forum The Veil of Shadows (OxO Closed)

Started July 14, 2023 by @LolaBug

tune

The air is thick with tension as Cassian stands at the helm of his group of elite soldiers. They have been sent on a mission to invade an enemy hideout deep within the heart of a treacherous mountain range. The Shadow Keepers have been a constant thorn in the side of his people for far too long. It’s time to put an end to things once and for all.

His group consists of individuals as skilled and determined as he is, each having earned their place through countless trials of valor. They have fought side by side in numerous battles, and their camaraderie has been forged through blood, sweat, and shared victories. Tonight, the stakes are higher than ever, and the outcome of this mission could tip the balance of power in the ongoing war.

Under the moonless sky, Cassian gives the signal, and his soldiers move in the shadows like ghosts, their steps silent, their eyes focused. As they approach the enemy hideout, the warriors exchange confident glances, their unwavering determination reflecting their shared belief in the righteousness of their cause.

The hideout is cleverly concealed amidst jagged rocks and dense vegetation, designed to challenge even the most skilled infiltrators. But Cassian and his group are not ordinary soldiers; they are a well-coordinated unit, trained to perfection. They communicate through subtle hand signals and understand each other's intentions without uttering a word.

Drawing his gleaming sword, Cassian leads the charge as they storm through the enemy's outer defenses. Their first encounter with the enemy guards is swift and brutal. The clash of steel against steel, the resolute determination in their eyes, and the unyielding spirit of warriors forged in the crucible of war are all displayed with each deft move they make. Now they prepare to enter the hideout.

Raziel frowned slightly. He could feel something was afoot and he didn't quite like it. He walks over to a small table and his fingers brush over a small black, metal mask. It covered his eyes, and the small thing was pretty and elegant. He ad made it himself, and the engravings of shadows on it were prominent. He pulls it on over hi face, tying the black ribbons in place behind his head. He then reached over to a coat hanger and pulled on his jacket. The leather was soft and supple, formfitting to his lithe frame.

Raziel preferred to work alone. He hated feeling responsible for other people, because if there were losses, people blamed him and not the person who died. Usually the person who died was an idiot and didn't listen to Raziel. He would try to save the idiot, but, again, n most cases, doing so would lead to more deaths. So, because of this, he worked alone. His magic was strong enough to do so.

Unlink most Shadow Keepers, Raziel wanted the veil down so that people could learn abut all the forms of magic. There was nothing wrong with being about to raise the dead until you used the ability to try to take over the world. All magic was useful and all magic could be used for evil. The problem was, no one wanted to teach people to use the magic responsibly. And Raziel was struggling to get into the top tier of the Keepers. Most of them wanted this magic for evil, while Raziel only simply wanted to understand it.

Never once had he killed a man, nor committed any of the crimes he was accused of having done as the Shadow Bringer. He frowned slightly and then pulled the cloth hood of his jacket up over his head. Now he looked the part of the Shadow Bringer. He walks swiftly out of the room he was standing in and stopped a scout, "What is going on above?"

"Elysian warriors are raiding, Shadow Bringer." The skittish scout murmured, "Just got through first defenses. About to reach second."

Raziel nods, a cool smile playing on his lips. "Thank you, scout." He turns and breezes off down the stone hallway, up three flights of stars and then through a large stone door reinforced with metal. He stood outside the hideout and watched as the Elysian warriors moved closer. He s,irks slightly. These men had another thing coming for them.

Raziel crouched down and started moving his hands. Shadows crawled across the ground ten feet ahead of the warriors and started to gather in front of the group. then started to creep around them in a circle. The shadows thickened and started to rise until a solid wall of writhing shadows surrounded the party, tall as three men.

Each step forward brings them closer to their goal of neutralizing the Shadow Keepers once and for all. Cassian's sword remains in his firm grip, and his soldiers follow his lead with unwavering focus. Their experience and training allows them to anticipate each other's movements, making them a formidable force to reckon with. The enemy has the advantage of familiarity with the terrain, but Cassian's group has the element of surprise and determination on their side.

They move with precision and efficiency, taking down guards silently and swiftly. The echoes of their battles reverberate through the stone halls, but they move, ironically, like shadows, leaving no trace of their presence. The element of surprise works in their favor, and the enemy's defenses start to crumble under the weight of their relentless assault.

As they advance deeper into the hideout, they face sturdier resistance. The Shadow Keepers are formidable opponents, and his group begins to encounter foes who are skilled in dark magic and combat. Spells are cast, and blades clash, but his soldiers prove their mettle, countering each attack with skill and determination. Unfortunately, this means that the element of surprise has worn off and the enemy has officially been alerted to their presence.

