1995-08-20
Recovered original text · preserved verbatim
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NEVERWINTER NEWS
Issue # 96
Week Ending 8-20-95
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FRONT PAGE
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Congratulations to Aluric for winning last week's News of the Realm contest.
Aluric has earned choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes)
WTG!
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Congrats to the following folks who did very well in the WWAI for the month
of August ;)
Raithe - 1st place; winner of 25 pearls and 4 free hours online.
Kholari - 2nd place; winner of 20 pearls and 3 free hours online.
Llewdoc - 3rd place; winner of 15 pearls and 2 free hours online.
Ramiaz -won the random drawing at the end of the contest and gets rewarded
with 5 pearls. ;D
Thanx to all who participated. I had a ball and got a few chuckles from a
few of the folks in there tonight. ;>
Tempus & Aziza
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Congrats to Wld Wil, the winner of the first GOH booth in August. Wil
pummeled me for 45 pounts of damage with two Ice Storm spells, taking home
the prize of 5 pearls for his effort. WTG Wil, and thanks to all the GOH
members who competed!
NW Kishpa
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The winner of tonight's Location hunt is "bencanjam" who quickly located the
Gloveball Courts in the Wharves. :)
- Kel
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Off to the east of Neverwinter City could be heard the cries... cries of
terror and suffering.
"Frost," Lord Nasher began, "summon together a group. Assist those that are
in need."
"Aye, Lord Nasher," replied I, "Sure'n I will."
And I summoned residents of Neverwinter to aid me in my journey. JJ Honor,
JJ Venger, River God, Aporia6327, Mr Pech, and Daemonspam came to my side. We
set off, leaving the great oaks of Neverwinter City square, for the wharves
on NW.
The wharves were uneventful and gave us a brief stay at an inn before our
journey into more treacherous lands. River God was called away for personal
matters and that left us in need of another. SunKist gladly joined our
cause.
Soon we were plagued by battle after battle on our way to Floodblest. We
assisted many other adventurers and slayed many lizards and pyro snakes
(many!) Cupcak was glad to have our assistance as the vermin had spread all
across the area in search of prey. Mr Pech had gotten separated from the
group. SunKist volunteered to guide him back to us while we progressed to
the inn.
The bugbears were wild that evening. But we managed to slip by. El Mateos
joined us as we proceeded to clear the path and head towards Nightsedge.
The JJ duo had to leave for their own errands. But soon after SunKist
returned with Mr Pech, but Mr Pech too needed to continue on alone.
Aporia, Daemon, Mateos, SunKist, and I made it into Nightsedge woods. As we
prepared to make camp, we were jumped and I was separated from the group
(punt!). Upon my return, only SunKist and Daemon remained to make the return
journey to Neverwinter City. El Mateos did wish us well by a distant
message.
Lord Nasher was pleased by our expedition. And Daemon began his training for
the next level in his studies. Congratulations Daemon!
And thank you everyone for a great tour!
NW Frost
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Strolling into the tax collectors office within the Warehouse District of
Neverwinter, I found myself listening to rumors of the Luskan High Captains
and Zhentarium. A party of adventurer's gathered near to hear the gossip. We
decided to secretly head up, and slip into the city to find out. Mupika,
Pntmonster,Thor213,Xyflash, Ehom960199 and Kelver being brave adventurous
souls, joined me upon my quest.
As we headed out into Windycliffs on our way north, we lost Pntmonster to the
dreaded punt, however we could not wait and hurried on our way. We found a
secret entrance in Windycliffs, and turned east then headed North. We soon
found ourselves surrounded by spies and a singing harpy. We gathered up our
spells and soon put them to sleep, easily defeating them. Coming out from
another secret door, we soon found ourselves within Port Llast. SirBardolf,
Knight of the Rose of KEF and a party of adventurer's behind us, guarding our
backs.
As we strolled the winding lanes of Port Llast, we were attacked by a pack of
Boars, yet the strong arms of Thor213 and his sling, along with the magical
sword of Mupika soon put them to rest. Gathering up the roasted boar, we
filled our packs and adventured onward. A stop at the Inn in Port Llast
brought much needed rest, and refreshment. Xyflash took his leave of us,
here. Me thinks his eye was cast on a lovely barmaid, or maybe the ale
suited his taste.
