepers of the Seventh Death, his followers, also thrived, rapidly increasing their numbers from the ranks of those inclined to worship demons. Khal Ankkur served a more powerful master, a demon king that was their true enemy in all of this. Garrott offered to help them locate this cult, but his words had not been enough for Gaius and Nythrax who considered the entire encounter an exercise in futility. While Judas did not agree with their conclusions, he was troubled by the ever-present lack of morale amongst his friends.
The bard emitted a deep sigh as his bladder alerted him that it was time to empty itself. He turned to the face the edge of the patio, hoping that neither Jolicia nor any of his fellow denizens of Yew would awaken before he completed this task. He closed his eyes, pulled down his unusually tight fitting pants, and then allowed himself release.
It was not until a few moments later, when he felt the hot stream of urine running along his thigh, that Judas realized something was terribly wrong ...
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Claudia
Mar 2, 2014 11:24:41 GMT -5
Post by Jolicia on Mar 2, 2014 11:24:41 GMT -5
Originally posted November 4, 2012
Jolicia looked at Judas with tears streaming down her face, "I can't lose another person I love Judas... I can't lose you."
It was the beginning of the end, almost a week ago now, when Judas showed her the letter he had received. Their fighting had escalated to the point where Jolicia felt lost, breaking again. She walked away from him, down to their room and started packing her clothes up. Thankfully for her and him, Judas could generally counter her tremendous stubbornness and even rivaled it at times.
Judas kneeled down in front of her and took her hands, "What I hate is watching what all of this does to you. It hurts you in a way it does not hurt me. It breaks you in a way it does not break me..."
If only she had said yes to his offer... yes to the escape.
********************************************
Shelley seemed dismissive at first about Jolicia's concern, "He's got a rambling aspect to him though, and I don't mean verbally".
True, this was the Judas that she first met and even the one that came out in the past experiences he had shared with her. It was not, however, the man he had grown to be in the last several months. He was a better man now. "Not in some time," unwavering in her response.
She detailed out the odd things from the previous evening with Garrott. There were the obvious oddities that seemed to disturb everyone and then those that specifically worried Jolicia, especially now that Judas had not returned home. It wasn't until she mentioned the drinks that Shelley's demeanor seemed to change, touching her lips as she thought, "But he knows better than to cross me like this. We had a deal ..."
The doubt in Shelley's voice was more than enough for Jolicia. Even more so once she learned there was no reason for Garrott to show Shelley loyalty anymore. But it was Shelley's insistence that Judas knew what he was getting in to that angered her the most. He was not happy about having to meet with the man... girl.. boy... thing...
Shelley just looked at her a moment and pointed upstairs, "No, but he did what he had to. For Alisiea."
Jolicia looked up and nodded for she knew that already. Judas was always doing what he had to, to help others over himself. Compassion he called it, something that he told her she wasn't good at in their recent talks. Her expression grew colder as she looked back to Shelley, "I will do what I have to as well." There was a pause of silence as she stared at Shelley with a commanding look, "Find him."
********************************************
She startled awake and found she had fallen asleep in the chair, her neck and back aching from the awkward position. Jolicia knew that Shelley needed to be allowed at least a little time to check with her sources. She could not just sit here and do nothing though. Pace a hole in the carpet, worry and fret, drive herself to a breaking point. Jolicia needed to do something as well, something to be prepared just in case.
Quickly she wrote a small note and left it on Judas' desk with the small hope that he would turn up on his own. Whispering the words she recalled away, arriving in front of her home. No, not home... it was simply a house that she owned now. Nothing more. She moved quietly, quickly up to the second floor and into her laboratory, closing and locking the door.
As she looked around she saw the dust had grown from the lack of use. Her eyes landed on the bookcase. Rummaging through the books and shelves she finally found the small compartment. Softly she spoke the required words and what was once closed, was open again. Reaching in she pulled out a old and tattered book, one that she hadn't used in almost a year. Gently she laid it on table and brushed the dust away from the cover as she spoke quietly to herself, "I will do what I have to."
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Claudia
Mar 3, 2014 11:50:14 GMT -5
Post by Jolicia on Mar 3, 2014 11:50:14 GMT -5
Originally posted November 6, 2012
Shelley snapped her fingers in front of Jolicia's face, "Where've you looked for him?"
Jolicia blinked a few times, coming out of her day dream. Looked for him... why didn't I look more? I looked at the Abbey but I stopped there. "I looked at the Abbey."
**********************************************
Ocllo was a lost cause in Jolicia's book and she was right. She didn't think there was any way Judas would return there after everything that happened with Cole, as well as the Dark Order presence, but Shelley was persistent. It did however make her think of the old house in Trinsic. Followed closely by the others, she walked hurriedly up to the house as memories of the last time they were there flooded her mind. As she walked into the dining area, there was a cloaked individual sitting at the table, oddly enough in the same chair that Judas always sat in.
This person seated before them insisted the group leave them alone. Nythrax was already unconvinced, and Jolicia was on the verge of leaving until a higher pitched voice pleaded, "Please... Jolicia..." A phrase not unfamiliar from an individual that seemed to know her. She looked over the individual and began to notice that although the robe was bulky, they were shorter and not of Judas' build. As her eyes continued, they stopped on the figure's a shiny silver ankh necklace; the exact one that Judas always wore.
She reached back and pulled down her hood, only to reveal a woman around her own age with long black hair. The woman avoided looking her directly in the eyes, which made her more impatient. It didn't help that Jolicia could hear the whispered mutterings and bickering behind her, which just pushed her past her breaking point. She slammed her fist down on the corner of the very same table corner that she had easily broken only a few months before. "I said look me in the eyes!" The woman jumped and slowly brought her gaze to meet Jolicia's.
