1995-08-13
Recovered original text · preserved verbatim
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NEVERWINTER NEWS
Issue # 95
Week Ending 8-13-95
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FRONT PAGE
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Congratulations to OSIR1S for winning last week's News of the Realm contest.
OSIR1S has earned choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes)
WTG!
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On August 6th, Duke Talin cooled off my heels in a delicious manner in the
Ice Storm booth with a winning total of 45 points!! In this summer of
intense heat, it sure felt good to cool off for once inside the Realms and
Talin provided the best snowballs of them all (outside of Snowie ;x )
For his efforts, Talin wins 4 pearls and a free hour of online time. ;)
Mystek
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When: Thursday, August 17th
Time: 10 PM Eastern time
Where:The Great Hall Tavern
Come join NW Tempus and NW Ulfius for the August edition of:
<<>><<>> Who/What/Am/I <<>><<>>
First Place: 25 Pearls + 4 hours
Second Place: 20 Pearls + 3 hours
Third Place: 15 Pearls + 2 hours
Cya There!
NW Tempus and NW Ulfius
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Congrats to the following warriors who defeated this humble Paladin in a PVP
Booth on 8/9/95 :
ITB Pestle - Guthwo1f - Berrun - ITB Myst - Drecidus C0rinthian - SOL Ange1 -
SOL Abysss - Sten Kiria
Congrats again, and thanks to all who participated! :>
--NWA Palin
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It was dusk. The warm, glistening sun was coming down, and it was time for
another patrol to leave Neverwinter. Nasher had sent Vorpal out to get a
party of adventurers to investigate the towns North of Neverwinter City.
Vorpal looked out the window and saw that it was time to carry out Nasher's
orders. The word spread out across the town for whoever wanted to join
Vorpal in this patrol to meet him at venerable Strider's Tavern.
The adventurers started to arrive, and Vorpal began to organize the
group. Rippof, LrdNorman, and Sir Cap were eager to spill the blood of any
monsters that may lay in wait. Riyaddoom, Garron Kes, Hawk180, and Runeuser
were all making final preparations. The group looked at Vorpal as they
finished their preparations. Vorpal looked at the group, grinned, and gave a
slight nod. The party headed North along the old road not knowing what would
lay ahead.
The patrol went quickly through the Wharehouse District. None of the
possible enemies there wanted a piece of the powerful patrol. The gallant
band reached the gate to Windycliffs, and as Vorpal opened the gate the rest
of the party brandished their weapons knowing that the trip through
Windycliffs would not be as easy.
Vorpal led them up the old road leading to the inn slowly. The party
came down the road, and they heard hissing. Rippof left the party to
investigate. Darakin who was in the area joined the party to cover the flank
that Rippof was holding. The group looked around and was puzzled because
they didn't know where it came from. Suddenly, lizard men accompanied by a
pyro snake attacked the party. Sir Cap rushed a lizard man and struck it
down. The rest of the party readied their weapons and rushed the attackers.
When the battle was over, only the patrol remained.
The patrol reached the inn for some rest and refreshment. Over a
tankard of ale, Vorpal talked with the innkeeper and found out about the
ogres holding the town square. Vorpal turned to the group and discussed the
situation in earnest. During the discussion Garron Tes heard about his
wife's illness and went to comfort her. Rippof came to the inn and saw the
patrol. He rejoined the party asking, "Where have you guys been?" Vorpal
shook his head, grinned, and told Rippof of the situation. They all nodded
in agreement that they must save the town. The patrol finished their meals,
gathered their belongings, and left the inn in the direction of the town
square.
The party saw burnt buildings and pieces of masonry on the road. They
decided to go into one house. The patrol entered the building only to find
the house was in ruin. Sir Cap yelled out, "They shall pay!" The party all
yelled out in agreement and headed for the town hall. Riyaddoom heard the
chatter behind the ricketty door and waved Vorpal over. Vorpal nodded and
waved the party into position. Vorpal knocked the door off with a kick, and
the party jumped the ogres. LrdNorman was unmerciful to the beasts, swinging
his sword at anything that moved. Darakin attacked the ogres with
unsurpassed fury as Runeuser struck at the ogres. Riyaddoom took care of the
gnolls that were serving the ogres while Vorpal went toe to toe with the ogre
magi and shaman. Nothing was left out of the ogre occupation after the
fight. A victorious cheer came out as the party walked down the road towards
the new destination... Port Llast.
On the way Runeuser had to return home. The party wished Rune good
luck, and they continued on. Luckily, Lord Hayt was in the road and asked to
join. The party agreed, and continued on. The howling of wolves began to
follow the party. The party knew a fight was coming and prepared for the
canine attack. The wolves exploded out of the side of the road at the
patrol. The party beat back the attack quickly. The wolves who escaped were
heard yelping for miles.
The party reached the rusted Port Llast gate and opened it. The faint
sound of snorting was heard in the distance. Riyaddoom turned and said,
"Wild boars must be ahead." His statement turned out to be true as minutes
later the party was jumped by boars and huge rats. The party slashed through
the vermin and got enough food out of the wild boar carcasses to last the
rest of the trip. The party wanted some refreshment so it headed up the road
to the inn.
At the inn, Sunglitz and Navtmc were chatting about their adventures
during the day at the bar. Vorpal said hi to them and waved the group over.
The barkeeper told the group about the ghost ship, Gallant Prince. The group
all agreed the ship should be looked into. Sunglitz and Nav asked if they
could join because it sounded interesting. The barkeeper yelled out,
"Becareful... I heard there were some stone statues on the ship that looked
like people." Thoughts passed quickly through Vorpal's head, and he opened
up his pack. He passed out mirrors to the group just in case. The patrol
headed for the ship.
The group got on the dock and spoke with the guard to get more
background on the situation. The party then got on the ship and went below.
The planks creaked upon every step, and the sounds of rats carried softly
through the hull. The members of the patrol stepped warily through the old
ship, watching every step. Spiders and other vermin attacked them but were
beaten off quickly. The party headed up to a cabin and saw the disfigured
body of a man. The members all shuddered and vowed revenge upon the fiends
that did that. They headed back down below and looked in the old ship some
more. The patrol decided to go up to another cabin only to find medusae.
They readied their mirrors and weapons and assaulted the fiends that had
disfigured the crewman. It was a vicious slaughter by the patrol upon their
enemies. They had cleared the ship from its dangers and left with a hop in
their step. The patrol headed back to Neverwinter, victorious.
Vorpal
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As the notice went out for brave adventuers for a mission to help the mayor
and townsfolk or WindyCliffs, I sat in the Great Hall pondering over the
message recieved from the mayor of WindyCliffs. It stated the urgent need for
help at once, but as to the extent of the danger and what we would have to
face was very , well, vague. As the volunteers gathered around and I told
them of the dangers and the rewrds of such a quest, without hesitation,
Lonlarrkin, MHrover, Aalanon, Skee Is Me, Kain26, NS Dantas and PJKhan vowed
to save the troubled town from whatever menace lurked
As we went to Daglow's inn to prepare for the long and dangerous journey
ahead, I was even offered more help by fellow citizens, but alas, the bigger
the party, the more of a chance we would not be able to safely approach the
area.
As we followed the path north to the town, we happened apon a secret door and
ventured in and stumbled onto to a cloud giant's home and the giant had giant
lizards as watch dogs! The party showed much courage throu that fight and
many more, but alas Kain26 and Aalanon seemed to have disappered and we could
not find them. Much to our surprize and good fortune we happened upon two
valinet elves named Jaryll and Laurlia. They were more than willing to help
us defeat the beast's that threatened the town. But once again we were amazed
to see that Lonlarrkin and Skee Is Me had disappered, weird occurances to say
the least. But they both found us again at thye town hall and fortunate for
us, were able to dispatch the ogres that took residance there. From there we
headed to the inn for some much needed rest as we had finally cleared out the
town square of all monster's. And we all bid our farewell's and I thanked all
for helping me aid the folks of Windycliffs..
