When Illusions Fall - Viscet #2791 Tryout

[Shadow Striker]

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Table of Contents:
General Information
Prologue: Beginning of Time
Chapter 1: Breath of Hope
Chapter 2: The Conspirator
Chapter 3: Joining Magic
Chapter 4: Visitor in the Night
Chapter 5: An Unexpected Alliance
Chapter 6: Balance in Tylek
Credits and Miscellaneous

Story: 11,591/500 Required Words || Art: 14/1 Required Piece

[Shadow Striker]

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Full Name: Cronan Argraff
Gender: Male

Orientation: Pansexual

Brief Personality:
Cunning | Charming | Silver-Tongued | Short Tempered | Vindictive
Proper | Prideful |Manipulative | Clever | Cynical | Egotistical

Name meaning:
Cronan is a gaelic name meaning little dark one.
Argraff derives from the welsh word for illusion

Deity Magic:
Cronan Argraff serves as the Guardian of Illusion and of the Mind. His magical abilities are limited to certain aspects, as different gods control different areas of magic. As the Guardian of Illusion and Mind he controls conjuration, illusion, and all other magic

that effects the mind. He also is responsible for the magic involved in divination and oracle work. His most powerful illusions are joined with pieces of his soul, giving them personalities of their own. These illusions must constantly be fed mana, making them magically draining to sustain, but can be powerful and useful tools in the right situation.

Companion:
Raz is an illusion conjured in the early day's of Cronan's creation. The apparition has turned corporeal and taken on life of its own, given the form of a giant emerald serpent. Through their connection of magic, Cronan is able to see through Raz's eyes if he wishes and communicate telepathically with the unnatural creation. Joined with the darkest part of Cronan's soul, Raz has developed a sinister personality, wishing nothing more than to see Cronan take his rightful place as the ruler of the mortals who inhabit the land of Tylek. The serpent will stop at nothing to help bring his vision into fruition. Raz is
a Hebrew name meaning lord's secret.

[Shadow Striker]

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Before we came into being, the viscets of Tylek ran feral among the other beasts of the world. It was a savage existence, with no compassion and no deeper thought. The Ancients, long forgotten deities of the past, sought to change this. They desired the world to mirror themselves, and such they created us, the five original guardians of Tylek.

First, the ancients formed Apollo. Weaved from mana from the sturdy rays of the sun and the energy of the earth, he was born to keep the energies of life and creation. Next, Brigor emerged. Powered by the energy of fire and decay, he guards destruction and death. The third guardian was Garrick. He gathers his strength

from water and wind, sworn to protect the oceans and their life. After Garrick was Laurel, sewn together by the magic radiating from Tylek's three moons and the forests. Her mission is to protect departed souls and help them safely cross into Untine, the realm of the deceased. Lastly, the ancients gathered the remaining energies, found in their own minds, and created me for the purpose of defending the sanity and minds of the denizens of Tylek.

The guardians, worshiped by the viscets of Tylek as gods and deities, each hold magical prowess tied to the source of our mana. Together, we balance each other out, for without one, the others could not thrive. Without life, there would be no death for Brigor to guard. Without the heat of the Apollo's sun, Garrick's oceans would not evaporate and rain upon Laurel's forests. The only one who did not seem to have a purpose, at least to the other four, was me. I appeared to spend my days causing chaos through illusions, mind control, tricks, and deception. I quickly became known as the guardian of illusion instead of the guardian of the mind. My faithful followers became characterized by their own conniving ways, using the magic I bestowed upon them to usurp kings, distort reality, and cause turmoil. Few remained that followed the path of soothsaying and mind healing that my powers also entailed. I wasted my days playing instead of fulfilling my true purposes. I see this now.

My followers antics caused mayhem through Tylek, creating great upset in a once tranquil kingdom. The other guardian's mages called for them to be banned and for their magic to be cut off. Our magic was classed as taboo, and a full war waged against the kingdom and my people.

In a spur of unity, brought together by the pressure of their mages, Apollo and Brigor threw me, who they once considered their brother, into a deep mine shaft into the mountain of Haegdar. Haegdar is a mystery, where any guardian who sets foot on it has their mana neutralized, severing the mages from their power source. It serves as a holy place of sorts. Unless the guardian is on Haegdar however, their followers' magic appear to be unaffected by the magic absorbing soil. As such, they use the mountain as a haven from us guardians. Those who seek refuge after enraging their magical benefactors dwell on the mountain sides, creating their own community while still receiving the powers of their guardians. It was here in the depths of Haegard that I have remained for centuries, waiting for someone to free me from my eternal prison.

[Shadow Striker]

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Sometimes, when I close my eyes, I can almost believe I am back in the open air, warm sun rays beating down against my back. Upon opening them, I am snapped back to reality, forced to stare at the damp cold walls of my eternal prison. I've been trapped down here for many years, at least a century, but more than likely two or three; however, I feel as if I've been down here for millennia. I lost track of time long ago, after only a few decades. Pity really, as keeping track of time was somewhat of a past time, nothing left to do but talk to the shadows.

Well, and the illusions.

But that is more or less talking to myself. I mean, I did conjure them and all. Joined with pieces of my soul, they made for somewhat decent company, although it all felt...repetitive after a while. After a few years, they fizzle out, the magic dying. Keeping the illusions alive takes more effort than its worth, constantly having to be imbued with more magic, more power. I grow bored with them and create others, different personas to occupy my time.

One stays with me though, Raz. He has been with me since the beginning. Not just of my imprisonment, but of my time here on Tylek. The massive emerald serpent has served well as my friend, my confident. Powered not just with mana but the darkest part of my soul, he has turned corporeal, developing his own mind and thoughts of his own. Raz and I will remain ever connected until the end of time, but even he grows bored in the deep mine shaft. He is fortunate though. He is able to use magic to teleport himself outside, out of the shaft and into the world of the living, able to feel the sun beat down upon his scales and feast on unsuspecting prey to fuel his own magic. While he chooses to stay close to feed off my remaining mana, he still gets to leave this hole. He is out there now, while I sit alone in the abyssal shaft running deep within the mountain of Haegdar.

I envy him. Not that I grow physically hungry, but a feral piece of me desires to hunt, to feast upon the unsuspecting and absorb their life energy to strengthen my own power. My magic is weak without the life energy of others- well, weaker that its. I would never consider myself weak, but without it, my true potential is stifled. Devouring prey is not the only way I can obtain life energy. If they are willing, mortals can transfer me part of theirs, but my worshipers have long died out.

I am a forgotten god.

The thought is bitter. How could I go from revered and idolized to this? My current state disgusts even myself. Caked in mud and left to rot in a mildewed pit, trapped by my own brothers, its pathetic, truly pathetic. But I will prevail. I will be freed, and once liberated, I will seek my vengeance. This I swear. I will persevere and my supposed brothers will get what they deserve. Oh how sweet that will be. I can practically smell the victory.

Flicking my tongue out to scent the air however, victory is not what I pick up. Mold and the slick damp clay the walls are composed of are the only scents nearby. Frustrated, a vicious snarl escapes my maw and I slash the wet clay my prison is composed of, gouging the walls and floors with deep claw marks.