Jolicia looked into the woman's eyes, but they were not what she expected (or maybe what she feared). They were the eyes of Judas, but desperate and frightened. Quickly, she covered her mouth as the truth struck her. The more he/she spoke, the more the others in the room began to express their amusement, which sent Judas into even more of a spiral. It was hard enough for Jolicia to process what was in front of her without the insensitivity of the others. This was the same "man" that had put his life on the line for them. How dare they, was the only thought that entered her mind.
***********************************************
Jolicia tried to reason with the highly emotional, now-female Judas to learn why he had fled instead of coming to her. She tried to explain how much worry it caused, and how she even had to defend him against the others who assumed he had just left without reason. Unfortunately, his responses were more like a teenage girl's than the man she was used to. How was she supposed to cope with his feelings when she could not handle her own?
Judas sobbed, “I could not… face you…”
Jolicia tried to reach for his/her hand, but was left with nothing, “Why?”
“Because I knew how you would react. I knew you would get angry and talk about killing Garrott… and … break.” There was that word that had been a frequent topic of conversation as of late. Jolicia lowered her head and sighed as Judas continued, “And forget … everything … we had talked about.”
“You really that concerned about me… breaking?” Jolicia left her head lowered as she spoke softly.
Judas looked to her and nodded, “It frightens me when you get so … angry. I just worry what you might do.”
The pain grew in Jolicia’s heart as his/her words rang in Jolicia's head. What you might do. She suddenly reached for her pack and pulled out a small cloth that contained the vial filled with a red, thick liquid. Unable to make eye contact, she held it out to Judas, “Take it. Get rid of it. Before I change my mind…”
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Post by Judas D'arc on Mar 4, 2014 9:37:27 GMT -5
Originally posted November 13, 2012. Please note that it has been edited from a prior version for narrative purposes.
If it were up to her, the woman formerly known as Judas D'arc would not have been sitting there in the Salty Dog Tavern. She could be learning to wield her bow left-handed, as her instructor Willow had assigned her. She might be trying her new suit of armor for the first time, the tight black battle-skirt which offered the smallest glimpse of her to any potential admirer. Or perhaps she would be seducing Jolicia in an effort to satisfy the very unfamiliar urges that existed between this male-turned-female's thighs. But rather than any of these far more enticing activities, poor Claudia (as the gender-bending bard now called herself) was forced to listen to the bleak words of Balric of Barataria.
After the exchange of banter and a brief sip of water, Balric seated himself and addressed those assembled, which included the she-bard, Aingeal, Alisiea, Faeryl, Jolicia, Lucas, Natalya, and Nythrax. He was preparing to recite his translation of the ancient prophecy they had retrieved from the bowels of the Citadel in Tokuno. One that hopefully provided insight into their present struggles.
The discussion of interpretation that followed his reading was of little interest to Claudia. Although she was no longer particularly fond of Alisiea (in fact, she could no longer recall why she ever had been), she did feel a touch of sympathy for the gypsy. She had just learned that her unborn daughter might mate with a demon. Even the best outcome still resulted in the apparent deaths of both the mother and daughter. It was enough to prevent the she-bard from making any further jokes about the Gypsy Girl on all fours or marking her territory or howling at the moon. At least for the rest of the night.
After Nythrax left to escort Alisiea home, the subject changed to the plans that had also been taken from the Citadel. They were for something called a "Drachen Bow," a weapon wielded by the clan of demon hunters that had joined Balric's order and aided them in the demon's prior defeat centuries ago. And coincidentally (or maybe not the way fate enjoyed teasing them), Lucas was revealed to be the present-day descendant of this ancient family. Although this discovery made her slightly curious, mostly Claudia just longed for sleep. Her desire for both archery practice and bedding Jolicia had already waned for the evening. Still, none of it had been able to quell her enthusiasm for wearing her new armor, especially that tight black battle-skirt ...
... because she knew without uncertainty that she would wear it well!
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Claudia
Mar 5, 2014 11:18:35 GMT -5
Post by Jolicia on Mar 5, 2014 11:18:35 GMT -5
Originally posted November 19, 2012
Jolicia wasn't seated long before a man entered the Modest Damsel, but he was not who she had been expecting to see. Vincent, as she later found out, was well dressed, handsome, and similar in looks to Judas, except for the blonde hair. Suspicious from the beginning, she was polite enough to entertain his conversation. Jolicia even found him to be quite charming, but it was all tainted by the expectation that at any moment his eyes would flash and she'd be seated across from Garrott. But that never came to pass, and eventually a familiar looking bald headed woman wearing a red robe entered the tavern.
Together, they went to one of the rooms upstairs, and Jolicia closed the door behind them. The woman looked Jolicia over before Garrott began to speak through her. "You've come to a decision then?" Jolicia nodded in response. Looking at her expectantly, "Am I going to like it?"
Jolicia tried her very best to suppress the smile, "Not likely."
Garrott sighed in disappointment, "I was trying to do you a favor. Khal Ankur's going to kill you all. You know that, right?"
The ever defiant Jolicia just stared at him, "He can try."
The two carried on for several moments before Jolicia struck what she perceived to be a nerve, as Garrott responded, "Don't pretend to know the game I'm playing."
The irritation in Garrott's voice was enjoyable for Jolicia to hear, "Maybe we will all die and you'll be out a few toys."
Garrott nodded, "That would be disappointing. I've actually helped you too. You just don't see it yet."
"Care to share?" Jolicia asked inquisitively.
He shook his head, "I care to talk bargains."
***********************************
In what was becoming his usual pattern, it was difficult for Garrott to get to the actual bargain. It turned out that he had specifically chosen the handsome Vincent for Jolicia. He was very curious about Jolicia's opinion as he started to detail out Vincent's life and upbringing. Making sure to tell her what a good man he was and a fine husband he'd make one day, along with his innocence in all of this. While that made Jolicia feel a little better, it also made her wonder what Garrott was up to this time. That became apparent quickly though; more game playing, questions to answers, probing, and the pushing of boundaries. Jolicia was able to hold her composure until a certain name entered the conversation. "Then how do you know who Balam is?"