NWA Dain
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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:
August 18th Friday 10:00 PM ET - Join NWA Vic for a tour of the Realm.
Those interested should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to
meet!;D
New Player Tour
August 19th Saturday 4:00 PM ET - Join NWA Blythe for a tour of the Realm.
Those interested should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to
meet!;D
New Player Tour
August 20th Sunday 2:00 PM ET - Join NWT Cyane 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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The Emerald Brooch: Part Four
(Submitted by HG Sharna)
"Someone comes!" Garga-Tulan shouted as he galloped into the family hut,
waking his father from a troubled sleep. "Huh? Whassit? Whassmatta?"
Chufi-Hutko stammered groggily, uncrossing his razor sharp front hooves, and
standing erect to a height of almost nine feet tall.
"Father," Garga-Tulan snorted fervently, "Another stranger has entered the
wood! A human female this time, and a pretty one too," the pubescent centaur
leered. "With comely jade green eyes, shoulder length reddish-brown hair,
long slender legs and shapely hips . . . good for breeding."
Chufi-Hutko glared at his young degenerate son, then raised his muscular
equine tail and brought it sharply across Garga-Tulan's stubble covered
humanoid face. 'WHACK!'
"Wha . . ., Whatcha do that fer? the adolescent centaur cried, backing
swiftly away as fast has his four legs would carry him for fear of his
father's further admonition. "That's for being disrespectful to humans . . .
or any race fer that matter, except maybe for 'dem accursed lizard creatures.
Besides," he contemplated, "this could be the one."
"Hah!" Garga-Tulan chortled. "A mere human female . . . the one to break
the curse?" Chufi-Hutko shook his long-maned head at the naivete of his son.
"Such an imbecile could never have come from my loins?" he sighed and
reminded himself to confront his wife with his suspicions of infidelity.
"Well now," Chufi-Hutko continued sarcastically, "it's not likely we'll find
out by standing around here gabbing, will we? Now git! And stay out of
sight!" Chufi-Hutko shouted. "If the woman does spot you, don't flee unless
attacked. If she stops to speak with you, offer up the challenge and see if
she accepts."
"Right!" Garga-Tulan replied eagerly at the thought of meeting up with the
young woman. "Hmm . . . on second thought," the elder centaur reconsidered,
"perhaps I'd better go myself." Without waiting for Garga-Tulan's
anticipated whining, Chufi-Hutko snatched up his composite bow and quiver of
arrows before sprinting out of the family hut and into the pasture beyond.
- - - - -
As Sharna Tyr emerged from the dense, thorn covered thicket, she immediately
sensed a baleful ambiance in Centaur Wood. The natural beauty of the this
part of the Triborian forest was shadowed by a heavy, oppressive evil as if
some insidious malignancy was eating away at its heart. Appalled by the
blatant affront to nature, the forest guardian fell to one knee and began to
pray for strength and wisdom in dealing with the sinister abhorrence
responsible for such a blight.
The narrow, seldom traveled path upon which Sharna moved through Centaur Wood
snaked north, then east and north again. Sharna observed that at several
points along the path, the strong evil presence had caused a blight in some
of the trees, making them appear different from those around them. At the
northwest corner of the woods she came upon the second such occurrence,
decided to investigate, and moved cautiously into the trees.
Once inside, Sharna found herself in a lush, green meadow. On the western
fringe of the meadow, partially hidden by a thicket of bushes stood an
extremely tall man. "No," she said as Chufi-Hutko emerged from behind the
bushes exposing his unmistakable physique, "it's a centaur."
"That's far enough," Chufi-Hutko said when Sharna was within earshot. "I
know not why thou has come to out woods Milady," Chufi-Hutko began, "But that
matters not. If ye remove the foul infestations from this forest, I will
tell thee of the strange happenings here." The challenge issued, the centaur
turned and disappeared into the trees.
"Wait! What infestations?" Sharna called after the centaur, but it was too
late, only the trees heard her question. The trees, and the large hairy
creature that uttered a low, guttural growl and breathed an icy blast of cold
upon the back of her neck.
(To Be Continued)
History of a Seeker (Part 5)
A Strange Woodcarver
(Submitted by Whiiplash)
Whiiplash rode along the beaten path for hours, the sun slowly sinking
beneath the horizon. Finally, when he could see no longer and his mount was
exhausted, he stopped for the night. Whiiplash dropped from his horse and
found a comfortable spot beside an old willow tree, tethering his horse to it
and sitting back. Mumbling a simple spell, the area was surrounded by a
sanctuary spell, causing anything nearby to wander away from the area
disinterested. Whiiplash was soon asleep.
The raiders tore apart the villiage. They chased down fleeing villagers,
cutting them down with crude weapons. They laughed as they slaughtered the
innocent townsfolk, stealing what they wanted. They burned down homes,
destroyed others. Then there was no one else. Everyone was dead, and
everything silent. Soon there was a tall raider there, unlike the others. He
wore robes, and carried a staff. The same, odd helm sat upon his head, and he
laughed as did the others. He was the leader, the enemy, Whiiplash knew. He
commanded the others, told them to enslave those who survived. He killed many
for resisting. People walked in lines through the city.... Out of the city,
and away toward the mountains. There they worked mines, and many more died.
Suddenly the raider in robes was there again... He was watching the lines.
Then Whiiplash was there! In one of the lines! He turned as the robed raider
looked at him, laughing silently, and reached out his hand...
Whiiplash awoke, beads of cold sweat running down his face. It was
morning. The wind slowly rustled leaves overhead, and birds called out
somewhere in the forest. His horse snorted as Whiiplash stood and stretched,
thankful it was only a dream. But it was so vivid... Ragnor talked of
visions, seeing the future as it could be... Maybe...
Whiiplash brushed those thoughts aside and chanted the few words to
another spell, one of his few. Food suddenly grew on the willow tree, and a
strange bubble of water sprouted from the trunk. Fruits of many kinds slowly
ripened and fell, and breads and meats suddenly sprouted and grew. The horse
accepted whatever he could nibble at, and Whiiplash chewed contentedly at a
large peice of bread.
Some time later, full from the excellent if strange meal, horse and
rider again followed the beaten path, south and west, toward Neverwinter.
The elf was tall, fair skinned and leaning upon a strange stick,
seemingly carved intricately on one side yet uncarved on the other. Upon his
shoulders and wrapped around him was an odd cloak, with many seemingly empty
pockets. Yet even as Whiiplash approached, he reached into one and produced a
large whistle, which he pressed his lips to and drew in a long breath... Then
he saw Whiiplash approaching.
"Ahh, greetings traveller. Have you by chance seen a large snapping
turtle? He's run off again he has, Vincent is his name, and well I cannot
just leave him here... VINCENT! COME HERE!! WHERE HAVE YOU GONE!?"
Whiiplash, surprised at the elf's wandering attention and loud
screaming, backed his horse up and waited, nervous about whatever made that
noise. Once again pressing the whistle to his lips, the elf drew in a deep
breath.... Whiiplash clapped his hands to his ears, but had to uncover them
to keep his balance atop the rearing horse. Whiiplash unclenched his eyes and
lowered his hands, the elf out of breath.
"Sorry... VIIIIIINNN-CEEENNT??!!!!?? VINCENT?? WHERE DID YOU GO??? Blast
that turtle! VINCENT!!!"
The elf finally yelled his lungs out and had to sit down, where he
immediately pulled out his stick and began carving it with a small glowing
knife . "Umm... Can you tell me where the nearest town is?" The elf
completely ignored him.
With a long sigh, Whiiplash urged his mount onto the path and started
off again. "Farewell.... elf.... Hope you find your turtle...."
"Leaving so soon?" Whiiplash turned to see the elf looking at him,
surprised and disappointed.