Through the winding halls and treacherous traps, they fight their way forward, never faltering in their purpose. Their enemies are cunning, and they strike back fiercely, but the expertly trained group of soldiers refuse to be deterred. They fight for all the innocent lives that have suffered at the hands of the Shadow Keepers' malevolence.

Soon, they are greeted by the sight of Raziel's impressive display of shadow magic. The wall of writhing shadows surrounding the Elysian warriors is both impressive and intimidating. Cassian can't help but be in awe of the mastery over shadows. But, unfortunately, he knows that this display of power will give the Keepers a crucial advantage.

With his warriors trapped and disoriented, Cassian has no choice but to act. "Stay focused and follow my lead!" He shouts, forcing their attention to return to him. He give a quick hand signal to his soldiers, and they move as one, their steps carefully calculated to avoid the shadows' grasp. His sword gleams as he slashes through the shadows, his movements fluid and precise.

Raziel lets out a delighted laugh, "Oh, they sent someone skilled for once after us."

Raziel was pleased with the challenge and he jumps down, his boots kicking up a cloud of dirt. He looks at the fallen Keepers, a few his friends. He growls and moves through the shadows, using them to travel quick;y, following the warriors. He watches the carnage and then speaks, using the shadows to amplify his voice, "Are you really any better than them?"

As he speaks, the shadows move in closer, hemming in the warriors. Try as they might to get through his wall, they would be lost and disoriented, forced to turn around back to the light. "To be killing these people, some of whom just wanted to learn and understand the hidden magic beyond the veil?"

He steps from the wall of shadows, a smirk on his lips. Blood red short swords appeared in his hands. He had been training to fight for years now, and he was good at it. The best within the Keepers. he didn't need backup, he was his own force to be reckoned with. He tilts his head, his sapphire eyes piercing, "But lucky for you, I can heal most of them."

He flicks his wrist and the own mens shadows grow, but for now stay on the ground.

Cassian's soldiers, though momentarily disoriented by the hemming shadows, do not falter in the face of Raziel's laughter and his challenge of their morals. They are warriors, trained to withstand the darkest of circumstances and persevere through the harshest trials. This isnt the first, and it certainly won't be the last, time they face Shadow Keepers.

As Raziel's voice echoes around them, Cassian's eyes narrows, and he steps forward to address the enigmatic man. This is the first time he's encountered Raziel during all of his missions so he isn't sure what level of powers he's dealing with here.

The intricate shadows, the way they move as though they have minds of their own…..he knows that this man isn't a low level Shadow Keeper solider.

"We fight for the safety and freedom of the Elysia and our people," He replies, his voice unwavering. "The Shadow Keepers have caused untold suffering, spreading chaos and darkness wherever they tread. They are not innocent seekers of knowledge; they are ruthless oppressors, using their magic for malevolent purposes."

The bloodshed is unfortunate but it is necessary. Those who stand in the way of peace for the kingdom need to be removed, whether that be peacefully or not.

Raziel laughs and tilts his head, "I merely said some were seekers of knowledge. And is it really free if some of the magic is blocked off?" He looks at Cassian.

"But I'm going to guess that you and your warriors this that I, the Shadow Bringer, have caused most of these problems?" He blinks at them, almost playfully. "And try as you might, you still can't find out my identity." He hops down a few stones.

"I could be your squire. Your shoe maker. Your cook. Your teacher." He keeps the playful look on his face. "You don't even know my name!"

He waves his hand and the wall retreats, moving away from the warriors. He seemed to delight in controlling the shadows, but he hadn't hurt anyone. In fact, he had been careful not too. Despite the kingdoms claims against him as the Shadow Bringer, Raziel was innocent of all accusations. He was not a killer, in fact, he'd tried his best to keep the top tiers of the Keepers from making any moves that would kill people. But he couldn't stop all.

"Do you want to take a guess?" He felt a lock of his black hair fall from the hood and brush over his mask.

Cassian's expression remains stoic as he listens to Raziel's words, showing no hint of surprise or fear at the mention of the Shadow Bringer. He has encountered many adversaries in his time as a warrior, and he is no stranger to facing dangerous individuals.

"I care not for guessing games or your true identity, Shadow Bringer," Cassian responds, his voice steady and unwavering. "What matters to me is the safety and well-being of the people in these lands. Your actions have caused chaos and fear, regardless of your intentions."

