1995-05-14
Recovered original text · preserved verbatim
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NEVERWINTER NEWS
Issue # 83
Week Ending 5 14-95
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FRONT PAGE
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Congratulations to TruStrik for winning last week's News of the Realm
contest.
TruStrik has earned choice of 4 Pearls or 2 Free Hours of On-line time to be
credited to their account. WTG!
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On this day, a group of adventurers set out from NeverWinter Gardens to
explore and find the crafty mage that inhabits the far reaches of
Crossergate.
Those accompanying me were FF Irian, Greyloch, Gandalf490, Mordeth K, JC173,
The Ruins and Claivnnn.
This party of adventurers were quite eager to depart. After making our way
through many battles in Vilnask, we finally made it to the secret door in
Crossergate that the mage has so cleverly hidden from view. We did lose a
couple of adventurese along the way to punts and those having to depart so
the only one that completed the quest that began it, was The Ruins but most
made a level along the way.
Thank you, brave adventurers, for the companionship and friendship!
-NW Triel
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Trivia Winners-May 2, 1995
__________
*** First Place - Raithe 34 points! ***
** Second Place - SirHuma 33 points! **
* Third Place - Dwyvyrn 29 points! *
____________________________________________________
The winners will have the time credited to their account and pearls credited
to their screen name.
* First Place - 4 FREE hours and 25 Pearls
* Second Place - 3 FREE hours and 20 Pearls
* Third Place - 2 FREE hours and 15 Pearls
Congrats and thanks from NW Baldor and NW Thorn : )
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Booth type: Cause serious wounds booth.
Booth winner: ChrisLeif
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Congratulations to ChrisLeif for winning the 1st of this month's GOH mini
booths. Chris weathered the 3 cause sreious wounds cast upon him with only
20 damage points taken, beating out Kholari! Chris wins 5 pearls from the
GOH for his staying power! WTG Chris, and a 'thank you' to all the GOH
members who participated in the booth!
NW Kishpa
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New Player Tour 5/10/95
I had received word that Lord Nasher was concerned about the reports he had
receiving on attacks between Neverwinter and Windycliffs. Knowing this area
to be a dangerous one, I immediately sent out word for volunteers to form a
patrol to cleanse that area of dangerous creatures.
Two young paladins, Griifter and Celaborn volunteered immediately. Moments
later, the clerics Salvors and Dorbin, the mages Khobra and Bobis14 arrived
to join our party. After a few minutes of conversation, we checked our
weapons and armor and then headed out of the city's northern gate.
Our travels through the Warehouse district were uneventful. I'm certain that
the numbers and the fierce demeanor of our party frightened away any
opponents. Arriving at last at Windycliffs we took a moment to be certain
that all were ready and then began our patrol. Countless times we are
attacked by lizardmen and pyro snakes. Each time our party was triumphant.
Yet in one fight, young Salvors fell, valiantly protecting the mage Bob.
Praying for a moment for his soul, we continued onward, knowing that he would
wish us complete our sweep of the area.
We noticed a secret door and entered into that area. Fighting our way past
more lizardmen, we came to another door. Inside we could hear very heavy
footsteps, and gibbering in a strange language. Throwing the door open,
young Bob, leapt into the room. Happily, the creatures did not notice him
and others were able to enter to assist him against the giant and giant
lizards. With a mighty pull of the bow, Celaborn buried arrow after arrow in
the giant's hide. Khobra, encircled it with a foul smelling cloud, causing
it to cough. Once the giant lizards had advanced, each member of the party
was consumed with the fight to stay alive. Griifter and Khobra both, bravely
moved to assist young Bob, who armed with nothing more than a dagger, and
clothed in only robes, was dancing with a giant lizard. Fighting closely,
and with care, we finally defeated the giant and his minions. All of our
party had survived the battle, though a bit battered and worn.
Celaborn, Dorbin, and Bobis14 decided to leave the patrol at that point.
Wishing them good fortune, we cleaned our weapons and continued. Khobra,
Griifter and I advanced through a winding passage and discovered, to our
chagrin a nest of basilisks. Griifter charged, attacking and shouting his
battle cry. He managed to sink his blade deeply into one of the creatures.
Khobra too, charged into the fray, casting a fireball. Before I could even
react, young Griifter turned to stone before my eyes, and then so too did
Khobra. Shouting to Tyr for assistance, and going slightly battle mad, I
destroyed the creatures. With Tyr's aid, both of my young friends were
transformed to their flesh once again. Continuing on our patrol, we fought
harpies and carrion crawlers. Turning northward we entered into Port Llast,
with the intention of ending our patrol at the inn there. We were attacked
but once more on that trip, by rats and giant boars. They died quickly to
Khobra's spells and Griifter's sword.