"Very well, if you will talk to me, I will stay..."
"Oh yes, please, sit down. Oh I love stories!"
So Whiiplash sat down next to the strange, woodcarving elf and told him
of all that had befallen himself in his flight from the raiders that had
destroyed his city. When he had finally finished, it was nearly noon time and
the elf still sat silently carving, his odd stick mostly carved now.
"Something to eat?" Whiiplash offered.
"Oh yes....please... My name's Solack. At least that's what it was
yesterday. What's yours?"
"Whiiplash...." He mumbled before chanting the words to his food spell.
Suddenly a meal for several sprouted from a nearby tree.
"Wow, neat trick! I had a flute that did that once.... Where did that
go?... Oh too many pockets!..." The elf immediately set about emptying his
various and seemingly bottomless pouches. Trinkets of obscure purpose, wooden
figurines carved of smooth wood, carving knives of various sizes -- all were
retrieved from the elf's bottomless cloak and dropped into a large pile. Even
jeweled statuettes worth hundreds of platinums were discarded without a
second thought. Soon he found what he was looking for -- a small, beautiful
flute, carved of a dark wood and set with gems. "Ahh, here it is! Watch..."
The elf began to play softly, and nothing happened. "Hmm... Maybe it takes a
second." And, saying that, he began to play some more, until its sweet song
filled the air. Yet nothing happened.
As the elf played on, though, something did happen. A small sliver of
light appeared, and then began to take shape. It grew, sprouting arms and
legs, and then a head popped up. Soon it was vaguely human shaped, yet still
it grew. Then it began to change, to morph, again. Arms retracted, but the
legs came together and began to stretch. The head became that of a serpent,
and the lengthening legs its body. But even as the snake took a complete
form, it began to mutate again, sprouting wings. Its color darkened to black,
and fur grew where scales had been. Serpentine head disappeared, and tail
shortened. Soon a bat hovered where the snake had been, yet did not mutate.
Then, suddenly, it was gone.
"Wow... Sure didn't know it did that! I should keep this handy! I'm
hungry, can we eat?"
Whiiplash, stunned at the perfect illusion, didn't say anything.
"Well, I'm eating..."
They ate a fine meal of various foods, Whiiplash still somewhat in shock
from the strange flute. All of his possessions back inside oddly empty
pockets, The elf began to carve again.
"Sadly, I must be off... Take care, and I hope your turtle shows up
soon."
"Wait, don't you want a figurine? I got a dragon one here, carved on the
northern tip of Moonwood after I visited the magnificent town of
Longsaddle... Or was it Silverymoon? No it was..."
"No, I couldn't...."
"I insist!" This said, he shoved a small figurine, a perfectly shaped
dragon, into Whiiplash's hand.
"Thank you..."
Just then there was a rustling of bushes and a loud wail from somewhere
nearby. The elf's head snapped up, and he yelled, "Vincent, Cumere!
VINCENT!!" and dove into the bushes still calling for his turtle.
A few hours later Whiiplash came upon a small village, hidden away in
the forest. The people were friendly and soon he sat, nearly alone, in a dim
tavern. Whiiplash, lacking something better to do, studied it.
The only people inside the tavern at the time were a few, drunken
commoners, laughing amongst themselves, and the bartender. The bartender was
an aging man, with a round belly to match his rounded face. He grinned as he
stood, lost in some pleasant daydream, wiping the counter.
The walls were made of stone, as was the floor, but the ceiling was
wooden. The place stunk and small creatures scurried along the floor,
Whiiplash suddenly noticed.
"Sumthin' ta drink, friend?" Whiiplash turned to see the bartender
looking at him, a glass in hand.
"An ale?" Whiiplash mumbled.
"Sure..." The bartender dissappeared under the counter, then reappeared
holding a full glass of ale.
Whiiplash said a thanks before letting the dark ale pour down his
throat. In but a second the glass again stood on the counter, empty.
Whiiplash didn't stay long, and soon he lifted himself from the stool in the
tavern and trudged out the door.
Outside everyone crowded around a figure, who tried uselessly to push
through. Whiiplash craned his neck to see, but couldn't possibly and soon
lost interest, wandering down the street toward the stables. Just then, the
man broke through the crowd ran toward him. "Sir...I need to talk to you!..."
Whiiplash turned to him, questioningly. The man was battered, his
clothes torn and face bleeding. He carried with him a crude sword, and he
leaned on it for support as he made his way toward Whiiplash, the crowd
watching expectantly behind him.
"Minotaur.... There's a minotaur in the woods... I tried, but his axe...
He's so big, please, you must slay it! We cannot let him destroy our village!
And if he's a scout... an army.... overrun..." The tattered man suddenly fell
to his knees, and a healer broke through the crowd carrying a bag.
"Let me through, I need to help this man!!"
Whiiplash, still slightly dazed, cleared his thoughts and cudgeled his
brain for the words to a spell of healing. "He's dieing! He must have been
nearly cut in have by that cruel minotaur!"
Whiiplash, a druid and taught in the ways of mending wounds, knelt down
beside the groaning man and extended his hands. Placing them on the man's
forehead, he slowly chanted the words to a powerful spell. Suddenly, the
gathered crowd gasped as cuts sealed shut, bones realigned, and color
returned to his face. Everyone cheered as the healed man's eyes fluttered
open and he sat up. "Thank you..."
"It was nothing. Now, about this minotaur... Where exactly is it?"
History of a Seeker
Part 6 - Being a Hero
(Submitted by Whiiplash)
"Must be it..." Whiiplash mumbled under his breath. The cave entrance
was narrow, merely a small space between two rocks. But further inspection
showed a tunnel leading downward, into darkness.
Chanting a spell learned from his now dead Master, Whiiplash's hand
suddenly glowed with light. A small globe formed, radiating it's golden light
and pushing back the darkness. Willing it forward, the globe descended the
rough steps of the cave, Whiiplash right behind.
The steps seemed to last forever, the magical globe of light revealing
more ahead as the ones behind disappeared. Soon, however, they ended -- much
to Whiiplash's relief.
The small chamber at the base of the stairs was nearly empty. Its stone
walls, cut from the rock, were damp and covered with a strange fungus that
was warm to the touch. An old, wooden bench sat in the far corner, atop which
rested a huge battle axe. Yet, there was no sign of the minotaur.
Whiiplash willed the globe of golden light to move forward, to
illuminate a small side passage he had missed before. It was dark and narrow,
but not so much that a minotaur couldn't get through. It stretched for
several yards before turning, and Whiiplash cautiosly moved forward, toward
the bend...
Another empty chamber. What was this? Why was it so deserted? The
chamber was completely empty this time, nothing but two more passages.
Whiiplash thought for a moment, and decided to go a little further. He chose
a passage and moved down it silently, his sword drawn. Yet this again led to
an empty chamber. Yet there was something written on the wall...
Ye who enter here -- beware. Within lies many perils,
and the unprepared will surely die. Yet, shouldst ye
survive, there awaits the Black Widow, your reward.
Black Widow? Ha, sounds a lot like a reward! Whiiplash returned to the
first chamber, where the old bench and battle axe had been. Yet, there was no
battle axe.
"Who are you?" The voice was a deep rumble, and Whiiplash turned sharply
and reached for his sword, startled.
Before him stood a huge man, yet with no man's head. Instead there was
that of a bull, and it snorted angrily, battle axe in hand. Fur grew in
patches along the muscled body, and a small loincloth was all the clothing
that this man-beast wore. Its massive arms hefted the battle axe overhead and
prepared for a killing overhead chop.
"Wait! I'm - I'm.." Thinking quickly, not wanting to have to fight this
huge beast, he sputtered out "I'm looking for the Black Widow!"
"What do you know about the Black Widow?" The huge bulls head was
ominous, looking down upon Whiiplash.
"Ve-very little! All I know is that....its...uhh...Supposed to be...
down here?"