Gathering up our equipment we headed north again, but soon were attacked by
Umber Hulks. The bright blue blobs seemed to melt out of the winding lane,
however Kelver and Ehom960199's strong arms saved us from utter confusion.
Twice more we were attacked by the Umbers burrowing through the stone walls
of the out posts of Luskan.
At long last, we found the sign, pointing toward Luskan and the Prince's
Palace Inn. We had decided the Inn would be our best bet for more
information. As we entered the outskirts of Luskan, Thor our wanderer found
a charging Mastodon and bugbears, after a short brief battle with some
anhkhegs we came to his rescue, he had survived an attack by spiders yet was
sickly poisoned. Being a cleric, I found a Neutralize Poison within my pack,
and he soon recovered and swore not to wander from us again.
Heading east, we found the inhabitants of Luskan to be quite hostile, but
soon found a secret passage within a dark alleyway. Through the door within
the wall, we found our selves elsewhere dizzy and disorientated, but quite
sound. The underground was damp and dreary, almost a maze of passageways. We
found ourselves attacked by a large group of Ogres traveling with several
Ogre Shamans. A quick cast Fireball or two, and they fell before our eyes,
some magical treasure found.
Beyond a door to the west, we encountered several owlbears in league with a
Cloud Giant. The strong sword arm of Mupika and the dreaded sling of Thor
soon helped to dispose of them, within their belongings we found evidence of
a secret door beyond. Silently we crept through it and found another door
ahead. We stood and listened, hearing some beholders arguing with some
Zhentarium, casting preparatory spells upon us, we entered and quickly rushed
back from the confrontation.
Entering the fight, I bravely cast a fireball, the beholders just bobbed up
and down laughing at me, however the Zhentarium fighters and spies soon fell,
becoming burning ash quickly. The bravery of Thor and Mupika once again
showed, as the hacked upon the beholders eyes, destroying them one by one. I
myself also, did destroy the eyes, knowing that they can only cast their
spells with the use of each eye. Finally, we found ourselves amidst a
slippery gored floor, 13 candles lit before us. Which to blow out? We
pondered this question among us, and decided to blow out candle one. Before
us the map opened showing awful and dreadful things to come to these realms,
that we knew we must return to Neverwinter and relate the fact to Lord
Nasher!
My thanks again to Mupika,Thor213,Kelver, and Ehom960199 for their company
and bravery, I know we will meet again soon!
NWA Blythe
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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 21st Monday 10:00 PM ET - Join NW Kishpa 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 24th Thursday 7:00 PM ET - Join NW Zephyr 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 27th Sunday 2:00 PM ET - Join NWA Apollo 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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Newcomers, Beware of Evil Trickery
(or, A Confession of a Newbie Who Got Jobbed)
(Submitted by Strblt)
by Strblt (which is my screen name for "Starbolt", not "Strobe Light" nor
"Salami Topped Rye Bacon Lettuce Tomato" as NW denizens have suggested to
me!)
Hail, all! I have a tale to tell, words of caution for those who are new to
Neverwinter or otherwise those who be good and fair. Hear now my warning:
evil and unfair persons will endeavor to trick ye and take advantage, so
beware! Listen to my confession of misfortune.
One recent afternoon found me at the Neverwinter vaults, managing my
belongings. In my possession were several cleric scrolls which I had
obtained as treasure through adventuring in the realm. To my elven eyes, the
markings on these ornate parchments were gibberish, and I had no use for
them. But I knew they held value for those who could read them, for I am not
unskilled in the ways of magic. On a few prior occasions when I had found
such scrolls, I freely gave them to worthy traveling companions, such as
Balthesar the Bold--a noble and loyal cleric, he.
However, that afternoon I had no cleric companion and wanted to unclutter my
vault of these parchments, so I sought to trade them with others in the
vaults. As you may well know, much trading takes place at this bustling
site. I heard the cry of one trader asking for scrolls in exchange for his
+3 short sword. I fancy a blade I can wield with one hand since I carry a
stout mirror shield, and his sword would serve me better than the +1 battle
ax that hung at my side. A discreet inquiry revealed that the sword
profferer was named Mau Mu Mu, a cleric/mage with a reputation for chaotic
and evil behavior.