Thanks to all who participated in the patrol.
NWA Ember
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SMSUChops was the first person to ESP me from the correct location for "Boat
Repair" and wins the locations hunt.
NW-Triel
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NEVERWINTER CALENDAR
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Be on the look out for those Mini Booths that seem to pop up out of nowhere!
Can you be at the right place at the right time when the NW calls for a
location?
Keep your eyes and ears open for these events! Watch for the banners!
New Player Tour:
May 19th Friday 10:00 PM ET - Join NWA Shaka for a tour of the Realm.
Those interested should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to
meet!;D
New Player Tour
May 20th, Saturday 1:30 PM ET - Join NWA Jelal for a tour of the Realm.
Those interested should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to
meet!;D
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A Hero Shines Amongst Us
(Submitted by A Vlahos)
The struggle getting there was long and hard but my goal was finally in
sight. Hidden in those caves just beyond those trees were the burial grounds
of the dreaded dracoliches. I realized at that most important juncture in my
life that my decision to pursue the arcane arts after achieving my goals in
the Order of Holy Knights was well chosen. I needed the full arsenal of
sword and spell to combat evil this powerful. The caves were dark, and for a
moment I lost all sight, until suddenly I was in the middle of four
dracoliches and their undead minions. I was prepared for their onslaught and
was able to cast two fireballs in quick succession, when I noticed someone
moving beside me.
I had not noticed him before for I was engrossed by the sight of so many
dragons, but he was a human dressed in banded mail and wielding a long sword
and a shield which shined. I would welcome his help of course but since he
was human dressed in armor I knew he could not be a caster of spells. How
much help could he be?
This warrior stepped beside me and attacked the dracolich to my right side,
the dragon was wounded and the warrior's strike finished him off. I took a
second to appraise this brave warrior and to nod my thanks for his help, but
he was already moving ahead to attack the next dragon.
At that moment I noticed that I was not alone, there were at least three
others hidden well in the caves, I could not tell their races for they were
doing their best to blend in the shadows and avoid the attention of the
dragonliches. It was obvious that they would be of no help in this endeavor
so I ignored them. I had heard that many brave men and women dared to enter
the abode of dracoliches to wrest their treasures away and put an end to
their evil, but I was not aware that some of those were actually cowards,
waiting to despoil their riches when the fight was done. My bile rose in my
throat, but I had greater evil to combat that day, and cowardice I suppose is
not evil unto itself.
By the time I turned my attention to the first warrior I had noticed, he was
engaged with a dragonlich in hand to hand fighting. He had scored several
hits but the dragon had wounded the warrior gravely, and as I watched the
battle, the poor warrior was paralyzed by the other-wordly touch of the
undead dragon. I could not waste anymore time, I had to strike at that
dragon to save this warrior, and my god honored my intentions, for my
lightning bolt flew straight at that dragon and even bounced back from the
wall behind it to strike it a second time.
There was only one dragonlich left at this point and he was cowering in the
other side of the cave complex. It took a couple of magic missiles to
complete the deed and the caves were finally cleansed of their evil essence.
To my mind however there was still an evil presence in that cave, for at that
moment those cowards hiding while the fight was under way emerged from their
hiding spots to despoil the dragon's treasure. I payed them no more notice
however, instead I concentrated on bringing the brave warrior out of his
paralysis.
I am glad to say that the hero although grievously wounded would live to
combat evil yet again. His name remains etched in my mind, Mystic SD, a
brave warrior and a true hero, I can give no praise which I consider higher
than that.
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ITB Bar & Grill
::It was late at the end of a hot Sunday evening when Dr. Faustus finally
escorted the last of his customers out of the ITB Bar & Grill. They where a
friendly lot of Dwarves and Hobbits who where quick to pay and generous at
tipping but Faust had been pulling double shifts and had yet to do the
paperwork for House ITB.
Faust took his lamb skin apron off and stretched his huge back. He'd
recently gotten another tattoo and only wore his black leather vest and
breaches to allow the tattoo to get the air it needed. Muscles flexed and
tired bones cracked as he arched. He was tired, but settled large his frame
on a stool to read the NW News and enjoy a drink of his own before going to
his office to work the night through.
A knock came on the door. "WE'RE CLOSED" Faust said to the little hobbits
that could drink for weeks at a time. "COME BACK TOMORROW" he added. For a
short moment there was no sound. The Warlord went back to reading and sipped
his Ale but as he concentrated on the paper he heard a key slide into the
lock and unlatch the portal. Without moving Faust prepared a hold spell but
kept it in check. All ITB's had a key to the Bar & Grill and though he
severely cuffed any late night visitors, he always allowed them lodging for
the night.
