Souls of the Lost

Introduction

Kain stares out into the horizon with his new vision tightly grasping the newly forged Soul Reaver in his right hand . Outside the tower is surrounded by barren lands and nothingness except for the aimless souls of the lost wondering the land now forgotten now that the Elder god no longer inhabits the land . Somewhere out there Janos awaits Kain thinks as he sheaths the sword and heads out.

Chapter 1

In one of the towns that still stands a wicked laughter is heard as Janos lands in the  centre of the town. As he lands the villagers run from him for they have no qualms with Janos and his kind as they know their place in this new world. As he strides through the town he becomes he unsure of what he is about to do and his eyes change from the eerie green of the hylden to the perfect blue they were before. “No, I can't do this, I won't do this,” he says grabbing his head . “You have no choice .” The hylden in him says taking back control.

“It's here somewhere the last one of the glyphs,” he snarls and heads towards the town hall.

“Please we don't want any trouble,” the mayor pleads as Janos enters and grins grabbing him and draining his dry. “Mercy what do I care for mercy when the power is finally in my grasp to take back what is ours.” Janos snarls tossing the mayor aside and heads to a book shelf. “I knew it was here this is even better than I hoped ,  he says and laughs as he takes the book from the shelf which glows the same eerie green as his eyes.

     At the tower Kain looks out one more time and then shifts into a swarm of bats and heads towards the last place he remembers the fortress. “Home do you remember the last timewe were here.” Kain says to no one in particular as he walks to towards the base of the pillars and sits down at balance .”I swear that's the problem with this world and why it's falling apart.”Kain muses. “But you knew that it's why you did what you did you saw that only I could save it.” Kain says . “Savior of Nosgoth scion of balance you deserve those titles. I've always been the selfish one thinking about myself. Uma saw that and so did you.” Kain sighs looking out at his kingdom now with his new found sight and seeing how bad things really are.

    Deep beneath the earth the elder god sits and broods nursing his wounds that inflicted on him with the Soul Reaver . In the sky the souls wonder as the elder is not feeding of them and some of the souls turn on the others becoming wraiths. “Look at them.” Kain says looking out from his throne. “Do you see the mess we made and now with the hylden things couldn't be worse. I know we were trying to change things for the better we thought getting rid of Mobius and the Elder god would change things but we were wrong.” Kain says and sighs.

In the city hall Janos sits among the dead with the dead with the book open in front of him.“At last my brothers and sisters we will be able to take back what is ours.” Janos says his eyes glowing the eerie green of the hylden. As he reads from the book the words on the pages glow the same colour. “What no stop what are you doing?” Janos says as he realizes what's happening as for a brief moment he is himself and senses the creatures intent . No no______!” Janos screams as the hylden inside takes full control and the creature inside emerges discarding the last of him. A hylden resembling the hylden Kain before but while the other hylden had no resemblance of intelligence this hylden eyes glow with a glee of intelligence as well the eerie green .Janos has become the Hylden high lord.

    At his fortress Kain senses the Hylden high lords emergence. “No , not again I had enough of dealings with them before .” Kain says getting up and notices that the usual souls that fly around are unusually agitated. “Kain.” one of the souls says flying near him. “No, your dead I killed you.” Kain says drawing Soul Reaver and swiping the spirit with his sword. “Yes, but what you did to to my master we spirits have no where to go.” Mobius says appearing before him. “Mobius I should have guessed. I had enough of your interference.” Kain snarls swiping at him.“And what can you do I am not alive so to speak . I am here to give you a warning the hylden must be dealt they pose a greater threat to Nosgoth then anything before.” Mobius warns.

“Don't you think I know that” Kain snarls “Yes but I now see things much clearer thanks to you .” Mobius says. “My master didn't see it either he only saw it as a minor inconvenience his only concern was his agenda.” Mobius says. “Is that wise the last time I saw him he wasn't in a good mood.” Kain says to him. “What can he do to me that has already been done the hylden are thebiggest threat right now .” Mobius says. “Besides you are the only one that can deal with them.” Mobius says. “I'm not so sure the Sarafan Lord was weak compared to what I am sensing from this creature.” Kain says. “None the less you are still our only hope Kain.” Mobius says and vanishes. “Always trying to influencing things either for his so called master or for himself. I'll find a way to banish you , but for the moment you are right the hylden are the biggest threat.” Kain says as he sheaths his sword and looks towards the east where Janos is. “ I know what you are up to Janos.” Kain says as he looks towards the east.“And I cannot permit it. If I did all the sacrifices would be for nothing .” Kain says raising his arms and shifting his bat form and heads towards where he sensed him.

        “Come my brothers , come and take what is ours.” Janos says as he watches as the rift to

the hylden world open and welcoming the hylden back to Nosgoth. “Stop I cannot let this happen.”Mobius says brandishing his staff. “Ah Mobius how nice of you to come and witness a new era of history in this world.” Janos snarls. “I cannot let you do this my master has claims to this world.”Mobius states brandishing his staff. “Ever faithful to that parasite I see. The time of vampires andhumans is over this world belongs to usss now.” Janos hisses and turns his attention back to the rift and Mobius vanishes.

     In a small village just outside the town Kain lands and shifts into his vampire form as he does he spots a flag flying in the distance baring his mark. “To think that this was this was once a prosperous land full of humans and vampires and now look.” Kain says as he walks through the once small village that served as port to the main town. As he walks through the village the place is littered with the bodies of vampires and humans a like as Janos had no qualms who he killed in search of his quest. “This is wrong it's as if he they have little care for life . At least when I ruled treated the humans with a little respect.” Kain says as he looks at the bodies scattered through out the village. “These new hylden show no remorse the Sarafan Lord at least some intelligence.” Kain muses. “This is Janos fault his insanity has spread like a disease to the hylden infecting them.” Mobius says to Kain as he appears in front of him as Kain looks over the bodies “And where have you been ?” Kain asks as he looks up . “I was assessing the situation,” Mobius tells him not revealing his true intention. “More like you were meddling again. I think you're afraid because you are powerless now and you cannot plot and scheme because now you are like most of us with no idea what's going to happen next.” Kain says to Mobius.”Just because I cannot see the future doesn't mean you should dismiss my words.” Mobius says . “Maybe , but when you appeared in the past you always had an ulterior motive either for yourself or for your so called master.” Kain sneers dismissing him. “But you are right before when I dealt with them they I could handle them now they might be a problem.” Kain says as he walks through the carnage toward the town in the distance and as he does he hears a laugh in the distance as Janos now the Hylden high lord laughs madly as he  watches his hylden brothers come through the rift that the book made.“What of the sword do we have to worry about it ?” A hylden hisses. “I'll deal with it don't worry.” Janos tells him. “And how do you know you can this Kain has been trouble before he is a powerful foe.” Another of the hylden hiss . “Yessss but we have the advantage now.With the book in our possession no can stop us.” Janos tells them all as he raises the book up.“And we find the others we will be unstoppable.” he shouts grinning from ear to ear.

  “ No he's done it.” Mobius says stopping and looking towards the town as Kain walks past him. “Done what?” Kain asks as he heads out of the village to the town. “ He's opened a portal

to the Hylden home world. He must be stopped.” Mobius says and vanishes. “Ah good riddance.” Kain says as Mobius vanishes . “I could use some peace and quite.” Kain says to himself as he heads towards the town.

     As Kain continues his way towards the town Janos insanity becomes more obvious as the devastation becomes worse and worse. “His insanity is becoming more worse.”Mobius says as he appears again. “Yes I see what did you see ahead .” Kain asks. “I'm not sure you know I cannot see the future anymore thanks to you and Raziel.” Mobius sneers. “Yes well I can't say you deserved it.” Kain says spotting something and picks up a doll from the ground. “I recognize this place” Kainsays as he lays the doll down with body of the little girl on the ground. “I thought you would.”Mobius says to him. “It's Copenhagun. I’m home.” Kain says as he looks up and enters the town.“I remember that day I never agree with Mortanius making you into a vampire.”Mobius sneers. “Yes I think you hoped that I would make the honourable choice at the end and sacrifice myself to save the pillars even if it meant the end of my kind.” Kain says.“Yet you didn't and took the selfish choice and look what you have done.” Mobius sneers.“Ah but with my new sight I can see the path that would have have happened. Your so called master would have all the souls he could eat with out any one the wiser.” Kain says to him.

“Yes, but the hylden would still be where they are you chose the greater of the two evils.”

Mobius says. “And now look at the world what do you think.” Mobius sneers. “That is not

necessarily true in you're meddling into the past and future did you not see that the humanswould abandon their post as guardians , humans never put much value into the past as we do.” Kain points out to him. “That's not true you know nothing of human nature.” Mobius sneers put off by Kain's remark. “Oh really. So you can' t say with out a reasonable doubt that the pillars would not be forgotten.” Kain says. “I....I” Mobius stammers and then vanishes. “I thought not .” Kain says and continues into the town.

       At the main part of the town the newly transformed Janos plot out his next move on how to get the next book. “Master I think I have an idea who may have the other book.”one of the hylden hisses. “Ah of course the Time Streamer who else would be meddlesome enough to have it.” Janos sneers and laughs.”Go to the cave where he was last seen and find it.” Janos commands and they hiss and leave.

  At his cave Mobius floats around in frustration trying to find the book knowing there is

nothing he can do when they come not even warn himself and realizes that only Kain can help.

“They're coming to my cave hurray.” he says appearing beside Kain. “Ah I thought so I knew

their must be an ulterior motive why you are still here.” Kain says . “Yes yes but you must hurray.” Mobius says clearly agitated. “At least now I know how to get rid of you it was out of character for you to be concerned with the welfare of others.” Kain says with a smile as Mobius vanishes. “I wonder what interest Janos has with the Time Streamers former stuff but it clearly cannot be good.” Kain muses to himself and transforms .

      At the town hall Janos looks at the book he has as he waits for an update from his minions he sent to the cave. “You do not understand. My time stream technology is there.” Mobius says appearing next to him as Kain lands and shifts at the southern edge of the forest where Mobius cave is located. “Kain you do not understand what could happen if they get both the book and my time stream device they could alter history .” Mobius explains to him as Kain assesses the situation. “Arrrg paradoxes I begin to think that this world is falling apart because of them and not because of the choice I made all those years ago.”Kain says .

      “Master it's not here.” A hylden reports to Janos. “It must be where did you put you old

fool.” Janos snarls “Search some more it must be there.” Janos orders. “You can't have hidden

to far I will find.” Janos says to himself as he paces the town hall. “It 's n...not here .” a hylden says to him. “It must be .” Janos says taking control of one of the hylden to look for himself.

“Do you have any idea what they are searching for in your cave?” Kain queries raising an eyebrow suspicious. “Not in the foggiest?” Mobius lies. “Really why do I not believe you.” Kain says. “Needless to say that if they get there hands on anything there it could bring disastrous

consequences for us all.” Mobius replies. “Yes yes.” Kain says dismissing him and heads on a head.

At the cave as Janos searches the cave through the hylden he has control of. “Kain is near master .” A hylden reports as he enters the cave. “Already that vampire has been a nuisance for far too long. He should have died when his heart was ripped out of him.”Janos sneers his eyes glowing the sickly green “Take some men with you and deal with him , its time we dealt with his interference.” Janos orders and continues to look for the book.

In the forest Kain is making his way towards the cave not wanting to risk being seen from the air when he comes across a familiar sight. “That's Vorador's!" Kain says as he nears it “The last time I was here I was trying to throat Raziel” Mobius says remembering “And also trying to get away with what I actually came for.” Mobius adds with a smile .“Yes I recall you didn't do so well.” Kain says. “Well that's not entirely true.” Mobius says as he tries to get Kain to forget about the mansion and move on. “What's the rush Mobius it seems to me that you don't want me to be here what bad memories.” Kain says as he heads towards the mansion.

  
 In the forest the hylden watch and follow not engaging as per order. “Ah Voradorif you only knew how much trouble the Sou Reaver has created” Kain says looking at the mural of him standing over the forge. “Can we hurray up I for one shudder to think ofwhat that fool Janos is doing in my liar right this minute.” Mobius says. “ I would notworry Janos cannot cause any more trouble than he has .” Kain says as he walks downthe halls of the mansion. “ You know why I want to go .” Mobius sneers says as they wander on.“Yes I know and yes I know we are being followed.” Kain says as they explore more of the mansion. “Then why aren't you doing anything about it ?” Mobius wines irritated. “Because if they wanted to attack us they would have so I am not worried.” Kain says as the move on and come across a familiar sight the library where Mobius and Razeil first met.

Inside the room has not faired well as the the elements have taken it's toll.As Kain wonders taking down books to look at them some them disintegrate as he opens them as the weather has taken it's toll on them. “What's the matter brings back unpleasant memories. Wait Raziel wasn't what you were originally here for wasn't it.” Kain says as it dawns on him. “Yes that was just a fortuitous circumstance that he was here.” Mobius admits. “You were here for the thing that Janos is now searching for that's why you want me to hurray isn't it.”“Yes and that's why the hylden were here too that day too unfortunately they sensed it'sprescience.” Mobius says. “Ah now everything is falling into place . It wasn't just thesecret chamber . I wonder what else is here.” Kain wonders as he ignores Mobius and takes a look around“Nothing can we go.” Mobius says annoyed . “What are you not telling me?” Kain asks realizing Mobius is hiding something and spots a book that Mobius is trying to block from him. “The Art of Soul Reaver.” Kain says brushing Mobius aside and taking down the book.

The book has faired better than the others as Kain opens it up to take a look at it.

“This shows all the Reaver glyphs so I don't have them all.” Kain says glaring at Mobius

“Yes we didn't want you to know about it if you did we wouldn't have had a chance of

delaying or stopping you.” Mobius says. “Hmm I see so I wonder what else you are

you are not telling me .” Kain says as he stows the book away for safekeeping and heads

out of the library towards the arboretum “So this is it?” Kain asks as he enters. “Yes this them before they were cursed.” Mobius says as Kain takes a better look at the statues and murals when they hylden decide to attack.

“Ah I was wondering when you were going to show.” Kain says as the the hylden come at him as he draws Souls Reaver and shifts . “Really you hylden are still that predictable.”Kain taunts as one of them comes at him and tries to impale him on its talons. “You know that I am not that young vampire anymore .” Kain says as he side steps him and impales the hylden on Soul Reaver and takin its life stuff into the sword. As the other hylden attacks Kain deals with him with a thought and the hylden goes flying and impaled on the candelabra behind him. “That wasn't too hard.” Mobius says as they step over the remaining hylden as Kain deals with them. “Oh I don't think we've seen the last of them.” Kain says as he takes a closer look at murals andstatues.

“Arrrg will I ever be able to defeat him.” Janos screams in frustration as he dislocates himselffrom the hylden he was in when a hylden approaches the hylden he has control of . “My lord.” a hylden hisses holding something . “Oh yessss.”Janos says with glee and laughs. “I was wondering where the device went . So that old fool had it all this time.” Janos says grinning ear to ear as he holds up the nexus stone . “Then give it here.” a hylden hisses snatching at the nexus stone. “What and let you incompetent fools have it. No I think not.” Janos says stashing it away. “No our main concern is finding the book . I know it's here.” Janos says. “But master if we had the stone.” A hylden whines. “Yes I know but right now we need the book .” Janos says dismissing the hlyden's concern.