"I shall have the Black Widow, no else can! I think you come to kill me
like that other puny man.... I kill you now!"
Whiiplash fumbled for his sword, backing up. "Wait.... I..." He found
the hilt and ripped it from its sheath. "But... No...." The battle axe came
whistling down, its huge head cutting through stone. Whiiplash moved toward
the minotaur, sword waving. But, the minotaur was a seasoned fighter. He
lowered his axe to chest level, one hand high up on the handle.
"I can't beat him! I'm going to die!" Whiiplash thought to himself.
Suddenly, the words to flame bolt suddenly poured into his brain, and he
began to chant them hurriedly.
"Magic?" The minotaur suddenly seemed very confused and afraid, and
Whiiplash suddenly had a pang of guilt as time froze, the magic surging
through his arm. Yet the flame continued on, lancing through the surprised
minotaur. The resulting explosion threw Whiiplash from his feet, and the
inferno raging just a few feet away, Whiiplash lost consciousness.
The people of the small village crowded around him cheering. In one
hand, he held the minotaurs huge battle axe, and in the other, his own sword.
Whiiplash stopped in the center of town and tossed the battle axe to the
ground. "The minotaur is dead!" He proclaimed, "Although he was never a
threat to this town -- he is dead."
Whiiplash, pushing through the cheering villagers, found the stables and
mounted his tan horse. Soon he was again following a beaten path, although
now he was plagued constantly with pangs of guilt... The minotaur should not
have died...
What was the Black Widow, anyway?
The Dreams... Part III
(Submitted by SOL Speed)
The evil shadows surrounding him called him by name. "Ssssspppeeedddd" they
whispered, "coooome to ussssss". Feeling no fear he shouted "Get thee behind
me cretins, I fear thee not. Cast your evil shadows upon lesser mortals."
Praying to Tempus Speed turned the evil beings away. "Why do they seek me?",
he thought. Remembering his horrid dreams and the high councils decisions
Speed continued his journey to seek answers. Finding a piece of parchment
upon a tree he had read something about some person named Skorpy or something
claiming ownership of these hills. Speed wondered if the man was mad.
It was two days travel by foot through the hills before he saw signs of
others. He approached the caravan of travellers and inquired of their
identity. "We are but a small band of gypsy's m'lord" spoke the tallest one,
"lost for what must be days." He replied "Do you ladies not know it is
unsafe to travel in these parts unprotected?" "Surely a gentleman of your
manly stature could help a few helpless damsels in distress?" another asked.
"Indeed I would, m'ladies" he responded. "Beautiful women such as yourselves
would surely attract the attention of, ummmmm, err...well, you know", he said
winking. "A fate I'm sure you'd help to prevent kind sir?" a third said
smiling. Laughing out loud Speed exclaimed "I will try m'lady, as hard as it
may be within the company of such beauty" and bowed before them.
Night soon fell and Speed suggested they set up camp. It had been a pleasant
trip thus far he thought. Such magnificent ladies! All very wise in their
speaking despite their young age. Speed found himself attracted to each one
in their own individual way. He prayed to Tempus that he could contain the
manly urges he felt stirring inside him. Speed stood watch for a few hours
then woke the tallest one to relieve him. It was not too long after falling
asleep that he once again began dreaming those cursed dreams. Although this
one was somehow different...
He awoke to the sweet aroma of boisenberry juice. It had a very mild scent,
one that he could remember as boy. His mother used to make it for his father
when he returned from battle. His father used to be a soldier as did his
father's father. Speed was schooled in the fine art of battle since his
early years. Ahhh...what fond memories of youth stirred inside his soul.
He realized the gypsys were already awake and watching him. Trying to stretch
he realized he was tied down! He also realized he was naked! "A fine specimen
we have here girls" said the red-haired one. The taller one agreed "It's
been many a year since we saw one as, shall we say, 'fit', as he!" Smiling,
she continued. "I'm glad you're awake Soldier of Light, we have quite a
suprise in store for you, Speedy" she giggled...
(Submitted by Morngrym)
As hot as it has been recently, its hard to think of the freezing cold of
winter...however, this story indeed takes place in those winter months...;>
Lines of Fate -- Part One
Erin Johanason
All she could think of was the cold. The chill had challenged almost
every last spot of warmth in her body...and won. Erin clutched the reigns of
her steed as she rode on through the frigid air. The animal was almost dead
from exhaustion, but to stop and spend the night here would mean certain
death for the young ranger as well. Lines of frozen blood streaked her face
along with the paths of tears shed hours ago. The Company of the Silver
Dagger was no more, she being the only survivor. The group was ambushed by a
pack of Yeti on an expedition into the frozen wasteland, miles from the
nearest outpost. Maybe the scepter of might they were seeking was never
meant to be found...Maybe the dark god Bane had taken notice of them, who
could say. They were her closest friends....they were everything to
her...and now they were gone...A thousand thoughts raced through Erin's mind
as she rode, trying to deny the chill and avoid the eternal sleep that was
beckoning.
She knew she had to stay focused...She concentrated on the horizon,
searching for some indication of the city. There was no sign of civilization
close, but she knew Neverwinter was her best chance for survival...it was the
least far of any settlement. She continued on as a light snow began to fall,
trying to ignore the occasional cries of strange creatures she preferred not
to meet. Several times she thought she had spotted the city, but it was only
an illusion brought on by the hypothermia. The sun continued its downward
arc, threatening to cloak the land in darkness and Erin in certain death.
By her estimate two more hours had passed...She could hardly feel a
thing as she clung to the arctic steed, which had now slowed to a brisk walk.
It looked as if the sun would leave her in another hours time. She hugged
the steed's neck just to stay mounted as it plodded along...Despair
overwhelmed her and she tried to cry again, but the tears wouldn't come. She
thought she heard voices in the distance and was vaguely aware of falling
from the mount to the rock hard ground below.
"M'lady?" echoed in her mind..."I think she's waking up...". Erin slowly
opened her eyes and took in the surroundings. Her blurred vision cleared and
she could tell that she was lying in a small room on a bed. Carvings covered
the ceiling above her and some sort of incence filled the air. Two people, a
man and a woman, hovered over her with concerned expressions...Their garb
marked them as clerics of Gond. "Where am I?", she managed to mutter.
"Quiet child", the woman replied..."You're in the temple of Gond in
Neverwinter. You're safe now...We weren't sure you would pull through;
you've slept for days". Erin took the cup of hot liquid they offered and
sipped it as she tried to recall the events that led her to the temple...
A week passed as the young lady regained her strength. The skillful
clerics of gond helped her to avoid any permanent damage from the cold. Her
excellent physical condition and strong will also helped the recovery to
progress quickly. She learned that a man had brought her to the temple after
finding her still form on the frozen tundra, almost dead. He gave his name
as "Kerik", then departed. The clerics described him as a medium sized man
who looked like a fighter, or maybe a ranger like her, but they couldn't be
sure. Erin thought about the man a great deal in her last few days at the
temple. She felt a strong need to find this person and at least thank him
for saving her life...Besides...she had no one else to see, no other place to
go.
(Continued next week in "Lines of Fate -- Part 2".)
Submitted by Robert Silber, email BOBSIL1
TO: NW NEWS, For weekly contest to Guild of Heroes, 8-9-95
TITLE: THE OLD ONE
(Submitted by Bobsil1)
The great hall at Lord Nasher's palace was abuzz with great expectations and
the air was filled with excitement. The hall was filled to capacity. The
Old One, as he was known, had accepted Lord Nasher's invitation to speak.
As was custom, the old mage was the last to enter. His robes flowed
majestically to the floor. This master of magic, his ancient eyes narrowed,
surveyed the massive hall. A chortle surfaced from his wrinkled throat in
anticipation of the spectacle to come. Unbeknownst to the crowds before him,
he enjoyed practicing the dark secrets to entertain the masses as much, if
not more, than he did for great battles. He sometimes wondered whether he
had the blood of some jester in his family tree, rather than the blood of
the great Merlin.