Without looking up, he heard the intruder enter and smelled the flowery
fragrance of a clean woman. "Wence came you" he thought to himself as he
tried, unsuccessfully, to identify the fragrance. Slowly he turned to look
over his shoulder and greet the intruder. When he saw her he froze.
It was the the familiar face of one of his fellow ITB's. She was new so he
hadn't gotten to know her but he'd seen her around the guild house a few
times. He'd never seen her looking like this though. She had her hair up
and was clothed in a black gown with green sequins. The cloth was so thin
that it looked like water cascading over soft rocks to the floor. Gossamer
spaghetti stings held the work of art over the woman who qualified as art as
well. Upon inspection of the gown and it's voluptuous inhabitants, Faust
noticed that the hot days air outside must have turned chill for the night.
She stood with a wry smile and knew that he was inspecting her. "I hear
you need help around here," she said with her eye's piercing into the long
haired Warlords mind. "Looks like this place could use it, and I think I
might have what you need," She softly chided. "What is it that you want me
to do? Just say it, and I am yours".
Faust's eyebrows rose and he turned while reassembling his wits from the
shock of her beauty. "I um... need a serving..... girl" he said as he rose
from the stool and exposed his massive chest and thin waist in a fashion
explaining that he was not to be tampered with. By comparison he towered
over her but did not approach. "It's not an easy job, not so much as it is
difficult, but that you have to work for me and I can be... very..
demanding.. at times" he said in warning.
"I've seen you rough with other girls and I think I can tame you. Perhaps,
I want you to tame me... what does the job entail anyway?" she said as she
climbed to sit upon the bar exposing long shapely legs via the slit in the
gown that went to her hip.
"Anything I want you to do" he stated flatly. She thought for a short
second and replied with a sultry smile "Maybe you should tell me what you
want and see how well I provide? Tell me, what do you want". She uncrossed
her legs and waited for his response while looking deaply into his eyes
"I think I want to buy you a drink" he said with a smile.
The next morning the "Help Wanted" sign was not on the Triboar Inn.
ITB Faust
AGM, House ITB
Mngr, ITB Bar & Grill
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Lawful Good
(Submitted by DarkWolfMM)
I am a Lawful Good. And of a Lawful Good adventurer there are certain
expectations that one has. Lawful Good is one of them.
Being an early adventurer I find that the law in lawful good is sometimes
not the easiest thing to maintain. Sometimes breaking such a code or just
not thinking about it is much easier and seemingly less of a hinderence as
well. Such the case presented itself to be as I made my way with the
greatest of care through the paths which weave through the Windycliffs.
I was alone on my way to the Inn at Windycliffs. I knew the area well.
Here were the hunting grounds of this 6th level fighter. Here the day was
seldom without happenings or combat. The good Lord Nashers guards patrolled
here but are very much only affective in stoping rival adventurers from ended
there rivalry in bloodshed. The many groups of monster, lizards wolves,
boars and giant rats all managed to weave in through the guards defensive
webs.
Those were my prey. The animals of which DarkWolf hunted. These I
slayed in view of justice. Law and order must be kept in all areas of the
realms. Thats my philophsy. And I practice it. Is it easy? Not always, to
be exact the times in intervention of those who do not value such things as
law. Such as thieves.
Thieves didn't trouble me much, I would kill any I met, of course,
however I didn't seem to have much trouble with them.
The boars of the WindyCliffs had just been punished for the breaking of
law. I had been the enforcer in the act and was now on my way to the inn to
rest and regain my strength.
The sun had set. My muscles hurt. My sword seemed heavy, and my armor
unberable. Shield in hand, and bow around my solder, both seemed the least
of my hinderences. Another day of fighting evil and chaos was about to end I
thought as I swung around a turn in the path rustling the tree branches which
I used for support. The corner was black with the illness of night. Sounds
seemed distant, everywhere around me a ways off the animals of the shadows
could be heard. But where I was, nothing.
This corner I knew to be an ambush point. Thieves could evade the
guards here, and set upon travelers with ease. And so it was.
The knight hit most but not all of them as they made thereselves known.
The first one to move I now looked at down my arrow's shaft. The twang of the
bow seemed foriegn to this nights sounds. The moonglint from the thieves
knife as his body against leaves held tale of a perfect show.
A let loose a second arrow as more shapes came into view. One went to
the ground holding his mid section. The rest stoped shortly and then came
further on. I shed my bow in favor of broadsword. I crouched to the ground
and searched the trees shadows. Then they came.