Speaking directly to him, I offered a cleric scroll in exchange for his fine
sword. Upon his demand, I specified that the scroll contained two
unidentified spells. Disdainfully he refused the offer, and commanded that I
just give the scroll to him. Warily I told him that I was aware of his
reputation for evil deeds and had no love for such persons. Elves don't
necessarily see good and evil as do humans and other races, but we violently
despise any threat to our freedom which evil and chaotic persons frequently
impose. So instead of giving him the scroll, as I would have done for a good
and noble cleric, I merely upped my offer to two scrolls for the sword.
Mau Mu Mu agreed, and the deal was struck. But something about the look in
his eye raised feelings of suspicion, so I told him, "Not that I don't trust"
a man with such a reputation, "but..." and demanded that he give the sword
first. The unidentified short sword exchanged hands, and then I duly handed
over both scrolls. However, since the vaults are such a crowded trading
area, I asked if he had received the scrolls. "No," was his curt reply, and
then he was gone. Thinking something was amiss, quickly I searched the
surrounding streets, but did not find him. Checking with Neverwinter
administrators, I found that Mau Mu Mu was no longer in the realm.
With a sense of foreboding, I took the short sword to an Armory and paid the
fee to have it identified. The blade was not +3, as Mau Mu Mu had
promised--it was common! Irritated, I concluded that the evil, chaotic
cleric/mage had taken my scrolls and broken his part of the bargain.
The loss of the scrolls was only a minor annoyance, but the deceit and
treachery of Mau Mu Mu was another matter. While thieving is an honorable
profession, there is nothing for him to be proud of in breaking his word and
reneging on a deal. Clearly this fellow needs to be shown the error of his
ways.
I used a messenger service that I know of to send the following letter to Mau
Mu Mu, wherever he fled to.
Hail, Mau Mu Mu! You ran off so quickly after completing our trade. Perhaps
there was some confusion, my friend. The deal was my two cleric scrolls for
your +3 short sword.
I was sorry to hear your hasty departing remark that you did not receive the
scrolls. And I was confused by your statement, since indeed the scrolls were
sent.
Furthermore the sword I received from you was not +3; it was a regular short
sword. So, you see, I did not receive the item you promised.
Perhaps, as you claimed, you did not receive the items I sent somehow
(although I doubt that). If so, neither of us profited from the "trade". In
any event, I am not pleased.
Elves live long, my evil "friend", and we do not forget someone who has dealt
us wrong! You have three options, Mau Mu Mu: deliver the +3 sword as
promised; agree to meet me in a PVP area; or live in fear of the day when our
paths cross by chance! And believe me, dark one, we WILL meet again.
--Starbolt
For those of you who are new to Neverwinter, beware of evil persons. Do not
trust them. Do not expect fairness from them. And always identify items you
receive from them before delivering your items in a trade.
For those of you who are good and fair, be aware of Mau Mu Mu. He is not to
be trusted. He is without honor. When you meet him, tell him you know of
his evil heart.
When I meet him, I shall take it! --Starbolt
Lines of Fate -- Part 2.
(Submitted by Morngrym)
Kerik stretched and padded across the floor to the wash basin on the
table. His sleep was good and he felt invigorated...Well worth the platinum
piece he spent for the room at the Rankled Boar Inn. He washed up and
dressed, then went down to the common room for a morning meal. The innkeeper
and his helpers were already busy serving food and even ale to some
customers. People of all sorts sat around quietly talking and eating...so
different from the loud room the evening before. The ranger took a seat and
waited for a serving maid to help him. Half an hour later he had finished
his meal and relaxed all he would permit himself -- He then mounted his horse
and set out for the day.
Kerik was an adventurer...one of many in the area it seemed. He came to
Neverwinter after reading a proclamation from its ruler, Lord Nasher posted
around Silverymoon. The paper asked for assistance in bringing peace to the
area -- The people were struggling against frequent monster raids and the
ever-present threat of the Luskan Captains. Kerik had spent too long doing
much of nothing in the past weeks after returning from his last job and he
was ready to get active again. He had worked as a caravan guard near the
coast and was making good money...until the snows became too much and the
merchants settled down for the winter. This left him to occasional
employment as a guide in the rough country and an almost addicting nightlife
in the many area taverns. Both of these pursuits soon began to bore the man
though.