"Tsk tsk, Cronan. Not very godly of you." A smooth voice reprimands. Whipping my head around, I see my companion materialized next to me, magic still shimmering around him.

"Raz, I wish you would give me warning. One of these days you'll find

yourself bitten." Slick purple venom drips from my fangs as I bare my teeth at the cheeky serpent.

"Enough of that. I know you'd never ssssstrike at me. Besssssides, you made me. I'm immune to your poissson, you mangy mutt." Raz hisses mockingly.

Anger flares to life at Raz's blatant disrespect. "You'd do best to not forget that either." I bark. "I made you, I can very well destroy you as well."

"That'ssss no way to talk to sssssomeone who has fantasssstic news. Do you ssssmell what I do?" The serpent taunts.

"I smell what I always do, Raz. My misery, the wretched aroma of this pit, and the taunting breeze of freedom."

"Try again." He insists.

Growling at Raz, I throw my head back and flicker my tongue again and focus on the smells carried by the wind outside. It's difficult, seeing as the scent of mold overpowers almost everything else, as does the musty scent of clay. Hints of the current season, Changetide taunt my senses; the earth tones of the falling leaves and sickeningly sweet smell of decaying fruit tease me with the prospects of running free. The breeze carries another scent as well, one so familiar, I've longed to smell it every day spent in this prison.

"Raz," I gasp, "Is that what I think it is?" The snake nods his head slowly. "What are you waiting for?" I demand. "Find him. Bring the wandering soul to me!" A malicious smile spreads across my face. "Raz, today, we make our escape."

[Shadow Striker]

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As quickly as Raz appeared, he was gone. I only hope my amicable illusion brings me success. Settling down into the mud, I curl up, tail draped over my eyes. Intently, I focus my senses on the faint dripping of water, falling into a daze. As I feel myself fall into my trance, the familiar sensation of my magic's remnants pooling together washes over me.

Filling my lungs to their capacity, I channel that magic, tendrils of mana reaching out towards Raz. A feeling of my mind being tugged affirms that my magic has hit its mark, and I snap my eyes open. Instead of the dank mine shaft, I see leaves of burgundy and gold flitting down towards the ground. Longingly, I flicker my tongue, but the all too familiar smell of mold assaults my senses, reminding me of where I truly am. While I have mastered the ability to see and hear what Raz does, I have not yet figured out how to do so for smell. I cannot complain too much though, for at least I can see the beautiful sights outside. Sighing, I lean against the wall and watch Raz's every action attentively.

The emerald serpent slithers through the long grass, obviously calculating his every move. He sticks closely to the shadows, the lack of light hiding him against any tell-tale reflections that would bounce off his glistening scales. Smart snake, really. I raised him well. His long purple tongue flicks lightly at the air, searching for the scent to lead him the right direction. Pausing momentarily, he glances back and forth before wrapping himself around a young tree and climbing up. When he approaches near the top, he makes his way to the sturdiest branch and anchors himself there to wait for the unsuspecting passerby.

Time seems to sit still as Raz sits upon the branch. Occasionally, a leaf falls or a strong breeze rustles the tree, catching my attention, but mostly Raz and I sit and wait together. As the bright sun of Changetide begins to set, a scraggly dark viscet comes into view, radiating a powerful aura of dark mana.

Yes Raz, he's the one. Bring him to me. I hum to the snake through our telepathic connection.

If you're sssssure, my lord, I will bring him to you.

The illusion drops his head lower to gain better sight of the stranger.

Getting a better look at the viscet's patterns when Raz moved his head, I could make out a skeletal pattern and a large variety of glowing runes. This viscet holds quite a bit of potential indeed. "You there, my masssster needsss help. Needss help from a powerful mage, ssssuch as yoursself. Could you help him?"

The viscet whips his head around to search for the voice before laying eyes on the mighty green serpent in the tree. Narrowing his eyes, he hisses his response through clenched teeth, "What's in it for me?"

"Ahhh, you assssk important questions." Raz bobs his head. "Only magic and abilitiessss beyond comprehension."

"How could I even believe such promises. I already have mighty abilities, past what you have ever seen most likely." he laughs. "You'll have to do better than that kind of promise."

"I can prove it to you, oh feisty ssssoul." Raz taunts. Only receiving an annoyed huff in response, the snake shifted quickly and suddenly appeared in the grass by the strange viscet's feet, smirking the best a snake could as the viscet' eyes widened. "I promisssse, its more power than you've ever witnesssed before. He made me. Living, breathing, thinking."

The viscet nods rapidly. "I want in. What can I do?"

"Sssssuuuuperb." Raz slurs. "Follow." He takes off, making no effort to see if the stranger was following. Yes, if he truly was interested, he would be sure to tag close behind. Within a matter of minutes, I could see myself, and what a pitiful sight I was to behold -- fur pasted down with thick layers of crusted mud, emphasizing my emaciated frame of years of no physical nutrition. Grumbling, I released my focus and stared upwards towards my visitors.

"I've been expecting you for many years." I chide. "Many years, but now here you are. My victor."

The dusky viscet scoffs, "I'm not yet sure I yet want to save you. Look at you. Surely someone supposedly so powerful as yourself shouldn't look like...that." He gestures toward me, clearly speaking about the scum covering my once pristine coat.

"Surely you know who I am?" I puzzle, furrowing my brow.

"Am I supposed to?"

"Let's backtrack.. what's your name?"

"Tobias." He snarl. "You just wasting my time, or are you going somewhere with this?"

"Tsk tsk, patience is a virtue. Of course I'm going somewhere with this. Okay Tobias, can you tell me about the guardians?"

"Of course I can. What kind of question is that? It is something all visclings are taught, magical or not. There is Apollo and Brigor and Garrick and Laurel." Tobias starts prattling, "Apollo of life, creation, and earth, Brigor of death, destruction, and fire, Garrick of the winds and seas, water, and their life, and Laurel of the moons and protector of the deceased. Many others exist such as Dea Ignis who rules over volcanos and Kaida, the guardian of chaos, but those are the original four guardians, created by the Ancients in the very beginning."

"Very good!" I praise mockingly. "Now what would you say if I told you there was another, forgotten guardian?"

"I would tell you that you were a crazy old bat and that is why you are in this hole." Tobias laughs.

I grin wryly at my potential savior, "Ah, but my dearest Tobias, I am the forgotten guardian. I am the guardian of the mind and master of illusion"

"Right.." Tobias slightly tread backwards, now clearly unsure of this entire conversation.

"Now Tobias. Why would I lie to you?" Chuckling softly I continue, "How else would I know you draw your power from Brigor?"

"Lucky guess." He barks, continuing to step backward. Raz slithers silently behind him, causing him to trip and stumble backwards.

"Tobias, Raz is my illusion. I was able to see everything that went on when he brought you to me. You told him he has more power than he likely has ever seen himself. Now, how could I know that, trapped all the way down here?" Tobias gulps. I know I am almost there. I have him right where I want him. "That's right, Tobias. Help me. Free me."