“Hard to believe that this was here the whole time.” Kain says as they leave the arboretum.“What else did you two not tell me.” Kain wonders “What secrets were you hiding from the world.” Kain says leaving the mansion . “I mean why have your mansion in the forest when you could have it any where else.” Kain muses. “Hmm I wonder?” Kain says and shift using his new found sight and sees a sight a to behold as the mansion glows with spiritual energy. “Oh of course why didn't I figure it out before this place is a nexus like the pillars, and let me guess you felt that like the guardians it was your duty to protect it.” Kain says and smiles remembering Vorador always had a over inflated sense of honour.

“I know it's here why would Mobius take all that trouble of taking it ifwhat am I not seeing. “ Janos sneers looking around and then notices something and grins.“Of course search the walls.” he sneers.

“Kain hurray” Mobius says as Kain heads up the stairs or what remains of the stairs.“Did you know Mobius?” Kain asks as they explore the upper floors. “Know what Kain? We have no time for this while we're bickering Janos is getting closer to where I hid the book.” Mobius whines. “So you didn't know , you had no idea the importance of the mansion and why he had it here in the forest and not some place else.” Kain says and smiles at that for if Mobius did know he wouldn't be in such a rush to get to his liar and what he hid there. “What this you are talking about we have no time for your scheming and plotting .” Mobius sneers. “I always wondered why he liked the isolation. Think Mobius he was the creator of the Soul Reaver and one of the oldest of us all. Don't you think they would have trusted him with some of their secrets.” Kain says . “What are you getting at? “ Mobius sneers not understanding what Kain is getting at . “You old fool for all your time streaming and serving one master or another you never thought to consider that there might be another nexus point beside the pillars.”Kain says to him. “What what do you mean?” Mobius asks now a bit curious. “You old fool it's why Nosgoth hasn't completely decayed the mansion sits atop another nexus point.” Kain says to him . “But the guardians, the pillars.” Mobius says . “Yes, yes I know all about them

I am the new guardian of balance, but there weren't seven guardians there were eight Vorador

being the eighth .” Kain sneers as he brushes past a bit irritated by his ignorance. “Wait then if thehylden knew about this.?” Mobius says suddenly understanding . “Yes if they had knew what they were standing on this world would be doomed .” Kain tells him. “That fool I wonder if Mortanius knew and denied to tell me.” Mobius muses. “I doubt it , I suspect it was a well guarded secret.” Kain explains to him and then stops when spots something. “What what do you see don't ignore me Kain.” Mobius sneers as Kain ignores him for the moment to investigate the room up ahead he spotted.

“It's here I know it is and when I find it the last vestige will fall and the world will be ours

once again.” Janos says with glees as he takes control of one of the hylden to see for himself

not trusting in the hylden he dispatche “But with Vorador gone .” Mobius muses. “Yes I fear it may be only a matter of time.” as he explores the room. “I always wondered why Vorador had all these murals participating his hal ways .” Kain says as he looks around the room and the pictures on the wall. “It should be obviou Kain with so much of our history lost I thought I would try to preserve what I could.” Vorador says appearing out of thin air. “You , you died I know you did.” Mobius says to him shocked to him alive. “Yes well I thought it wise to disappear for a while.” Vorador says “Well it's good to know.” Kain says grasping his arm in comradely. “ Yes well you too, but what have you done, the hydlen are back.” Vorador asks. “ Yes well this wasn't entirely my fault Raziel had a hand in it.”Kain admits. “So I see .” Vorador says noticing the scar on Kain' chest. “Where is he by the way?”Vorador ask as they leave the room and head down the hallway. “Where he was always meant to be?” Kain says drawing Soul Reaver. “ So it happened then I thought that maybe....” Vorador says

   “So I thought too and even tried to find a different way a different solution but a lass it was not to be.” Kain says”Poor Raziel he deserved so much better than his fate.” Vorador says wistfully. “True but we have more to worry about now.” Mobius interjects. “I know and I know about your interference .” Vorador says . “You think if I had known about what this would have

brought about that I wouldn't change what I would have done, but you hid things from us too.”

Mobius sneers. “Did you know that his fate was tied to the sword?” Kain ask Vorador as they

head down the stairs. “Well yes but I hoped for something better.” Vorador admits. “But like

you I hoped for a different fate too, but as you once put it so eloquently you can challenge fate but all you can do is fight against the tyrannous stars . Please sit.” Vorador says as they enter his office and Kain sits down as Vorador sits behind a great oak desk with Mobius hovering behind him. “So tell me what do you have planned . Oh just a minute though.” Vorador says and cast a spell. “Wait what no you can't” Mobius whines as he vanishes . “That should take care of him.”

“ So now tell me what exactly are you planning.” Vorador asks. “ Well according to that old

fool they are looking for some kind of book that he has in his position.” Kain tells him.

“Yes I know of these there are according to roomers four of them and written in a language

not even my sire could translate .” Vorador says. “Yes and unfortunately I was too late to get the firstthe insane fool has the first and I fear that his insanity has infected the rest of them.” Kain says.“That's not good if they get their hands on all them Nosgoth as we know it is doomed.” Vorador says. “Yes well according to Mobius that's why he was here meeting Raziel here was just happenstance.” Kain says. “So they don't know where the third book is yet then just second? Vorador asks. “No not yet do you?” Kain answers. “No I never found it but I do have an idea?”
Vorador says. “Really where?” Kain asks. “In the drown lands where Raziel faced down Rahab.” Vorador says. “ That's unfortunate .” Kain muses. “Yes but I think you may be the exception .” Vorador tells him. “Really how so?” Kain asks his curious peeked. “You posses the newly forge soul reaver with it I think you may stand a chance. I would not ask this of you but we may too late to get the second.” Vorador says. “Of course if we can not get to the second we

can beat them to the third book.” Kain says. “Good luck.” Vorador says as Kain gets and leaves.“I have a feeling you will need it.” Vorador adds as he leaves.

“Are you sure this is wise.?” Mobius asks Kain leaves the leaves appearing beside him as Kain leaves. “I trust Vorador more than I trust you Mobius.” Kain says. “The drowned lands are a lot more dangerous than they were before after a few thousand years who knows how Rahab's people have evolved .” Mobius says. “I am not worried I have dealt with my lieutenant’s kind before and Rahab is no more Raziel took care of that.” Kain says. “That maybe so but wedon't know what else maybe lurking and what kind of creatures maybe lurking there guarding the book its better if we go after the second.” Mobius says to him. “I will deal with what comes my way.” Kain says dismissing him and flies off

Chapter 2

The drowned lands once a thriving city scape but after the cataclysm the land became

inhabitable due to the rainfall that constantly fell. Be that as it is the only creatures that dwell

here now are Rahabs brood and even then no one really knows what other creatures dwell with in.

As Kain lands on top of one of the roof tops. “Ah Rahab I am sorry for what happened to you if I had known how things would turned out....” Kain muses looking out at what remains of the drowned land as a familiar shadow swims by in the water below. “Hmm” muses with agrin seeing the creature swim by. “One of Rahab's brood I presume well no time like the present to test out Vorador's theory.” Kain says and dives into the water and as he does the water reacts to his body like it does to others of his kind .”Arrrg!” Kain screams in pain as the water burns but then as he curses Vorador he feels the heat of Soul Reaver and draws it seeing it glow and his skin changes and on the sword a new glyph appears that of a rain drop. “Ah Raziel even in your death your helping me.” Kain says marvelling at the transformation and swims towards the church unaware that he is being watched.

“You sent him to his death you realize.” Mobius says appearing before Vorador.

“Have faith he is the guardian of balance and the chosen saviour he has come through before

and he will again.” Vorador says. “Yes but I've come to learn that Kain is only in it for

Kain.” Mobius points out. “Well we'll see won't we. I think you will be pleasantly surprised.”

Vorador says dismissing Mobius fears and turns his attention on how to deal with the

other dilemma.

In the drowned lands Kain enters the chapel when from behind he is accosted by two

of Rahab's brood. “Well I was wondering when my former lieutenant’s brood would show. It

looks like that you and your brethren have faired well after the death of your lord.” Kain says

drawing Soul Reaver. “You must pay for your crimes.” One of them garbles. “My crimes

oh I see you mean Rahab's death. That wasn't my doing that was Raziel's doing and I am

afraid your too late.” Kain says. “”He was your lieutenant so it was your fault.” the other

garbles and they come at him with their tridents drawn. “Rahab's death was unfortunate he

was one of my most trusted lieutenants .” Kain says avoiding a blow from one of them and

swims towards the broken window where Raziel faced Rahab. “I wonder if your as sensitive

to sunlight as your former brethren were.” Kain says as the other comes at him and screams

in pain as the sunlight touches him and turns him into ashes. “I thought so.” Kain says smiling

and moves on.

“It's here it is.” Janos rants as he searches the cave . “We've looked every where my lord.” one of the hylden dares to say. “Maybe we just need to ask the inhabitant of this cave. Isn't that right Mobius.” Janos says his eyes glowing the eerie green as Mobius appears before him. “How?” Mobius asks not sure how he got here. “Let's just say I knew how to bring you here.” Janos grins holding Mobius time stream device. “How...how did you get that?” Mobius asks seeing his precious time stream device “Ah I see you remember good now tell where the book is.” Janos snarls. “Behind the bookcase theirs a hidden panel.” Mobius tells him unable to resists his command. “Now was that so hard.” Janos snarls as one of his minions checks it out.

In the chapel Kain swims to the next part of the chapel when Mobius appears. “Kain you

have to hurray.” he says to him . “Why what happened? Why do you look the way do you?”

Kain ask Mobius as he looks even more transparent then before. “ I...I can't say . I can't stay

here for long . Just know that there is little time now and that you may have some visitors.”

Mobius tells him and vanishes.

As Kain ponders Mobius's ominous warning the unexpected visitors appear. “Hylden .” Kain snarls. As he sees them appear on the roof tops of the buildings. “Well this just became interesting .” Kain sneers and actives the water glyph diving back into the water from the hallway he was exploringhoping they are like vampires . “Kain you must hurray.” Vorador whispers to him as Kain swims on exploring more of the temple. “The hylden have the other book and they won't be delayed for long.” Vorador warns.

“At last the second book.” Janos says holding up the second book.”With this

we now can bring in more of us and we are one step closer to taking back what was once ours.”

Janos says with glee through the hylden he has control of and opens the book . As he does a secondportal opens and a map appears revealing the location of the third book.

At the chapel Kain explores deeper into the chapel with Rahab's brood on his tail. “I never

understood why they became like this and never evolved like Raziel and I did.” Kain ponders.

“I wonder if it's because Raziel was sired first and I was created differently. That must be it I will have to remember that for the next time.” Kain muses as he nears a junction point in the chapel. “Well look at that you and your brother were a bit full of yourself weren't you.” Kain says as as he nears a statue of Rahab situation at the junction point as two of his brood come around the corner.

“Now do you think you can succeed where the other's failed.” Kain taunts the hylden as they come around the bend as he draws the Reaver and impales the first on the Reaver's blade as the second makes it attack . “Really you would think that you fools would have learned from the last encounter.” Kain sneers and flings the hylden against the candelabra incinerating it in a ball of fire.“I must admit Rahab I thought you'd do better against Raziel than the others after all you were my master of arms.” Kain says as he looks more closely at the statue.

As Kain muses up atop on the roof of the adjoining tower more hylden appear and descend into the chapel . “Stop defilers.” a Rahabian hisses as the hydlen descend to go after Kain and the third book. “Well this should be interesting” Kain says with a smirk as the Rahabians attack the hylden. With the distraction Kain searches some more for the sign of the book as the Rababians engage the new interlopers. “Wait what's this ?” Kain says noticing a glyph different the others on the statue and then notes how one the arms is reaching out with a bell in it. “Hmm” Kain says grinning to himself and climbs the statue . “Sssstop.” one of the Rahabians noticing him .”Get the book .”

A hylden hisses seeing him too climbing up after him “Really don't fall far from the tree do you.”Kain says and points the Reaver at them activating the fire glyph. At the top with the hylden and Rahabians momentarily distracted Kain uses the distraction to reach out and sound the bell. As the bell rings the hylden and the Rahabians scream in pain as the bell stuns them . As the bell sounds Kain notices more glyphs appearing alongs the wall lightingthe way and sounds the bell again . “Clever you were always one of my favourite.” Kain says as the bell sounds and a hidden chamber is revealed with the book inside.

“Get the book.” A hylden hisses as Kain jumps off the statue and heads to the chamber fighting off the Rahabians and hylden alike as he makes his way to to the chamber. As Kain reaches for it the hylden come at him but Kain avoids the blow and notices something else on the pedestal another sword glyph . Shifting hands Kain stows away the book and reaches for the glyph . As he does a glyph resembling a treble appears on the sword . Kain smiles and raises the sword activating the new glyph and the hylden and Rahabians a like fall down in pain as Kain quickly exits the chapel.

Outside on the roof top of the chapel Kain sheaths the Reaver and prepares to leave when

from the chapel more hylden appear. “The book give us the book.” they hiss. “Oh you mean this.” Kain says holding up the book and as they come at him Kain unsheathes his sword and activates the sound glyph again and the hylden fall down in pain stunned . “Now I doubt you can swim. SoI will be taking my leave.” Kain as he activates the water glyph and dives into the water below to swim

away.

As Kain swims away the hylden watch from the chapel roof top unsure of what to do. Atthe city hall Janos screams in frustration as he watches through one of the hylden. “Go after him. We cannot let him escape with the book.” Janos rants as the hylden stand there at the edge of the roof. “GO!” Janos screams and the hylden jump in after Kain.

As the hylden dive in after Kain , Kain turns to see the spectral as they struggle in the water and drown as they scream in agony. “Fool it's as I suspected since they are like us in many ways they have some of our weaknesses too. “ Kain says as more hylden jump in and drown. Turning around Kain climbs up onto the roof of the closest building and shifts into his bat form and flies off.

At the city hall Janos screams in frustration as he watches Kain get away from him yet again. “Well it looks your going to get your chance .” Janos sneers. “Good I relish the chance of

getting my hands on him after what he did to me.” A figure in the shadows says. “Just remember who gave you this chance I can easily put you back where I found you.” Janos warns.

“Yes my lord.” the Sarafan Lord says appearing from the shadows. “Don't fail me and don't

forget who your master isss.” Janos sneers “Yes my lord.” the Sarafan Lord says mumbling

something to himself. “What's that?” Janos asks. “Nothing.” the Sarafan Lord says. “Good and

don't be to over confident this is much different Kain then you remember.” Janos warns as the

Sarafan Lord leaves with a contingent of hylden following behind.

Just a few miles away from the drowned land Kain is heading back to the mansion

to report his findings and plot out their next move when from the air he spots something. “Oh no.” Kain says as flies over an abandoned town just a few miles out from the drowned land.

“Kain why haven't you returned ?” Vorador asks as he communicates with Kain from his

mansion. Kain not wanting to answer at this minute ignores it and flies to the part of the town

where he spotted the thing that disturbed him. “This is not good. I thought I took care of him.”

Kain says as walks through the town seeing the glyphs of the hylden all over the town.

“Kain you need to hurray.” Vorador communicates . “ Yes I know,my old adversary is back.” Kain replies. “ Yes how did you know.” Voradaor answers. “Let's just say I recognize the signs.” Kain says as he smashing one of the glyphs. “But it is not a concern things are considerably in my favour now.” Kain says. “Then you shouldn't dally.” Vorador advises. “Yes, yes, I'll be there .”Kain says dismissing his concerns and heads back.

Outside the hylden pace waiting for Kain. “Well what do we have here?” Kain says with

a grin. “Give usss the book.” a hylden hisses . “Which one? Oh you mean this?” Kain says holdinghe book. “I don't think so.” Kain says putting it back in his pack and drawing the Reaver out and activating the sound glyph. “Erg” the hylden hiss in pain crumpling to the ground. “Kain be careful.” Vorador warns as Kain swerves blocking the attack and impaling the other. As the others recover Kain shift using the dimensional glyph dispatching them with ease and then taking off back towards the mansion.