So, here he was...traveling through Floodblest on his way to the
Neverwinter wood on a mission to rescue a lost item. A group of wagons
carrying goods bound for the city was attacked and stolen recently by a well
known group of bandits. Included in the shipment was a ceremonial sword for
one of the princes. The royal family was more than willing to pay generously
for its return; Seems the item was rare and couldn't be replaced easily. It
sounded like a good opportunity for the ranger to earn some money and explore
the area as well.
The ragged gate swung open noisily as the stout ranger entered the area
of Nightsedge. The main path through the area was well worn and easy to
follow. Kerik carefully travelled through the trees, once hiding quietly to
avoid a large group of ogres and orcs passing by. Finally he made it to the
city. The battered walls and gates told of the past struggles in the region.
The ranger carefully examined the huge claw marks made by creatures long
ago...he shuddered at the thought of the terrible onslaught. A few tattered
guards yelled to him from upon the walls. Several moments later Kerik was
allowed into the battered city itself. He replenished his supplies and found
a place to stay for the evening. He would certainly need all his energy for
the coming day...
Kerik was prepared to set out just before dawn. A final check of his
weapons and he was off. He passed through the huge door, back out into the
more savage portion of Nightsedge...this didn't worry him, though. He was
confident that he could handle any creatures in this area...he wasn't so sure
about the monstrosities in the woods, though. Soon he was to the gate of the
West woods, having only had one encounter, this with a group of aggressive
lizards. He had dispatched the lizards easy enough and wasn't harmed. The
ominous iron gates loomed ahead of him, threatening to steal his resolve.
With a silent vow he drew his sword and entered the area, the rusted gate
slowly creaking shut behind him.
Neverwinter Woods was indeed an erie, frightening place. Even the
strange stories told by adventurers in the taverns didn't prepare him for
this. Mist curled along the ground that morning, and the bellows of distant
creatures sent shivers down Kerik's spine. He was a brave man, but the place
had an almost supernatural trait about it...like it fed on the strength of
those who entered, sapping their courage. He felt as though he was being
watched constantly, by someone...or something. He felt small and alone...so
very alone.
He plodded on though, his boots soaked by the morning dew, as he
searched for the bandit camp. To attack the entire camp would be
suicide...He hoped that most of the thieves were out. Maybe he could even
sneak the item away without a fight...maybe. He continued to the east,
always wary of nearby noises, on the lookout for any threat. A small group
of tigers attacked him midway through his journey. The fight way difficult,
but he killed most of the group...the others fled. Several claw marks
covered his armor and his traveling cloak was torn to pieces. He discarded
the ruined cloak and continued on, determined to complete the mission...a
short time later he was ambushed.
(To be Continued...In "Lines of Fate - Part 3".)
Dwarven Pride
(Submitted by Rikus Shan)
Tis' a day when tha Dwarven say,
dat dey 'ave lost dere way.
Many a day me's sit an pray,
Dat we's regain our ways.
Ta dis dwarf me see's a frost,
On tha kinship we's lost.
Me's found tha warm at tha cost,
Uv me pride frum bein' tossed.
Nae can ya treat new kin,
Like a whisper in tha win'.
Ya listen or lose ta tha grin,
Uv a better kind uv Frien'.
One who helps ta breathes,
Even if'n under tha seas'.
Nae one who leaves,
When ya fail ta see's tha trees.
Tha forest be strange ta some,
Who be nae used ta tha sun.
Ya figur' those wit' ya come,
Ta help an learn tha dumb.
Alas comes me trubles,
When kin nae help anudder.
Instead dey push dere buther,
Wit' out even a thaughtful shudder.
Me nae need a kin like dis,
But a kin who wonder if;
"Does me pushin' a kin in tha right direct'shin,
mean dey will follow tha path me push dem in?
An if'n dey does stray frum da path,
does me den push dem again
or show dem tha path me wish dem ta stay?"
--- Taa many kin be pushin' when dey shou' be pullin' each udder closer.
--- Me's wish ta be a kin, but ta those who be pullin'um closer nae
pushin'um down.