One rushed to from my side and I cut him down before his knife found
hold. The attackers came from every direction. My shield warding off knife
blows and my sword striking back. The thief in front of me shriked as I
pulled my sword from his chest. Clenching his heart and falling backwards.
The spot was filled before he breathed his last. The new combatant slashed
and was blocked.
Suddenly from back near the right shoulder blade came a wave of pain. I
spun to pace the thief but the damage was done. I fainted an attack of
retribution against and spun around to see a second backstaber. Struck aback
first by my turning around and then by the sword which struck below his chin.
The moonglit on my armor turned redish and the man took a step backward.
That was all I saw for I was again turned around fighting the remaining
three. One I nicked in the arm slighty and the one in front I cut down. It
was then three set upon me from behind, the cruel daggers cut deep into my
side. My mind was ablaze with pain as the last one attacked from behind
skriking the worst blow of all, placing his dagger through one side of my arm
and then stirking my armor on the other side of it.
I fell to my knees, and awaited the blow to come. A flourescent glow
silence the darkness. I could clearly see the five thieves above me with
daggers raised. Except the daggers remained raised. The light went quickly
and the darkness came back stronger than before. I deathy looking figure
appeared along the pass.
Quikly I regained myself to an extent. One thief ran toward the new
figure. After bleeding the reaming thieves quickly I pursued the last thief.
The figure who must have been a mage had retreated around the corner which I
had come. As I rounded the corner again to theif pulled his dagger from the
mages leg and his victim swung his staff.
To battle would be over for the weak mage who was now robbed of his
magic. I was to far away to assist with sword. I drew my bow. As I did the
theif began his final attack. My arrow had not missed its mark yet today.
Back turned to me the theif was a dead target. I hessitated. My morals had
not been tested in an attack upon an enemies back.
Even a theif deserved a fair fight. Although he did not give it. Law
demanded such, or so could be argued. A Paladin Raptor55 once told me to
never stike without warning. I had never thought twice about it untill now,
but suddenly I questioned my right to kill from shaddows. It was not my way.
Instead I drew sword and went forth. The theif attacked, but the mage
dodged and landed a crushing blow to the theif, who fell. I looked at the
mage who looked back. The night became a realm of chaos once more. Late in
coming theifs erupted from the shadows as I approached the mage. A knife
wound in the shoulder knocked me down. Where I sayed.
I regained conciousness and made my way in the early morning hours to the
inn. Bitterly as well.
My efforts at honorablity were betrayed. Due to it I was robbed, and the
mage, I don't know. My questions to readers for I desire the wisdom of great
adventurers in this. Should I have shot. Why and why not. Please write me,
if your lawful good.
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Conflict Anew
The hero comes, heavily, down from the mount
Ragged, torn, back from the struggle
A step and a stumble, hand braces on the hilt
Of the sword that served, spilled the blood
Called forth the last gasps, the cries of the enemy
Just as his queen had asked
Sound the horn, the man has returned
Bearing the marks of his glory
To rest but a few days, heal, and go out again
For this is as he swore to her
And duty is his rule and law
In a time of coolness, the dawn breaks
He takes his steel, ready to worship again
To bow before the bronze glory of war
And fulfill the continuing prophecy
A days ride and the battle is joined
It is thunder on the barren plain
Crimson blood falls, translucent spirits rise
Dusk, and the anger of the day still lingers
The warrior was victorious, the day was won
But it shall be his last...
...his story...
has come to pass.
By Morngrym Verigost
Knight-Errant
Bard of KORT!
A small tribute to the warriors of old...those who walked the
lands of Neverwinter in the past, and made names for themselves. Many a
glorious tale was created in those days...just as many are created today! ;>
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A Story (Pt 1)
(Submitted by: Jewelie)
Jewelie made her way back to the Neverwinter Square (and the temple), her
steps lighter then they had been for many suns. Several weeks she had
trudged thru the hills and woods of Neverwinter, her heart heavy and sad. For
she had seen him again, the paladin who had rescued her. Seen him standing
hand in hand with a lass, smiling down at her. Jewelie had melted away, not
wishing to be noticed. Since then she had wandered far, pondering her
future.
Deep within the lost hills, her thoughts far from where her feet walked, she
was suddenly attacked by an evil, mace wielding rider. Stunned, she
nonetheless reacted with great speed. Many magics were tossed between them
but nary a word until her lips tilted upwards, a small smile, then a full
grin enhanced her features. Noting the smile, an answering expression on his
own face, the man spoke.