Chapter 3

“What where am I?” Raziel says as he gains consciousness “No not again , Mobius?” Raziel shouts looking for Mobius thinking he's back in the Netherworld. “Mobius show yourself I'm sick of these games.” Raziel shouts but no one answers . “Fine.” Raziel says summoning his wraith blade and heading to where he thinks that they would be , when he notices that the blade did not appear.“What where's my blade?” Raziel says and tries again . “I don't even feel it's hunger. It's gone the wraith blade is gone.” Raziel says not believing it. “KAIN!” Raziel shouts thinking the obvious that like always that he had his hand in this and then as he looks around again he sees that he is not where he thought he was. “Sooo definitely not the the Netherworld and no wraith blade so I'm stranded with out a weapon and unable to feed.” Raziel says calming down and realizing his predicament. “If this is not the Netherworld then I wonder where I am?” Raziel ponders as he looks around. “I am going to need substance soon or I will waste away.” Raziel says as he feels the old gnawingfeeling coming on and decides to look around for inhabitance.

As he looks around it occurs to him that he should be able to shift into his

material form. “Wait if I am not in the Netherworld then I should be able to shift into to

my materiel form.” Raziel says and tries to shift. “What no.” Raziel says as he tires again

and realizes he can't “Where the Hell am I?” Raziel shouts now frustrated and worried .

“Where have you sent me this time .” Razeil shouts still thinking this a ploy of Kain's and

Mobius's .

“What ? Raziel?” Kain says as he lands back at the mansion. “No it must

be my imagination. Raziel sacrificed himself so that I could have a chance to beat that

parasite of an elder god. “Kain says as he takes out Soul Reaver and thinking back on those

events. “Kain hurray we have little time.” Vorador urges. “Yes yes I am just outside.” Kain sneers

as he heads inside. “Even if it were possible which it isn't I could use his assistant .” Kain thinks

to himself as he heads to Vorador's office.

Inside Kain enters Vorador's office and put's the book down. “Excellent we now have

the upper hand.” Vordor says rubbing his hands together. “True but I have another question

for I could of sworn I felt Raziel's presence could he be still here , you built and designed the

sword.” Kain asks “Anything's possible with that sword. I may have designed it but the sword has changed so much through out the centuries. But as to Raziel you saw it yourself he died by thesword to save yours.” Vorador tells him. “Maybe but I still could have sworn. “ Kain says

and unsheathes Soul Reaver and taking out the book he found on the sword to learn a bit more.

“So they have the book?” Janos says back at the town hall grinning .

“Ah but there is still two more out there and I don't think my old friend has any idea

where it could be.” Janos sneers. “B...but you do?” a hylden asks. “Yesss fortunately

I still hold the memories of the fool before I took over his body. It 's in his aerie go there

and retrieve it.” Janos orders.

“Lost .” Razeil says as he wonders the waste lands . “Lost, lost ,lost where did those

fools send me there is no inhabitants and nothing around for miles .” Raziel says as he wonders

the waste lands in hopes of finding something. “Raziel” a voice says from the nothingness.

“Who hello?” Razeil ask startled. “Raziel.” the voice says again. “Oh no not you.” Raziel

says as form appears in front of him. “No I am Kain I just took his form because it was

fore most in your mind.” “Then who?” Raziel asks. “Let's just say I am some one near and

dear to you.” the figure resembling Kain says. “So where am I?” Raziel asks. “Think what do

you remember ?” the figure resembling Kain asks. “I remember facing the elder god with Kain,then nothing after that.” Raziel says. You did face him , but you realized the only way to defeat him was to give yourself to the sword.” the figure resembling Kain says. “So I'm in Soul Reaver.” Raziel says. “Yes and no, you are in a fugue realm .” the figure resembling Kain explains. “So I am doomed to be here in the fugue state for ever then.” Raziel says. “No Kain is going to need your help . You and the Reaver were always meant to be one . You are it's soul and Kain is it's wielder.” the figure resembling Kain explains “So then why I am here?” Raziel asks.“Because it's up to you , it your choice.” the figur resembling Kain says. “Really I always thought differently.” Raziel. “I am sorry youfelt thatway we should have done things differently.” the figure resembling Kain says.

“How could you your just the sword or an extension of it.” Raziel says. “So you know.”

the Soul Reaver says. “Yes it occurred to me that since we both wield you Kain to a greater

extent you would take on his form.” Raziel explains. “ Ah I see, but Raziel it has always been

your choice .” Soul Reaver explains to him. “But I must strongly stress that Kain needs you. The

hylden have returned stronger than ever.” “What's it to me Kain dealt with them he can deal with them again.” Raziel says . “Yes but thanks to you things have changed.” Soul Reaver says and shows him. “That's Janos, but he looks different. “ Raziel says. “Yes a powerful hylden has possessed him and leads them now and because of it ,it has drove him insane and spread it to the other hylden.”the Reaver tells Raziel. “What does this mean?” “It means that just not Nosgoth is in danger but the other realties as well.” Soul Reaver tells him. “Very well what must I do?” Raziel ask. “You've done it.” Soul Reaver says and vanishes a Raziel becomes one with the sword.

Back at the Mansion Kain is looking through the book he found in the library “What?”

Kain says startled drawing Soul Reaver when he notices the eyes are now glowing the colour

Raziel's use to glow. “Raziel? It is you isn't it.” Kain says sensing him. “Say no more my

friend.” Kain says sheathing Soul Reaver and getting up to go to Vorador's study.

“I was right he's he here.” Kain says as he enters the study “Who's here?”

Vorador asks as Kain enters. “Raziel he's here.” Kain says . “Impossible he's dead Kain. You

saw him die .” Vorador insists. “Yes but I felt him and how do you explain this.” Kain says and draws Soul Reaver and Vorador sees for himself how the eyes glow the same eerie colour that Raziel's glowed . “We'll deal with it later . Right now I have information that the hylden are on the move.” Vorador informs Kain. “Where ?” Kain asks eager to get his hands on the next book. “From what I gather it looks like they are heading south.” Vorador says “Woe what was that?” Kain says drawing Soul Reaver. “What?” Vorador asks. “I..I don't know it's when you said the hylden are heading south.” Kain says and the sword reacts again the eyes glowing even more.

“Interesting this merits more investigation Raziel is that you?” Vorador asks and the sword twitches in Kain's grasp. “Woe again wait. Raziel what's wrong?” Kain asks and the sword flies out of Kain's hand and land's on a certain point on the map that Vorador had laid out like a compass needle. “ I don't know it could be residual memory from Raziel we know that certain items can hold memories from things or people like quartz. “ Vorador surmises. “None the less if the hylden are heading that way so am I.” Kain says and picks up Soul Reaver and heads out.

“Kain wait don't do anything foolish we don't know if it's still there .” Voraodor says going after him. “Why ?” Kain snarls . “Because it's stands to reason that the Sarafan might have gotten it. There is a little known fortress of theirs just a few miles from here might I suggest that you

investigate it first.” Vorador advises. “Very well “ Kain relents “I will investigate this fortress of theirs may I ask how do you know of this?” Kain ask as he sheaths Soul Reaver. “ When I found out what happened to my mentor I did some research and learned about this fortress.” Vorador says. “Yes I am sorry about that.” “Well yes but instead of what I did in my younger days taking my vengeance on them I surmised that I would not find anything there.” Vorador tells Kain. “ I will check it out my friend.” Kain says and leaves.

At Jano's old erie Jano's looks through the eyes of one of his minions as they search for the

book. “Is something wrong.” Janos sneers or the creature that possess the body now sneers.

“Oh I see this used to be your home and where you met your end the first time.” Janos sneers as

he sees the image in Janos mind and laughs. “Ah I see it .” Kain says as he lands near the fortress . “I must say it's a step up from the other one I encountered and you say you were here before.” Kain asks. “Yes all though it's been a while.” Vorador says to him communicating telepathicly. “I see .” Kain says as he enters the fallen Sarafan fortress. “The lay out is different then the others this is more like a home than a base.” “Yes you can see why I wanted you to investigate this place first it is more likely that if they did take it , it would be here.” Vorador informs him as Kain investigates the fortress further.

“ Wait why are you uncomfortable ?” Janos sneers as he senses how uncomfortable the remains of the old Janos struggling inside his body. “Oh I see this wear they took you isn't it, this is where they laid you to rest so to speak.” Janos sneers as the hylden investigate the room . “But wait there's more isn’t there. Yessss I see you were part of the resistance you were part of the resistance that tried to fight us the last time we were here.” Janos snarls . “Did you know?” Janos snarls as the Sarafan Lord steps from the shadows. “I had my suspicions.” the Sarafan Lord answers bluntly. “An interesting conundrum how can two people exist in the same time ?” Janos says . “You mean Kain and Janos existing in the same time period.” the Sarafan Lord implies. “Yesss by all rights this body should have been lying in the erie , but it's not .” Janos sneers. “Kain's interference when he went back he created a paradox and two timelines were born.” the Sarafan Lord sneers. “Yesss but because of that it is going to be much easier for us to take back

what is ours.” Janos sneers smiling.

“This must be the main hall.” Kain says as he enters the room . Inside the room is an ornate table with elaborate chairs and a throne like chair sitting at the end. “Well he certainly was different from the Raziel I knew.” Kain says noting the banner hanging behind the throne . “Looks like I did you a favour eh.” Kain muses. “Ah and there is my other sons” Kain says seeing the banners of Rahab and Dumah hanging from the walls. “Well it looks like you were right if it'sany place it's here.” Kain says. “ I thought as much.” Vorador says telepathicly . “Yes if I miss my guess .I'm guessing their chambers are on the upper floor.” Kain says as he leaves and heads to the upper chambers.

“It's not here!” Janos rants as he tosses asides books and documents. “That fool Raziel must have taken it.” the Sarafan Lord says . “Of course it's what they came here for not just to get rid of him but for the book he was just happenstance.” Janos says with glee. “But that means that Kainis now one step of us.” the Sarafan Lord says. “Yes it does doesn't it head back here we'll discuss our next move.” Janos orders. “Y...yes lord.” the Sarafan Lord stammers and orders a retreat.

On the upper floors Kain explores the rooms of his formers allies looking for the book

while the hylden retreat back to the town hall. “So my friend where would you have hidden it. I you were like me I doubt you would have trusted it with your fellow Sarafan.” Kain thinks out loud as he explores the upper floor. “I suggest you check each room Kain the Sarafan zealot they maybe were a selfish lot as well.” Vorador advises as Kain explores the first room.

“Lavish “ Kain observes as he enters and notices the banner hanging from the sealing and weapons. “”Dumah's” Kain says with a smile. “Looks you didn't change much did you. I bet you

never thought that he would turn on you.” Kain says to himself as he enters and explores the room.“He was always a bit of a pompous ass.” Kain muses as he leaves. “So if that was Dumah's then I'm guessing the one at the end with the double doors must be yours.” Kain says as he walks up to theroom and enters the room.

“So they took it?” Janos snarls back at the town hall. “Yes my lord.” the Sarafan Lord reports.“But where?” Janos says. “I have an idea there are stories of a hidden fortress in the forest just south of Voradors mansion.” the Sarafan Lord says. “Hmm well it's the best we have and I don't want that fool Kain to get it first.” Janos snarls . “Go and get me that book before he can get it.” Janos orders. “Oh I well but for myself not for you , you insane fool.” the Sarafan Lord mutters to himself as he leaves with a contingent of hylden following behind.

“Yes this is definitely yours.”Kain says as he enters the room. “Wait you had it before?”Kain says as he enters and sees a place where a sword used to be on the wall by the bed.

“How come I never knew this.” Kain says as he draws Soul Reaver and places where it used to

hang and a scene from the past is revealed as he does.

“You should not have it.” Rahab says to Razeil as he enters the room. “Why not it was once held by our creator William the Just so by rights it's ours not those filthy vampires.” Razeil snarls. “Yes but it is not right. It is an unholy object and can only bring misfortune look what happened to William .” Dumah says adds . “I can not believe you two falling for that dogma you should know better.” Raziel says dismissing their worries and puts the sword away.

“Ah Raziel you were always head strong.” Kain says with a smile as he takes the sword down again and leaves the room. “Kain you must hurray.” Vorador urges him as Kain explores more ofthe upper floor of the fortress.

“Hurray Kain is already there.” Janos urges speaking through one of the hylden. “If we want the book before that fool Kain gets his hand we need to beat him to the punch.” Janos urges. “Yes but we have no idea where it is you insane fool.” the Sarafan Lord mutters. “What was that?” Janos queries. “Nothing.” the Sarafan Lord snarls and continues on to the fortress. “Kain you must hurray I sensed a prescience that I have not sensed in quite some while.” Vorador urges. “Yes I know I sensed him early but things are different now I am much older and wiser things will go much differently.” Kain says as he explores the upper floors of the fortress. “Don't get to cocky Kain .” Vorador warns as Kain continues on.

“At last a chance to take my revenge . Centuries falling through the void plotting and

scheming and waiting for a chance to get my revenge.” the Sarafan Lord says his eyes glowing

red as he thinks on the chance of getting back at Kain. “But master says we are only here to

get the book.” a hylden stammers. “Master your master is one of those that imprisoned us all those years ago . He is not even a pure hylden.” the Sarafan Lord snarls and continues to the fortress.

In the fortress Kain comes across a dead end . “Well that's interesting.” Kain muses lookingaround thinking that there must be a lever or something to reveal a hidden passage .

“Kain I know your here. We have unfinished business.” the Sarafan Lord snarls from the below. “Really it seems to my relocation that the last time we met that there wasn't .” Kain says

as he makes a note to check more closely as he leaps of the railing drawing Soul Reaver

to face the Sarafan Lord. “You think so . The way I see it the only reason you beat is because you had the Nexus stone if you did not have it like you don't have it now you wouldn't have stood a chance.” the Sarafan Lord boast as he draws his own sword and comes at Kain.

As the Sarafan Lord attacks Kain just snarls and draws Soul Reaver and shifts as

the Sarafan Lord comes at him activating the sound glyph at the same time disabling the hylden. “So you gained some new powers but it won't help you Kain.” the Sarafan Lord snarls. “We'll see.” Kain says as the clash swords “Yes we will and once I defeat you Soul Reaver will be mine once again.” the Sarafan Lord boast as he tries for the advantage. “We'll see.” Kain says blocking his attack. “Oh yesss we will and when I'm done I'm going after your allies and when I'm done the world will be ours once again.” the Sarafan Lord snarls.

“Really that fool Janos might be a hylden lord but he is not fully a hylden and that is his flaw.”as he blocks Kain's attack and counters with one of his own. “What what?” the Sarafan Lord says suddenly startled as Kain blocks his attack effortlessly now. “Oh did I not tell you that

the sword has evolved with each blow it leaches off the opponent making him weaker while making me much stronger.” Kain says and to demonstrate he counters the Sarafan Lord's attack and before the Sarafan Lord can counter back Kain sends him flying.

“Fool did not tell you to go after the book.” Janos says through one of the hylden as the

Sarafan Lord gains consciousness and regains his sword . “Maybe your right but this isn't

over.” the Sarafan Lord snarls as he sheaths and retreats with his hylden not far behind.