He takes a step forward, his hand resting on the hilt of his sword. "If you truly wish to prove your innocence, then cease these shadowy manipulations and face the judgment of the kingdom's council. Only then can we determine the truth behind the accusations against you."

Despite the playfulness in Raziel's demeanor, Cassian's wariness remains intact. He has seen too much destruction and suffering caused by the Shadow Bringer's alleged actions to let down his guard. As a seasoned warrior, he knows that even the most charming of appearances could conceal dangerous intentions.

"Come forward and answer for your actions," Cassian continues, his eyes never leaving Raziel's masked face. "Only then will you have the chance to clear your name and prove your innocence."

(She looks scary, but is actually a sweetheart)

Raziel let a small frown play across his playful face. His head cocks to the side slightly and he smiles again, hoping down more rocks and standing ten feet away from the warrior. He kept his crimson short sword at his sides and laughs, "I have caused chaos and fear? No, I think you have me mistaken with someone else. I am an innocent seeker of knowledge."

Raziels sapphire eyes burn with a slight anger and he barks out a laugh, "They are all convinced I am the one behind the massacres, that I am the one who plans all the raids. What will I be able to do to prove them wrong? They see my skills as something dangerous. They think I only wish to hurt people. And I'm sure you see me the same way."

Despite his words and harsh laugh, Raziel still kept his form playful, his movements kind of like a child's. Restless and unable to stay still as he danced from foot to foot, hopping ever closer to Cassian and then backwards again, always staying six to ten feet away from him.

(I’m sure she’s precious!)

Cassian regards Raziel with a steady gaze, seemingly unperturbed by the playful display. His own expression remains stoic, though a hint of curiosity glimmers in his eyes. He adjusts the grip on his broadsword, the blade gleaming in the lights of the hideout.

"I make no assumptions without evidence," He replies in a deep, resonant voice. "Your demeanor may be deceiving, but actions speak louder than words."

He takes a step forward, closing some of the distance between them, but not in a threatening manner. His movements are deliberate and composed. "If you are truly innocent, then perhaps it is time you show your true nature to those who doubt you. Your skills may be formidable, but they can be used for both good and ill. It's up to you to prove your intentions."

Cassian's experience has taught him not to judge solely based on appearances. He has seen villains with charming smiles and heroes with stern faces. He believes in giving everyone a chance to prove themselves. Yet, he remains cautious, aware that appearances can be deceiving.

"You say you seek knowledge," Cassian continues. "Knowledge can be a powerful tool, but it can also be dangerous. How you wield it is what matters. If you truly wish to clear your name and prove your innocence, consider aiding those who accuse you. Use your skills to help, not to harm. Only then will they begin to see the truth."

As he speaks, Cassian keeps a watchful eye on Raziel's movements, ready for any sudden shifts in demeanor or actions. He is willing to listen and give the young man a chance, but he won't let his guard down entirely until he is certain of Raziel's intentions. The path to redemption, if that is what Raziel seeks, will not be an easy one, but it is possible with the right choices.

Raziel watches Cassian, now dancing on his feet four to eight feet away from the warrior. His eyes move over the others face and he smiles. “There is evidence enough to convict me to death, even if I am innocent of all charges. I have been seen at every thing I am convicted of. And besides, isn’t the punishment for being a Shadow Keeper death? Because it’s treason?”

He shrugs, dismissing the conversation, “Anyways, Answer me this last question, warrior. Who is more innocent, me, the man who has never killed a person in his life, or you, the warrior, who is perfectly content to strike down the people here, by any means necessary?”

Raziel tilts his head, a curious look on his face. “See, there were regular people here. Some didn’t even know what they were involved in. Some were indebted and were forced to be here. But then, no one believes me when I say I’ve never killed anyone.”

He sighs and shrugs, holding his blades out and places his feet apart, dashing his teeth as he grinned, “Let’s get this over with. I have more important things to do.” The hood of his jacket fell backsliding off his head, his black hair slightly unkempt from the hood. On the side of his neck was a tattoo. Black, in the shape of a cat that had wings and horns.

Cassian narrows his eyes, his focus unwavering as he watches Raziel. He listens to the man's words, the frustration evident in his tone. There's a sense of conflict in his heart as he tries to understand the situation before him.

"I am not judge nor jury," Cassian replies firmly. "My duty is to uphold the law and protect the innocent. I do not revel in violence, but I will do what is necessary to ensure the safety of others."