"You look as tho this is the first smile to ever touch your face. Yet, you
shall soon die, why do you smile?" "Death? I fear it not." He chuckled, "You
do not know me then, for I am Dark Killr, the Avatar of Death." Her smile
widened, "Indeed? Tis odd then, my wish has been granted." "Your wish?" "I
wished that I might meet death. Tho this encounter is not what I was
thinking of." "This is not a fit desire for a lass as lovely as you are." A
soft blush heated her cheeks, and she faltered for a moment. Taking
advantage of her pause, he murmured an incantation and he stole her wits with
his mighty spell.
Groping in her pack for a scroll, she found but one and using it caused a
viscious ice storm to rage around the Avatar. A striped tiger, lurking in
the shadows near Death, died in the maelstrom of ice. The Avatar dropped
his mace losely at his side, "Nay I shall not kill you. You have fought but
your heart is not in it. I see sadness within you and it intrigues me.
Perhaps you would come with me to the Iron Keep in Berun and dine with me?"
Struggling to think clearly thru the magical haze of stupidity that
surrounded her mind, she found herself agreeing. For the first time in weeks
the dark cloud had lifted from her heart and she faced life again with hope
and purpose.
The Avatar smiled at her acceptance, "Very well, I shall come for you when
all is ready. See the temple about that feeb. Tell them I sent you, they
will give you a discount." With a wink, he mounted his steed and rode away.
Startled from her reverie by the brusque voice of the temple priest asking
her what she required, she paid for and received relief from the mind
clouding miasma. She left the temple and headed for a nearby shop, wishing
to purchase a new gown for her dinner with Death.
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written by Dark Killr
<<The Dark One enters the Iron Keep and walks swifty towards the wing
belonging to Death's Ride. Entering his chambers he bellows at the servants
"Get off yer duffs ya worthless bunch. Theres work to be done. Get yerselves
to cleaning and polish me best armor. Let that cook out of the dungeon and
bring him to see me! Get to it fore I barbecue the bunch of ya." As the
servants scurry to carry out the Avatar of Death's orders He takes out his
mace and plops it across some cushions. "Ah old friend, we gots us a lady
comin to dinner I think. Aye and quite the lady she be."
The servants trembled and strained to keep fear from thier faces as the
Avatar of Death inspected the preparations. The Dark one cast critical eyes
across the rooms. The chambers were spacious and comfortable but contained
only a few pieces of furniture each. Entering from the keep itself one would
step into a narrow hall some 40 feet long with lavender stone streaked with
black composing the walls, ceiling and floor. Great pillars of blackest
basalt rose at intervals to break the passage into small pockets where a few
warriors might hold an army at bay for long times. At the end was a single
door of stained oak bound with steel bands. It was not very pretty but had
been polished til every inch shined and of course it would take a siege team
hours to break down. The room beyond held many doors and behind these were
the rooms of his riders. One door undistingished from the rest opened unto
his own chambers.
The room he intended to use for entertaining his guest looked pathetic for
the purpose but he had never had reason to think of comfort before so it
would have to do for now. The table was laid, the cook busy preparing dishes
and praying to several gods that they came out well. The overall decor was
dark and foreboding but where they could the servants had worked in a white
flower or bit of lace to honor the guest, a great trapesty stolen from
somewhere and depicting two lovers sitting by a stream had been used to hide
the door to the dungeon.
Patting the mace at his side the Dark Killer mumbles "Not much but perhaps
she will not mind overly. Now I must fetch some good wine fer her. I have
heard much of the wine cellars of Camelot, haps its time to pay a visit and
see what they have. Aye I think that the knights will not mind too much the
loan of a bottle or two and if they do.... well the trip might even have a
bonus."
With one last check of his good armor to ensure every point had been properly
polished, the avatar left for the stables. The matron in charge of the
servants promptly fainted with relief and the others just lay down beside her
to snatch a bit of rest before thier lord returned.
(Con't on Pt2)
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A Story (Pt 2)
Written by Jewelie
With a paper wrapped parcel tucked under one arm, Jewelie finally made her
way to the guild hall. She went directly to her room, avoiding the well
populated areas. Once safely esconced within the four walls of her chamber,
she tore open the parcel and laid the gown upon the bed.
The faintest blue, that of the noon time sky brushed with whisps of cloud, in
a fabric of shimmering silk. Sighing, her fingers carressed the soft
material and she sat, lost in thought.
"My daughter?" The faintest whisper of sound touched her. Startled she
looked up. An apparation stood before her, the misty figure of her long
departed mother.
Tears sprang to her eyes as she beheld the spirit. "Oh my mother, how I have
missed you."
"I have always been with you my dearest child, and I always shall be."
Smiling, Jewelie brushed the tears away. "I have felt you near often."