“Oh it is not over by far.” Kain says as he chases after them. “Don't think that I'm going

to let you go.” Kain snarls as he catches up to them. “ Oh I expected you wouldn't let this

go.” the Sarafan Lord says grinning behind his helm and smashes one of the oil lamp knowing

fool well that vampires are not to fond of fire. “Arrg coward.” Kain yells as he comes across

the fire and the Sarafan Lord flees with his hylden minions not far behind. “Kain do not

worry about that get the book.” Vorador communicates with him. “I” Kain says sheathing

Soul Reaver and continues the search for the book.

“So my friend where did you hide it?” Kain says as he explores returning to the upper floorto continue his search . “Knowing you, you wouldn't have trusted the others with such a valuable artifact.” Kain muses. “I wonder?” Kain says to himself and turns heading downing stairs to head back to the mansion. “Kain where are you going?” Vorador asks. “Back to the mansion. I don't think it's here.” Kain says. “So where then?” Vorador asks. “I have an idea we'll talk about it when I return.” Kain says as he exits the fortress and heads back to the mansion.

“M..my lord he has fled.” a hlyden reports to the Sarafan Lord.

“Of course that simpering fool was never a match for me.” the Sarafan Lord boasts.

“My lord forgive me but I don't think it was that.” the hylden stammers afraid of the Sarafan Lord'swrath. Annoyed that he would dare question him the Sarafan Lord turns eyes glowing red flexes his fist and force chokes the lowly hylden who dared question him. “M...my lord forgive me but it just seemed that he wasn't fleeing .” the hylden struggles to say gasping for breath. “Mmm you might be right as much as I hate this it might be wise to head back to the town hall and confer with that fool Janos.” the Sarafan Lord snarls releasing his grasp and orders a retreat.

“So where do you think he hid it?” Vorador asks as Kain enters the study.

“I don't know but I have a feeling he wouldn't have hid it there.” Kain says to Vorador as he enters the study. “Really then where?” Vorador asks curious. “I have and idea. Do you know anything about Raziel's past before he became a Sarafan ?” Kain asks. “Not really but you think it might be there.” Vorador says. “It's a hunch.” Kain says “Well there is a way to find out the Sarafan kept were notorious for keeping a lock on the records of there men incase one became one ofus.” Vorador says. “Of course that way they could track him down and eliminate him and any one related to him .” Kain muses. “But where?” Kain asks. “ From the tales it is said they say it is in a hidden vault located in the capital.” Vorador tells him. “Meridian but I was just there and didn't see anything that remotely resembled a vault.” Kain says. “Yes I know but they would not would have wanted us to find it.” Vorador says. “Of course if we did we could have eliminated them along time ago.” Kain muses. “Yes so the vault wouldn't be obvious.” Vorador says. “Yes your right I'll head back right away.” Kain says leaving as he sheaths Soul Reaver.

      “Why have you retreated ?” Janos sneers as the Sarafan Lord enters the town hall.

“You commanded it.” the Sarafan Lord says a little confused at his reaction. “Not to retreat you fool we need that book.” Janos sneers glaring at him his eyes glowing the eerie green of the

hylden as the hylden lord that is possessing him comes forth. “ My lord we looked every where but it's not there so I thought it would be prudent to make a retreat back here.” the Sarafan Lord says. “That is not yours to make or have you forgotten that.” Janos snarls. “Not in the least you insane fool.” the Sarafan Lord says to himself. “So what are we to do then eh since you seem to know more than me.” Janos says. “May I suggest that we tail him . Kain will lead us to the book and we he has it we take it from that way we eliminate two problems.” the Sarfan Lord suggests .“Yessss go .” Janos says ordering them to go. “Insane fool.” the Sarafan Lord says to himself as they leave.

“Ah Meridian . Why is it I”m always drawn back here?” Kain wonders as he enters the city.

“This city is always full of surprises the last time I was here I found the blueprints which I haven’t had time to look over yet . Ah Meridian you seem to be always full of surprises.” Kain muses smiling as he enters the city centre to look for the vault.

“Soo is this where you are headed .” the Sarafan Lord sneers as they the enter the city not to far behind Kain. “I remember this city so well the smell of blood and the defeat of Kain's army atthe hands of me and my men .” the Sarafan Lord says remembering back with a smile behind his his helmet or what resembles a smile to the hylden.

“It seems that Merridain is always the centre for some battle or another from

the hylden to my fallen brethren. No wonder I don't detect any life the poor fools who lived here must have had enough .” Kain comments as he heads to wear he and Voridor guessed the vault would be. “Well it looks like it's not quite uninhabited .” Kain says with a grin as he draws Soul Reaver .

“My master will be pleased.” a hylden hisses spotting Kain . “Which one you hylden seemto go through so many.” Kain mocks as he avoids the hylden's clumsy attack. “Both when I bring your head in a sack with the Soul Reaver.” the hylden hisses attacking him again. “Oh you mean this .” Kain mocks as he activates the sound glyph disabling the hylden. “Funny I thought they wanted the book.” Kain says he leaves heading to where the old sarafan HQ was.

“Mmmmaster.” the hylden whimpers as the Sarafan Lord and the other hylden come upon him.“Fool.” the Sarafan Lord sneers and rips him apart. “I do not abide failure.” he sneers. “Think you have the advantage don't you Kain, good keep on thinking that.” the Sarafan Lord says and laughs as they continue to discreetly follow Kain unbeknownst to him.

With the hylden close behind Kain finds himself in what used to be the noble quarters. “Ah how I remember this the first of my brood betrayed me here.” Kain says “The fool thought he had sided on the wining side little did he know.” Kain says remembering back and leaps up to a balcony above. “It's here I know it.” Kain says to himself as he enters the apartment. Inside the room has look like it's been hit by a hurricane as books and texts lay astray tossed aside anywhere . “It looks like I'm not the only one looking for the text.” Kain says drawing SoulReaver looking over the books and spots figure up ahead.“A vampire .” Kain says seeing how quickly the figure moves. “What's the matter Kain

don't recognize me even though I don't quite resemble my former self after what you did

to me.” the figure says running a head. “Faustus ! I thought I killed you.” Kain surmises.

“You nearly did .” Faustus says from ahead. “ Well we can rectify that.” Kain sneers“Not now Kain but soon we'll meet.” Faustus says and disappears ahead.

In the streets the Sarafan Lord and his minion continue to track Kain till they come to where Kain leaped into the building. “Well this is interesting.” the Sarafan Lord sneers. “Master?” a hylden asks. “It seems another player has entered the game.” the Sarafan Lord says sensing Faustus 'spresence near by as well as Kain's and laughs .

“So Faustus alive and I thought I took care of him in that furnace room.” Kain muses as  he heads downstairs. The downstairs area looks even worse then the upper floor as Faustus has ransacked not just in hopes what he would find but to foil Kain as well. “He never did have much patients .If hehad looked more closely.” Kain says unlocking the trap door and heading to the vault down below.

As Kain explores the lower level Faustus watches from the roof of another building abidinghis time knowing that Kain will come out some time. “Now what?” Kain muses as he comes to a dead end. “I thought for sure it would be.” Kain says examining the walls. “I wonder though.”Kain says to himself as an idea comes to him and uses his new ability to shift into the spectral realm. “Ah I thought so.” Kain says and enters through the door now revealed Inside is not what Kain thought he find but something else another glyph. “So my old friend you weren't looking for a book but this.” Kain says with a smile and unsheathes Soul Reaver and the glyph begins to glow as the sword calls out to it.

As the sword and glyph become one Soul Reaver glows like the sun on the brightest day.

“This glyph will light the darkest places protect it and it use it wisely .” a voice says from the darkness and then vanishes. “So you didn't want me to have this did you . It wasn’t the book you wanted after all you want Soul Reaver.” Kain says as he exits the room and shifting back to the material realm and leaving the building. “Well if you want it you'll have to take from my cold dead talons.” Kain says with a smile as he leaps on to a near roof top to get a betterview in hopes of spotting the vault.

       In the streets the Sarafan Lord spots Faustus and smiles. “Ah my old ally.” he muses.

“Follow him I want to know what he's after.” he orders one his minion. “My lord?” the hylden.

“GO!” he orders and tells the others to follow him as the follow closely behind Kain.

         On the roof top Kain looks out in search of the vault. “Ah there you are.” Kain

says to himself as he spies it in the distance near the keep. Smiling to himself but unknown to him Kain shifts into his bat form and heads to the keep with the Sarafan Lord following not far behind.

At the church where Kain fought Marcus another of his brood . Faustus enters what remains ofit. “Ah Marcus how the mighty have fallen . You thought yourself so mighty and powerful but when it came down to it you fell short.” Faustus says as he drops the body of the sarafan that was assigned to protect it. Smiling to himself Faustus walks up and grips the lid of the alter revealing that it was not an alter after all but a sarcophagus for inside lays the remains of Marcus. “It figures they would burry you here. These mortals were always a bit on the gullible side.” Faustus says picking what remains of the body. “And forgive me for what I'm about to do but I need an advantage if I'm going to face Kain.” Faustus says ripping out the heart and draining what remains of Marcus’s essence. As Faustus feasts on the heart draining what remains of Marcus's essence in the shadow's a lone hylden watches and remembers.

“Ah I should have realized that it was the building that stuck out like a sore thumb.”

Kain says as he lands in front of the building. “The sarafan were always full of themselves.”

Kain says as he approaches the entrance. “Halt.” A sarafan guard says as Kain approaches.

“Halt.” another says seeing him. “Really you would have thought that you would have learned

by now.” Kain sneers drawing Soul Reaver and quickly and effortlessly dispatches them and enters the vault unhindered.

       Inside the vault is even more ostentatious as the keep was . “Of course.” Kain says rolling his eyes as he sees the glitz and glamour . “Vault go further fiend.” an elderly sarafan scribe says brandishing an ashen staff . “Really.” Kain says as two more come from around the corner.

“Is that all that this place has to offer you would think that it would be more well guarded then

just the fools in front and an elderly scribe and soldier.” Kain sneers and with a glance sends the scribe hurling him across the room . “Halt.” the soldier says bravely as he brandishes his trident at Kain. “Really.” Kain mocks and before he can make a move Kain tares his heart out.

“Get him!” a sarafan shouts as more come around the corner chasing Kain.

As they charge Kain smiles and activates the sound glyph disorienting them for a minute allowing Kain to dispatch them quickly as more come from behind . Kain just sneers and shifts usingthe dimensional glyph and dispatches them one by one. As Kain deals with the remaining sarafan the Sarafan Lord is outside. “Sooo this is what you are up too. I should have burned this place down when I had the chance.” he sneers.

As the Sarafan Lord and his minions enter at the town hall Janos watches through one of the hylden . “So you figured it have you.” he sneers and dispatches some of the remaining hylden after them not trusting the Sarafan Lord.

On a roof top a lone figure watches as the Sarafan Lord enters. “All the players are now in effect.” he says. “Excellent soon I will have everything I want.” Faustus says as he steps from the shadows and laughs.

“Stop Kain I cannot let you go any farther..” An elderly priest says as Kain sheaths Soul Reaver and steps out of the room. “All know know the welder of the demonic blade.” the priestsays . “Ah then you know my feelings towards your kind.” Kain sneers. “Yes but I still cannotlet you pass he was one of our finest and what you did turning into an abomination was wrong.” the Sarafan priest says. “And how do you presume to stop me?” Kain sneers as he draws Soul Reaver . “I..I can't but I beseech you please do not do this?” the priest begs afraid for his life. “You a Sarafan do you understand what's going on outside these vaunted walls of yours.” Kain asks. “Yes but....” the priest says backing away . “No ! No buts .” Kain says and pushes him aside with out a care and enters.

  Outside the Sarafan Lord and his minions have arrived at the vault. “Well who would have thought.”the Sarafan Lord sneers and laughs to himself. “Well well Kain what has brought you here?” the Sarafan Lord wonders.”My Lord ?” a hylden queries. “No we wait I have had enough dealings with the Sarafan for now we wait.” the Sarafan Lord says as they hide in the shadows and wait for Kain to leave . As the Sarafan Lord and his minion wait and watch Faustus ever impetuous leaps from the near by roof top where he was watching into the vault to confront Kain.

As Kain delves deeper into the vault he notices the murals that are painted on the

walls. “These look familiar.” Kain says as he examines one. “I know this I saw the same

types of murals at the old vampire castles I visited. You you hypocrites you call us monsters

yet you would dare profane the most sacred places to us and you call us vile.” Kain sneer as he

turns a corner to come across one of them. “Halt fiend.” the sarafan says brandishing his sword. “Fiend you call me fiend when you do this. “ Kain sneers running him through. “ If I had known that my actions in the past would create your vile order I would have spared William.” Kain sneers shaking off his sword and striding past him.

Outside Faustus enters the vault walking past the dead sarafan that Kain dispatched earlier when he comes across the priest that Kain encountered. “Stop!” the priest says and then sees him and shudders. “You I know you . You are one of his commanders.” the priest says and shouts for aid. “So what if I was old man these day the only person I care about is myself. “ he sneers and brushes him aside and continues to shadow Kain.

     “My lord?” a hydlen ask as they watch from the shadows as Faustus enters. “No this might play into our hands. If that fool defeats Kain all the better, but I highly doubt it. “ The Sarafan Lord sneers as they continue to watch and wait and ambush the victor.

As Faustus follows , Kain delves deeper into the vault. “Fools.” Kain says to himself as

he sees more of the murals that the sarafan looted from the old vampire castles. “And why is it

so foolish to preserve history?” a priest asks as Kain comes around the corner. “History ha, you talk about history. I lived history.” Kain says. “Yes I know all about your travels to the past thanks to that accursed fool Mobius.” the priest tells him. “Than you must know that if wouldn't be for me and my so called travels you would not exist.” Kain say with a grin. “Maybe but I chose to believe that we could have come about anyways to fight the plague of vampire kind.” the priest says. “Ha,ha that's rich.” Kain says. “ What ?” the priest asks seeing the contempt. “ That you fools believe that. If you actually are doing what you are say you are doing. Then you have realized that vampires were here first and your kind just arrived.” Kain says and brushes past him heading down the stair case he was blocking.

Not far behind Faustus follows. “Stop.” the priest says as Faustus comes across him and smiles.“No stop please stop.” the priest begs as Faustus grabs him and drains the priest dry .

“Ahh that's better I need to be at full strength if I am to defeat that fool Kain and gain what

should rightfully mine.” Faustus says tossing the husk of the priest aside and continues to follow Kain.

As Kain descends the staircase he smiles to himself as hear Faustus following . “He was neverthe brightest of my commanders.” Kain says to himself and continues to descend downward towards where he hopes the records are kept.

In the streets the Sarafan Lord watches and waits. “Why are we not giving chase?” a hydlen asks. “Because sometimes patients is a virtue trust me. “Yes but never forget you work for me.”Janos says as he takes possession of the hydlen. “Oh I have not forgotten.” the Sarafan Lord says.“But I hope to change that soon enough...” the Sarafan Lord says to himself. “My lord.” a hylden ask thinking he's talking him. “Nothing just watch and wait.” he tells the hylden as they watch the entrance to see who will emerge.