Garrott became highly amused as he laughed, cracking up as he shook his head, "You don't know?"
Jolicia tilted her head, looking a bit confused, "Know what?"
"Oh, this is too rich." Garrott finally stopped laughing, turning to a very serious expression, "Jolicia. Where do you think it is ... That vampires with the names of demons carved into them end up? Especially if they take their own lives?" The laughter picked back up as Jolicia narrowed her eyes at him. Garrott had won that battle but he couldn't be right could he? Jolicia had seen and felt Balam's presence during Renthar's restoration ritual. He had come to her and looked so at peace. Was that the lie or was this?
*************************************
Eventually, Jolicia had enough, "Tell me the bargain or I'll leave."
Garrott sighed dramatically, "You're willing to turn your back on Judas so quickly? Just for a bit of pride? Tsk tsk."
"I'm not turning my back on him." Jolicia's answer sharp as a knife.
"Then answer my questions."
"I've had enough of your games."
Garrott watched her demeanor and movements as he tried a different approach, "I'm just curious if you've ever Murdered. Seduced. Lied. Betrayed. If those are beyond your limits. It's quite relevant to my bargain." Jolicia shook her head, exhausted by all of this. He continued, paying close attention to how she would react to his next bit of information, "No answers? What if I told you this... Your Judas has been cursed. I'm sure your friends all find it a laughing matter, but ... It's quite possible, and even likely, that this curse will kill him. Think they'd still be laughing?"
Jolicia did her best to keep the emotions at bay, to hide her feelings. This time, it was him upsetting her. "You don't think I haven't already thought of that?"
Garrott continued to push, "Don't get me wrong, he's earned his punishment but ..."
She quickly interrupted, "No, he hasn't."
This set Garrott off, as he trembled in anger and began to rant. Jolicia better understood what Judas had meant when he told her that eventually, Garrott would screw up. That he would show some sign of weakness. Garrott's dislike for Judas and Jolicia's defense of him could be used to their advantage. So for now, she continued with the little game. What she hadn't expected though was his response to her answers, "Maybe you're a better person than you think you are."
**************************
Finally they reached the point as Garrott explained the rules; only good for tonight and no consulting Judas or the others before answering. This was where the game started, as Garrott started to talk about Vincent again. Speaking of his innocence, his habits, and building him up as much as he could.
A smile crept across his face, "I want you to seduce him and bring him up to one of these rooms. Get him on the bed ... And then either sleep with him ... Or murder him." He mused as Jolicia shook her head, "Either screwed, or screwed. If you do this, I'll tell you exactly how to free Judas from his curse. I'll tell you how it works and how to end it. How -you- can end it. What'll happen if you don't and maybe even how much time he has. No trick. No consultations with Judas or his friends. This is your offer right now."
Garrott looked at her with anticipation, assuming he had won the fight. Jolicia didn't hesitate at all with her decision though, which was uncommon when dealing with a moral dilemma. Instead she instantly thought of Judas, of their many talks as of late. She thought of what it was that he would want her to do, as well as what she would want Judas to do in the same position. Garrott's game was becoming clearer. It wasn't about punishing Judas by making him a woman. Jolicia now believed his true goal was to punish Judas by breaking them and what they had together. As she looked to Garrott with that creepy smile still spread across his face, the word slipped effortlessly from her lips, "No."
His reaction was more dramatic than she had expected. He started to scream hysterically, stomping his foot and berating her with questions. Demanding to know why she wouldn't do this. Garrott shrieked even more when her answer remained unchanged, trying to guilt her for thinking she was above all of this. Jolicia calmly shook her head though, confident for once in what she was doing, "I think the man I love would be highly disappointed in me and I will not betray him." Nerve hit again. Garrott snapped and grabbed one of the dresser drawers, throwing it to the floor. Then punching the wall as hard as his current female form would allow, as the sound of bones breaking emitted in the small room.
He fell to his knees in pain, still whining and ranting about Judas. The monster he thought Judas was. Jolicia watched quietly for a moment before she cast the healing spell without even thinking. Garrott shrieked at her, "Why did you do that?!"
She shrugged a bit, not really sure of the answer herself, "Because the body is bleeding."
Garrott stood slowly. Watching Jolicia with suspicion as he tested his hand and sneered, "He's probably going to die... You're making a big mistake. I've already offered you two kindnesses." Now it was Jolicia's turns to push buttons again but Garrott quickly slipped back into his role as game master, "I hope that love keeps you warm when he's dead."
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Claudia
Mar 6, 2014 13:26:55 GMT -5
Post by Judas D'arc on Mar 6, 2014 13:26:55 GMT -5
Originally posted November 20, 2012.
As Claudia drifted off to sleep, a small smile played across her face. In many ways, she knew her mood was a sign of her foolishness...
Much had gone wrong in recent days. Balric of Barataria, their ally and guidance in all matters demon, had been murdered by Khal Ankur. The bard had also refrained from meeting alone with Avella Isilian, and kept quiet her opinion of Nythrax doing so. She believed this a mistake, given his vocal opposition to the prophecy and the vampire's potential importance to it, but she had acquiesced in order to keep Jolicia sane. Finally, the magic that had transformed her from Judas to Claudia was not simply a spell, but a curse that would eventually kill her. Yet not everything that had occurred was quite as disappointing. Earlier that night, the bard and her friends had gathered the ingredients necessary to craft the Drachen Bow, the weapon wielded by Lucas' demon-hunting ancestors. Jolicia had also refused Garrott's bargain to remove the curse in exchange for the murder or seduction of an innocent man, a decision Claudia was glad for despite the obvious consequences. And most significantly, the relationship between the two was much improved. A couple of weeks ago, Jolicia could barely stand to look at the transformed bard, and now they lay together as lovers.