"My daughter, I am troubled over this encounter with the Avatar of Death. Do
you really think it is wise to go to this.. this Iron Keep, and dine with
this man of evil?"
"Wise? Nay mother it is not wise, yet I must go. Even had I not given my
promise, yet would I go." Her voice trailed off..
"I would disuade you if I could. He is not for you! He is evil!" "Father
was evil too, was he not mother? Do you regret his advent in your life?"
Sadness flitted across the misty features of the wraith, then a soft smile.
"Nay, never would I regret that my child." The ghost sighed softly, "If you
are certain your heart tells you to do this, then you must. Tho it may be
fraught with danger."
"Danger does not bother me, dearest mother. Indeed little bothers me these
days."
"This I can sense in you, and it distresses me. Tho I miss you, I do not
wish you to leave these realms and walk with me in spirit."
"Ah, I shall be careful then." Jewelie raises her fingers and for a moment
the transparent hand clasped hers.
"Farewell, my dearest daughter." The spirit faded slowly away...
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Rewrapping the fragile dress, she stowed it carefully in her pack. Swiftly
she left her room and followed the winding hallways until she entered the
Dining Hall. The hall was dimly lit, soft conversation murmured and the
plaintive chords of a love song, plucked by a lone figure standing near the
fire, echoed soulfully. Standing in shadow, her eyes wandered the faces of
those that chatted at the tables. Seeking one, yet hoping he was not there.
He was not. Expelling the breath that she had not realized she was holding,
she left the hall and strode out into the night.
The stars twinkled merrily in the black velvet sky, the fragrant breeze
wafted through her dark tresses, carressing her honeyed skin. Clutching her
pack tightly, she left NeverWinter and headed for Berun.
*************
Berun was deserted. Its decaying streets void of any but bands of wandering
trolls. She stopped at the old inn, and carefully opened the doors. They
groaned in protest, hanging at a drunken angle as she pushed them aside. A
dark vapor issued forth from the building, the stench of decay and death.
Backing away from the dark opening, she turned and headed north.. searching
for the Iron Keep.
Faintly at first, then more loudly, the sound of hooves thundered in the air.
In the distance she could see a mighty warrior, perched on a gigantic steed,
racing along the pathway towards her. She pressed herself against the
jagged, broken stone wall of the building behind her, but to no avail. The
horseman had seen her, and reined in his mount.
He peered down at her, from atop his dancing steed. His eyes filled with
gleeful, murderous joy. Recognizing her insignia, he threw head head back
and laughed maniacally. "A paladin of the protectorate? Here in Berun.. and
all alone? I have a use for such as you. You will come with me!" He
dismounted and walked menancingly towards her.
Her heart hammering within her breast, she strove to speak. "NO! You do not
understand! I have come to see.." Her voice died in her throat, as her body
fell prey to a powerful magical paralysis that held her tightly. He laughed
again, amusement evident in his fierce gaze. Lifting her rigid body, he
tossed her lightly across the back of his horse. "A nice prize for
Apocolypse, I am pleased." Zagig turned his mount and sped like the wind back
to the Iron Keep.
(To be continued next week)
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The Story of the Bracelet
Chapter 17: Emerald Emergence
(Submitted by Vallus)
Leoster, Crystal, and their Giff marines crossed the ruby bridge to the
ship that now looked more like a Neogi Deathegg than a Neogi Deathspider. The
neck had been annihilated by an exploding cask of smokepowder and the head
had been blown clear having barely been protected by a protective wall of
ruby energy. As they neared the halfway point of the bridge, a number of
half-naked humans ran onto the bridge from the side connected to the remains
of the Deathspider wielding weapons. Each human had a whorl of strange shapes
and colors tattooed on an exposed part of their bodies and an empty, soulless
look in their eyes.
"Poor devils" said Leoster "those tattoos on their bodies mark them as
the property of a Neogi," he explained to Crystal "and from the looks in
their eyes, it looks like they've been in the Neogi's power so long their
minds have been completely destroyed. Take them out fast!" said Leoster,
raising his voice to address the marines. The well trained Giff shortly
eliminated the threat but as the confrontation ended, a green light came from
the black crystal dome of the remains of the Deathspider.
A much smaller ship burst from within the ovoid shell and the great
black egg fell like a stone through the atmosphere as the Mindspider released
it's hold on the remains of the Deathspider. The ruby bridge shattered as the
Deathspider fell away from the Phoenix and those who were on it fell through
the air, several miles above the surface of Toril.