He takes a step forward, his stance steady, and his expression serious. "As for innocence, it is not for me to determine. But I do know that true innocence can only be proven through actions and choices, not just words. If you claim you have never killed, then perhaps there is still a chance for you to make amends and redeem yourself."

Cassian's grip tightens on his weapon, his instincts as a warrior urging him to be cautious. He knows that Raziel is a formidable opponent, and he cannot afford to underestimate him. But beneath the surface, there's a glimmer of hope, a hope that maybe, just maybe, this confrontation can lead to a resolution that doesn't involve more bloodshed.

"I don't seek your death," Cassian says resolutely. "I seek justice. And if there's even a sliver of truth in your words, then I implore you to choose a different path—one that leads away from darkness and towards redemption."

As the two face each other, tension fills the air like a tangible force. Cassian remains ready for whatever comes next, hoping that his words may reach Raziel and that there might be a chance for understanding and forgiveness in the midst of this clash. His goal is never violence and death. If he can get people to surrender, that is what he’ll do.

Raziel tenses slightly as the warrior steps closer and he stills his feet, three feet away. He could reach out and touch the warrior at this point. His playful grin fades and he frowns, "What's funny. . . is the law lets you get away with killing people. . . and they call it good, but if someone else kills someone, it's already bad? Shouldn't all death be punished equally? What, you'll go home and get scolded for the casualties, while my punishment would be death."

Raziel sneers, "If I were to turn myself in, no one would listen. I'm already tried an convicted. Or do you not see the wanted posters? The Shadow Bringer, Dead or Alive. They don't care if I'm alive or not because they are just going to execute me anyways."

Raziel scowls, and lifts his hand in front of the warriors face, a ball of darkness appearing a few inches above his palm, "Tell me, warrior, how is this evil? How is this bad? Why hide it from the world? Light wielders are accepted into society, but why cant this be?" He whispers softly.

He lets his hand hover there a few moments longer before dropping it. He turns around, pulling his hood back up and hops back up the rocks, "Get out of here. Unless you and yours want to be blown up. The high circle is detonating this place." He crouchs down, looking down at Cassian, "You guys have ten minutes before this place blows up. Everything of value is gone. And jusy so you know, I was supposed to strike and ask questions later. I just saved your lives."

Cassian remains composed despite Raziel's hostility. He listens to the man's words, understanding the frustration and bitterness behind them. As the ball of darkness appears in Raziel's palm, Cassian observes it intently, contemplating the questions posed to him.

"It's not about light or darkness, good or bad," Cassian replies calmly. "It's about the choices we make and the actions we take. The law seeks to uphold order and protect the innocent. Killing is only justified in self-defense or in defense of others. The law doesn't condone unnecessary violence or vigilantism."

"I believe there's more to you than the wanted posters claim," Cassian says, his voice steady. "But you must also understand that your actions have consequences. Perhaps, if you turn yourself in and cooperate, there might be a chance for a fair trial, a chance for justice to be served properly."

As Raziel mentions the impending detonation, Cassian's attention sharpens. Ten minutes to evacuate the area is not much time. He watches as Raziel turns away, preparing to leave. His mind races, torn between his duty to stop the Shadow Bringer and the impending danger of the high circle's plan. In the end, his duty to his soldiers wins. He needs to get them to safety.

Raziel shakes his head, his mouth twisting into a frown and he vanishes from sight. he moved through the corridors of the mostly underground base, tearing his mask off and then jacket. It was too goddamned hot for this bullshit. He wondered how the warriors felt in their armor. Then he remembered Nimari, the cat dragon that was his familiar. She could breathe small quantities of fire, and well, since they had bonded his body temperature had always run a little high. It was slightly chilly up here in the mountainous area. Thinking of Nimari, Raziel stretched his arm out, summoning his little familiar.

"Raz!" The small creature squeaked and butted her head against his jaw. He smiles and pets her scaly and horned head, she was always misjudged. Just because she looked like a demon or whatever, didn't mean she was one. "How did it go?"

"I held them off long enough for everyone else to evacuate. I want you to follow them, see if they get out, and help if they wont make it, please." Raziel had seen enough death today, he would not let another die. Even if the High Circle will have his ass for not killing the warriors. He gives Nimari a grim smile, "And then meet me at home, okay?"

The small creature nods and the flies off with a flap of her leathery wings. Raziel watches for a long moment before changing his clothes and then walking into a cluster of shadows and vanishing.

Nimari flies back outside, her red eyes glowing slightly as she watches the Elysian Warriors.