At the lower levels of the vault Kain explores the far reaches all the time aware that not far behind Faustus follows. As Kain explores he comes to a bend in the hallway and steps into the shadows as Faustus comes across the bend and draws Soul Reaver and force pushes Faustus againstthe far wall. “You were all a bit impatient.” Kain sneers as he holds Soul Reaver up against his throat. “And you were always a bit to cautious. If I had been in charge we would not be in the mess we are now.” Faustus “Meridian was the right choice if we hadn't had come across that fool hadn’t had the stone we would have won.” Kain sneers pressing him against the wall.“Yes but we didn't .” Faustus sneers struggling to get free. “You abandoned us instead of calling a retreat you decided that your pride was more important .” Faustus says. “ Yes but then you betrayed me by siding with that fool .” Kain sneers. “Betrayal you are the king of that first you betray Uma your so called queen then instead of coming to look for us . You create a new race one in your own so called image, and what did that afford you .” Faustus sneers.“Ha,ha ,ha that's rich calling me a betrayer and what did you do when I fell all those years ago. Did you force the attack no instead you and your brothers my loyal allies who I sired and trusted what did you ? You went and betrayed me.” Kain sneers now steamed at the gall of his former friend. “We thought all was lost. The last we saw of you , you fell to the Sarafan Lord we thought you dead.” Faustus says . “But I wasn't , wasn't I” Kain says and drops him deciding it's not worth it and headsback to exploring the lower level. “No you weren't.” Faustus sneers and gives chase.

“Damn.” Kain swears as he comes across a dead end and looks around wondering what he shouldas Faustus comes around the corner. “ He always a bit thick headed .” Kain says to himself as he decides to take a right with Faustus right behind. “Kain what's the matter are you afraid to face me.” Faustus taunts and Kain just smiles and reaches for the ceiling pulling down the roof on top of himblocking the way. “Clever but do you really think that this will slow me down then you have forgotten my capabilities.” Faustus as he leaps on top of blockade trying to get over it but with no results. “Oh no I haven't “ Kain says with a smile and continues on.

“Arrrg.” Faustus says realizing that it's futile. “Damn this but if you can do that so can I.'

Faustus says as he tries to move the rubble with his thoughts. Kain seeing this laughs knowing that his abilities came over time while Faustus is still relatively young and turns heading to the roomhe spotted ahead.

Inside the room resembles a mausoleum with plaques with names and dates all along the wall. “Halt.” a sarafan guard says as Kain enters. “I was wondering why I hadn't seen any of your ilk along the passage, but I guess this answers my question.” Kain says as the guard approaches and brandishes his weapon. “Oh please.” Kain says and then notices his heavy armour and smiles as the guard attacks. “Die fiend !” the sarafan knight says as he charges. “Do you have any idea what’s happening to the world you are supposed to be defending against my kind.” Kain says as he easily avoids the attack. As the sarafan comes at him for another attack Kain notices a plaque.“Raziel Martinus.” Kain says with a smile and smashes it open taking the parchment with in. “Well it was fun but I really have to go.” Kain says as the knight comes at him again and Kain ducks avoiding him and exiting the room.

At the blockage Faustus is still trying to get through when Kain arrives. “Arrrg.” Faustus

snarls in frustration . “Still trying to get through eh. You were always impatient not willing to thinkthings through.” Kain taunts. “Yes but your trapped here too.” Faustus says . “Not exactly.” Kain says and shifts into his bat form and flies through the opening the blockage made in the ceiling. “Arrrg.” Faustus screams seeing him get away and chases after him through the opening.

Outside the Sarafan Lord and the hylden watch as Kain flies away followed closely by

Faustus. “My lord?” A hylden ask as they watch . “No we wait and follow.” the Sarafan Lord says.“I'm coming for you Kain.” Faustus shouts as he leaps from the roof top and follows Kain.

“Now we follow.” the Sarafan Lord says opening a portal. “My lord are we not giving chase”

a hylden asks. “No we head to the mansion.” the Sarafan Lord says knowing fool well that's

where Kain and Faustus are headed.

Up above Kain heads towards the Pillars and Voradaor's mansion when Voradaor

contacts him. “Kain you are being followed.” Vorador tells him as he flies towards the mansion

with the information he stole from the vault. “I know.” Kain tells him telepathically as he lands

near the pillars and heads in to the forest taking the last part of the journey on foot knowing that the Sarafan Lord and Faustus will have a harder time following him in the forest.

“Ha,ha. I knew it.” Faustus laughs as he spots Kain and follows him into the forest unaware that the Sarafan Lord and his minions are at the mansion and waiting on Kain and him to arrive.

“Kain is in for quite a a surprise when he arrives.” the Sarafan Lord says . “But master what

about the other?” a hylden asks. “He is of no consequences .” the Sarafan Lord snarls and turns ignoring the hylden to await the arrival of Kain.

      In the forest Kain smiles as he spots Faustus following behind . “Just what I expected of him.” Kain says and dashes ahead. “Kain why do you run ? Do you fear me ? “ Faustus taunts as he gives chase. “Fear you now why would I fear you. You were always a bit full of yourself.”

Kain taunts as he runs ahead knowing that he will follow. “Me now that's the pot calling the kettle black you who believed it was his destiny to rule.” Faustus sneers “Really.” Kain replies and dashes ahead leading him on . “Yes really Kain.” Faustus snarls as he gives chase and then realizes that Kain was just playing possum. “Where have you lead me?” Faustus asks as they turn to face each . “What you don't know. We are not the only creatures that inhabit this world.” Kain says as Faustus notices the banners. “What do you mean?” Faustus ask . when from the trees creatures resembling wolfs leap down . “You'll soon find out. “ Kain says and run on towards to the mansion as the werewolves attack scenting vampires.

At the mansion the hylden wait “Master he comes.” one the hylden says as they spot

Kain. “Excellent Kain is in for a surprise.” the Sarafan Lord sneers as he and the hylden retreat in to the shadows to await his arrival. As Kain arrives he takes out the scroll to show Vorador when he senses the Sarafan Lord and his minions and draws Soul Reaver. “I was wondering when we would face each other again.” Kain says as the Sarafan Lord comes out of the shadows.

“All I want is the book Kain and you can live.” the Sarafan Lord says as the hylden surround

Kain . “Oh this .” Kain says taking out the book and tosses it activating the dimensional glyph

disappearing .”After him.” the Sarafan Lord snarls as Kain materializes behind catching the book and takes out the hydlen. “Fools get him!” the Sarafan Lord orders as the hylden go after Kain. As they swarm Kain smiles and switches to the sound glyph and they crumble around him.

“Fools do I have to everything.” the Sarafan Lord snarls drawing his own sword and coming after Kain. “I beat you once Kain I can do it again.” he snarls as he attacks. “That was because you had the nexus stone but I proved otherwise didn't I.” Kain taunts as he blocks the Sarafan Lord's attack. “I do not need some bauble to defeat you even with out it I would have defeated you.” the Sarafan Lord sneers as he attacks again. “Careful there don't want to upset your master now do you.” Kain taunts avoiding the attack. “That fool he is not fit to lead.” the Sarafan Lord sneers as he tries to get at Kain again.

“What ?How dare he?” Janos rants back at the town hall. “How dare he defy me. If I hadn't pulled him out of the vortex he would be still be there suffering.” Janos snarls tossing a chair at one of the hylden. “My...my lord , why do we even need him just send him back we have what we need.” the hylden says. “ Because for now we do need him.” Janos snarls .”But soon that will come to an end.” Janos says with a smile and turns to watch the battle through the hylden again.“Arrrg get away from me you filthy beast.” Faustus sneers as he dodges an attack from one of the Wolfen clan . “Damn it Kain is getting away.” Faustus says avoiding another werewolf leaping up to a near by tree as another leaps up at him. “Damn you Kain?” Faustus sneers as he leaps to a another tree nearly avoiding the werewolf's claws. “Get him, after him.” the werewolf growls as he leaps after Faustus. “Get him get the unpure one.” another growls as they chase after him.“I don't have time for this.” Faustus sneers as he turns to face them and with a gesture knocks down the trees they are on and turns to go.

    “Did you really think you could win Kain?” the Sarafan Lord taunts as comes at Kain.“ I think I'm doing pretty well.” Kain says raising Soul Reaver and blocking his attack “With out your the nexus stone you have no chance .” Kain says taking the advantage“We'll see .” the Sarafan Lord says as he sees his minions sneak up on Kain.“Arrg! Get off me vermin.” Kain snarls as he tosses the hylden off as the swarm him knocking him off balance as the Sarafan Lord comes at him. “Coward!” Kain snarls as the Sarafan Lord let's the hylden do his dirty work. “Now if you will I'll take back what is rightfully mine.” the Sarafan Lord says reaching for Soul Reaver and the book.

       “NO IT'S MINE!” Faustus says as he comes out of the forest . “Ah Faustus my loyal servant.”the Sarafan Lord says as Faustus leaps from a tree to confront him. “ Yes it's me.” Faustus snarls.“Do you really think you can handle a sword the likes of this sword.” the Sarafan Lord snarls. “Much better than you can I wager.” Faustus says. “Enough of this.” Kain snarls and sends the hylden that held him flying. “Did you really think that it would be that easy. I am not that young vampire that you two faced all those years ago.” Kain says getting up and reaching for SoulReaver and turns to face them. “So I see.” Faustus snarls and leaps at him “Arrg.” Faustus cries as Kain repels his attack sending him against the nearest tree. “Yes I am.” Kain replies as the Sarafan Lord comes at him . “You are not going to win just hand it over Kain. This world belongs to us now.” the Sarafan Lord snarls . “Really this coming from the former hylden leader you are nothing , the years in the void have made you week.” Kain taunts avoiding his attack. “I am no ones lackey .” the Sarafan Lord snarls turning on one the hylden and impales him on his sword. “Now we won't have any interruptions.” he says facing Kain.

“All I want is the sword I don't care about anything else.” Faustus snarls recovering from Kains attacks and sees the hylden come at him. “Oh please if you can not defeat Kain by your self do you think have any chance against me.” Faustus says and bares his talons and dispatches them with out a thought.

“This world was never meant for your kind.” the Sarafan Lord taunts as they clash.

“Just hand over the book and the sword and I'll let you live.” the Sarafan Lord boasts.

“Not on your life this world is mine by conquest and as the guardian of balance I am

sworn to protect it.” Kain says deflecting his attack. “Do you really think you can stand against

all of us as we fight at this moment more of us arrive.” the Sarafan Lord says dodging Kain's attack. “You keep saying that but it doesn't mean it true.” Kain says with a smile as he spots Faustus and seeing that he has done something good for once by dispatching the hylden . “Oh but it's true how long have been here on Nosgoth oh that's right not long because Janos former host created you in order to pollute the circle what you didn't know.” the Sarafan Lord taunts and comes after Kain.

As the Sarafan Lord attacks Faustus watches and waits for his opportunity to strike. “Oh don't worry my old friend I will deal with you in time too.” the Sarafan Lord says

to Faustus spotting him from the corner of his eye. “Oh don't you worry I don't care about the

out come all I want is the Reaver” Faustus says. “Soul Reaver will never be yours and if you

even think you can wield it then after I've done with him I'll give you your chance.”Kain says

to him. “That's nice of you but I think I'll take it now rather than waiting.” Faustus says

“Arrrg what was that!” Faustus says . “Fool did you really think you could invade my mind

I've been on this world longer than your pitiful race was here.” the Sarafan Lord snarls.

“The horror.” Faustus says crumpled on the ground. “Serves you right.” Kain says and turns

his attention back to the Sarafan Lord.

“Now that , that is taken is care of.” the Sarafan Lord says and turns his attention to Kain

raising his sword and comes at him. “Really I thought that after the defeats I've given you so

far you would have learned.” Kain taunts as he deflects the attack and counters with a blow of

his own.

On the ground Faustus still is in shock from what he saw in the Sarafan Lord's mind and

realizes that maybe a direct assault wasn't the wisest of moves and schemes his next move

as he watches them fight. “Don't be foolish fool. Marcus tried the same thing on me and it

didn't work .” Kain says seeing the look in Faustus eyes. “Maybe, but I will have it.” Faustus

says and decides to wait and watch.

“Wise choice fool but it will never be yours. Now where were we?” the Sarafan Lord

snarls and comes at Kain who barely avoids the attack. “Nice try but your going to have

to try harder if you want what I have.” Kain taunts “Oh I will .” the Sarafan Lord snarls and

lunges at him which Kain deflects and forces pushes him “I would love to continue this but I have urgent matters to attend to .” Kain says noticing that it's getting late and activates the dimensional glyph avoiding his attack and heads inside the mansion.

Chapter 4

“That won't hold him for long.” Vorador says as they examine the scroll Kain found in the

vault. “I know but hopefully long enough for me to get a head strart.” Kain says examining

the scroll. “I recognize this town we passed through it on our way to Merridain in my first

attempt at conquest.” Kain says. “It seems a likely place though knowing the Raziel of old who

wouldn't trust the others or even his superiors with the text .” Vorador muses. “It would seem

then that I'm headed to the town.” Kain says sheathing his sword and picking up the map

and heads out. “Be careful Kain I'm sure we haven't heard the last of those two.” Vorador.

Warns. “Oh I'm sure I haven't .” Kain says.

      Outside as Kain stretches and shifts into his bat form and flies off toward the town unaware that in the trees Faustus is watching. “Well this is interesting .” Faustus says leaping from the trees walking up to the prone Sarafan Lord. “Who is the better man now hmm. I could finish you off right now just stab that sword of yours through your heart if you have one , but where's the fun in that.” Faustus says with a smile on his face as he reaches for some nearby vines growing from a tree and ties up the Sarafan Lord and then heads off to follow Kain.

As Faustus deals with the prone Sarafan Lord Kain in need of substance spots a barn and

lands shifting in to his vampire form near by. Inside Kain unsheathes his sword and takes out

the blueprints to study it so more after he hunts when he hears something. “Hello, hello anybodyhere I spotted you so you best show yourself.” the farm hand says holding his pitch fork.

In the shadows Kain watches smiling at his good luck as the unwitting farm hand cautiously

enters. “Hello.” the farm hand says again entering the barn. As he enters Kain steps out of

the shadows ambushing the helpless farm hand and drain him dry stating his thirst.

As Kain states his thirst the Sarafan Lord regains consciousness and finds himself tied up like

common thug or a steer in a rodeo. “Faustus. “ the Sarafan Lord sneers realizing that it could only be him Kain would never do something like this. “Clever.” he sneers and then sees what he thinks is one of his minions nearby. “Well what are you just standing there for help me fool.” the Sarafan Lord barks at him. The hydlen looks at him and begins to approach and then stops as a look of intelligence appears in his eyes. “Janos.” the Sarafan Lord snarls seeing it. “Now why should I should do that I told you to forget about Kain and get the book and now look at you.”

Janos snarls. “ This is a minor set back if I were conscious he would have never got the best

of me.” the Sarafan Lord says. “And Kain ?” Janos asks. “I admit I under estimated him next time he won’t get the better of me.” the Sarafan Lord snarls. “Really and how are you going to do that.?” Janos asks. “Like this.” the Sarafan Lord says snapping the vines and Janos realizes that he just gave him the time to recover as the Sarafan Lord gets up and takes his sword and impales his sword through the hylden Janos has possessed repairing his sword and his armour and smiles and calls his hylden to him to follow after Kain and Faustus.

“Arrrg I should never have trusted that fool.” Janos raves back at the town hall flinging a book at one of hylden in his fury. “Master ?” the hylden asks wondering what he did. “I should have left that fool in the abyss where I found him, no that's too good for him I'll take care of him when we procure the last of the books.” Janos sneers. “M...master.?” the hylden asks again flinching as Janos turns and eyes him. “So the question is what were you doing at the vault what were you looking for hmm?” Janos thinks out loud. “ Master we don't know. All we know is that he wanted to get a Kain.” the hylden stammers. “Wait he didn't have the book right so it must have something else r___ight” Janos says with a smile and laughs formulating a plan as he picks up the hylden and uses it's life essence to summon an evil looking sword and leaps out the window taking flight .