The mage removed a tiny clear crystal from beneath his flowing robes and
placed it gently on the giant oak table before him. There was a hushed
silence in the great room. All eyes were transfixed upon him. With the wave
of his hand and an indecipherable incantation a thick purple mist clouded the
crystal from view. With another wave of his hand the mist dissipated and in
its place was a tiny dragon. The crowds gasped. The dwarfed image scurried
across the heavy wood table and opened its hideous mouth. Some recoiled in
horror at the sight. The old seer seemed pleased with the reactions
demonstrated by the crowd.
A loud, booming voice, uncharacteristic of so small a figure, spewed forth
from its thin black lips. The words echoed from the walls as the dragon
spoke. Gather round and I shall weave ye a tale of valiant warriors and
beasties unspeakable. Listen most carefully me lads and lasses. Be
forwarned, as I weave me prophesy it be well known throughout de lands of
Neverwinter dat at my age, de mixtures of elvin wine and mead often clouds me
rememberances. Is a vision of de greeat Dracoliches of any interest to ye?
Voices yelled from the crowds. Yes! Speak to us! Tell us! The crowd began
to chant in unison, Drac...Drac...Drac! All present were eager for any
information on the feared Dracoliches.
The dragon continued. Den listen to what I speak. At the next full moon ye
must assemble a gathering. Bring forth your best warriors. Travel to the
land of the Dracoliches in small bands. Enter the lairs in fighting parties
of eight warriors. The Dracoliches will be most vulnerable at that time.
From the crowd voices yelled, will we destroy them? Will we live?
With that a thick white haze enveloped the old wizard and the tiny dragon and
both disappear in a wisp of vapor. A fading voice is heard to answer, dat
tale is for another time
Aluric
(Submitted by Aluric)
Aluric awoke at his chosen time within his place of concealment. Careful not
to disturb his carefully constructed surroundings lest he be in need of them
again before this was over and done. He took a mental inventory of his
situation and surroundings. By the flames light!, luck was still with him
and he had not been discovered. How he dispiesed the requirement for rest
and sleep, especially with none to stand the guard but one does as one must
and trust to the god above.
So as not to disturb his hideyhole, he moved out into the open. By now
the pigeons he released should have carried his message and plea for
assistance to their intended recipients if they got through at all. Tho deep
inside he knew some would. It was no easy task asking for help as he did.
It always left him with a feeling of being somewhat less a man and a bit more
the failure. "Some paladin he was!": he muttered to himself. The bitter
sting of reality, had left is mark again upon his heart. It was now time to
separate the fool from the foolhardy. He could no longer remember who had
said that of him as the young man, but more an more he was forced to face the
fact of it. So much for fun and games he thought. Aluric could no more
afford such luxuries as that.
The centaur's need was dire, and the prospect of accomplishing the
quest by himself, had as much chance as a snowball upon the plane of hades.
The taste of defeat still lingered within his mouth and not but the wine of
success would wash it down.
Time drew near when whatever help could come in answer would do so! As
if by magic the very thought brought the first call of his name. Aluric
looked about but saw no one. He had heard his name spoken! (the steel
within his hand now laid cold) drawn as it where to be safe better than
sorry, for he had know to be attacked before by others even thou twas not
the place for it. Like his nanny always said : "evil is as evil does" "so
let there actions speak as there words". Realizing just then from whence the
voice came did Aluric return into the encampment, and let the mental messages
come.
Good friend Zoarvox was on his way, Still in Villnask, t'would be some
time afore he would arrive. The paths through the hills where treacherous
even still for the most experienced, but come he would. As they conversed
mentally, a new and as yet unfamiliar voice did come into his head. T'was
the KEF Master, Bleedugood in answer to the message now on his way as well.
Thou Aluric kept hidden in another part of his mind the dressing down he was
due to receive from such a master. How foolish an errant knight he was out
alone like this and now needing to be rescued himself. Aluric had only
recently come to the knights with his oath of fealty, and as yet met only
the mistresses Mikrael and Sunglitz (the former being his own arch knight)
and the masters Fendar and Starbeard.
So this master was known to him only in word of deed , (those deeds
looming large in Aluric's sight), and the messages he received from the
Scribe of the guild. Wasen't enough to be a burden upon his mistress, now
he had gone and become the notice of an officer of the guild.
Haden't someone once said it was better out of sight n out of mind. To
Aluric's young eyes, he had now become something of a target, a topic of
conversation if you would.
Haden't he raised that awful feebing question again? They even discussed
his conduct amongst the high lordship of the guild at evening tea. Would he
never learn when t'was better to keep low. Probably not! And now t'was a
KEF Master upon his way.
Zoarvox was again calling, "he was even now entering the hills", but "he'd
seen the Dragon Klan upon the wing" and wanted insure Aluric to be ready.
So to would the klan keep their promise of aid in time of need. He knew
inside they would for what worth the man if not by his word, and this was a
promise freely given by the klan leader. He wondered who would answer for
them? Just the other day he had learned from one of the castles serving
attendants (notice I didnt use the "w" word sunglitz} that a klan member had
sworn fealty unto the guild, (no small feat of itself for one so powerful),
but was now squired unto the guild mistress herself. Sunglitz again would
have cause to speak of Aluric. Things only got darker in Aluric's eyes.
Perhaps it would have been better to die at the spikes of the manticore or in
the spiders web. Even now throu the cover of the trees he could see the
beast circling over head, though as yet he could not make out it rider.
Dragoneye lept from the creatures wing without benefit of a simple
landing, sending it back aloft as he joined Aluric in the clearing. So it
was Sunglitz's own squire come in answer to the call. Just great Aluric
thought as they prepared, a squire come to rescue a knight errant. Could it
ever get worse, (he had forgotten what a wise priest once told him). "Never
challenge worse", "tis the very hand of the one above you affront", "for
things can always get worse".
Aluric was to find that out again this day. As Aluirc made ready, he
mentally sent to his master Bleedugood, that he was already with aid of
friends and he didn't have to come if he was needed elsewhere. After help
was here at hand and why trouble the master he thought. Bleedugood replied
in kind that he was about there and would come for a spell just to insure
things went right this time.
The 2 had just entered the next clearing when from out the stand of
trees did burst a dozen ogre's. Dragoneye quickly let lose a fireball
(already having identified them to be shaman). The burst sent the woods
ablaze, and razed blisters upon their hides, and sent their skins to flame.
Almost as fast as they appeared, they began casting spells of protection from
the deadly mages onslaught. Somehow through all this one of the shaman got a
magical hold upon the mage Dragoneye keeping him fast whilst its tribesman
cast further protective spells.
Aluric, could not seem to move his feet, thou he sorely did want to
enter the fray. Dragoneye called for Aluric to help. But Aluric couldn't
think of how. Now the creatures where preparing another volley and Aluric
seized the chance. Dashing between Dragoneye and 2 of the shaman. Bringing
his trident about he struck a blow piercing both the creatures lungs and
heart, felling it with the force of the blow. Then turning about on his
spurs, he struck the second, spilling entrails about itself. "By the flame"
Aluric thought "that was quick". Aluric not having studied the ways of mages
even now did not know he was sped by Dragoneye's magic. Quickly then he
struck them one after another each falling with a single blow losing spells
in the process as well. All at once it was over. With Bleedugood standing
there awaiting a report, Dragoneye did give account of the situation.
Aluric had scarcely drawn breath when they where fighting The hairy
Yetti. For as fast as Aluric had thought he was this thing was faster still.
Before he had known what had happened it was already over. Though Aluric did
strike a thing resembling a slug, he couldn't figure how it had ended so
quickly.
