"... Those who had courage, intellect and hunger for freedom, have become Renegades, declining the service of manipulative Phaeglithe and potential resurrection. Instead of this, they prefered transforming themselves, altering their metabolism to increase chances of survival. My shalafi (I use the elven word, as it's the one closest to describing the relationship that developed over the years) and Sierth were among the first designers. There were three transformations developed initially - Vampire (author- Lehroulinn), Shade (author-Sierth), Lich (team of authors). These were called "Llyrthian transformations" - after deity of Death, Llyrth. I know the sweetness of being Kissed by vampire. I know the chilling touch of a Shade. I have experienced this, and will never regret it.
Later on, in the Far Citadel, our stronghold, gathered a talented team of researchers and mages, and I started learning magic of Life and participating in design of transforms that were later on called "Aiarrean" (after Aiare, our goddess of Life). For a while I went off seeking ingredients for enchanting twin blades that have become my weapons. Little did I know that I would meet Aldar on one of my trips.
He was one of Ythvern warriors, belonging to treasure hunter guild. Treasure hunters were respected for their collection of artifacts, but despised by outwardly religious and idealistic Knights of Myrdd (Knights of Light). Aldar and I were trying to hunt down a rare monstrocity, both for extremely pragmatic reasons. Since that hunt we never parted for long. He was a life mage, and he joined the research team later on. He was the first one to become QuasiDragon - one of Aiarrean transforms.
Meanwhile the relations between Ythvern and Far Citadels have escalated to a civil war. We needed more and more weapons, and most powerful artifacts to win it. And where would one get these? In the Treasure Hunter guildhall, of course.
The last Aiarrean transform was called Chameleon, and it was extremely dynamic. It was my arrogance that pushed me to test it on myself. The same day as we planned to test the transform, Aldar and his group went on a raid. The fight against Treasure Hunters was first major battle of Civil war, and the one that killed Aldar.
Now as I think of those days, it's a blurred mix of pain and grief. The transformation almost killed me, leaving me crippled and distorted. Aldar was gone. My Renegade friends showered me with pity, which could only hurt more. I found refuge in work, in perfecting Chameleon. Nothing else could distract me. The only one who did not pity me was shalafi... "