. “I just want the sword Kain and we can go our own ways” Faustus shouts from outisde holding out his hand. “The only way you'll get it from me is from my dead body.” Kain snarls. “That works too.” Faustus says and leaps at him.

In the forest the Sarafan Lord and what remains of the hylden that came with him follow on

the track of Kain . “Master your hurt.” one the hylden says. “It's nothing we need to get the

upper hand we need to get the book before he does.” the Sarafan Lord sneers holding his side andcontinues to follow the trail left behind by Faustus.

“Do you really think you can defeat me. The last time you couldn't defeat me and then I wasn't even at full strength so what make you think you can defeat me now.” Kain taunts as he deflects his attack. “Maybe but I've learned a few tricks since then.” Faustus sneers and uses his telekinesis to hurl a branch at Kain who easily dodges it. “Really is that all you have.” Kain sneers and waves his hand sending Faustus flying at nearest tree. “Ugh maybe you are a bit more powerful than the last time we battled , but Soul Reaver will be mine.” Faustus says getting up and drawing a sword that resembles the Soul Reaver. “ Your insane.” Kain says on seeing the crude replica of the Soul Reaver. “Maybe I am but I stand by my convictions that I would made a much better ruler.” Faustus sneers and comes at him with his replica.

“My lord .” a hylden says as they arrive at the battle. “I see let's see how this plays out.”

the Sarafan Lord says and orders his minions to stand down and leans to rest and to wait and

see who will prevail.

As Kain and Faustus battle it out with the Sarafan Lord watching on at the mansion Janos has arrived. “ They were here.” he observes seeing the trampled grass and the blood on the ground around he mansion. “Your too late old friend they are long gone.” Vorador says as he comes out to confront him. “I see that and I am not that person any more.” Janos sneers . “Yes I know you are something else know but I can see the struggle in your eyes.” Vorador says . “ So where did they go you old fool?” Janos sneers. “I don't know and I wouldn't tell you if I could. This is pointless you'll never win Kain is the champioin and he welds the Reaver. You do remember that I am it's creator.”Vorador says trying to reach his friend with in the tormented being he sees. “Yesss I remember but not the way you do. I remember the sword was the turning point that it changed the point of the war and banished my kind from this world. “Listen to you. Your kind for all intense purposes you are still a vampire.” Vorador says. “Only a small part of me now is.” Janos sneers as his minions swarm the distracted Vorador.

“I thought you wanted this .” Kain taunts as Faustus tries for the sword again. “I am a better choice for it, look at your history Kain.” Faustus snarls and comes at Kain with his replica.

“It looks like my pets have a hatred for you as much as I do. And oh yes I do remember bein being banished to that infernal realm thanks to you and the others , and even though I can not

take my revenge on them I can take my pleasure in exacting it on you.” Janos says as his hylden minion swarm upon Vorador and Janos watches him struggle. “That's....that's funny Janos because you were one of those that banished them.” Vorador as he struggles getting an arm free. “Stop calling me that! He was week and cowardly I am not !” Janos snarls not noticing that

Vorador has finally broken free and grabbed his dropped sword and pushes the hylden off

him and goes after him and sends a telepathic warning to Kain.

“You could never handle Soul Reaver fool.” Kain says as he avoids Faustus clumsy attack.“Your feeble mind could never handle the power !” Kain says as he dodges another attack from him and comes at him. “Fine then have it your way then.” Faustus sneers and reveals and activates his sword ability. “Surprise my sword has it's own powers. So let's try this again.” Faustus says holding now two replicas of the sword and comes at Kain. “This is getting interesting maybe I underestimated that fool.” the Sarafan Lord says as he watches from the trees.

“Fool do you really think you can defeat me compared to me that fool the Sarafan Lord

is a weakling.” Janos snarls as Vorador chases after him and tries to get a blow in.

“Your time is over old fool drop your sword and maybe I'll spare you.” Janos snarls as he

dodges the attack. “You must take me for a fool, if you think I'll fall for that.” Vorador says he dodges Janos attack and counters at him with his own.

“Two or more it makes no difference.” Kain taunts as Faustus comes at him with both

his swords. “That's where your wrong it's going to make all the difference.” Faustus snarls as

he comes at Kain with his twin Soul Reavers in hand. “How long Kain ? How long do you think you can avoid my swords Kain?” Faustus taunts as he swipes at Kain with his swords. “I could say the same.” Kain says as he avoids one of them and sees the second coming and sees the glisten on it and smiles. “Poison , really I thought you knew better.” Kain chides him like he is child as he blocks the second swords strike. “Anything to get what is rightfully mine.” Faustus snarls as he comes at him. “I thought you knew better though you know that regular ailments can't hurt us.” Kain says to him as he blocks his attack and parries with his own. “Yes but it does weaken us and with you weakened enough it will be easy to take the sword from you.” Faustus snarls as he rallies his attack and comes at Kain again.

“Well this is getting interesting , who knew the little coward had it in him.” the Sarafan Lord says to himself as he watches from the trees. “But poison really ?” he says and laughs.

“Ah clever but poison is for women and assassins and you are neither.” Kain says as he makes

sure to avoid the edge of Faustus swords. “ True and I am not a women but....” Faustus says

he comes at him. “Ah so I see you were even a coward even before I recruited you to the cause.” Kain taunts as he avoids another attack. “It's to bad I found that out to late I would never have recruited you .” Kain says and Faustus screams and comes at him at again furious at Kain's

implication.

“Stop it! Just stop it!” Faustus screams furious at the implication and Kain smiles knowing

that he touched a sore point as Faustus comes at him and Kain dodges the first attack and knocks the duplicate sword out of his hand. “Think you have one have, but I still have one remaining.” Faustus gloats and then sees the scratch. “That's the trouble with poison.” Kain says as he knocks the sword away. “I think the tides have change don't you.” Kain says standing over

the fallen Faustus. “Finish me then .” Faustus says. “I should but I think the poison will

do that.” Kain says as he sheaths the sword. “But you said...” Faustus says not understanding.

“Oh that ,it's true but in your weakened state . It may take a while but it will finish you.” Kain says and walks away.

“I may be old but I seem to be doing a good job of keeping up with you.” Vorador

says as he blocks another attack and then realizes it is a ploy . “Oh I see your just trying

to slow us down.” Janos sneers. “Do you really think that you can stop us . Right now

more of us are coming day by day. Soon there will be enough of us that not even Kain

will be unable to stop us.” Janos taunts with a smile . “So you say .” Vorador says switching

hands and coming at him fully renewed.

“Well it looks like it comes down to the two of us.” the Sarafan Lord snarls stepping from the trees. “Oh.” Kain says nonchalantly dismissing him as he prepare to take off and head

to the town where Raziel was born. “Do not even think of dismissing me Kain . You may have

bested that fool but I am a different story.” the Sarafan Lord says brandishing his sword at Kain.“We will fight but not right now.” Kain says and leaves the Sarafan Lord with those words as he flies away .

“Arrrg ! How dare you !” the Sarafan Lord rants as Kain flies off in the distance. “Your

not going to get away that easy.” the Sarafan Lord snarls as Kain flies away . “Get up you fools.” the Sarafan Lord barks at the hylden and sheaths and tries to catch up with Kain.

As Kain heads towards the town where Raziel was born Vorador has his hands full.

“How long can you keep this up old man.” Janos rants as Vorador nearly avoids the attacks.

“It's only a matter of time until you tire and slip and then your mine.” Janos boasts grinnining with glee as his minion creep up from behind .

“Kain come down here right now!” the Sarafan Lord shouts as he chases him through the forest . “I would love to but Raziel awaits.” Kain says as soars on ahead to the home town of Raziel and the book that lies with in.

Chapter 5

Sultana located on the outskirts of the forest this town has nearly gone unnoticed for centuries the humans have lived peacefully blissfully unaware until the last century when they became the mecca of attention when one of their inhabitants became a sarafan ,Raziel. Kain lands at the outskirts of the town and looks around. “Well it looks like this is place.” Kain muses seeing Raziels banner hanging from a flag post. “I wonder did they know what happened to you after you left . Did you stay in touch. Probably not knowing the xenophobic attitude of the sarafan.” Kain muses as enters the town. “Stop you are not welcome here.” A grizzled soldier says stepping out from the shadows with the symbol of the sarafan on his chest plate. “I have no time for this get out of my way.” Kain snarls knocking him aside. “Stop I say your kind is not welcome here.” the grizzled knight says chasing after Kain. “Of course and I know why . But do you ever wonder what happened to your vaunted saviour . He became like me.” Kain says. “N...none the less this ground is sacred, you can go no further.” he says banishing his sword at Kain. “Really. “ Kain says smiling and before he can make a move Kain snatches him and drains him dry parching his thirst from the long flight .

“Ah better. I think you fools don't realize what is exactly happening outside your walls.” Kain says wiping his mouth and tossing the dead knight down and continues on.

“Ah I see his trail.” the Sarafan Lord says smashing through the last bit of trees.

“Master.” one of the hylden says pointing to the town. “Ah this must be it. I can feel him

he's here and look.” the Sarafan Lord says smiling behind his helm his eyes glowing the eerie green of his race as he spots the banner and he heads into the town followed by his hylden minions.“What..what?” a sarafan century says spotting the Sarafan Lord . “That is a problem.”

Kain says and impales him on his sword to charge it up. “Ah Kain here you are. I must

say you eluded us for a bit , but here you are.” the Sarafan Lord snarls drawing his sword.

“You there stop!” a sarafan says coming around the corner on his patrol . As he comes around

the Sarafan Lord eyes glow and impales him on his sword. “Now it's your turn Kain.”

the Sarafan Lord says turning to him. “If you think I'm going to just give up after I've

come this far then you really don't know me well do you.” Kain says and draws Soul Reaver and then smiles as he dark leaps over them and heads to where the banner is. “Arrg after him.” the Sarafan Lord snarls and gives chase.

“Ugh .” Faustus says leaning against a tree not looking so hot. “Damn you Kain.”

Faustus swears. “If you think this is going to stop me then think again.” he says and bites into

his arm and begins to suck out the poison.

“Kain come back here!” the Sarafan Lord shouts as Kain heads towards the

centre of town where the banner is and the town hall. “Halt I will not let enter.” a soldier

says as Kain approaches the town hall. “Really I would think you would be more worried

about them.” Kain says to the soldier . “He's right you should be.” the Sarafan Lord says

as he and the hylden swarm in as Kain continues on. “Wwwait stop , stop ahhhh!”

the soldier screams as they swarm him and devour him enter the town hall after Kain.

Inside Kain looks around for a clue of the where about Raziel's home was located.

When he sees a door marked with the symbol of the sarafan and a guard standing watch.

“Now you are not going to make this hard are you.” Kain says approaching and the soldier

trembles not knowing what to do then sees the hylden approach and steps aside . “That's

good lass.” Kain says and enters.

Inside the room lies a scale model of the town with the names of each occupant and one

marked in red Raziel's. “Well it seems that I was wrong to over look this town the last time.” Kain muses as the Sarafan Lord comes in a few minutes later. “Your too late.” Kain says as he takes a torch and set's the model on fire. “No matter I've won there is no escape Kain.” the Sarafan Lord gloats.“Is that right .” Kain says smiling and with a glance knocks the hylden that have surrounded him against the wall and shifts in to wolf form escaping.

Outside Kain transforms back into his vampire form and quickly heads to the house that was marked as Raziel's on the model. As Kain heads to the house inside the Sarafan Lord roars in frustration taking it out on the near by hylden. “This isn't over Kain.” the Sarafan Lord snarls knocking a near by chair against the wall as his minions cringe in fear.

“Damn you two.” Faustus says struggling up still weakened from the battle and the loss of blood. “Ugh look like I'm going to have to ravage another one of my old comrades corpses before I come after you. I hate this a vampire of my status being forced to pillage graves like some ghoul.” Faustus snarls sitting down again to regain his equilibrium before he heads outs.

In the town Kain nears the house that was marked on the model. “Hmm a mansion . So

you were a noble too . Looks like we had more in common than we thought. But then those

xenophobic louts wouldn't just let any one in their order would they” Kain muses with a smile

as he enters the mansion.

Inside it looks like a museum as the the ages of time hasn't touched it. As Kain enters

he smiles seeing the knights of the sarafan posted at every bend. “The fools probably have no

idea what they have in their possession.” Kain says as he enters shifting in to his mist form to

avoid being detected.

Outside the town hall finally free of the fire the Sarafan Lord smiles behind his helm as he spots the mansion and walks with determination towards it followed closely by his minions.

Inside Kain back in vampire form looks around wondering where Razeil would have put

something so valuable. “So where would you have put it eh? If I were you I would have

kept it close.” Kain muses and heads to the upper floors on a hunch not aware that

the Sarafan Lord is close behind.

“Well it looks like our advisory is already here.” the Sarafan Lord sneers. “Yessss and I can feel the book it's here.” he snarls with glee and heads up stairs too . Upstairs Kain is rifling through a room looking for the book when the Sarafan Lord enters. “Hand it over Kain.” the Sarafan Lord says. “Hand what over I haven't even found it yet fool.” Kain snarls. “I don't believe you . I know you Kain .” the Sarafan Lord snarls and orders his minions to attack. “Your not getting away this time.” he says as the hylden attack . “ You think that?” Kain says and activates the dimensional glyph . “Arrg find him.” the Sarafan Lord snarls as Kain vanishes.

In the hallway Kain quickly heads towards where he spotted a larger room before he accosted.“What I could have sworn.” Kain says scratching his head as he comes to a dead end. As he doesthe Soul Reaver trembles and on it's own occurred the dimensional glyph activates taking him some place else in the house. “What where I never thought. Ah Raziel mysteries upon mysteries who would have thought you knew about it's powers.” Kain says. “Your talents were so wasted on the Sarafan .” Kain muses

“A hidden room.” Kain says when he finally reorients himself after the final shift as he does he spots the book but as he reaches for it the Reaver trembles in his hand again and he shifts once more and he finds himself not in a place but in another time.

Part II

Of Past and Present

Chapter 6

“What is this place and why I am here? I hate these games.” Kain says as he looks around. This world is decidedly different as Kain takes a look around he sees that the forest is gone and in its place is a barren wasteland. “This looks like where the citadel used to be, but why take me here?” Kain wonders as he looks around and notices that the pillars are gone not even the remains of them can be seen in the distance. “Or is it a when?” Kain muses on noticing the missing pillars as he sheaths Soul Reaver and sees that dimensional glyph has changed a hour glass has appeared on top of it. “Ah I see, so it is a when and with the pillars not up yet this must be before the war that changed things.” Kain muses as he heads towards where

the pillars would be standing.

“Where is he?” the Sarafan Lord snarls tearing apart the house as he looks

for Kain. “My lord we have no idea. We have looked every where but we have no idea.”

a hylden whimpers. “Arrrg!” the Sarafan Lord snarls and rips off the hyldens head.

“Did we at least get the book.” he snarls . “My lord we could not find it either.” a hylden

one of his minions says. “Nooooooo!” the Sarafan Lord rants his eyes glowing red .

“Damn you Kain!” the Sarafan Lord shouts and leaves the house for now to look

some where else.

“With the absence of the pillars that means this is before the guardians which

means no balance guardians if that is so then why I am here.” Kain muses as he looks around

at where the pillars will be. “Halt what is your business here?” a winged creature says as Kain

heads towards where Vorador's mansion would be. “You do not look like one of us are you

one of them?” he asks as he lands and approaches Kain. “One of them do I look like one

of them?” Kain retorts. “Well no matter the council will deal with you.” he says as he accosts

him. “Hands off I will go but only because I chose.” Kain snarls and let's the winged vampire

as Kain now sees lead him .

