War of Emperium

Ephemeral Night 1

The ceiling was slightly cobwebby, and a Daddy Longlegs lurked at the far end, where it set its silky web as a trap for unwary insects, mainly flies and mosquitoes. The chandelier hung from chromium chains, and the fresh candlesticks provided a soft, silky light. The night time sky was clear outside. Ursa Major and the Big Dipper could be seen clearly if one had a sharp eye.

Nerva al'Thor lay on the bed, headphones blaring into his ear. His eyes were closed, his head pillowed on his arms. He took off his Wizards robes in exchange for a cool, long-sleeved linen shirt and loose pants. His Mighty Staff was lying on the table, along it his book of spells and moneybag.

He opened his eyes and got up. He walked to the window and lifted it open, allowing the night time sea breeze to greet his face and run its silky fingers through his hair. He looked ahead, far into the sea, until he could see the faraway outline of Byalan Islands.

The island was shaped like a skull. It was covered with dense forests, and the unending network of underground caves provided fit habitat for all sorts of creatures. It had been one of the greatest training spots in Midgard before the Incident.

It was also a giant graveyard. Hundreds of people who got lost and never been found died there. Every year the people still visited the shores and set up candles for lost partymates and loved ones. But the visitors didn't venture into the caves anymore.

It was better that way, Nerva thought. The people better have enough sense to stay away from that accursed place. The Shadow lived in it, in one of the deepest caves. But it could have left already. Slithered off to a new habitat, waiting to kill of somebody again.

Seven years and he was coming back. He was going to visit his friends graves and set up candles for them. And oh, might as well do one for his stupid brother.

A knock came at the door. Nerva answered it timidly. The door opened and Wealthow entered, still in her Priests outfit. She sat down at the edge of his bed, not speaking but looking at him.

After what seemed like eternity, he spoke.

"Sorry for these days events in Geffen." He said.

"I didn't mean to scare you at any cost. I'd pay you back for destroying your mantle. I'll just buy you a new one when we have time."

Wealthow shook her head. "I understand why you did that. You wanted to get outside."

No answer.

"Nerva, tell me if you want to go into Byalan tomorrow." She said softly.

"If it is unbearable for you"

"I'll go." Nerva cut her off.

"I've been running away for such a long time. I think the time is ripe for me to wake up from nightmares and face what is in store for me. I will guide you."

"But you do not have to force yourself." Wealthow persisted.

"I'm not doing this for Prontera or Geffen. And most certainly I am not doing this for any of you. I am doing this for myself." Nerva said offhandedly.

"I think we will have to agree on that."

"If it pleases you." Wealthow answered.

She stood up and said goodnight before shutting the door gently behind her. He returned his gaze to the stars. They gleamed so brightly that he could have taken them as the souls of his friends.

Morning came,

The Byalan Island

"We're finally here." Altair said solemnly as his shoes landed on the white sands of the shore.