Then did Zoarvox arrive, and the party set out. First did the spiders
lay to waste each of the valiant 4 giving much better than received. The
spiders never knew what hit them. then did the manticore fall. Easy work for
such a group. Aluric bringing up the rear thought "now why couldn't it have
gone this way before". Well sour grapes over this was not the way and even
as he had the thought it was gone while slaying the snakes. then in another
instant they where addressing the centaur.
A long tale did it tell, at the end giving ropes to all but Zoarvox,
asking them to go below and continue to free the good from the evil. The
centaur as yet had not met Zoarvox and did ask him to continue above, as even
now the evil had returned to his glen and forest. In the end it was Dragon
eye who made the call, he would stay and help Zoarvox then catch up with us
below.
Now did Bleedugood come into his own, taking Aluric almost by the hand,
did he move swiftly through the tunnels below. Stopping outside a group of
doors, did Bleedugood free a group of humans, Dwarves, and the like. (all
the while Aluric kept hearing sounds as that of the dragon klan's creatures.
But before he could ask about it Bleedugood had set off again, with Aluric
bringing up the rear.
Meanwhile above, Dragoneye and Zoarvox had again cleared the forest and
had started there decent. Informing Aluric of same and some of the details by
mental messages, it happened that Aluric lost sight of his master.
Softly calling out to Bleedugood lest there presents be discovered,
Aluric looked worriedly about. Came back the call "come through the door
Aluric", these are but one way and I cannot return to help". Aluric was not
yet panicked, how hard was it to open a door? Then he realized his dilemma.
Was Bleedugood behind door number1 door number 2 or door numbers 3 and 4.
The time was growing short. Aluric's heart was at his throat what to do.
Then a sound from behind forced the play and Aluric made his choice.
When the ringing in his ears had stopped, enough to make the calls from
Zoarvox and Bleedugood in his head audible. It was then Aluric came to know
all wasmost certainly not right with his world. Bleeding from nose, mouth
and ears, and blisters all over his body he was scorched from head to toe.
And in the hills, "by that which is eternal noooo!"; he screamed into the
unyeilding dark.
Quickly did Aluric seek cover of encampment. Lest the evils about lay
on an make waste of his now meager self. Sending back to his friends that he
was ok (why worry them). He assess his situation. (what was that about
challenging worse?) As Aluric scanned the stars to find his position he
could see the evil ones lurking just outside his vision. They couldn't be
exactly sure of how he came to be in their midst lest they chance that he
was there to attack them and suffer their own defeat. Using the skills the
priests gave him he healed as best he could. and broke camp at a run.
Aluric knew his location well having fallen in this area many times
before. Running for the cover of an old stone house ahead and to the north.
The evil ones lurking behind must have thought Aluric was out for their blood
with a sent to follow. For they never did close enough to see how really bad
he was doing. Lucky for Aluric they also could not tell he was no mage yet.
Within the confines of the building Aluric made sanctuary, resting and fixing
as best as he could till one would never know he had nearly been their
evening sacrifice.
Bleedugood grabbed the next door out, what good was finishing the
quest for the centaur without Aluric and thats where his help was need now.
Meenwhile Dragoneye and Zoarvox where having troubles of their own. And from
the mental pictures sent to Aluric not doing too well either. There you had
the measure, Aluric had done it again, "mucked it all up he thought to
himself."
Aluric could see through the windows, they where circling even closer,
Still not wanting to get to close but wondering why Aluric didn't come out to
play afterall. Deciding that whatever would happen would come to him he
settled back to asses the situation, fully rested and ready for most
anything. His boredom got the better of him and Aluric began to explore the
building. Then suddenly someone entered the building and sprang a trap full
of snakes and was gone again. Snakes, hey no problem Aluric thought, but
as he cleared the doorway he saw the best was yet to come. The snakes where
just the advance party for Ice snakes and fire snakes, fire and ice should
cancel each other out no? well not just that way. They did inflict damage
on each other but they nearly killed Aluric before He had killed the last of
them. He was hurt but not beaten and decided it was time to leave.
Aluric burst through the door at a run heading to the north, with the
evils following close behind. Coming round a corner on the path through
the hills Aluric found himself in yet another encounter and someone was
already moving through it as well. Trapped again he thought, but the
messages where flying fast and all Aluric could tell was this person was
heading north to east, so Aluric did the next best thing and ran South to
west fleeing the fight for safety of a sort. Aluric was out now only to find
the person that he fled was Bleedugood. Short of breath they both stopped to
assess their situation. both wounded and weary. suddenly someone burst into
the clearing and was gone. Bleedugood whispered to Aluric: "I think he is
stalking us". Aluric replied back: "thats one of the guys who had been
persuing me since i picked the wrong door, do you know him?" Bleedugood
then proceeded to enlighten Aluric as to how he had defeated this fellow
before and had a draw or two but never bested by the likes of such a
scoundrel . It must have been true for through the whole trip back to the
centaur's forest they where out there but never came close enough for a
fight. Just as well since Bleedugood had taken measures to permit Aluric to
run ahead on his own if trouble should come a calling.
Zoarvox and Dragoneye where still somewhere below the centaurs forest
and holding their own but it was hard for Aluric to get the details from the
mental messaging. Again Bleedugood did clear the forest and the Centaur did
provide rope for but one, seemingly more baddies had snuck in while his back
was turned. Bleedugood instructed Aluric to wait with the centaur while he
took care of business and not get into more trouble. Before Aluric could
reply Bleedugood was gone (how do they move so fast he thought to himself).
Preparing to make camp Aluric had just put match to the tinder, when
Bleedugood reappeared saying "lets go". Next thing Aluric knew they where
moving through the dark n damp tunnels once again. Bleedugood providing
instructions on how not to open the doors down here, freeing more people
along the way, they came to a crossing of the tunnels.
Facing Hellhounds and salamanders Bleedugood called to Aluric to flee
north. Doing as he was told Aluric ran smack into the midst of them. As he
passed Bleedugood heading back the way he came, Bleedugood screamed for
Aluric to flee north! Aluric then screamed over his shoulder: "I did and ran
right into them"!""
Bleedugood now caught up with Aluric and hastened Aluric as well, saying;
"very good lad now lets get the devil away from here lest we be the evenings
roast." They had no sooner goten clear from the first patrol when they came
upon another. Where did they get these things anyway thought Aluric to
himself. He could no longer see Bleedugood from the speed he was moving and
it seemed like there where multiple images of him at random points.
Bleedugood then laid down a thick cloud of poisonous gases to hold back the
monsters, and ran the way Aluric had last been seen.
Rounding yet another bend in the tunnel, He came up to Aluric who had
stopped to catch a breath. "Well now what should I do", :asked Aluric.
Bleedugood replied in kind saying: "run as if it where the bard's boot upon
yer backside and flee these creations". Aluric breaking into a run then said
"only if you insist master". Laughing as he now ran with his second wind.
Unfortunately Aluric didn't run very far, for rounding another corner yet
again with Bleedugood somewhere behind he came to a dead end.
Turning back around just in time to see Bleedugood come up short with
the same problem, no place else to run. So its back the way they had come.
and the puppies and salamanders where still waiting on the other side of the
cloud. Bleedugood began to kill off more of them, as the air started to
clear, with yet more magic. But eventually it came to Aluric's all time
favorite. Hack n slash was now the game. Bleedugood had waded into the
masses and pressed them back to the north where it all had started. Some
Salamanders where now pressing at his left side making for is rear flank.
Aluric meanwhile was wading deep in puppy guts and working his way to
bleedugood's side.
Slaying a salamander and moving to a position to block Bleedugood's left
flank and just to his front, Aluric now engaged 2 more salamanders holding
them off so as to permit Bleedugoods pressing another mass attack on the
remaining group. Then a salamander fell and a fresh one rose to take his
place, blindsiding Aluric.