Rikus Shan
The Quest for the Amulet, Part 3
(Submitted by OSIR1S)
Jack Raven and Sir Sentra remained at the temple instead of following Taarla
and Osiris. Sir Sentra walked down the main corridor of the temple, to the
place where Magicstarx's body lay. He bowed his head in sorrow at the loss
of his friend. Jack Raven came to stand beside the young man. "What
happened to him, Jack... the last time I saw Magic he was in the best of
health... he has aged many, many years in a short time," Sir Sentra spoke in
a quiet voice of disbelief. "When he spoke to Taarla, he spoke of the
netherworld and its boundaries. 'Tis no place for any living creature and I
fear he may have been taken there against his will... to stop him from
reaching the lady." Sir Sentra looked at Jack then and said, "Jack, what was
the message... did he tell her?" Jack Raven nodded and answered, "He told
Taarla that she had to journey to the netherworld's boundaries and retrieve
an amulet... the Amulet of Light. He said it was the only way to stop the
evil plot of Anubiss and the only way to save herself and Osiris." Sir
Sentra became alarmed at this. "She cannot survive entering the boundaries,
Jack... there must be some kind of mistake." "I do not know, Sentra," Jack
began, "but if I know Taarla, she will go there and attempt to retrieve that
amulet." Sir Sentra thought for a moment and then continued, "Whoever's evil
hands are at work here, they tried to stop Magicstarx... they will try to
stop Taarla as well. If you say she will go, I want to help her get there."
"Aye, Sentra, so do I," Jack replied. Jack Raven placed a hand on Sir
Sentra's shoulder and said, "Come, young friend. If we are to help Osiris
and his lady, there is much to be done." The two men then turned to leave
the temple.
As they walked away, Magicstarx's body began to glow, bathed in a red light.
Noticing the reflection of light in the corridor, Jack turned back to look
behind him. As he watched, Magicstarx's body looked as if it was engulfed in
bright red flames and the light became so intense he had to shield his eyes
with his hand. Sir Sentra watched as well and started to go back to the body
of his friend, but Jack grabbed him by the arm and said, "No... don't go near
him." They tried to see into the light, but it had become so bright they
could not even see Magicstarx any longer, and in the next instant, the light
was gone and so was the body of their friend. Still holding onto Sir
Sentra's arm, Jack pulled him towards the entrance of the temple. "There are
forces at work here that I do not understand. We must go now if we are to
accomplish anything this morning."
Taarla awoke to the sound of someone calling her name... a familiar voice.
She looked towards Osiris and saw that he was still sleeping. The voice
continued to call to her and she quietly slipped out of bed and walked in the
direction of the voice. She opened the door to the room and began walking
down the wooden steps of the inn, ignoring everything around her,
concentrating on the voice. She asked, "Where are you?" but the voice would
not reveal its location and it continued to say only her name. Not having
thought to put her boots on, she walked into the streets of Neverwinter in
her bare feet, heading in the direction of the docks. Seagulls squawked
noisily overhead, but all she heard was the voice that spoke her name.
Reaching the end of the pier, she looked down into the dark water and,
looking past her reflection, she saw the face of Magicstarx... the face she
remembered before his disappearance. She sat down on the dock, dangling her
legs over the edge, and listened as the voice of Magicstarx spoke to her.
"Your journey begins... to reach the boundaries of the netherworld, you must
travel past the farthest reaches of the realm until you reach the Cave of
Lost Souls. There you will find the gateway to the netherworld and its
boundaries." Taarla looked at the reflection and asked, "Is that where they
took you?" Magicstarx nodded but Taarla could not be certain for the waves
began to ripple and his face began to fade. "You must find the way, Taarla.
Go now... seek the amulet before it is too late." Magicstarx's reflection
disappeared as Taarla cried, staring at her own reflection in the water,
wondering at the enormous task before her. She raised her hand and looked
towards the horizon, her vision focusing on the islands which lay far in the
distance. The water began to swirl beneath her and from the depths rose a
skeletal hand. Taarla looked back down into the water as the hand firmly
gripped her ankle and began pulling her towards the dark water. She screamed
and tried to pull away, but the hand continued to grip her. With nothing to
hold onto, she started to fall....
Taarla sat up in bed, her breath coming in gasps as she awoke from the
nightmare. Osiris was awake in an instant and sitting up, he held his wife
close to him. He knew the nightmares would return, and he wasn't even sure
if Melody could hold these dreams at bay. Pulling away, she looked at him
and said, "We must go now." Taarla rose shakily from the bed and began
searching the floor beside the bed for her boots. Osiris watched her and
asked, "Are you all right, Love?" Finding her boots, she sat in a chair and
pulled them on. "Yes, I'm fine." Osiris put his boots on as well and went
to stand beside Taarla at the door where she stood ready to leave. "Taarla,
are you sure this is what you want to do?" he asked her. "I have no other
choice, Love," she answered him. Before she could open the door, Osiris took
her hand, "You don't have to do this... we can find another way." Her eyes
softened as she looked at him, "For now there is no other way and no time to
find a different way... The madness has to end and if it means crossing the
boundaries of the netherworld and going into the abyss itself, I will do it."