"Wh-Why are you down there in the first place? Why have I never heard of you? Who are you?" The mage stuttered out.

"There's that question. Have to say, I was expecting it sooner, really." Sighing, I leaned up against the wall. "The name is Cronan. Cronan Argraff." A visible shudder ran down Tobias's spine. "Apollo and Brigor felt threatened by my power. Together, they combined forces, threw me in here where I have been trapped for...well. Who knows how long. I lost count around a century."

Silence clings to the air as Tobias thinks over what I told him. "Alright." His voice carries through the air. "Let me go get the rope." He scurries off and I am alone with my thoughts once more.

If only my magic were up to its full power, I could just conjure rope on the spot, however it is of no use to long for what one cannot accomplish. I have no choice but to wait, and to hope for that matter, for Tobias to return. The pungent aroma of his mana awakened my magical hunger, and the pains rack me to the core. Letting out a sorrowful howl, I curl up to sleep until my potential ally returns.

[Shadow Striker]

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"Cronan!" a sharp voice cracks the eerie quiet of the night.

Jumping awake, the only thing I see is a thick piece of cording with knots tied in periodic intervals. I can practically feel my heart skip a beat within my chest. Freedom is right within reach. I scale quickly, before Tobias has the chance to change his mind. I severely doubt he would though, as he has already left and returned.

Once I reach the top, I flick my tongue out and inhale deeply. The air fills my lungs, so clean and aromatic, and I feel young again, rejuvenated after so many years in the oppressive mine shaft. Falling on my knees into the grass, tears start to stream down my face, leaving lines behind through the hardened mud. Grass, trees, flowers, nature. It was all so magnificent. Everything I had taken for granted before, but I never would again. And my magic, how could I forget? Still on Haegard, my natural abilities are stifled still, but stronger than I have felt in a long while. Tentatively, I reach out with my mana and inwardly sigh in relief as I feel the accompanying presence of neighboring minds on the mountain.

Tobias cleared his throat, politely reminding me of his presence after letting me have my moment. "My apologies, Tobias. It has been a long time since I have even felt grass or had fresh air. I am lucky I had Raz, or else I quickly would have lost my mind." I stand to my feet, and Tobias cowered backwards unprepared. He clearly had never stood next to a guardian before, or maybe it had just been awhile. I stood twice his height, and even underweight, I reckon he did not wish to anger me, full magic or not. Laughing, I pat him on the back. "Taken by surprise, are we?"

"I, uh, yes. A bit. Uh, sir- er, my lord?" He replied questioningly.

Flashing him a smile, I nod, "I am indeed now, unofficially. After you help me a bit more, you too will have access to my power, such as you have access to Brigor's, and then I will be your guardian officially."

Tobias frowned. "More help?"

"Well sure. You didn't think it was that easy to gain power from a second guardian did you?" I run a long claw down his cheek almost affectionately, but with the hint of an obvious threat.

"Of course not, my lord. What must I do?" he asks. So willing to obey. I hope that persists, though clearly it may not, or else he would not be on Haegard. I will need to remember to ask about that.

"I am glad you ask, oh savior of mine," I purr, "How are you with potion craft?"
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A few days off of Haegard did well to nurture my fragile magic. The past week, I filled my days with feasting, feeding upon as much life-energy as possible. Keeping hidden is proving difficult. I do not wish to alert any of my fellow guardians to my escape quite yet. My time will come, surely, but for now, I need to gain my following once again. Tobias proves very useful. He was surprisingly easy to talk off of Haegard and has been providing me and Raz with shelter and food. Luckily, the potion is nearly ready. How fortunate I am that the one who has freed me is also a master potion craftsman. Our time is soon.

The sun has set behind the trees recently, the only illumination coming from the small fire ignited underneath the cauldron. I peer over Tobias's shoulder into the cauldron, the clear liquid boiling fiercly. "It's time, Tobias."

My follower briefly nods his head. "Whenever you are ready, go ahead." He agrees before stepping around to the side.

Opening my mouth widely, I let venom drip freely from my fangs into the potion below. One drop. Two drops. Three drops. That should do it. I nod at Tobias and we stare intently at the mixture as it changes colors almost violently, from red, to yellow, to green, to blue, before finally settling upon a shade perfecetly matching that of the venom added to it.

"It turned out beautifully. I haven't seen a batch like this since Brigor helped my first follower brew it." I praise the excellent work before me.

"Thank you, sir." He graciously answers. "Now what?"

"Now we travel to Delath Kyne."

Shaking his head vigorously, Tobias refuses, "I don't think so. I was told all as a pup to never venture into that place. No good comes of it."

"Hush, are you so unfaithful?" I scold. "That cave is sacred to me, and within is a shrine that amplifies my abilities. This shrine is the only place the potion will take hold."

I can see the pieces clicking together in his mind, of how everything I tell him is making sense. "When do we leave, sir?"

"Immediately. The dead of night is best for the potion to take hold in the mind."

Tobias grunts in acknowledgement and proceeds to dig out glass vials and stoppers. I prepare the horses we commandeered earlier in the week, ensuring we have a few days food and a full water skin. Despite my desire to lay low, I am unsure when or even if we will be able to return to the cozy shed we have been biding our time in, so it is best to remain prepared. The small dagger Tobias used to prepare ingredients from the table is tucked away in the small leather satchel I have taken to carrying with me as added protection as well. While my mana should be restored enough to infiltrate anyone's mind, if I encounter one of my fellow guardians, I am going to need physical defense on my side. Tobias hands me the vials and I slip them in my pouch before mounting my steed.

"Ready? No going back after tonight?" I ask, wanting to be sure.

"I'm ready my lord."

"Then let's set off. We should make it in a few hours time, if my calculations are correct." Whistling sharply calls Raz, who slithers around my shoulders and we depart.

After so many years trapped in a hole, riding any amount turned to be excruciating after half an hour. Gritting my teeth together, I continue to bear through, my inner legs wearing red and raw from rubbing against the rough leather of the saddle. We ride in companionable silence, occasionally breaking it to reassure a horse spooked from the shadows. After what seems like an eternity, the gaping mouth of Delath Kyne creeps into our view. Centuries of neglect and vandalism have left my sanctum in lackluster condition, with leaves and refuse built up around the entrance. It is no wonder people are too fearful to even approach. Once I regain my following, they will be set to keeping Delath Kyne in it's proper condition once again.

"Follow," I whisper, before dipping into the mouth of cave. Inside, I feel home once again. Glistening amethyst, quartz, and blue topaz lined the cavern walls and hang from the ceiling, while crystal pools surround the narrow path through the cave. The reflections of gems and water allow our lone lantern to completely illuminate Delath Kyne. Much more light and it would be blinding. Leaves have blown in through the years, but not nearly as disastorous as I was expecting. Perhaps..someone has been up keeping? But no..No one would. I am forgotten.

"Welcome to Delath Kyne!" My voice resonates, the crystals holding the vibrations and causing a slight thrum of power. Through the telepathic bond, I feel Raz's pleasure of being in our sanctuary once again, a pleasant hum in the back of my mind.