Aluric awoke to find himself but little way from the house where he had
taken shelter early on that day. Seriously wounded and unable to staunch the
flow of blood. Aluric Attempted to move away from the prying eyes that must
be about. Only to be beset by yet more monsters. At that Aluric blacked out
from loss of lifes blood, to awaken outside the door into crossergate.
"NO!!!!" HE SCREAMED into the night, "not again!". With tears in his eyes
he crawled into the woman/witches house before the hills entrance. Even
here fighting was amassed, both north and west. crawling east he headed for
the door back into the hills once more. As Aluric turned the handle on the
door he wondered what became of his friends Zoarvox and Dragoneye.
There would be the devil to pay if Mistress Sunglitz finds out He'd
gone and lost her favorite squire of the day.
(Submitted by Mournbane)
Mournbane sat cross-legged on a carpet of fallen needles beneath the great
boughs of a mighty pine tree. His back rested against its trunk; from which
the long branches struck outward and downward, until their very tips swept
the forest floor, some fourteen paces away. The canopy of green needles was
thick and dense. The air had a scent of pine so overwhelming as to wipe all
other scents away. It was a perfect, natural hiding place, where the prey
might find escape from the predator; or a drow might find sanctuary from the
sun.
Ten days had now passed since he had escaped the two humans who had
found him, poisoned and unconscious, following his abandoning the underdark.
He counted those ten days among the hardest of his life. He was hungry, for
he was not yet able to forage the surface with much skill, and so ate of his
rations sparingly. Ever and anon he was able to supplement his diet with a
night bird he brought down by a magic missile, but never got more than one in
a night, they were not trusting creatures. His skin was sloughing away in
places from the gentle caresses of sunlight. He found some small victory in
that no other of his race would see him in this hideous condition. Also, he
had water available from a stream nearby, and from the droplets that the
twilight leaves behind, should he not care for much movement. He was on the
surface, alone, and he was alive, still.
As he sheltered beneath the tree, Mournbane let his mind wander through
the words of the old histories he had read. Things which he had risked life
and limb and soul to understand--for the females guarded knowledge
jealously--now seemed worthless. In the songs and writings which remembered
glories of the drows' surface-dwelling days of times long past, there was no
mention of how terrible and painful the touch of light could be. And why
should there have been? he thought and shook his head ruefully, when the
songs and tales were set down, their writers still remembered the descent;
and the light before it. The surface was still their home then, if not in
truth, then at least in desire. It had not yet become The Land of Awful
Light.
Now, it was more than common knowledge among the drow that the sun had
become an anathema to them. Most drow hate and fear bright light. Yet,
Mournbane had not feared the sun. His delving into ancient texts and verses
had shaded his reasoning with the firm belief that the drow could, and would,
take back the surface world. And his strong faith in his own abilitiy to
survive caused him to underestimate his own susceptibilities. He knew
daylight would play havok with his delicate eyes; as much as would any light
spell. It would be unpleasant, and a hindrance. He would simply deal with it.
Precautions could be taken against being blinded. To his mind, the true
danger of light spells lay in their revealing their victim in a way that drew
the attention and fire of their enemies. If not among enemies, then light was
of no consequence save annoyance. So he thought.
His experiences on the surface were showing him his error. Here, light
was far more than that which lays bare a skulker, or banishes a shadow. Here,
light was a weapon. It was, in equal parts, brightness and fire. He began to
finally understand the expressions from among the rivvil slaves, bemoaning
their loss of "night" and "day". It meant far more than simply, "star-half"
or "sun-half", "rest time" or "work-time", as the yathrins -thrice cursed,
iblith tongued priestesses!- had told him. To Mournbane, its meaning was
become the difference between sight and blindness, coolness and heat, life
and death.
He recalled that drow merchants, slavers, and raiders often came to the
surface at night, and they had no difficulties with the light of the moon and
stars. There were some drow that could embrace the surface night illumination
easily, while others among the dark elves required a few trips to the surface
darkness to adjust to the differences of it: the even-white glow of
moonlight, the faint silver radiance of starlight. The air was not as moist
as below either, and there were odd scents here as well. All of these
strangenesses combined to create confusion in those who must endure them for
the first few times. Still, when those drow who were especially sensitive
were given extended time for their eyes to toughen, they grew able to
tolerate the brighter light.
Alas, thought Mournbane, that Jeggred and I were born not to the
merchant's caste, and so stayed below. We could have then learned of the
surface ways at our leisure and with little risk to ourselves. Now, I must
adjust to these things, and I determine that it must be quickly done. If I am
blind, then I am potential prey for anything that wishes to make me so. I
must learn by trial my limits. By small doses one may develop a resistance to
poisons, I will attempt to apply the same ritual to my present situation.
He comforted himself thinking how certain nobles of the drow routinely
consumed small amounts of the more popular ingestible poisons so as to
diminish any chance that they fell prey to treachery. But his optimism
lessened then. For if there have been any among the underdark drow who have
walked at will abroad on a sunny day, he knew them not.
When first he fled from the tunnel where he awoke as a captive, it was
into a clear, starry night, with a shard of silver-white moon still in the
sky. He found that he could see well, though the moonlight was a very
different light. It was a sharper, clearer, light than the faerie fires and
phosphorescent glows he was accustomed to, but it brought with it no
discomfort. Perhaps sunlight would be much the same; in type, if not in
intensity. He felt confident that, with protection, and determination, he
could face the radiance long since denied. He began his preparations
excitedly, and sought out a place to await the dawn.
The drow secreted himself within a copse of smallish pines. Their
branches fairly obliterated the moonlight. He would rather have chosen a cave
for himself. Then he could have simply started in the depths of the cave, and
, as his eyes adjusted themselves to the surface light, slowly emerged until,
at the last, he would exit the cave, and stand forth beneath the sun.
If the rivvin chose to be waela -human foolishness was legendary among
the drow- and did try and stalk him, they would scout out the caves and
tunnel entrances. No, Mournbane thought, I have injured the man well enough
to hinder him for some time. My kindred may prove more difficult to avoid,
however. The other drow certainly would stalk the tunnels if they did not
think him dead, or could simply stumble upon him accidentally if they did. He
would not chance any of the occurences. So while the lone drow wished to
avoid contact with any beings, he did not wish to hide so completely from the
sun, lest he gain no resistance from lacking a significant dose of its light.
He pondered that too much would, no doubt, be as undesirable as too little.
But he fancied that the thicket should prove as shadowy as any cave if he
should need to escape the light. He could always summon darkness to him. All
drow had that ability, and on a whim. He gave a smirk. He would master the
surface easily.
The stars were slowly fading. A bright grayness was filling the sky. His
eyes began to flicker of their own accord.
He had cut a strip of cloth from his silken tunic sleeve, and, dismayed
that this thicket was not quite the shadowy haven it had first appeared, now
bound it about his eyes to help shield them. He pulled his piwafwi closer
about himself, and its hood over his head, hoping that the cloak would
provide some additional protection. He held the thin protective fabric around
himself with both hands, and bowed his head slightly, so his hood would not
slip. Fear and anticipation warred within him.
Then the first rays of dawn stretched out across the realms, and smote
him to the ground.
The light cut through the cloth covering his eyes as lightning slashes
through a spider web. His eyes slammed themselves shut. Tears flooded them.
He put his head down in an attempt to avoid the awful brightness, but he
feared to take his hands from holding his cloak to him, lest the brilliance
consume him. The trees were no protection. He was lost amidst whiteness and
pain. And still the day brightened. He began to feel heat from somewhere. It
was all about him. It was not painful, but then his cloak was protecting him.
Minutes went by. It seemed he could see through the skin of his eyelids as
though they were no more than a faint reddish haze. His eyes began to ache
and throb. Reflexively, his palms came up to shield them. The cloak slipped a
bit to one side. Just as the purple worm-skin gauntlets shut the rays away
from eyes, he felt the skin on his arm, exposed as it was betwixt gauntlet
and sleeve, burn as though it had been lashed by the dark fire of the
yathrins. He fell to his knees. Desperately, he called upon his natural
ability to summon darkness. It would not come. There was no escaping the
ravages of the sun so long ago deserted. He wondered if he had avoided the
test after all.