It was that last development that caused her smile. By assuming the role of her old self, by behaving as the man she was, and by pretending to care about things she no longer did, she had been able to get what she truly wanted. Garrott's curse had been more than physical, it had changed her thoughts and emotions as well. Except her feelings for Jolicia. Those had remained, even heightened.
A pity their new-found happiness was not likely to last ...
********
she slips across shadows in that room in that house in that city in that time that place so quiet quiet without a sound all asleep except the man awake indeed that man yes that man cloaked in arrogance demands what owed a threat an argument a blade in her hand the contempt of his scowl a fight a struggle her movements quick his offense stronger the dagger torn from grasp large hands reach nearer closer don't-you-know-who-I-am i-no-longer-care his eyes rage no reason punishing hands press hard against bruised flesh squeezing twisting breath fades away no defense no escape powerless
her identity no longer matters
her identity no longer matters
her identity no longer matters
********
Claudia sat up quickly, gasping for air. As her mind reoriented itself to the surroundings of their bedroom, she stifled her breathing so as not to awaken Jolicia. For a moment, she wondered if the Lady in White, the demon that had plagued the dreams of both Alisiea and Aingeal had finally decided to target her as well. But that was only wishful thinking; she knew exactly what this was.
It was memory.
What already happened. What would come to pass.
This was her death.
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Claudia
Mar 7, 2014 10:31:06 GMT -5
Post by Judas D'arc on Mar 7, 2014 10:31:06 GMT -5
Originally posted November 24, 2012.
no light just angry blue eyes unblinking her heart beat quickens large strong fingers close around her neck her breath escapes drops of his sweat touch her skin even in death offended
********
Her dreams of memory had become far more frequent. Claudia kept the fact of this entirely to herself; not only for her own peace of mind but also for Jolicia's. The emotional state of the woman she loved remained precarious at best, and the world around them was slowly falling into hell.
Khal Ankur was dead, yet the demon threat remained and the next step in its defeat appeared to involve the vampire Avella Isilian, the very last creature they should seek involvement with. The bard may have reached an accord in his ongoing feud with Alisiea, but as long as Nythrax continued to whisper in her ear, it was inevitable that the Gypsy Girl would choose unwisely. After facing torture at the hands of their enemies and Lucas' very abrupt end to their relationship, Aingeal seemed even more lost than ever. She had turned her back on protecting Alisiea as well as the tattooed destiny that her gypsy clan friends had imposed upon her. Survival seemed her only concern, and Claudia doubted that even a job offer with Shelley's Emerald Trading Company would fill her emptiness. And Faeryl still struggled with her haunted dagger, flirting with darkness and spending time with the likes of Lady Deathwynd and Renthar.
Claudia hated them as much as she could not help but love them. That vague whisper of old-Judas in her her head telling her of what to feel and of right and wrong. When she did behave as expected of him, it seemed to bring Jolicia comfort, and that was enough for now. But if the curse she was afflicted with continued, the now that it was enough for would soon disappear.
There was, of course, a glimpse of hope, the way there always seemed to be in these situations. Jolicia, along with the vile Renthar and their new acquaintance, the sorcerer Minalan Zhalfast, had cobbled together a plan to trap Garrott and force him to lift his spell. Consequently, the she-bard had journeyed to the Stygian Abyss with Faeryl, Lucas, Minalan, Natalya, and Nythrax to collect the ingredients that were needed for this. Yet it did not actually feel as if they were any closer to a solution.
As she had told Jolicia the night before, today was the day chosen to mark the anniversary of Judas' birth. While the exact date he had entered this world was unknown, this was the one that had been celebrated twenty eight times before. This time last year, the bard had returned to Yew after a long time spent wandering the lands alone. While there were things about her current life she was pleased with, such as her relationship with Jolicia, she could not help but prefer the circumstances of then to her present ones. And assuming she survived Garrott's curse, she dreaded what sort of misery her next birthday might bring, and would it be so awful as to make her nostalgic for this one?
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Claudia
Mar 8, 2014 11:56:29 GMT -5
Post by Jolicia on Mar 8, 2014 11:56:29 GMT -5
Originally posted November 26, 2012
Jolicia tried her best to keep her nervousness from showing on the outside as she approached the bar to sit. Garrott had arrived as she suspected he would, but not in the form she had hoped for. Instead he was in a man's body that she did not recognize and this was going to make their plan more difficult. "This is a new form for you... who are you tonight?"
He narrowed his eyes, "It's getting dangerous. I need to be more careful."
Garrott was far more anxious and paranoid this evening. Either he truly was in danger or he was screwing up again. Just the sight of Faeryl disguised as a messenger sent him into a complete panic as he jumped over the bar, shaking and pacing back in forth. Jolicia kept up the ruse and took the package from Fareyl so at least the necklace would be with her. She didn't know if she'd have a chance to get it on Garrott or not, but clearly they were operating in the unknown now.
Jolicia worked to get Garrott to talk more, to bargain or even just play his usual game to no avail. Instead he became more irrational. It wasn't until he had grabbed her by her left arm and continued to squeeze harder that she started to worry. When his kryrss came out though, she was suddenly thankful that her and Judas had exchanged communication crystals because she might actually need some help. He started to focus on Judas again, blaming him for the past. Jolicia took this opportunity to try and push the same buttons that she had on her last visit, but Garrott's reaction was not the same. He was shrieking with anger as he grabbed her again and dragged her upstairs.
Knocking the door open, Garrott pushed Jolicia onto the small bed. He held the kyrss at her heart, his hands and weapon visibly shaking, "Maybe I'll just kill you."
Jolicia tried to think quickly, "You... don't really want to do that. Last time you said I didn't deserve to be involved. How come I deserve to die now?"
He cackled at her, "He'll hate it."
She watched him, trying to get some form of expression, "So you lied and do want to cause harm."