Crystal and Crystal quickly used the magic in their artifacts to catch
themselves and the Giff marines to slow their fall until The Phoenix swooped
below them and they landed unharmed on the deck. Leoster immediately issued
orders. "Somebody get that piece of the Neogi ship off the hull and arm the
shipboard weaponry! We can't let them get away!" The crew immediately set to
work arming the weapons as Leoster and Crystal went down to the bridge and
ordered The Phoenix to go into pursuit of the escaping Mindspider.
The Neogi vessel was fast but The Phoenix was faster and quickly gained
on the spiderlike vessel. A crimson beam from The Phoenix's eyes obliterated
the tower on top of the Mindspider and it began to tumble and slow down.
"What happened?" asked Crystal "We've upset it's gravity plane and disrupted
the functioning of the helm in the process, let's hurry and get aboard before
they get their helm back up." replied Leoster.
The Phoenix came in to land on the area where the signal tower was mere
moments before. As it landed, the talons on the landing gear which were
shaped like the feet of a great bird moved and grabbed firm hold of the Neogi
ship. Leoster and Crystal led a group of Giff marines into the Mindspider.
Curiously enough, they met no resistance as they entered the ship.
Leoster opened his amulet and used to locate the Master Gem on the deck
below them. It also revealed that there was one Neogi with a power emerald in
the same location. Leoster and Crystal went down alone. There they found the
Neogi just completing a strange ritual. It turned to face them and it said
"Too late you are. Ultimate power mine is!" as it said that, green energy
flooded into it
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Fey in Exile Stories
Submitted by Fey 0n3
Chapter Five: "The Bear"
When I awoke, he was gone. The embers of the fire still smouldered.
Another forest-picked meal lay upon a flat rock beside me. I dressed slowly,
in a daze, munching absentmindedly on the berries and pocketing the nuts. I
gathered up my empty flask and sighed over it, then pocketed it as well. I
am not sure when the bear appeared. He was standing still and quiet at the
edge of the copse when I noticed him. His fur was red, naturally. The large
black eyes were somehow the same. "Good morning, Rohanbear," I said.
He turned and walked a few paces away, then turned back and looked at
me. I gathered my few belongings and followed him. I had no idea where he
was leading me. I still knew so little about him. He was a shapeshifter.
He had restored my life. He had told me it was my destiny to restore his.
These few facts posed more questions than they answered.
And yet we had spoken no further of them last night. What we had shared
in that first kiss had nothing to do with words or explanations. What
followed after was not love, not quite that, as if we both knew that was not
possible. And there was a sadness to that knowledge, a sadness that had
tempered desire with a bittersweet tenderness. I ached at the memory. . . .
But there it was. What could one do? Walk all day, was the apparent
answer, for the great bear continued to lead me through the mountainous
forest until the sun was high above us. Then he did stop, finally, by a
small waterfall and we rested silently together. I filled my flask with the
cool water and bathed my feet in the shallow pool. The bear fished in the
stream, swallowing his catch and shaking his huge head at me for refusing my
portion of it. When he was done, he looked up at the sun and shook his head
once more. He gave a low, rough growl and we were off again.
We reached the cave as the evening's shadows gave way to the night.
Rohanbear grunted with satisfaction and ushered me quickly into the dark
cavern. I fumbled in the half light to get my bearings and was surprised
when my hands fell upon a very normal, everyday chair. I sat in it
gratefully and turned to face the bear but he was invisible to me in the
shadows.
"Are you there?" I asked and my voice sounded loud and intrusive. There
was no answer of any kind. The shadows deepened around me. I thought about
getting up and feeling my way for the exit once more but decided against it.
I waited. . .
.
My wait was short. A light appeared near the entrance and a woman
entered. She seemed prepared for my surprise.
"Rohan will be here shortly," she nodded at me and said no more but went
about the large cave lighting candles and pulling an odd assortment of chairs
and benches into a circle. I watched her progress without comment and, as
light began to fill the room, observed her carefully. If I had not seen
Rohanbear in his human form last night, I never would have doubted that this
woman was herself human. But there was a certain similarity between them
that made me suspect her; that same incogruity of proportion to her features,
that skin color that was somehow not quite natural. She was obviously much
more used to playing the part, however, and very beautiful.
"Fin, you are more beautiful than ever!" came a man's cheerful greeting.
I turned to see who it was that spoke. Several men, all wearing cloaks of
grey, were entering the cavern. The woman nodded, frowning, at them.
"There will be no nonsense, tonight, Talon," she scolded the one who had
complimented her and took a seat near me.
The room quickly filled. None of the arrivals spoke to me. They milled
about in small groups, some loud and gay, some somber and serious. Wine was
offered. The gathering settled into their seats. Soon there was only one
chair remaining.
The woman Fin had placed it in the center of the circle.