"My lord, it is m-magnificent!" Tobias stuttered, mouth gaping slightly at the sight. "I had no idea. Why would I be told it is an evil place when it holds such beauty?" He whispered, skimming his tail against the top of the clear water.

"My guess is complete erasure. If they let people continue in here, they would have to admit that another guardian exists" I snarl. "Now lets go, we are running out of moonlight." I turn my back, continue the path towards the inner sanctum. Reaching the stone slab, with carved serpentine statues of amethyst still connected with the rest of the crystal growth on either side, I reach out with a claw to lightly trace an ancient rune onto the stone. Suddenly, the stone shakes to life and recedes, revealing the inner sanctum.

The first step inside and I feel my mana pulsing wildly from within me, increased exponentially from this room, and a pleased grumble escapes my lips. The inner sanctum truly is magnificent and not just for my mana. Waterfalls feed the pools below, and skylights in the ceiling let in the light of the moon. Rays of moonlight reflect and bounce off the plentiful gems, illuminating the room brightly, and I snub the lantern completely, no need for it in here. In the center sits my shrine, everything made with crystal and still attached to the rest of the crystal growth, as to not sever the power that flows through it. The table holds candelabras, a built in cauldron, chairs, storage shelves, and of course my pedestal, all engraved carefully with my ritualistic ruins. The only things not connected are the ritual weapons and tumblers, as those obviously need to move and cannot be held in place.

Approaching the center shrine, I pull out a single blue topaz cup and remove the cork from one of the vials, carefully pouring the contents and place it in front of one of the settings. Tobias takes the hint and sits where I set the glass and waits for me to ready myself. My interest is held by the robes on the shelves, long and silk, complete with a top hat embellished with a rare eagle feathers and skull. They were my favorite, I had multiple sets of them at one time. I run my hand over the fabric once more and decide immediately to put them on.

I take my spot on my pedestal, Raz curled around my shoulders. Tobias nods to gesture he is ready, and I proceed. "Tobias, current alliance with Brigor of Death and Destruction, you seek to join my allegiance, and join your power with mine? To serve me in my goals for Tylek?"

Aye, my lord." He responds surely.

"And you acknowledge you know this potion will join your magic with mine, where I can draw from your mana where need be? Where it will not wear off until the end of your life energy?"

"Aye, my lord."

"Then drink."

Tobias quickly throws back the potion, gagging from the bitterness. As soon as he swallows, a vibrant purple glow surrounds him, sealing his magic to mine. "And it is done." I whisper. "Now we rest. And tomorrow, we strive to start adding to our ranks. I will also start to teach you myself how to use the art of illusion and mind magic, as it is a dead art it would seem."

[Shadow Striker]

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I feel I will never tire of camping under the stars again. The past week has been spent growing the magic bond and teaching new skills to Tobias. New magic is never easy to pick up, but the mage seems to be a natural at it. I have given him my old marionette puppet to help hone his skills. It can be used to help control illusions, directing the flow of magic, until he can better manage the flow himself. Illusions can be tricky, and there is no fault in utilizing the tools given to us in order to achieve success.

The moon rises again, and I direct Tobias to set up camp. "Here is good. Should we practice on illusion work tonight?" I ask.

"Sure, sir. Sounds good. Maybe I can get the hang of it this time." He responds. Tobias is such an eager student, willing to learn and is patient in cultivating new talents. It makes sense, as one cannot rush learning how to brew potions.

I watch him build the fire and heat our dinner of rabbit and a dandelion salad. We eat quickly before turning attentions towards tonight's studies. Sitting across from each other, I give him a small crystal to help channel the new magic. "Okay, focus and gather your mana. Feel the power vibrate inside you. I will lend you some of mine for this tonight until you can gather your own better. Can you feel the further increase?" I see him nod. "What does it feel like?"

"It feels like the warmth from the sun, like the breeze rustling the trees. It feels like ocean waves, and the cool rays of the moon. It feels...simply incredible. Like pure energy running through my blood" Tobias muttered in awe.

"It is pure guardian power. Cherish it. I don't share it often. I always have wondered how others feel it. Okay, continuing. Usually, when you use magic, you would focus mana in your core, your soul if you will, yes? Well now, you need to channel it to your mind. It's different magic, remember. It's going to feel different. Feel it pool there and build up until it feels like an unyielding pressure. Once you feel that, release it, channeling it into the form you desire the illusion to take." I stare intently at my apprentice, seeing the power build, further and further. While most of his mana still pooled in his core, he started to turn some towards his mind. Rerouting mana is a challenging task, so I am surprised he has already accomplished this. "Keep focusing. You're starting to build it. Eventually you will keep a reservoir built at all times, but until then it will take time."

I let him meditate another hour until I felt he substantially build his energies. "Now Tobias," I command. Exhaling, he release the mana, and a faint translucent fox fades into being. It flickers a bit, but it is there. Perfection will come with practice. The fact he created an illusion already, no matter the quality, is a feat not to be discredited.

"Ack!" Tobias exclaims, "I did it!!" He jumped to his feet, jumping with excitement.

"Congratulations, Tobias," I praise, "This is not to be taken lightly. This is a huge accomplishment and not one I expected you to make quite yet. You have the puppet?"

"I do." He picks up the marionette up from next to him, clumsily arranging it in his hands as I had taught.

"Go on, try wiggling it a bit." I prompt. He jiggled the puppet a bit and the illusion vanished. Tobias's face falls, and my heart drops to my stomach. I have not felt these emotions since the beginning, as I had not hand taught anyone since then. I had forgotten how I too feel the highs and lows of the students, how much pride I would get from watching them grow and learn the skills before them. "It's okay, Tobias. It requires a good deal of mana to conjure illusions, and to focus on maintaining and controlling an illusion is a very difficult task. We can try again tomorrow, okay? For now, let us talk."

"Of course sir, about what sir?" Tobias still seems crestfallen, but he set the puppet to his side and looks at me with his haunting green eyes.

"Why were you on Mount Haegard? It is of my understanding that it is still where people go when they want to hide from their guardians, usually from displeasing them? They still have access to their mana, but their guardians would be powerless if they were to pursue. Why were you there?"

"Oh. You were in that pit so long, I guess you would not know." He responds vaguely.

"Know what, Tobias?" I prompt further.

"There is a war in Tylek, Cronan." He sighs, leaning back and staring at the stars. "It started before I was even born. It is the kingdom against the followers of Brigor. Our magic has been called dark, black, taboo even. We are hunted and imprisoned, sometimes executed depending on our magic classes. Hypocrites, bunch of them." He spits bitterly. "They have what they call court-sanctioned mages of each of those classes, but they still incarcerate and defame all the rest. I was on Haegard to hide. But..." he paused, "with you as my guardian too, I don't need to hide anymore, do I?"

I scowl, angered greatly by what I have heard. It sounds exactly like what happened to my followers. Persecuted for magic others didn't understand, wars waged against innocent people. Soon, Brigor himself would probably be sought after by the other guardians just to appease the people. My instinct is to warn him, but I am wary as he helped Apollo throw me into the pit.