Garrott snapped back with a devious grin, "Maybe I'll just take your body. I'll wear you as my clothes!" Fear started to settle more firmly into Jolicia as he moved away and kicked the wall. She slowly sat up in the bed as he waved the kryss at her, his hands still shaking, "Need to think ... need to think." He began to ramble about how they must have delivered the package, that they must have found him . Jolicia thought she saw a small window of opening , trying to get him to at least look at the necklace. But that only threw him over the edge more as he demanded to know how she would bargain for his help.
"Then let them come after you. Let them kill you!"
He cackled at her again, "He'll die then! They'll both die!"
"So will you!" Jolicia blurted out, then spoke more quietly realizing he had let something slip. "Both? What both?"
Garrott ranted, spiting as he spoke "Die die die. Can I even die?! Can I?!"
Another questioned answer, another slip, she thought to herself. She turned her head slightly to look at him, "Yes. You can. You wouldn't be so nervous otherwise."
His demeanor changed ever so slightly as he sighed and rubbed his face, "I just need ... I need something to make me think. To relax..."
Remembering something she had been told about Garrott before, she dug into her pack and pulled out a bottle of liquor, "Here..." He forcefully grabbed it from her and quickly downed the bottle. As he finished he threw it against the far wall of the room. Jolicia jumped a little and took out another bottle, setting it down on the floor. She watched quietly as he scooped up the second bottle, finishing it just as fast. He started to ramble about a stronger spell, to hide so no one could find him. Jolicia pleaded with him, "Let me... help..."
He took several deep breathes before looking to her and nodding, "Bring me the gypsy."
Jolicia sighed, "We've already gone down that path." While Alisiea's behavior lately had not been the most appealing to her, she knew that this was unthinkable.
Garrott screeched, "That's all I want!"
She tried to play on his paranoia some, "Can't be all that you want. Someone is hunting you."
He nodded twice to himself, "If I can't bring them her ... I'll bring them you!" Panicked, she agreed that she would go with him, peacefully, as long as he fixed Judas. That was her only concern, but Garrott made it more confusing, "That's not how is works! It only ends when one of them are dead!" She wasn't sure what he was blabbering about but she hoped Judas was listening and would be able to make some sense of it. He grabbed her by the arm again, yanking her off the bed and downstairs across the tavern. When he opened the front doors, he looked around suspiciously and she followed his gaze, but nothing was there. Then, as the door creaked close, an arrow soared past her head.
She was so proud of Judas' effort but s/he was definitely not skilled at fighting as a woman. Jolicia tried to distract Garrott away, but Judas was struck down. They chased each other around the docks and tavern before Jolicia lost him long enough to catch her breath. She rounded the tavern, coming back onto the docks and there he was with is blade at Judas' throat. Jolicia screamed at him to get away, but Garrott just grinned, "I don't see this ending well for either of you." He started to drag the unconscious Judas down the docks, Jolicia following at a safe distance... pleading, begging for him to stop... to take her instead. His only retort was to bring him the gypsy girl.
Jolicia paused a moment, noticing that they had moved far enough away from the town guards. She kept her distance long enough to whisper the words, "In Zu" and then cast the spell at Garrott. Suddenly asleep. Sweet, beautiful, peaceful sleep. As his eyes closed, Judas slipped from his arms, and Jolicia summoned more of her magic, It wasn't long before he fell to the docks, unconscious. Jolicia ran to Judas to check for a pulse and said a small praise as she found it. Then it hit her. The necklace was still in her pack. Quickly she ran to Garrott's body and secured it around his neck. Finding some rope as well, she tied him up and knocked him over the head for good measure.
Checking on Judas, she shook her gently, begging for her to wake up and to be okay. Her eyes slowly opened, and overwhelmed with emotion, Jolicia grabbed her and hugged her tight. Looking around quickly, "We... We need to take him somewhere. Fast." Judas nodded slowly as Jolicia helped her to her feet. A small bit of satisfaction came as they watched Garrott try to spirit away to another body only to fail. Struggling with the rope and his inability to leave. Opening a gate, Jolicia grabbed him by the rope and pulled him inside. Judas was right in her thought that "Bob" would know what to do next.
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Post by Judas D'arc on Mar 9, 2014 9:07:56 GMT -5
Originally posted November 27, 2012.
Ten and a Half Years Ago ...
With letter of introduction in hand, Judas had arrived in Magincia, the twinge of guilt over betraying Nicholas Cornigan easily disregarded in favor of new opportunities. As advised by Cubbins, that pig of a merchant who had arranged for all of this, the young bard headed immediately for the Stag & Lion Inn and asked to rent the least expensive room. After a disparaging remark about thrifty tourists, the innkeeper slipped him a small note. It was unsigned, but instructed him to make his way to the Great Horns Tavern, order a single ale, and then wait for further contact. Judas gave thanks with a slight smile and a few gold coins from his rapidly dwindling share of the Cornigan bounty.
Hours later, he was still at the tavern awaiting "further contact." Most of the customers were nobles, and did not even spare him the slightest of glances. The only attention he received was from the green-eyed bar maid who pestered him with offers of more ale that he continually refused. Finally, bored and frustrated and convinced this was all an elaborate scam perpetrated by Cubbins, Judas asked for another drink. But as soon as the glass reached his lips, and before the refreshing liquid could touch his tongue, he was interrupted by,
"That's more than a single drink."
The disapproving voice belonged to the waitress. The surprised bard spilled his ale all over the table. "But, you --"
She wrinkled her nose. "And now more work for me." The woman shook her head in disdain and leaned forward to whisper, "Your inn room. Thirty minutes."
This time, Judas did exactly as he told. He quickly departed the tavern, counting every second in his head as he wandered the streets of Magincia. Seventeen hundred and fifty later, he walked through the entrance of the Stag & Lion Inn. Without a word to the innkeeper, the young bard made a mad dash for his inn room, with the smallest hope of salvaging his first impression.
Inside the room was the woman from the tavern, who had replaced her dress with dark leathers. On each side stood a man and a woman, in similar garb to the waitress but also wore dark masks that concealed their faces. Both of the women had long daggers sheathed at their sides, and the man appeared unarmed, except for the small pouch at his belt.