Osiris hugged Taarla tightly to him and whispered to her, "I will not lose
you, Love, and if anything should happen to you I will never forgive myself
for allowing you to do this." Taarla looked into Osiris' eyes and softly
said, "You will not lose me... I will find my way back to you wherever the
pathway leads." The two of them then walked out the door and down the stairs
of the inn. Taarla hoped she had made a promise she could keep.
At the bottom of the stairway, Jack Raven and Sir Sentra stood waiting for
them. "Ello, Jack... Sir Sentra," Osiris greeted them. "Afternoon, Osiris,"
Jack hailed him in return. "What are you doing here, Jack?" Taarla asked
him. "Sir Sentra and I are going with you to aid your quest in any way we
can." Taarla stepped off of the bottom stair and looked first at Jack then
at Sir Sentra. "I cannot endanger either one of you by allowing you to go
with us," she stated, but Jack replied, "We are coming whether you like it or
not, Taarla. Remember the fate of Magicstarx... remember the power of the
evil forces that hunt you... Your chances of reaching the boundary in time
will be greater with the assistance of Sir Sentra and me." Osiris looked
towards Taarla and she shook her head. She was against it, but Osiris knew
Jack was right. "As you wish, Jack," Osiris began, "You are aware of the
danger." He looked at Sir Sentra and added, "And you, Sir Sentra... you wish
to come as well?" "Aye, I will aid your quest in whatever way I can," he
answered. Dragonslayer poked his head out of Taarla's pack and meowed. "I
guess the cat is going as well, eh, Osiris?" Jack laughed. "Dragonslayer
goes where I do," Taarla said, and turning she headed for the door of the
inn. As the three men followed her, Jack spoke quietly to Osiris, "How is
Taarla, Osiris... is she all right?" Osiris shook his head, "I am not sure,
Jack. She will not change her mind, and I know if I tried to stop her, she
would go alone and I could not allow that." Osiris placed a hand on the
golden heart that he wore around his neck and prayed to the gods that the
chimes would not fall silent. As the four friends followed the street
leading to the stables, they remained silent, each of them thinking about the
journey ahead.
When they reached the stables, Taarla ignored the stableboy and set about
saddling her horse herself. Osiris and the others did the same, none of them
willing to trust even the young lad they were all acquainted with. The
stableboy watched them without saying a word. He knew by the looks of the
group they meant business and he was not going to be the one to interfere
with them. He remembered the lady and her seemingly gentle manner, but as he
watched her every movement as she saddled her horse, he realized that a
hardness resided within her and she would certainly be a force to be reckoned
with.
Taarla mounted her white mare and the others followed suit. They left the
stables in a clatter of hooves and were soon headed through the eastern gates
towards Floodbest and the woods beyond. Osiris knew of the place his lady
rode. The journey would be long and he hoped they made it in time. He could
sense a great restlessness stirring all around him and he knew Anubiss and
whatever evil joined him grew impatient and would not stop until Taarla and
he were vanquished. He thought of the Lady Tamaris and her role in Anubiss'
plans and he wondered if she felt the same uneasiness. Tamaris and Taarla
were linked for a very long time by their very souls, and Osiris wondered if
they were still linked somehow, even though that link had been broken. Taarla
rarely spoke of it, but he knew she kept many thoughts to herself. He looked
at Taarla riding ahead of him, her back straight in the saddle, her head
never turning as she focused on what lay in front of her. The death of
Magicstarx had hit her hard, but he knew she feared his death more... more
than her very own, and the pain he felt in his heart frightened him. He
could not let anything happen to Taarla... the bond between them was too
great.