I wonder how long I have until they learn I have escaped. I wonder if they will throw me back in. How long do I have?

I shake my head. I cannot think like that. I must regain my followers. I must restore balance. I must build my own power. I must get my revenge. "For now no, Tobias. For now, you are my apprentice. For now, we will work together and we will gather others. Once you have mastered the art, you will go on to teach others, and will continue to hone your skills with lessons from me. We will not only survive, Tobias, but we will thrive. Now get some sleep. Tomorrow we go to the outskirts of the kingdom. We need to recruit. Unless you know others who would be interested in this study of magic?"

"Actually, sir, I do know of two, twins actually," he responds. "We can seek them out, they are scholars and always eager to learn of new things."

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

After a peaceful and successful fortnight of gaining followers, my merry band of misfits is woken rudely in the witching hours of night to a highly dangerous intruder. Keeping a careful eye on my students as always, a total of three now, I catch movement on the outskirts of camp, a faint shadow, large in stature, glowing with familiar ancient runes.

"Tobias! Mystic! Marvel!" I snarl, waking the camp. "Brigor is here, I saw him on the perimeter. Up and 'em!"

The small group jumps on their feet quickly, Mystic dusting off her coat. Marvel rolls his eyes at his twin and grabs the spear he keeps by his bed roll. Everyone stands vigilant in a circle, perched ready on their toes.

"Show yourself, Brigor." I bellow, "I know you're there! You're glowing runes give you away you know. You'd do well with a nice cloak."

A hulking viscet with curled barbed horns and swirling blue markings steps from behind the tree cover. "Well, wel,l well brother, you haven't aged a day." He smiles with false pleasantries.

"Brigor." I spit from between clenched teeth. "Why are you here?"

"Why am I here? What a silly question? Why wouldn't I want to see my dearest brother after years of imprisonment?" Narrowing his eyes, he took another step closer, chest to chest now. "How did you even get out?"

"Wouldn't you like to know? Why would I tell you when you might just throw me back in? Then how would I be able to escape again? How did you find us?"

"Now, did you really think I wouldn't notice a change and increase of magic in my master necromancer and master potion craftsman? That's just rich!" Brigor bursts into laughter. I stand stunned and speechless. I knew Tobias shared an allegiance with Brigor, but I feel betrayed. Being classed master anything is a big deal as there is only one master of any magic class but being tagged as master of two different classes is unheard of. It's no wonder Brigor tracked him so easily. I would keep close tabs on such an important mage to me as well. "Nothing to say? Did he not tell you just who he was to me? Oh well. Never one to brag. I didn't come to demand his assistance though. He is a big boy, I'm sure he can balance his time wisely. No, I came to see you. I really did miss you. You know I only helped Apollo because he insisted it was what we needed to do to settle the people. The people come first, Cronan, or have you forgotten?"

"How could I have forgotten?" I snarl, venom dripping wildly from my fangs. His honeyed words are what I want to hear. He knows how to work me. He wants something. Perhaps to bring me to Apollo to trick me again. I will admit though, seeking him out had made my list of things to do anyways. No matter our differences, I needed to warn him, because Brigor does not deserve to be locked away, and his mages do not deserve to be severed from his mana. "It doesn't matter, Brigor. I was to find you anyways. History is repeating itself. Just as the people turned on me and labeled my magic taboo, that is what they are doing to your mages. The balance will be disrupted once again. Don't let it." I stare him in the eyes, the red and orange familiar and welcoming. I miss my fellow guardians, but now is not the time to become comfortable near them again. "Now get out of my camp, Brigor."

"Yes, Cronan." The deity turns around disheartened, tail between his legs. Looking back over his shoulder he added, "If you want to talk more, Tobias there knows where to find me."

[Shadow Striker]

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________
"Well that was spooky!" Marvel playfully chuckles.

"Not the time, man." His twin scowls, thwacking him over the head with a heavy paw.

"Knock it off, both of you!" I rebuke sharply. "You represent me, you are to act like it at all times. And do not forgot you are in the presence of a guardian."

"Yes sir, sorry sir." They apologize in perfect unison. Music to my ears. I will make proper apprentices of them yet.

"Very good. Away to Delath Kyne, keep the sanctum and prepare it for my return. There is no need for you two to follow with Tobias and I. We have things long over due to be discussed apparently." I send the siblings off. They have not made much progress in their magic, but again, I did not expect everyone to learn as quickly as Tobias has been. I am done dealing with those two for a while anyways. A break will do me well. Their insistent bickering grates on my nerves, and it is only a matter of time before I snap.

Tobias clings towards the outer perimeter, ears pinned back sheepishly. I beckon him towards me, tail beating against the ground impatiently. The quiet shaking of my rattles echoes in the still night air with every strike in the dirt. Slowly, he creeps toward me. As he opens his mouth to speak, I hold up my paw. "Don't. You don't need to. I know why you kept your secrets. I probably would not have taken you as a full apprentice if I had known you were already deemed a master of not one, but two classes of magic. I just wanted to personally tell you how impressed I am."

His ears perked in surprise by the lack of verbal assault. "Y-You are impressed sir? Not angry I kept this information from you?"

"Don't get me wrong, Tobias. I am greatly displeased and disappointed that you did not divulge this, but I do understand, Tobias. And of course I am impressed. Master of one class is no small feat, master of two, well, I have never heard of such a thing. Has Brigor never told you such?"

"No sir. He just said I was skilled and named me master of both, not that he was impressed. He never quite told me how big of an accomplishment it really is."

"Well, now you know. Take great pride in it, Tobias. I would, if I were mortal. Next, I wanted to ask you, what did Brigor mean you would know where to find him? Is there a spot he usually is easily found?" I narrow my eyes, never myself figuring out quite where the guardian spent the majority of his time. It never never occurred that he may spend his days differently than I, spending time around the kingdom and villages finding viscets willing to join my mages.

Tobias stares at me, complete befuddlement spread across his face. "Well of course. Castle Norr?" He prods, as if I should know. "No? Doesn't ring a bell?"

"If I knew about Castle whatever, would I be asking you?" I snap impatiently, baring my fangs. A single drop of sickly purple venom falls to soil below.

Shrinking away slightly, he sighs, "Castle Norr Sir, and no, I guess you wouldn't. It's like Delath Kyne sort of, but not. It is where Brigor and his inner circle reside mostly. I used to live there too, but I was given the task of recruitment. While there though, my mana felt more powerful, like I was invincible. We would join mages to Brigor there as well, such as you do in Delath Kyne. But, it isn't anywhere near as nice. Just a dark, dingy old castle."

Rituals, an increase of power, a place Brigor prefers to live...It sounds like brother dearest has a sanctum of his own. Guess it should come to no real surprise. "I see. And do you think he wanted to actually discuss matters with me? Or do you feel it was to be betrayal again if we hadn't seen him?" I question.

"Sir, with all due respect, I don't think he wants to see you back in that nasty mine shaft. He wouldn't have allowed me to stay if you were a threat to him either, as I would be able to work as a double agent. I think he probably had something he wanted to tell you."