"You're on time, at least," the bar maid remarked.
"I apologize about before," Judas tried to explain. "Please, if you could, I would ask for another chance?"
She smirked before turning to her masked companions. "What say you?"
"Why not?" The man answered playfully.
"Cut out his tongue and feed it to him," suggested the other woman.
"Now, now," the waitress chided. "I'm sure we can make use of him." Shen then relaxed her posture before continuing. "You can call me Shelley. From now on, you do exactly what I say and when I tell you, no questions asked."
He nodded but said nothing.
"This is Garrott."
The man removed his mask. Dark red hair and a friendly smile, yet there was also something odd that was difficult to put into words. "Good to meet you."
"And this is Claudia."
The other woman did the same. Dirty blonde hair and deep blue eyes, with a beauty and poise that marked her noble birth. Her expression did not bother to conceal her contempt for him, and one moment was all he needed to realize that he would never be able to penetrate that shield of superiority.
For Judas, it was love at first sight.
********
By next morning, word had spread throughout the City of Vesper. Julian Randall, gem trader and member of the Vesper Ministry of Mercantiles, had been attacked while conducting business at the Shimmering Jewel. The arrival of the city guard had saved his life, although his prospects for survival remained slim. In fact, it was even said that he had stopped breathing until a guardsman had revived him. Rumor described the assailant as an undead abomination, and witnesses claimed to have seen both a skull faced creature clad in black armor and a raven-haired accomplice wielding a bow. Some also wondered if this incident was at all connected with the recent massacre of one of Randall's caravan's by a mounted, armored warrior, or with the acts of sabotage that had plagued a few of his recent gem shipments.
This was the news that the people of Vesper heard. The truth of it, however, was far more complicated.
********
Ten Years Ago ...
If Judas had ever known a bed that comfortable, he possessed no memory of it. Nor could he have predicted that he would be able to afford a suite at the luxurious Restful Slumber of Nujel'm. But the triumph that this "romantic excursion" to Magincia's neighboring island represented was worth any price paid. Next to him lay the seventeen year old daughter of a nobleman, still caught in the grasp of her alcohol-provoked slumber. Even in sleep, that innocent smile rested upon her lips, which made his need for departure even more urgent. So with sore muscles and a lack of regret, the bard forced himself out of bed. Within minutes, he was dressed and on his way to the prearranged meeting place.
"Well?" The cold demeanor of the Lady Claudia Destaing was there to greet him when he arrived at the city docks. Since his arrival in Magincia some months prior, Judas had made progress in earning the acceptance of Shelley and her tight-knit band. All of them, except for this young female rogue who spent her nights engaged in activities that would put her noble parents to shame. Which was why the bard had found it surprising when she recruited him for this particular scheme.
"I could not even begin to count the many ways in which Lavina Cardont is no longer a virgin," Judas gloated to his accomplice.
"Very charming." She rolled her eyes to emphasize the sarcasm.
"I did what was asked of me."
"That you did," Claudia nodded in agreement. "Which means a satisfied client, and more importantly, bonus coin for a job well done.
"Why did Reich want her spoiled, anyway?" The bard asked.
"Pride," she answered all matter-of-fact. "He has been attempting to arrange a marriage between Lord Cardont's daughter and his own son for months. When Cardont chose a different match, Reich determined that none should have her."
"Even if I spend the rest of my days in Magincia, I will never come to understand the motivations of such people."
"Such people?" The female rogue raised a curious eyebrow. "Does that include me?"
"Especially you."
Claudia smirked, the first time she had ever expressed anything but condescension towards him. "Perhaps, Judas, you are not quite as foolish as I believed."
********
A few minutes later, and Faeryl emerged from the Modest Damsel Tavern, still dressed in the green robes that attempted to conceal her identity.
"Well?" The question came from Judas. But since a spell had transformed him into a woman, "Claudia" was the name that s/he preferred. "Is she alright?!"
"I'm ... not sure ..." she replied. "He got extremely nervous and jumpy. Demanded to know who sent me."
"That does not sound good."
"I stuck to what I was told to say and nothing more." The female elf reminded her companion as she removed the robes. "What bothers me ... he wasn't in the woman."
Inside of the Modest Damsel, the mage Jolicia was attempting to lure Garrott, the body-stealing demon worshiper who had cursed Judas, out of hiding. They had asked Faeryl to impersonate a messenger bearing a present from a secret admirer. In truth, this "gift" was a magical necklace prepared by the female mage, the red sorcerer Minalan Zhalfast, and the loathsome Renthar. Once around his neck, it would prevent their foe from leaving the body he currently occupied. But given Garrott's mental instability, it was difficult to predict his reactions.
With the communication crystal linked to her lover's placed against her ear, "Claudia" strained to listen to what transpired between the tavern's walls. But after she overheard Garrott ranting about their past relationship, the female bard realized it was best to send her friend away and proceed in this alone. Some secrets were better left unspoken.
********
Nine and a Half Years Ago ...
The jungles of old Magincia were thick with sweat and mosquitoes, but this did little to dissuade them. For the prying eyes of local fauna were preferable to the notice of their friends and rivals, or her family. Their breathing heavy, Claudia bent over slightly, her palms pressed against the tree for support, as Judas stood behind her, his hands firmly upon her hips. It was strange to him, the way she always chose positions that did not require any eye contact.
********
Garrott emerged from the Modest Damsel, his kryss was pointed at Jolicia's throat. This was no surprise to "Claudia," who had overheard their entire encounter through the power of their shared communication crystals. The body-shifter had made horrible threats against the female mage, claiming that he would kill her or hand her over to the demons. He had also demanded that Jolicia surrender Alisiea and her unborn child to him. From moment to moment, Garrott's demands seemed to change as he was consumed by addiction and madness.