Then the pain lessened. He fought the fingers of one hand apart
slightly, but kept the other closed. With the one eye, he looked about him,
through his barely-split fingers, at once both thankful and wary. His eye
remained a teary squint. He could see There was still much light, but as it
was before the sun had attacked him. Mists played across the sky. He hoped
they would last long enough for him to find a more secure refuge from his
torment. Staggering to his feet, he plunged through the brush. The sun danced
around the clouds. He fancied the orb was being spitefully fickle in its
antics: half-joyful of the return of one of its children long
unseen...half-mad with veangeance for its desertion.
He sought shelter deeper within the wood. His eyes he shielded with his
hands. Whenever there were clouds, he could move. Whenever the sun emerged,
he was forced to halt or stumble blindly. His heart turned to his god.
"Vhaeraun," he said, "if it be your will that I die here, then let that be
so. But greater service could I do thee alive than I would as a shade. If you
would have your people walk on the surface of Faerun again, do not let us die
even as we achieve it." But if Vhaeraun heard him, He gave no sign.
How long the dark elf wandered, he knew not, for pain dulled his sense
of time passing. After what could have been minutes or a day, half-blinded
and with blistered skin, he tripped over a low branch that his tortured eyes
had not shown him, and fell forward and through the verdant canopy it was
part of. The branches swished back into place above him. In the semi-darkness
beneath the boughs, he glanced around as best he could. His skin felt
scorched and his eyes swam with phantom-flashes of purple and red, and images
of things no longer there. He shook his head and rubbed his eyes, but the
images would not depart. He wondered briefly if he would ever see again. He
reached about himself, his hands seeking what his eyes could not. Sensing the
tree's trunk, he crawled to it, whispered thanks to Vhaeraun, and lay there.
He had found safety, for now, at least.
/\/\ournbane
Sargtlin Faern
Bregan D'Aerth
Evolution
(Submitted by Morngrym )
I journeyed through the woods that day
Just to see what I might find
In the world of cool morning air
A peaceful time to clear the mind
The trees swayed gently around me
And every beast still knew sleep
It almost seemed free and strong
A place that had finally found relief
But I knew this to be an illusion
For I could not deny the truth
The quiet just seemed to have healed
The earth-shaking battles I knew as a youth
Its amazing how the realm has grown
As the years passed by in a blur
Heros have died, as others were born
Glory for him, honor for her
So I sat on a stump and thought
Of the great tales that have been told
Paladins, Clerics and so many others
Those who were frightened, those who were bold
The names live now only in memory
As others have awakened and become renowned
Still, more tales and incredible deeds
What was thought to be lost is actually found
And so it continues...another glorious day
As we dream again and the pages turn
Adventure in every hidden corner
More to discover...more to learn.
By Morngrym Verigost
Knight-Commander
Bard of KORT!
Starflash
The Sword of Agility
Chapter Six
(Submitted by Niasen)
"How do you feel?"
Grath rubbed his head. What the heck was going on? Then he felt the
pain in his shoulder and he remembered. The next question of course was,
where was he? He glanced around and noticed he was in a room that resembled
his room in the Lonely Inn. It was not the same room however.
"Grath, how do you feel? Are you okay?"
Finally he looked back into Julie's eyes. "I feel better, but now my
head hurts." She reached out her hand and pushed the hair back on his
forehead. "I guess the orcs will have to wait," Grath said.
There was a knock at the door. Julie opened it and found Bobby standing
there in the hallway. He motioned towards Grath.
"He's doing better. Can you try to help him again?" she asked.
"Yes, I can heal him but he'll need a few days rest," Bobby said as he
moved across the room. He came to Grath's side and laid his hands on the
swordsman's shoulder. "May you grow in strength quickly and forget about
your wounds." Then Bobby was gone and Grath and Julie were left alone again.
They talked about each others pasts for awhile. Then Grath fell asleep and
was out until that night.
When he woke it was fairly dark in the room. One candle flickered and
its light did its best to penetrate the dark. Julie was there and when she
heard him waking, she came to the side of the bed. Grath didn't look good.
Though his wound wasn't that bad, he had lost alot of blood. His head was
pounding and he wondered if he had a fever. Besides this, his heart was
pounding too; he longed to kiss the elf which now watched over him.
"I can sleep on the floor tonight and give you your bed back," Grath
said. He was trying to be the perfect gentleman. That was a hard thing to
do for Grath. Julie made no reply at first. She leaned down and touched her
lips to Grath's forehead. Grath struggled to keep himself from tilting his
head up to move her lips to his own. Then she had backed away and was
looking at the bed, not Grath.
"Move very close to the wall," Julie said and she motioned toward the
other side of the bed. Grath rolled over. To his surprise Julie laid down
next to him. She did keep as much space between them as possible. "Stay on
your side and you can sleep in here until you are doing better." Grath
waited for sleep to overcome him once again. Just as he was about to slip
back into his dreams, Julie leaned over and kissed his forehead once again.
Grath woke up ready to take on an army.
(To be continued)
by Niasen of The Conclave
New player tip.
(Submitted by Bobsil1)
New players are referred to as newbies in the game. If you are just starting
out in the game you can go to the vault area in Neverwinter. That is where
a lot of players trade for items they want as magic weapons and armor.
If you go there just announce that you are a newbie and ask if anybody would
like to help out a newbie with a better weapon or gear. Often players will
give you weapons and gear that they don't need, that is much better than you
have. The gear that they give you may not be good enough for them to trade
but will be much better than you will get on your own for a long time. If
you are unsuccessful at first, keep visiting the vault area and asking.
Sooner or later you will luck out!
This Sunday August 13th, The Protectorate is holding it's Race Around
Neverwinter.
The Racers will be starting in the NW Gardens & race to the Triboar Inn..
From there they will be asked to locate certain Nasher Quest items & return
them to the Gardens. The person with the fastest time will receive a +2
Mirrored Shield and Gauntlets of Orge Giant Strength.
*Racers beware.. The race goes through PVP regions & past Evil Guild
strongholds..
Good luck to all the Racers..
Submitted by Tyst, Highlord of The Protectorate
The Great Hall Tavern is pleased to announce this weeks winner!!!
Varala, the Vampiress, receives access to the Guild of Heroes! (Sorry about
that orc blood Varala ;x)
The Great Hall Tavern is open Wed and Fri nights from 11pm to 1am Eastern
Time.
The "best" roleplayer of the week wins GOH access! :D
NWT Cyane
Tip-The Cost of Poison
(Submitted by LdyPainStk )
Ever been poisoned and found yourself at the Temple cured, for a fee of
course? Are you a stuggling newbie, and find yourself short of funds for
training? Fear not, your character need not rely on Rice-a-Roni to get by
till the next character training.
Simple rule of thumb: Go to the Jeweler, and change those platnums to gems
and store them in your vault. In this way, you won't have much to offer the
temple priests to be cured. They may even take pity on your "very poor"
soul, and cure you at a reduced cost.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ANNOUNCEMENT~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
The ever-present, HotShield, and dangerously beautiful, VelvetRose, both of
the Red Wizards of Thay, shall make vows upon one and other this coming day
of Thor.
The illustrious deed shall be done in the Great Hall of Neverwinter, in order
to house all those who are expected in attendance. When the water clock
drips nine in the evening, the Great Hall will be flooded with well-wishers
and those who have been sent to bear witness of this incredulous event.
Unfortunately, we have run out of invitations, all who read this are invited
to share in the revelry!
Refreshments will be served after the ceremony in the Triboar Arena.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
August 17th, 9pm eastern time, the Great Hall of Neverwinter located just a
step away from Lord Nasher's Lounge.
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