"I see. Thank you Tobias. Let's get some sleep then. We ride at dawn to Castle Norr to see what Brigor has to say."

We saddle the horses and break down camp the best we can so we can wake up and leave. Extinguishing the fire, we settle into our bed rolls and drift. My sleep is uneasy however, as recurring memories of Haegard haunt my dreams.

__________________________________________________________________________________________

Rays of harsh light reach out over the horizon, stirring me from my restless slumber. Digging my claws into the soft dirt, I stretch out and try to ease the ache of night from my bones before waking my apprentice. Tobias grumbles, disgruntled at the early wake up call, and rolls over to resume his rest. "Up. Now." I command, rolling up my bed roll and stowing it away in one of the saddle bags. I withdraw my mana from him and pull from his personal mana when he shows no further sign of rising. No better amusement in the morning than a student who won't get to his feet. I let Raz slither onto my shoulders so we can laugh together.

"My lord! I'm under attack! I'm dying!" He trembles, bereft without his magic. He quickly jumps to his feet, searching for the source of his discomfort.

After letting him suffer a few minutes, I grant him his mana again, holding onto bit as a punishment for morning disobedience. "You're rather lively this morning, Tobias. Good to see. Hop on your horse and let us head south then yes?"

Tobias grumbles in displeasure but does as he is told, quickly ready for departure. Soon we are headed on our way, Tobias guiding our path. Much like our trip to Delath Kyne, this trip continues with a comfortable quiet hanging in the air. Raz whispers quietly in my ear the entire trip, mostly about his unease of the situation.

"Now Raz, it will be quite okay. I have scanned Tobias's mind and have seen no ill intentions." I tickle the soft scales under Raz's chin lightly. "You are just being a paranoid reptile."

"If you sssssaay, Massster." He regresses, tucking himself into the folds of my robes once the caste comes into view. We agreed he best stay out of sight, as a surprise in case things proceed poorly.

"So, this is Castle Norr." I state. It isn't much to look like, vines climbing up the crumbling stone walls and pulling bricks to the ground. The building looks more of a safety hazard than a sacred place for a guardian, but Brigor always was one to hide things in plain sight, and if that was what he was going for than he succeeded. I would harbor a guess no one would dare approach this hazard unless absolutely necessary. "Well, what are we waiting for? Let us head on in. I'm sure his watch dogs have alerted brother dearest to our arrival."

We swiftly dismount and tie down the horses before approaching the portcullis, heavily rusted and crammed open slightly ajar. It is apparent the opening mechanisms no longer work properly, and I am surprised by the lack of guards in the nearby tower. Brigor does not seem like the type to leave his home without security.

"Just follow my lead, and be quiet." Tobias breathlessly whispers. "We want to be sure to not wake the dragon."

"The what?!" I breathe in surprise. That explains it then. Instead of answering, Tobias puts a claw to his lips to silence me and slips into the gate. I follow close behind, following his every footstep. "Tobias, Tobias, if it's just a dragon, let it wake. Watch. Let me show you the extent of my true power." I begin to gather my mana, but as soon as I am inside the castle grounds, all power falls from my grasp. "It's a trap. We have to leave. Now!" I urgently proclaim. "My mana, it's gone. It's like Haegard. My mana..." I babble, flashbacks of my time back in the mine shaft coming to the forefront of my mind.

Brigor comes running out from the castle main gate, past the dragon, patting it fondly on the tail in passing, "Easy Norr. Easy. It's a friend." He catches sight of me in my panicked stated and continues toward me, clutching me by the shoulders and dragging me into the foyer. "Cronan, brother! What in the Ancients is wrong with you?"

"You." I seethe. "You tricked me. My mana. It's gone. I entered your castle and it's gone." I cry.

"Calm, brother!" He attempts to soothe. "Of course you are powerless here, you are in my temple, I think you call yours your sanctum. Your mana is mine while you are here. Do not fret."

My ears perk up at the word sanctum. "You know of Delath Kyne?"

"Of course. Who do you think kept it clean and free of vandals and hermits? I of course couldn't get past those statues, but I'm guessing that hidden room remained untouched."

I nod, gulping, my throat dry. How did he know of my sanctum? My precious Delath Kyne? Why did he keep it safe for me? "Why?" I croak. "Why, when you threw me away. Why, when you willingly upset nature's balance?"

"Brother, I never wanted to. It was the pressure of the people. We do as the people want, and the denizens wanted to see your mages stopped. I meant what I said, Cronan. I'm sorry."

I lean against the cold stone, sick from the withdrawal of my mana. "You said you have my mana? The castle gives you my mana? And how did you know of my sanctum?" Rolling over every word, I think it over. Something seems..off.

"Oh, right, let me channel that back to you, brother. I'm sure you are feeling right awful. And I have discovered multiple of our sanctums, temples, holy grounds, whatever you wish to call them, by sheer accident. Garrick's is in an ocean cave, cold and damp, I recommend not visiting, and I found Laurel's, a forest grotto which is beautiful. I figured you must have one, and I searched until I found it for you. I could not let such a special place be neglected. Yet to locate Apollo's though." I listen to every word intently. We all have a sanctum. It makes sense, and I don't know why I never considered it. Brigor knows of all but Apollo's. But...

"Haegard!" I announce, jumping to my feet. "Brigor, we have been deeply betrayed!" Tobias and Brigor stare at me in confusion, waiting for me to explain. "Mt. Haegard is Apollo's sanctum. He must have spread the discourse throughout the kingdom and tricked them into believing my magic is dark and evil. When he convinced you to help throw me into the mine, he then was able to absorb almost all my mana, feeding me just enough to keep me alive all these years. And he started doing it all over again with you and your followers, Brigor! The new war being waged against you is the same that was waged against me." I ramble, frantically trying to convey my point.

The pair gasp, Brigor circling around me. "Your accusations are bold, brother. But they make sense. They make more sense than I have heard in centuries. What do you suggest, Cronan? We cannot let his treachery continue." He snarls.

"Only one thing we can do," I look over Tobias and Brigor, "we have to restore the balance in the kingdom. What say you in joining our mana temporarily? It may stand to be our only chance? We must overthrow the Guardian of Life"

"I say it sounds as good as a plan as any," agrees Brigor.

"My lords, you know I am in your service where you need me," Tobias adds.

[Shadow Striker]

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Shifting uncomfortably on his feet, Tobias timidly interrupts our strategy discussion, "Brigor, Cronan, sirs, we only have two horses, so I will stay here and bring the mages to Delath Kyne. Will you be able to lure Apollo there?"

"Ah, good thinking Tobias. Very good. I think we can, I will send a messenger if not. Please prepare some common potions too, in case a battle is needed. Take Raz with you, I do not wish my friend to be injured. He has been with me since the beginning." Letting Raz slither off my shoulder, I turn towards Brigor to continue speaking. "Come brother, we have a guardian to upset."

We leave the castle, taking the horses and set off towards Castle Tylek, which houses the royal family and is surrounded by the village that houses most of the population. From Castle Norr the journey only takes half a day. Taking the horses at a canter and only making one stop, we make excellent time and soon see the grand towers in our vision.