When the bard's first arrow struck, it was enough of a distraction for his hostage to escape his grip. Instead, his attention was drawn to his assailant. The body that he occupied was much bigger than "Claudia," and also much faster, which she had not realized until his kryss penetrated her side. The wound seemed to burn, and a wave of nausea consumed her entire body.
"Poison," she realized, as she fell to the ground.
********
Nine Years Ago ...
"Shelley will not be pleased," Judas noted as he scratched the back of his neck.
"Shelley," Claudia narrowed her eyes as she spoke, "will never learn of this."
It was a small hut in the wilderness east of Vesper, and it smelled overwhelmingly of blood, urine, and other scents the bard was glad he could not identify. There was no furniture, only a large bear-skin rug covered by the aforementioned fluids and the unconscious Garrott, whose naked body was sprawled across the floor and covered in an assortment of herbs and mushrooms. Judas wondered at the source of all that blood, but realized that was another question about this strange scene that was best left unanswered.
"You cannot keep concealing this for him," he told his companion.
"I can do whatever I bloody well feel like, Judas," the female rogue retorted as she knelt by her sleeping friend. "Garrott?" She gently shook him. "Garrott?"
With a soft murmur, he slowly opened his eyes. "Claudia?"
She smiled, gently caressing his forehead. "We are here to take you home."
"Okay," Garrott nodded, before fading back into unconsciousness.
Claudia looked up at Judas, as if replying to his unspoken question. "Because he is my friend. And if that is not enough to satisfy, then truly I pity you."
********
Beneath the Salty Dog Tavern, "Claudia" and Jolicia were joined by their employer Shelley and her right-hand man, the demon hunter Lucas Drachen. Earlier that evening, Jolicia had managed to gain the upper hand against Garrott, knocking him unconscious and placing the magical necklace on him. As Garrott's body was now bound by ropes, so was his spirit equally trapped inside his current body.
"You've caused me a lot of trouble," Shelley began.
"Usually had to pay for this kind of treatment," added Lucas.
At first, Garrott refused provide any information about his gender-bending curse. He was only concerned about repercussions from their demonic opponents "They're after me for helping you!" He shrieked.
"Helping us how?" The female mage questioned skeptically.
"And I thought you were smart," their captive sneered. Then he began to recite the seven, instantly recognizable phrases:
"The past is done. The future written. Today no longer cares."
"When is the Samurai Empire not the Samurai Empire?"
"A legacy falls to harrowing hands."
"The right hand strikes while the left hand moves unnoticed."
"Destiny died to dark-hair where Courage never fails."
"He will have her."
"Betrayal will come from the most expected."
It was Garrott that was responsible for destroying Jolicia's former Ashencrosse home and leaving behind the strange riddles that had aided them in their ongoing struggle against the forces that pursued the unborn Celestia. "I'm their slave," he explained. I made a bad deal, I thought to play you against them. Then you had to send Judas right to me. What did you think I'd do?! What'd you think?!" He had mistaken the disguised Faeryl for one of the demon's assassins, falsely believing that his betrayal had been discovered. As he later revealed, "Khal Ankur was the right hand ... who did you think the left was?"
"Now then," Jolicia forced a change of subject. "How do we end the curse?"
"Protect me and I'll tell you everything!" The body-shifter screamed. "I promise!"
"No," she countered. "You don't hold the cards anymore. You tell us how to end it now or we deliver you."
"Garrott," Shelley interrupted. "If it's fine with Jolicia and Judas, here's my deal. You tell them what they want, and we'll consider it. Can't promise any more than that." She then asked of the two lovers. "That acceptable?"
They both agreed.
"There are only two ways to end the curse," Their prisoner advised. "He's becoming her, you know. He didn't raise a finger to avenger her. Now he gets to relive her death ... personally." This "her" that he referred to was Claudia Destaing, an old friend of Garrott, Judas, Lucas, and Shelley, who was slain years before by Lord Randall Reich of Magincia. The curse was slowly infecting Judas' mind, and eventually s/he would be compelled to confront her once-killer. It could not be removed directly, but the bard would be restored to normal if either Reich was dead, or if "Claudia" died by his hands. Such a "death" would not even be fatal to Judas, for the body-thief's intention was to punish him for failing to prevent the true Claudia's death.
As expected, none of them reacted well to this news. Both Shelley and Lucas were disgusted by how far Garrott had fallen. Jolicia alternated between pummeling their captive's face with her fists and demanding to know about Reich. And "Claudia" was simply overwhelmed by all of it.
Shelley signed and placed a hand on the mage's arm in an attempt to comfort her. "This is what you want?"
An angry glare answered in the affirmative.
"I mourn Claudia every day," their employer continued. "But I'm not the only one who has to be thinking this. She was foolish and reckless and got what she deserved. I begged her not to go after Reich. She didn't listen. It was a foolish move and it brought her death." She then let go of Jolicia. "You want him, I won't stop you. But there's a reason we didn't pursue it then. He's got an office in Vesper. The Shimmering Jewel. Goes by the name of Julian Randall. You want him dead, I won't stop you ..."
Without another word, Jolicia was gone.
********
Eight and a Half Years Ago ...
The hour was late, and everyone inside the Destaing Mansion was asleep, except for Claudia and Judas, who stood together in her room conversing in hushed tones. When she had failed to make an appearance at the Great Horns Tavern that evening, the bard had come looking for her. But instead of a warm body or even a smile, the noble-turned rogue had treated him as an unwelcome intruder.
"If I tell you, will you leave me be?" Claudia sighed irritably.
"Maybe," he smiled slightly. "It depends if I like your answers."
Her unspoken response was a dirty look more akin to the woman he had met on his first day in Magincia, not the one had had since become intimately familiar with.
"Fine," he acquiesced.
She avoided eye contact as she spoke. "My parents are starting to take more of an interest in my activities as of late. They believe it time I find a suitable husband. Imagine the scandal if they learned the truth about their darling daughter? Lord Destaing's daughter mixed up with thieves and scoundrels?"