“You lost him?” Janos asks as the Sarafan Lord kneels before him in a spot in the forest after failing to find Kain in Raziel's home town. “ How could you lose him ?” he snarls glaring at him. “This partly your fault the last time your judgement is clouded.” the Sarafan Lord snarls under his breath. “What what ? How dare you! If I hadn't rescued you from he abyss you would still be there.” Janos snarls . “Yes and I am in your gratitude but it's time for new leadership.”the Sarafan Lord says and in one swift move draws his sword and impales Janos on his sword. “Now that , that fool is taken care of ever we need to find him.” the Sarafan Lord orders as the hylden cringe before him as he flicks the remains off his sword.

“So do you think he can do it?” one of the elders ask as Kain and the vampire

enter. “Vorador? Yes I have no doubt his craftsmanship is unparalleled to anything I have ever

seen.” another vampire replies. “Yes but he's a human.” the other elder replies. “That won't

be a problem because after he forges the sword we want I plan to sire him.” Janos says stepping

out from the shadows. “Well then by all means commission this Vorador to make this sword.”

the elder tells him.

       Interesting they’re talking about the Soul Reaver. Kain thinks to himself as he and the

vampire enter the council chamber. “Janos!” Kain says as Janos leaves. “Do I know you?”

“No forgive me.” Kain says as Janos leaves. “And who do we have hear?” the elders say

as Kain and the vampire step forward. “Forgive me elders but I found him wondering the forest.” the vampire says kneeling “Really and who might you be?” one of the elders ask.

“I am Kain my lord just arrived .” Kain says knowing that telling the truth could change things

drastically. “Really I've never seen a hylden or even a vampire the likes of you.” the elder says

and Kain smiles thinking how things seem to repeat themselves as this is almost the something

that happens between him and Raziel. “Well what do you have to say for yourself.”

“Well is something amusing this a very serious situation you have stumbled on. ”

An Elder says leaning over . “Nothing just something else forgive me.” Kain says “That sword of yours may I see it ?” the elder inquires curious. “I would rather not it's rather precious too me.” Kain says touching the hilt. “Oh I see.” he says. “Yes it's a long story.” Kain tells them. “Then we have no choice you come in here armed and refuse to cooperate.” an elder says signaling to the guards. “Might I have a word with him before you do?I have a few questions of my own.”Janos asks “Of course.” an elder says and orders the guards to step away.

“Come with me we need to talk.” Janos says leading Kain to his aerie.

“I have been having dreams of late.” Janos says back in his aerie as he paces. “You are

in some of those Kain.” Janos say looking at him. “I do not know much or you tell you

anything that would change the future.” Kain says “I thought so you are not from here are

you.” Janos accuses Kain. “Yes and no I can not say more. I am here for a reason though.”

For a reason that I am even unclear off. Kain thinks to himself.

“Do I know you in this place?” Janos asks. “From the when I came from yes.”

But not on good terms my friend. “That sword of yours it's what Vorador will make isn't

it. It's why you didn't want them to see it?” Janos asks. “I can't tell you that. Let's just say

that it plays a roll in what is to come.” Kain reveals.

At the mansion in the present time the Sarafan Lord and his minions are searching for Kain much to the chagrin of Vorador. “Where did you go Kain?” the Sarafan Lord snarls. “You couldn't have gotten far. My minions are s cowering the whole of Nosgoth and when I find you , it ends here and now.” the Sarafan Lord says smashing his fist down on a table.

“So where do I go from here?” Kain says to himself after the talk with

Janos as he lands in a clearing. “The situation is still the same , did I come to help

or something else?” Kain wonders . “Hmm it can't be that I've seen what happens when

I interferer with the events of the past.” Kain muses. “Um excuse me maybe I can help.”

a vampire says stepping forward. “That staff.” Kain snarls drawing Soul Reaver. “Please

I mean you no harm I can see that I startled you.” the vampire says raising his hands. “In my

experience any one who bares that staff can not be trusted.” Kain snarls “Im sure where you come from yes .” the vampire says. “How do you know that?” Kain says now suspicious “Because I am it's creator and the way he used it was not it's purpose.” the vampire explains. “Go on .” Kain says lowering his sword but still suspicious . “I originally createdit so I could observe history and see the ramifications of our choices in the future.” the vampire explains. “And yet what choices you and your kind made, made the world the way it is.” Kain snarls. “Yes but even though I could see into the future I could not see all, because the future is ever changing with each choice we make right this minute we are changing the future with this meeting, but what I have seen is that you seem to be a key part of the future no matter what happens.” the vampire says kneeling by the fire. “Oh please I have heard the same thing from Mobius countless times.” Kain says leaning against a tree. “ I can see that I need to convince you . May I make a suggestion a few miles ahead is a quarry may I suggest that you make it your next stop.” the vampire says and leaves.

“ Fool but I guess it 's start .” Kain says as he douses the fire and sheaths Soul Reaver and heads to the quarry . As Kain heads to the quarry the elders are discussing Kain's appearance back at the at council chambers. “So what do we do about this wild card.” a elder says. “Nothing he has a roll to play here just as we do.” the vampire says entering the chamber “Chronos I was was wondering when you would show?” the elder says. “Is that what your device has revealed?” another asks.“Yes in all the futures I've seen he plays a key part.” Chronos says. “So we do nothing then.” the elder says. “No we continue on with what we originally planned we construct the sword and prepare for the worst.” Chronos tells them.

As Chronos discusses Kain's arrival and the importance of it. Kain has arrived at the quarry. “My God !” Kain swears as he get's his first look at the quarry. “It must go almost to centre of Nosgoth. No wonder the 'the elder god' was so intent on my destruction.” Kain says to himself in awe, “And those must be the beginning of the pillars.” Kain says leaping down to get a closer look. “ Now you see why I wanted you to see it.” Chronos says appearing . “Yes I see no wonder the elder awoke did you know ? No of course not . But was it necessary to dig so deep?” Kain ask. “Yes for what we intended to do almost certainly.” Chronos replies touching the hewed stone .

“I see.” Kain answers as he takes a closer at the stones . “No I think you don't come with me.” Chronos tells Kain leading him up to familiar figure that is hovering over some blueprints.

“Vorador.” Kain says. “Relax this Vorador does not know you yet. How goes it?” Chronos say as they approach . “The sword is an excellent idea I already have a clue on the design but these pillars.” Vorador says. “What about them?” Chronos asks. “Well the guardians.” Vorador says. “Ah I see but I think we won't have to worry about that the pillars will chose for us when they are up.” Chronos replies in answer. “Really how?” Vorador asks. “I am not sure how but I just know.” Chronos tells him “Ah okay.” Vorador says and goes back to examining the blueprints. “But before you go are you sure about this?” Voraodr asks taking out a parchment .

“ Ah you mean the vampyric symbols yes it is of vital importance, that sword has an

important role to play in the history of our fare race and Nosgoth. I have seen it in the hands

of many before it returns to us.” Chronos explains. “Well okay then .” Vorador say and goes

back to overseeing the construction .

“So is this why I am here ?” Kain ask as they leave the quarry. “I do not know,but I suspect that you will have a part.” Chronos “Well that's something .” Kain replies when he feels the sword react to a stone near by. “ Interesting.” Kain muses as he takes out the sword near the stone which immediately reacts. “Arrrg!” Kain as a the stone and the sword meld for a moment and with in Kain's mind a voice whispers stone skin. “That's new we never

anticipated that.” Chornos says in awe as he witnesses Kain 's acquiring of the new glyph.

“ The sword has evolved since you and Vorador came up with it.” Kain says as he examines the new glyph with satisfaction and deactivates it.

“Well ?” the Sarafan Lord snarls as his minions return. “We..we can't find him any

where m...master.” the hylden reports. “How is that possible?” he snarls and tosses the hydlen

against the wall. “Incompetence . I am surrounded by incompetent fools.” he vents glaring at

his minions as he paces just outside the mansion. “ Wait you fools may be right if he is not here

then it's a when where he is. And I know how to get to him.” the Sarafan Lord says laughing

as his minions cringe in fears as he rips there energy from them and uses it to open a rift to their home dimension.

     “Sooo where are you ?” the Sarafan Lord snarls back in the hydlen realty, a place of chaos

and if they have their way Nosgoth will be the same. “”Ah I see you Kain.” the Sarafan Lord says spotting him in the past as the hydlen realty is a place that does not exists in any time of space and he steps through the portal to the past.

Chapter 7

Past and Future

“This is not suppose to happen.” Chronos says as the Sarafan Lord steps through the

portal to past. “Ah you must be Chronos .” the Sarafan Lord says grinning behind his helm as

impales him on his sword. “Uh no.” Chronos says as he falls to the ground. “Things must go

as intended if we are to take this world. “ the Sarafan Lord says picking up the staff and time

streaming device and placing it so Mobius will find it in the present. “No this cannot happen.”

Chronos says as he sees all his efforts to change things go up in dust as he dies.

As Chronos dies Kain is just heading back from an incursion when he spots the hylden

“What here ?” Kain says startled by their appearances. Spotting Kain the hylden swarm him

intent on removing him for their master. As they attack Kain draws Soul Reaver and activates

the new glyph as they swarm. “Well I like this.” Kain says as the scratch and claw at him and

leave no mark and he shrugs them off. “Yes I like this a lot .” Kain as he deals with the hylden.

“Look I would stay and play and deal with you vermin, but your master awaits.” Kain says and shifts into his bat form and heads to the cave where he first met Mobius.

“Chronos!” Kain says as he lands and explores Mobius's and Chrono's liar.

“Things haven't changed that much over time have they.” Kain observes as he explores

the cave. “Looking for something Kain.” the Sarafan Lord says tossing the body Chronos

aside like a rag doll. “You why ?” Kain asks running to his friend. “Because things must go

as they are intended .” the Sarafan Lord sneers. “But here I am .” Kain says holding grinning

and drawing Soul Reaver. “The last time was a fluke this time the victory will be mine.” the

Sarafn Lord sneers. “So you think but I am beginning to think that I was meant to stop you it's

why I was sent here and Chronos for saw it.” Kain says. “Well I am not going to let you destroyour hard laid plans Kain.” the Sarafan Lord sneers as he comes at Kain with his sword raised. “We shall see.” Kain says activating his new glyph but then realizes he has another way to stop this and activates the time glyph and vanishes.

“This seems to be right .” Kain says as he appears in the cave. “What who?” Chronos says startled as he sees Kain. “Kain!” “So you know me then?” Kain asks not sure if this Chronos would recognize him. “Yes I have seen in my visions you play a roll in the shaping of Nosgoth and as it's protector. We are not supposed to meet yet.” Chronos says. “Yes I know but I saw no other way the hylden have invaded this time line and I'm afraid it's my fault.” Kain admits. “That would be this Sarafan Lord right he calls himself something else here. I take it you here because you were too late from stopping him.” Chronos says. “Yes that's why I am here.” Kain says. “You can not change the future Kain.” Chronos tells him. “That's not true I have done it many a times.” Kain says not wanting to here this. “I'm sorry but it's true even if you had not interfered the Sarafan would still have come about it's human nature to fear the unknown .” Chronos says. “But you know that and yet your still here.” Chronos sighs. “Yes, yes I do I figured if I can not stop your death then maybe I can at least stop Mobius from getting his hands on the time stream device and the staff.” Kain admits.

     “I see” Chronos says, “Follow me I want to show you something.” Chronos says to Kain as he walks down a familiar passage the same passage that Raziel will walk. “Even if you stop the Sarafan Lord from killing me and getting the device . It will happen , my death is imminent if not by the Sarafan Lord then in the coming battle.” Chronos says showing him in one of the portals. “And look here is Mobius sneaking into the cave and taking the device and the staff.”

Chronos points out in another portal. “What happens will happen Kain.” Chronos explains to Kain.“Maybe but I am still going to try even if I can not stop it from happening I can at least delay it.” Kain says to him “Kain you still do not understand even if you do delay look.”Chronos says as the scene changes and a much older Mobius is sneaking into another location to grab the

device. “History will find a way . You said it yourself History hates a paradox.” Chronos

tries to explain to him. “Then if not to prevent this then why I am here?” Kain asks.

“I can not tell you . You will find that out on your own.” Chronos says and as he says

this history happens as the Sarafan Lord appears. “ You?” Kain snarls drawing his sword.

“Well this interesting I came to take care of Chronos and make sure that Mobius would get

the time stream device and staff but this is a bonus.” the Sarafan Lord snarls as he attacks but

Chronos steps in front sending Kain back to the present as the Sarafan Lord guts Chronos .

“Chronos you fool.” Kain swears seeing that he is no longer where he wanted to be.“Where on earth did you send me or should I say when?” Kain says to himself seeing that staff and time stream device are missing . “So it's a when but not far as it looks like I am still in the cave, but it looks like he got the device and staff. So my friend I guess you were right that I

couldn't stop him from taking the device , but maybe I can delay the inevitable.” Kain says with a smile and takes off towards where the tomb of the Sarafan was in his time.

“Fool why did you have to do that.” the Sarafan Lord snarls shaking the remains off his sword. “Ah well no matter things will go as intended.” he snarls and heads out followed by his minions towards where he knows Mobius will be , knowing that he will to go to the so called elder gods layer for he cannot do nothing with out his guidance.

At the precise spot where the tomb will be Kain activates the time glyph on the sword

and shifts forward in time. “So how do I leave a message for myself?” Kain says to himself

when two vampires step forward. “Well that was easy.” Kain says with a grin as they approach.

As they approach Kain notes that look like the vampires he remembers one even has wings like

Raziel. “Well it looks like I was wrong to judge you my friend .” Kain says upon seeing the wings “For it looks like that it looks like you were not the only one who evolved wings.” Kain muses. “Lord Kain.” they both say kneeling before him as he approaches. “ So refresh me what did I tell you two do ?” Kain ask. “Just to wait here .” the winged one speaks. “Ah yes well

then here are you orders you two are too secretly protect the time stream device and staff

from would be thieves and others who would use it.” Kain says. “ Where is the device right

now my lord?” one of them ask. “ In the time period we'll be going to it is still with it's original

owner but you must not let him see you understand.” Kain says to them making it clear.

“Aye my lord.” they both say. “Good.” Kain says and they travel back to past.

Back in the past Kain leads them to the tower. “Wait.” Kain says as they approach spotting

the Sarafan Lord ahead . “Think your clever don't you.” Kain sneers as he watches him enter

followed by his minions. “Okay let's go but remember we cannot let the council know of our

prescience.” Kain reminds them as they tail the Sarafan Lord.

“To think this it where it will begin the Age of the Hylden.” the Sarafan Lord boast.

“M..master?” one of the hydlen stammers. “Nothing fool.” the Sarafan Lord snarls as he leads

his minions to the chamber where the elder resides and where in the final battle takes place

unknown that Kain and his vampires are close behind. “Ah here we are the chamber where that fat parasite sleeps and where that fool Mobius first encounters him.” the Sarafan Lord says placing the staff and the device so that Mobius will find it. “What you how?” the Sarafan Lord snarls seeing Kain. “Yes me. You and I have still have unfinished business.” Kain says seeing that two vampires are in place. “Fine with me with you out of the way I won't have to worry about your interference.” the Sarafan Lord snarls drawing his sword. “Really I thought it was the other way around because with out me you would not even be here .” Kain says as he draws his own sword. “Ha, ha fool you still believe that you were the cause them falling. Fool they would have fallen even if you had sacrificed yourself. They just needed you to make the other choice.” the Sarafan Lord laughs. “Maybe so but I chose to believe other wise .” Kain says and comes at him the Sarafan Lord sword held high.