"Woah there," I slow my steed and proceed onto the cobblestone road into town. Visclings pop their heads out of the windows to investigate the clacking of hooves on stone as Brigor and I bring our horses to a short gaited trot, making the most ruckus possible.

"Let the fun begin, brother," I give a sinister smile and start towards the other end of the road.

"Apollo has betrayed us all!" Brigor hollers, circling his gelding back around the main road. "Spread false slander to incite war! To gain power for his own use!" The shouts draw curious spectators out of their homes to watch the commotion. Good, it's working. Soon Apollo will catch wind and will come try to quell the arising suspicions. "Ruined a fellow guardian," he gestures towards me, "destroyed hundreds of other mages lives by cutting off their mana!" Brigor continues his planned spiel, both of us continuing to ride up and down the village.

"Lies!" "It's just a trick of Brigor!" "Who is that?" Did he say another guardian?" The whispered murmurs carry across the streets like music to my ears. Soon, one of his mages would go crawling to Apollo to report the happenings of town, and here we would be, prepared.

A gust of wind is the first alert to Apollo's arrival as he soars in, his mighty wing span momentarily shading the town from the sun as he descends in front of Brigor and me, spooking the horses. My steed rears onto its hind legs, but I am ready, and I hold on, the reigns tight in my hand as I work to steady the massive beast beneath me.

"Apollo!" I roar at the deity in front of me, swinging of my horse and approaching the god, chest puffed defensively. I feel my mouth thicken with excess venom in preparation for possible combat and I tense, flexing my claws and feeling them scrape against the stone beneath me. "What say you in defense of your crimes?" I bellow at the god, no shortage of onlookers now.

"What crimes, you traitorous leech?!" Spittle lands on my face as we pace circles around each other. "You're magic is dark, your followers are of evil!." He reaches a large paw out, shoving me backwards towards Brigor and the horses, still advancing forward. "You were condemned to rot in Haegard!"

Everyone must be out on the streets to watch the show, and if they want a show, then a show I will give them. It's time to remind the world what mind magic is capable of. Mustering up all of my mana, I conjure a thick fog across the ground and create nine giant serpentine illusions to encircle Apollo and me so he cannot not run. I remember his fear of snakes well, and I hope it holds true. I lurch forward, placing my long claw atop his sternum, pressing the razor tipped appendage very lightly into his fur as a threat. Reaching out with waves of mana, I dig into Apollo's mind to instill petrifying fear. I rip into his mind with the same abandonment, confusion, and loneliness I felt the last few centuries in Haegard. I watch with sheer delight as Apollo's face contorts with pure agony and discomfort at the overwhelming feelings enveloping his senses.

"Do you feel that, Brother?" I spit as the deity of life falls to his knees. "Do you feel what you put me through in that prison?"

"Please, Cronan," He cries. "Please, stop this. Make it stop. Please. Please" I watch and listen to him beg until suddenly I can't. Suddenly the choked sobbing begs no longer sounds sweet. Suddenly it leaves a bitter taste in my mouth and I can't do it anymore. Suddenly, I am everything I hate. And it makes me sick. I withdrawal the mana, slowly unraveling the layers as to not cause permanent damage. As I peel away mana surrounding the feelings of confusion I feel a dark, pulsating presence eating away the guardian's mind, and I instantaneously recognize the powerful aura surrounding Apollo's thoughts.

I drop to my knees and sit across from him, offering my hands to him, palms up. "I'm sorry brother." I choke.

Apollos eyes snap up to meet mine, vacant and hungry. "Your power will be mine!" He snarls "Yours and Brigor's and all the guardians! It will all be my power! You'll all be trapped in Haegard where I can keep your mana for myself!" I listen to his words, heart heavy as I try to isolate the dark energy, but to no avail. The evil presence is to deeply entwined from not being caught earlier.

"What are you doing, Cronan?" Brigor hisses from behind me. "He betrayed us, or don't you remember? Listen to him! Listen to what he is saying! He wants all of our magic!"

"I am listening!" I snap back. "Does this sound like Apollo? Is this our brother? Watch closely, Brigor, watch at what is hurting him! Watch as I reveal what I have missed!" I snarl before adding a soft whisper, "I'm so sorry, Apollo. I'm sorry I failed you. It was my job as the guardian of the mind."

Stepping back from the frothing mad guardian, I latch onto as much of the curse as I can and attempt to extract it. The crowd around us screams and a few faint as a thick black fog leaves Apollo, fighting against the pull of my mana. I pour all my mana out trying to lure out the curse but to no avail. As my mana fails, the curse snaps back into Apollo's mind, and the guardian of life returns to ranting about gaining all power.

Raz, I reach out tentatively through our connection, not wanting to startle the serpent.

Yesssss sssssir? he readily responds.

Please have Tobias whip up the most powerful curse breaking potion he can. We are going to need at least a triple batch.

Quickly dispelling the illusions I set in place, I turn to face the guardian of death. Brigor hands me rope silently, a quiet look of remorse pasted on his face, and I secure Apollo to the back of my horse, tying his paws and wings so he cannot flee. Even though he is raving mad, I only hope he remembers the words of comfort I offer him during this time as I try to soothe the crazed soul inside.

Delath Kyne never seemed farther away than it seems now. Apollo fights the bindings with every step the horse makes. I should have bound his mouth too, with all the howling and belly aching he manages to be producing. We arrive in record time, cantering the horses nonstop. Brigor and I use our combined strength to snap some of the ropes and swing Apollo off the steed, carrying him into crystal cave paying caution to avoid his thrashing tail.

A sudden rush of mana swarms me as my sanctum absorbs the power from Brigor and Apollo. I quickly disperse it back to the two guardians, feeling sick as it reminds me of Haegard, and therefor my gross neglect towards Apollo and the curse eating his mind; however, I hold onto some of Apollo's to lessen the threat of his magic. Rushing everyone into the inner sanctum, I meet Tobias at the crystal cauldron, a violently frothing potion brewing within. Raz is wrapped tightly around his shoulders and I smirk with slight amusement. It would seem someone made a new friend.

"I didn't realize your sanctuary could get any more lovely, brother," Brigor whispers in awe, taking a seat at the ritual table, respectfully keeping his hands off the crystal where possible.

"It certainly is nothing like your decrepit castle, that is for sure," I chuckle in response. Turning my attention towards the brewer, "Tobias, how long on the curse breaker?" I ask, tying Apollo to one of the chairs, hands behind the chair back.

"It will be ready in the morn, my lord." Tobias bows his head. "If I may ask, what happened? What is the need for?"

"I failed my brother. Someone managed to cast a powerful curse upon Apollo many centuries ago, making him thirst for power. Making it a need. Eventually, it would consume him, making it all he could think of." I stare at the ground and push a small pebble around as I speak. "I only noticed it because I was torturing him. I was forcing him to endure all the emotions I felt trapped in Haegard all at once."

Brigor stands up and places his paw firmly on my shoulder. "Those years made you bitter, brother. They ate your own sanity, and without your magic to protect yourself. You cannot blame yourself for the need for vengeance."