"Well, I suppose that is no surprise," Judas stated as he moved closer with a smile. "But no matter what happens, you will always have me."
Her expression included both surprise and contempt. "What?!"
"Er ...what I am trying to say is ..." The bard swallowed hard. "I ... I love you, Claudia. And I will never abandon you."
She stepped back and looked at him as if he was the biggest fool in all Sosaria. "Please, Judas. You're embarrassing yourself."
********
One last time, she wiped away her tears, and reached for the front door of the Shimmering Jewel in Vesper, ready for whatever might happen within.
After Jolicia had left them behind, "Claudia" had journeyed to Vesper to prevent her lover from murdering Julian Randall. However, s/he had sorely misjudged the mage's intentions, and there was no one else there when the bard arrived. Yet, as soon as she approached the nobleman's place of business, she could feel Garrott's curse compelling her to enter. It was only through the efforts of Lucas, who had been sent there by Shelley, that "Claudia" did not. Then Jolicia arrived with Minalan Zhalfast, and the three of them dragged the bard back to Britain. A second interrogation of their body-shifting captive occurred, and a plan was formulated to force an end to his spell. "Claudia" would return to Vesper and confront Reich, while the others waited nearby disguised as local guardsmen. Once she "died," they would extract the restored-Judas from the scene before the nobleman was able to recognize him. While Garrott might have lied about her survival, and slaying Randall was still an option, "Claudia" had made her choice.
Jolicia voiced her opposition to this strategy, and after a tearful, farewell kiss, the bard asked the others to prevent her lover from interfering. However, "Claudia" had not carefully considered the interference of the necromancer Nythrax, a late addition to their return to Vesper.
"What is the meaning of this?!" Julian Randall demanded at the approach of the raven-haired woman wielding a bow.
"Arm yourself," She attempted to sound intimidating. "For this day is your last."
"I don't know what the meaning of this is," the nobleman stated as he reached for his staff and armor. "But I suggest you depart. Immediately."
"No," cried the bard as she released her bowstring.
Arrow against staff, with neither gaining a clear advantage. Until a mounted Nythrax suddenly burst into the shop, armed with his weapon and dark spells.
"In Sar," the rabble-rousing necromancer chanted as he struck Randall down.
"Claudia" was stunned. This was exactly what she had been trying to prevent. "No!" She screamed as she turned her bow on Nythrax.
The necromancer easily parried her attacks. "Oy, calm down deadeye," he stated, almost casually. "You are being irrational." Then for good measure, he steered his horse to trample the unconscious nobleman.
The others, still wearing their guardsmen uniforms, soon joined them. Upon surveying the scene, Jolicia rushed to "Claudia," while Lucas moved to examine the fallen Julian Randall. "We have to get him to the healers," he advised, before lifting the fallen man off of the floor and quickly departing.
"Listen. This is now a *crime scene*," the red sorcerer urged them. "I suggest that we all abscond immediately. Before the real guards get here."
"Claudia" glared at Nythrax. "I never ... wish to lay eyes on you ... again."
"What? You had a moral dilemma, I took it off your hands."
"No!" She screamed again. "He did not deserve this ..." Before she could give voice to any further rage, the bard felt a throbbing pain in her chest. All eyes were upon her as she fell to her knees. "I ... I feel funny."
"Jolicia, healing magic!" Minalan shouted as he moved closer.
"What's ... wrong?" The mage's eyes were filled with concern.
"Please," gasped "Claudia" as she struggled to push them away. She was struck by a strange sensations, and she could feel her body becoming something unfamiliar.
If Garrott was telling the truth, the curse had been ended.
If Garrott was telling the truth, Randall Reich was dead.
If Garrott was telling the truth, Judas had failed once again.
********
Eight Years Ago ...
As Judas chased Claudia across Magincia, his confusion struggling to keep pace with her rage, he was still uncertain how quickly the present circumstances had deteriorated.
A mere hour ago, Shelley had called a meeting to discuss their recent disagreement with their now-former customer, Lord Randall Reich. When their group had failed to sabotage a rival gem merchant in the exact manner the nobleman had requested, he had withheld a portion of their payment as punishment. Tensions were further aggravated by associates of Reich's competitor, who had sent two mercenaries, each bearing the crooked dagger symbol of the infamous Library of Scars, to Magincia. Although both assassins were slain, Garrott had suffered a broken arm, and Sokus a castration. They had gathered there to discuss their next move, but Claudia's only interest was the gold owed to them, and neither Shelley nor Judas nor Lucas nor Stower could dissuade her anger. Or prevent her abrupt departure.
"Claudia!" The bard shouted, again attempting to catch her attention.
This time, the female rogue stopped. Tears streaming down her face, she turned and said to him. "You are cowards. The whole lot of you."
Judas sighed in frustration. "I know you are upset. And I agree that something needs to be done about those responsible for hurting Sokus and Garrott. But pursuing a feud with Reich over coin seems a bit ... much."
"Reich must pay!" She glared. "Men such as he, they believe their birth and their privilege permits them to control everyone and everything around them. Well, I refuse to allow others to determine my path. That gold is mine."
"Gold, Claudia? Your father is nearly as wealthy. Truly, what is this?"
She just stood there defiant. "The others have already refused to help -- but what about you? If you truly feel for me the way you always claim then join me ... if not, I will simply have to take care of it alone."
"This is insane," He told her as he reached for her hand. "Come back to the tavern, we can discuss this with the others over some ale --"
Claudia pulled her hand away. "Exactly why I could never love you, Judas. You are a coward and a liar, only ever thinking of yourself. Shelley might have given you that false identity and some fancy clothes, but all you are is a bastard from the Deep Forest that nobody ever cared to want."
His response was stunned silence.
"You're no good!"
Those were the last words he ever heard her speak. And then she left his life forever.
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