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Hellgate Keep
Chapter 12
An hour before the sun rises bugles call the guilds to their positions. In
the distance evil once again form their battle lines. At sunrise they begin a
steady pace towards the guilds. Solemn faced warriors prepare to face fate
and evil. The first attack comes up the road against the heavily massed
warriors of Silverymoon. Evil is held ten feet away by a bristling cluster of
pole arms. A sudden shift to the left catches the guilds off guard. Spells
are cast to stop the onrushing horde. They reflect off an unseen barrier
towards the casters. Their own destructive spells rain down on the guilds.
Most are protected by globes but a few fall. The line starts to splinter
before the weight of the evil army. A bugle call rings across the hills. Clan
Axepeak surges from hidden tunnels. Close behind follows Lord Anval and the
forces of Citadel Adbarrim. The surprise is all that it was hoped to be. The
battle lines on both side dissolve. Fighting all across the hills turns form
massed formations to small groups and personal duals. The day wears on, the
sun moving across the winter sky. Slowly the evil begins to break, single
orcs then groups try to withdraw. Gargauth enters the battle, slaying fleeing
evil and good warrior both. The tide turns against the guilds. From the melee
a pitch black spear is hurled. It splits Gargauth's breast plate and
penetrates his heart. He screams in horror, clawing at the spear. A black
mist escapes his mouth and ears. The smoke blots out the sun, before it
spreads on the wind. His armor collapses to the ground. Their master slain
evil flees in all directions. They are slain from behind, the forces of good
taking heart and pressing forward. The hills grow quiet, no cheers of victory
come from the throats of the guilds. Without fanfare they sheath their
weapons. The rest of the day and many to follow are spent helping the wounded
and collecting the dead.
The next morning Jakwar is carried into the COR camp on a stretcher. Esalihf
seeks out Volant. "We found him on the other side of the field. Over by the
doors to the Citadel." Esalihf points to the far side of the hills. "Thought
he was dead at first. Don't know how a body could survive that many wounds.
Some of the Elves healed him but he hasn't regained consciousness." Volant
looks at Jak then back at the bodies lying before him. "I wish we all could
have been as fortunate." Twelve members of COR are being washed and prepared
for the trip back to Neverwinter. "Clerics are being sent from Waterdeep.
They will be waiting when we return. If he has not woke by the time the
others have been resurrected we will see what can be done for him."
Lightsedge moves to Volants side nursing his freshly healed wounds. "It would
seem luck did not desert us. We could have lost much more." It takes four
days to heal the wounded and gather the dead. Fully half the army of
Silverymoon has been slain. Nearly a hundred guild members along with them.
All but fifty of the survivors received a wound of some sort. When all are
prepared to leave Lady Alustriel opens the portal to Neverwinter. They pass
through in grim silence. Rows of clerics await on the other side to take the
slain to their temples. Jakwar is taken to a room in the COR Guildhouse. He
is examined by a elder Cleric of Tyr. Upon completing the exam he speaks
softly to SlipC. Many others gather round, "Whatever happened to him while
out there has wounded his mind and soul. This healing can not be hurried like
the cut of a sword. He is in no danger, there is a strong magic of protection
over him. Within the next tenday he will awake. I must return to the temple
now, there are still many that need my help." Esalihf puts an arm around
SlipC's shoulders. "With such good news I though maybe your mood would
brighten. All the brothers have been returned to health, Jakwar will recover.
The plans for a victory celebration are almost complete. All we wait for is
Jak to awake and join us." SlipC buries her face in his shoulder and allows
tears of relief to flow from her eyes. "I traveled all this way to be with
him and almost lost him." They leave the room, closing the door gently so Jak
may rest. The following days an elderly serving lady tends to him. She chases
well wishers from the room with a large rolling pin. On the evening of the
the seventh day his eyes open. He speaks in a weak voice, "Hi beautiful got
an ale." She gives him a toothless grin. "Yer mind hasn't healed yet sir, ya
might want to go back to sleep." Jak closes his eyes as she sneaks from the
room. Minutes later she appears in the dining hall, the room clears before
she opens her mouth. Jak is sitting on the edge of his bed when the door
bursts open. "Hi bros, did I miss the party." A cheer goes up from the
hallway. SlipC wraps him in a hug. JJ asks the question first. "What happened
to ya bro?" Jak just shakes his head. "I don't know, it's like trying to
remember a dream." The serving lady pushes her way to the front. "All a ya
outa here, Ya've seen him. Now let him get some more rest. Excep ya miss, you
can visit awhile." Two days later Jak enters Striders. All the guilds have
gathered to celebrate victory and the return of their slain.
Jakwar
COR HERALD AND EXPLORER
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