I snarl viciously and stomp away from the table, cloak billowing across the floor. I can and I will blame myself for turning into the very thing I hate. Retiring to my room, I attempt to sleep, tail draped across my snout, attempting to shut out the blinding reflections of moonlight and my thoughts.

[Shadow Striker]

_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

The morning sun light rises me from slumber, the colors of day changing the entire feel of Delath Kyne. After I finish preening, I drape my robes over my shoulders and make my way into the inner sanctum, where I find everyone waiting for me. Mystic and Marvel are working on their illusion magic, small frogs hopping across the gravel paths with every jerk of their marionettes. They've improved so much in the last few days, I can only imagine how far Tobias has come. Brigor watches the twins in fascination, laughing in delight at every hop. Tobias sits at the table, tending his potion, his sleepless eyes meeting up to meet the guilty in mine. And Apollo. Apollo sits slumped against the chair, soft snores escaping his slightly open mouth.

"Is it ready?" I whisper to Tobias, not wanting to wake the sleeping deity nearby.

"Yes sir, ready to pour. Unfortunately, must be taken fresh, thought a quick cooling charm-"

"No ice mages, Tobias. He'll be fine though. He has healing abilities, once his mind comes to. I'd imagine the curse wont let him take it willingly. Well, no time like the present then." I straighten my posture and call for Brigor. I will need his help to pry Apollo's mouth open to pour in the concoction. Pulling out a crystal tumbler, I measure out five full doses. Three should be plenty, but I'd rather not have to put my fellow guardian through more pain than possible. "On three, okay?" I mouth silently. Brigor nods in understanding and I count, hoping to catch Apollo by surprise. "Three. Two. One!"

Brigor grabs Apollo's jaw and forces it open. I pour the liquid down his throat, and Brigor switches to holding Apollo's maw shut so he doesn't spit it out. I massage the deities throat, encouraging him to swallow the potion. We let go simultaneously and step back, ensuring everyone keeps their distance. Before long, Apollo starts writhing, straining against the ropes as a thick, tar like smoke floods upwards from his mouth and nose. He roars in agony, the curse reluctant to let go after such a long hold on its victim.

After what seems like an eternity, the black substance stops and Apollo stares at up, looking directly at me with sorrowed eyes. A steady trickle of blood stems from his nose, and I step forward to release his bindings.

"Welcome back, brother." I whisper to Apollo, cutting the ropes holding him with a quartz dagger.

"I should be saying the same thing." Apollo reaches for my hand with one of his lifts my jaw gently with the other so I stare him in the eyes. "Cronan, brother, the curse was not your fault. You may have missed it, but you are only a viscet, and even guardians make mistakes. I am deeply sorry for the pain and suffering the curse inflicted upon you. I care for you deeply, as I care for all the guardians. You are family to me. And I would never seek your power for my own. I am sorry you suffered at my own hand." He takes a deep breath, ragged from emotion. "As for what happened in the village, brother, you need to know, I forgive you. There is lightness and darkness in all of us. You are not the evil that momentarily consumed you. Do not let it eat away at the viscet you are."

At his words, I cannot stop the tears any longer As soon as the final rope falls, I hold my brother tightly, burying my face in the soft fur of his chest as Apollo consoles me, his own tears falling into my mane. Brigor will have his own moment with Apollo, I'm sure, with his own apology, but this moment is mine, and I am going to cherish every second of my brother's comfort.
_____________________________________________________________________________________________________

It has been a year since I have been released from Haegard, yet still a stigma remains around both my magic and Brigor's; however, all the guardians have been working tireless to correct the divide created between us. If anything, we are more focused on working as a team. We see the balance now between all magic and working on keeping it. Sometimes, that means one of us may need more of a presence in Tylek and that is okay. What matters is that there is peace in the world. What matters is there is peace among the viscets of Tylek and among my fellow guardians.

Today is the anniversary of the breaking of Apollo's curse, and all my brothers, Laurel, and I have been invited to Castle Tylek by the king and queen for a celebration of the occasion. Donning my nicest set of robes, I gather my best apprentices and we depart to the castle. Our numbers have grown substantially, having a dozen students now, so I will take only Tobias and the twins with me.

The entrance to the castle is decorated grandly, with bright colored banners blazing across the gray stone with an emblem representing each guardian. A pale yellow with an orange sun for Apollo, a maroon with a silver moon for Laurel, blue with paler waves for Garrick, black with ghostly gray fire for Brigor, and in the center, purple with a lighter swirl in the center for me. My banner stands out, almost gawdy, the purple bright and not faded from the sun like the banners for the other guardians.

My apprentices and I ride our horses through the gate, and thunderous applause bursts from the crowd. The castle courtyard is packed, an impassable sea of viscets. I halt the procession and dismount, passing the reigns to a guard standing nearby so I can try to proceed on foot towards the royal table where Laurel and my brothers are seated. After much pushing and shoving, I make my way up there, leaving my students at their designated table.

The only seat available is between Apollo and Queen Aonani. Bowing my head politely towards her majesty, I take my seat. As soon as I sit, she rises and the crowd falls silent. A mage casts an amplifying spell, and the queen starts her speech, "Citizens of Tylek, today we rejoice!" She cries, voice echoing off the stone walls of the courtyard. "Today, we host our first annual Guardian's Gala. It is the anniversary of monumental occasions. This day, one year ago, our beloved god Apollo was freed from a terrible and ancient curse controlling his mind by the gracious and talented brewer of Brigor, Tobias!" Cheering erupts from the onlookers until Aonani raises a paw to signal quiet, "This is not all. Tobias could not have done that without the help of someone else. As many have learned, but many have not, approximately one year ago, released from the mines of Haegard, our guardians have been joined once again by the guardian of the mind" She waves towards me and all eyes bore into me. "This is Cronan, Guardian of the Mind! Today, we officially welcome him back home to Tylek and his mages back to the Royal Mages' Circle. We welcome his magic to have a place in our lives and our homes. He restores balance and peace to Tylek!"

The noise that comes next is monumental. Nothing could have prepared me. Without thinking, I stand to my feet, surprise plastered on face. I never expected any sort announcement, I never wanted any celebration. I came today thinking it was all for Apollo, not a Tylek-wide surprise party. I bow a few times, the applause never seeming to end before deciding to take my seat.

Aonani puts her paw up once more to silence the masses. "Let the feast begin!" She announces, waiters bringing out platters of delicacies and setting them before us. I flick the air with my tongue, tasting the smells impatiently as they carry them out.

I eagerly dive in, having caught whiffs of lamb and steak in the air. Castle cooking never gets old, it would seem. The feast is a merry event, with live entertainment before us. Jesters, musicians, acrobats, and performance mages all before us as we eat and talk through the evening.

As the night dwindles down, all the guardians including myself leave the royal table and settle down to watch the late night musicians. Sitting in a small circle in the grass, we enjoy the rest of our festival together. Leaning back, I softly sigh, happier than I remember being in a long, long time. I've missed nights like this. I hope this is the first in many to come.