“Fool.” the Sarafan Lord snarls blocking Kain's attack. “This must end.” he snarl swiping

at Kain with his sword. “I agree we seem to be going in circles . It must end here and now.”

Kain says blocking the Sarafan Lord 's sword. “Agreed but I think I have come with away

to end it permanently” the Sarafan Lord says smirking behind his helm as he blocks Kain's

attack. “Oh really how?” Kain asks. “By removing your blood line from history .” the Sarafan

Lord says and laughs sheathing his sword and vanishes. “Damn how come I did not see this.”

Kain swears rushing out of the tower and transform into a bat and heads to his homeland.

“Oh yes Kain if I can't defeat you this way I'll just defeat you the other way.” the Sarafan Lord says appearing and watches Kain fly off towards his homeland and then follows him with his minions following from behind.

As Kain heads towards his home town he spots the hylden in trees trailing and smiles figuring that the coward wasn't far behind and just wanted to trick him into revealing the location of his home. “It's not going to be that easy.” Kain says landing not far ahead of them and activates the fire glyph and setting the trees on fire that the hylden are inhabiting.

Later at his hometown Kain wonders the town and plots away to throart the Sarafans Lord's scheme to eradicate his blood line . “Could this be why I am here.” Kain muses as he heads tohis his house. “Could Soul Reaver have sensed this when I grabbed the time glyph and sent me back to stop this.” Kain wonders as he nears his ancestors house and prepares for the Sarafan's arrival.

As the Sarafan Lord arrives he sees that the house still stands and notices the blackened trees. “Surprised.” Kain says as he steps out from the shadows. “No I suspected no less from you Kain.” the Sarafan Lord sneers as the hylden swarm Kain. “Now Kain you will watch as I destroy your blood line.” the Sarafan Lord gloats as he takes a piece of timber and lights it on fire and orders the rest of his minions to go inside and take care of the family. “S...stop we have done nothing wrong.” a female says as a hydlen drags her out along with an old man. “Let them go!” Kain snarls struggling against his bonds. “Do I know you sir?” the old man asks as the hylden grab hold of him. “No, no you don't” Kain says not wanting to show his grief . “Now watch.” the Sarafan Lord says and lights the house on fire. “Now the family do it my minions.” the Sarafan Lord orders and the hylden swarm upon them ready for a feast. “No____!” Kain shouts breaking free and takes care of the hydlen in on move dispatching them then sets his eyes on the Sarafan Lord. The Sarafan Lord just smiles and turns to finish them himself but as he does nothing happens. “What nothing no this cannot be.” the Sarafan Lord snarls and turns to Kain to question him when the bodies vanish and an image of Chronos appears. “Did you not think I would not have foreseen this I am the keeper

of time it self.” Chronos says. “Don't worry Kain they are safe and out of reach.” Chronos says to Kain as the Sarafan Lord snarls and charges at the image.

“You were right about something this ends here .” Kain says with venom as he turns to the Sarafan Lord. “And I promise when I am finished with you, you will learn why they call me heartless.” Kain snarls activating the stone glyph and turns to attack.

“Be that as it may Kain this hasn't ended and as I would love to engage you but why would I do that when I can take you out permanently and there still is the book to find and a newrule to establish.” the Sarafan Lord says and orders his minions back into the forest and then follows behind. “ Coward !' Kain snarls and then smiles knowing that there will be a next time and turns togive chase.

“Meddling fool what's in this for you.” the Sarafan Lord growls back in the forest. “But

this not over if I cannot eradicate this one I'll just find another how many human settlements

can there be all I have to do is take them out one by one .” the Sarafan Lord says and laughs

and heads to the first settlement followed by his minions.

“This cannot be the reason I am here.” Kain muses as he sits by the fire thinking it over.

“And where do I start I know of my ancestors only that they were part of the original humansettlements.” Kain says to himself. “This would be a time when I could've used Chronos's advice.” Kain says and douses the fire.

As dawn arrives Kain looks towards the north when he spots some smoke in the distance.“Well that answers the where?” Kain says sheathing Soul Reaver and shifts into his wolf form and heads in the direction of the smoke thinking he can make more time in wolf form and covermore ground.

“That's it my minions burn them all to the ground leave no stone unturned.” the Sarafan Lord tells his minions wanting to make sure that nothing remains. “Well isn't a pretty picture.” Kain says arriving as he shifts into his vampire form. “Kain.” the Sarafan Lord snarls upon seeing Kain. “Obviously this is not the right settlement .” he sneers. “Maybe or maybe it and I'm immune technically I should not be even alive.” Kain says touching his scar.

“Hmm yes I heard about that but that wasn't even yours in the first place. But what's that

to me. It just means I have to search harder for your ancestors so that I can be rid of you.”

the Sarafan Lord says and orders his minions to retreat and head to the next human settlement.

“If I have to kill every human settler than so be it Kain the less of them the better.” the Sarafan Lord sneers and follows his minions into the forest.

“Coward!” Kain shouts chasing after them into the forest. “Stop!” Kain shouts growls as he shifts into his wolf form when he smells the smoke. “Arrrg! Clever” Kain growls shfting back

as he encounters the fire barrier the Sarafan Lord cast . “You know our weakness, but their must be another way .” Kain says as he looks around then looks up and smiles. “I think in his arrogance he forgot that I am not with out means.” Kain says and shits into his bat form and follows them from the air.

“My lord.” One of the hydlen says pointing to Kain. “I know but how long can he long maintain that form sooner or later he'll need to feed and with no settlements around he'll have to retreat.” the Sarafan Lord says and laughs and moves on.

In the air Kain gives chase following closely behind, but true to the Sarafan Lord's words he soon realizes that he can't keep it up with out feeding . As he looks for a place to land and feed he realizeshis predicament and sees the Sarafan Lord's ploy and retreats back to the settlement with only the dead to feed on.

In the forest the Sarafan Lord watches as Kain turns back and heads to the settlement .

“Ah just as I thought my plan worked. Now we won't have to worry about him and soon

we won't have to worry about him ever again.” the Sarafan Lord says and heads ontowards the settlement.

At the settlement Kain lands and shouts his frustration. “Damn you there must be a solution I will not debase myself by feeding on the dead like some common ghoul.” Kain snarls as he looks around. “The fire will eventually burn out but I will not be stuck here while he destroys another settlement.” Kain says to himself. “So as flying is out of the question then what about my new ability I just acquired the question is how long can I maintain it.” Kain says “But first I need blood.” Kain says and shudders at the thought of what he has to do.

As Kain does the unthinkable the Sarafan Lord arrives at the next settlement and orders the slaughter to begin with hope that this one will be the one. “Please we mean you harm we just wish to live in peace with your kind.” one of the settlers pleads. “I am afraid I cannot do that

if I am to change history than I cannot let one of you live.” the Sarafan Lord says. “Kill them.”

he orders and the hylden swarm and slaughter them all.

As the hydlen slaughter the innocent settlers. Ater drinking his fill Kain draws Soul Reaver

and activates the stone glyph and lunges into the fire hoping that the glyph will protect him.

“Please stop I don't understand .” one of the settlers pleads as the hydlen swarm then and maliciously slaughter them. “I'm sorry but I can't take that chance.” the Sarafan Lord says to them as he watches on. “Stop this .” Kain says as he arrives covered in suit by the flames but with out worse for ware. “Kain how did you survive no matter it ends here.” the Sarafan Lord snarls drawing his sword and attacks. “ I survived no thanks to you, the only torment was drinking the blood.” Kain says deactivating his stone skin glyph and blocking the Sarafan Lord 's attack .

“This baffling how is it you keep on surviving you should be dead.” the Sarafan Lord

snarls. “The gods must like me it seems.” Kain says as he blocking the Sarafan Lord's attack

just barely as the effects of the blood still linger. “Yes I see.” the Sarafan Lord says seeing

how Kain barely avoided his blow. “I think the fire has effected you Kain, or maybe the

blood after all feeding off the dead cannot be good.” the Sarafan Lord taunts . “Maybe

but thanks to you I am going to better soon.” Kain says smiling as one of the hylden comes

at him and as he does Kain impales him on his sword taking in its essence revitalizing him.

“Damn I forgot about that damn sword of his.” the Sarafan Lord snarls now on the defensive as

Kain retaliates .“How long is this going to go on Kain?” the Sarafan Lord snarls as he avoids Kain's attack.“As long it takes. “ Kain snarls as he lunges at the Sarafan Lord . “Or when I find the right settlement eh Kain.” the Sarafan Lord taunts and Kain then realizes that the hylden that he always has to deal with are not around. “Why should I do the dirty work when I have minions do it.” the Sarafan Lord says grinning behind his helm and Kain realizes what the Sarafan Lord did and with a an effort pushes him away and heads into the forest to deal with the hylden.

“Damn it he's right.” Kain remarks as he follows the trail of destruction . “I can't

let this go on. What I need to do is set a trap and lay in wait at the settlement but which

one is the right one. The only thing I remember is my mother telling me about first of

my family and how we were one of the first human settlers.” Kain remarks as the Sarafan Lord

watches and then comes at him again. “What 's the matter Kain can't figure which settlement

they went too. That's good for while you are doing that my minions are at the next settlement

slaughtering the settlers and burning it down.” the Sarafan Lord taunts and then feigns an attack

as blocks it and rushes ahead .

“Damn” Kain swears at his foolishness to let the Sarafan Lord get to him and distract him

from the task. “I need to get a head of this.” he says to himself and then remembers something his mother told him and smiles and shifts in to wolf form and follows the trail left behind the hylden and the Sarafan Lord.

    “Hurray he'll be here soon . I can smell his stench .” the Sarafan Lord orders the hydlen as they dispensable with the settlers. “Please this is our home we have no other place to go.” one of thesettler pleads. “Yes let them go.” Kain snarls as he enters shifting from his wolf form to his vampire form. “I was wondering when you arrived . I could smell the stench of wet fur a mile away.” the Sarafan Lord snarls and draws his sword but Kain just smiles and turns to the the hylden thatare terrorizing the settlers. “What's the matter Kain no retort.” the Sarafan Lord taunts but Kain ignores him and helps the settlers.

    “Somethings wrong, he usually would be trying to stop me by now.” the Sarafan Lord

says confused. “He knows something.” the Sarafan Lord realizes as Kain deals with the last

of the hylden and heads towards the forest. “This isn't it he know 's where it is!” the Sarafan Lord says. “After him we must get there first.” he barks and they give chase.

In the forest Kain speeds up the pace knowing he must beat the Sarafan Lord to the settlement. “Hurray he's not far a head.” Kain hears the Sarafan Lord order his minions and shifts into his mist form to slow them down . As they catch and step into the mist the Sarafan Lord suddenly senses something is wrong when he hears his minions scream as Kain dispatches them.“Why are you hiding Kain ?” the Sarafan Lord taunts. “I don't have the time to deal withyou right now , but rest assured we will have our time.” Kain says shiting into his bat formand heads to the settlement.

Chapter 8

History and Future

As Kain arrives at the settlement the Sarafan Lord vents his anger at his minions

“You let him get away fools.” he snarls turning his anger on of them and tearing the helpless

hylden in two. “M...master forgive us, but shouldn't we be heading to where he is?” one of

them stammers. “What was that?” the Sarafan Lord snarls turning attention to the helpless

hydlen. “Do you not think I know that?” he snarls impaling him on his sword. “At the moment

he has the advantage and is probably waiting on us , but he won't have that advantage for long.”

the Sarafan Lord says and his eyes glow the eerie green of his kind

As the Sarafan Lord vents his fury on his minions Kain has arrived and prepares a little surprise. “Forgive me but I thought our purpose was to guard the staff and time stream device?” one of Kain's vampire's asks “It is but if the Sarafan Lord succeeds then there will be no point because all we have worked for will be lost. “How is that possible my lord?” the other asksnot quite understanding the implication. “Because if he wipes out these humans then he wipesme out and you will cease to be.” Kain explains to them and finishes off the trap he set forthe Sarafan Lord.

       In the forest the Sarafan Lord watches as Kain puts the final touches to the trap.

“I know your up to something Kain.” he says to himself. “My lord?” one of the hylden ask

thinking he's talking to it. “Never mind and not yet I am curious to see what he has planned.”

the Sarafan Lord says grinning behind his helm. “But my lord the book.” another of the hylden

stammers. “With Kain out of the way the book will be ours and with the human population

eradicated Nosgoth will once again belong to the Hylden.” the Sarafan Lord says to the them as

as he watches and sees Kain head to a house and smiles..

“Now we attack.” the Sarafan Lord orders as they rush out and attack the home

that Kain was just at. As they head to the home behind a house Kain and his two vampires watch as they enter and Kain draws Soul Reaver and attacks. “I told you I would deal with you on my own terms.” Kain says as enters with his vampire guards and comes at the Sarafan Lord. “What how? The Sarafan Lord snarls drawing his own sword and blocking his attack. “A little future tech.” Kain says with a smile. “In your own words this ends now.” As the hylden come in but are blocked by Kain's vampires who deal with them swiftly. “No matter fool I still have the upper hand.” the Sarafan Lord says . “We will see .” Kain says activating the stone skin glyph and blocking his attack.

“Come my minions to the fodder.” the Sarafan Lord orders and sees that they have their own problem as Kain's vampires are swiftly dealing with them. “What here?” the Sarafan Lord says seeing the vampires. “ A little insurance to make sure things go they way they should.” Kain says as he blocks the Sarafan Lord's attack. “YOU you created them!” the Sarafan Lord snarls as he blocks Kain's attack and tries to get through Kain's defence.“Yes these are my other lieutenants , Raziel and the others never knew about them.” Kain tell him as he blocks his attack. “So this is the right settlement then.” the Sarafan Lord sayshe blocks Kain attack and tries once again to get in one of his own. “Yes but you won't have the opportunity to get to them .” Kain and on cue the vampires swiftly deal with the rest of thehylden and go to make sure that Kain's ancestors are not hurt.

     Outside the two vampires go to protect the villagers. “Will they always fear us.” one of the

vampires asks as he dispatches one of the hylden. “Yes but that's not important what is

important is protecting them from the likes of these creatures.” the other replies.

Inside Kain and the Sarafan Lord battle it out. “It looks like the tides have changed.”

the Sarafan Lord says upon seeing that his minions have been swiftly dealt with . “Yes for

you.” Kain says with a grin. “Maybe but there is always another place and time.” the Sarafan Lord says his eyes glowing the eerie green of his kind and with his free hand opens a rift and steps through. “What no!!” Kain snarls furious at the Sarafan Lord cowardice. “Go my lord we'll deal with these vermin.” one of the vampires says “Are you sure?” Kain ask. “Yes and don't worry we know our duties the staff and time stream device will be safe until the time it

is needed.” the other vampire says as he deals with another hylden. “Good then.” Kain

says and actives the time glyph and vanishes.

Epilogue

Back at the town hall the Sarafan Lord appears. “Arrg damn you Kain.” the Sarafan Lord

snarls but then smiles if what you call it a smile. “Well there are still two more and mark my

words. I will have them.” he says and laughs.

“Ahh home .” Kain says as he appears in the alcove where the adventure in the past first

started and sees the book and puts it in his pack. Kain is that you a voice whispers in his head.

“Yes it's me Vorador and I have the book.” he communicates to him . “That's good but something has changed in some way.” Vorador says. “It's a long story I'll tell you when I arrive at the mansion.” Kain tells him and turns into a bat and heads to the mansion.

The End

To be continued Souls of the Lost: A travel through time.