Jack Raven rode beside Osiris, and Sir Sentra followed behind them, keeping
his eyes open for anything suspicious. He feared Lady Taarla would meet the
same fate as Magicstarx... he hoped they would be able to see anything
untoward in time to stop that from happening. Jack Raven watched the silent
Taarla and Osiris. For as long as he had known them, he knew they were both
too stubborn, and he also knew the love between them was something rare and
powerful. His heart went out to both of them... to Taarla, though he knew
little about her past, he sensed she had been alone most of her life,
struggling to find a place in the world where she would fit in... to Osiris,
whose wild manner and dark moods had been tamed by a single lady who had come
from nowhere. He wished he could find something to say to them, but for the
moment, he thought it best just to leave them to their thoughts.
The afternoon wore on and soon it was almost dark. Dragonslayer had grown
restless and padded along beside Taarla's horse. Since leaving Neverwinter,
conversations had been brief. So far their journey had gone well and they
had traveled many miles. Taarla did not want to stop, she had wanted to ride
nonstop until she had reached the end of their journey, but the horses needed
to rest. They stopped in a clearing in the woods and as Jack and Sir Sentra
took care of the horses, Osiris and Taarla began preparations for the evening
meal. The four travelers sat around a small fire, and each of them wondered
what the night would bring.
Osiris pulled two blankets from his saddle and wrapped one of them around
Taarla as she sat watching the fire. Jack Raven and Sir Sentra had already
gone to sleep by the horses as Osiris had agreed to keep the first watch.
"Taarla, you need to try to sleep, Love," Osiris said. She looked up at him
and answered, "I will soon, Osi... I just want to think for a bit." As the
reflection of the fire lit her face, he could see the strain already showing
in her eyes, but instead of urging her further, he sat down beside her and
put an arm around her. She rested her head on his shoulder and stared into
the flames of the dwindling campfire.
She watched as the flames flickered and sparks flew like fireflies into the
night sky. She watched until all that remained were the glowing red embers
and tendrils of smoke. Her eyes stared unblinking, even as slight breezes
blew smoke into her face. Her trance-like state was broken when she felt a
sharp sting on her neck and she raised her hand to touch the aching spot.
Drawing her hand away, she looked down and saw it was streaked with blood.
Osiris grabbed her hand as she was stung again. She turned her eyes towards
him and his lips formed the words, "Don't move." She saw insects flying
around them then. Enormous-looking flies darted around them, landing on
their necks and hands, biting them until the blood flowed from the wounds.
Taarla fought the urge to slap the pesky insects. From the look she had seen
in Osiris' eyes, she knew these were no ordinary flies... they were something
much deadlier. Osiris heard a shrill whinny coming from one of the horses
and with that noise, the flies that had surrounded Taarla swarmed towards the
screeching horse. Taarla looked towards where Jack and Sir Sentra lay and
saw that they were not moving. She looked where the horses were tied and saw
that it was her horse being plagued by the stinging flies. She started to
move, but Osiris placed his hand in front of her and halted her movement.
From the sky, a creature suddenly descended, landing beside the horse. Taarla
could not tell what manner of beast it was for the night was so dark and the
fire was nothing but a pile of smouldering ashes. She could see large,
leathery wings protruded from the creature's back and she grimaced as she
heard talons ripping through flesh. Soon, two more creatures joined the
first and Taarla watched and listened as her horse was silenced, and they
began to feast. She never moved, she hardly dared to even breathe. The
seconds passed into minutes, and the minutes seemed to stretch for an
eternity. At last the creatures took flight once again, and the camp was
quiet once more. Taarla's eyes were wide and full of fear at what she had
just witnessed. After several minutes, Osiris got up and cautiously moved
towards the horses.
Jack Raven and Sir Sentra got up then as well and joined Osiris. Not able to
stand it any longer, Taarla rose from her place on the ground and slowly
walked to where the three men stood. She spoke the words of a simple spell
and a ball of light appeared, hovering over her outstretched hand. What she
saw before her made the bile rise in her throat and she clamped a hand over
her mouth to hold back her screams. Her horse was stripped clean of its
flesh, all that remained were its bones amid a pool of blood. Snapping her
fingers, the light was extinguished and it was dark once again. Sir Sentra
said simply, "Gars." Osiris looked at the young ranger and was surprised he
knew of the deadly beasts that had been in their camp. Osiris walked over to
where the badly shaken Taarla stood and began to explain. "Gars are
creatures of the night. They hunt using bloodflies. When the flies sting
the victims, the movement alerts the Gars, and well..." "I understand,
there's no need to continue," she interrupted him. Jack Raven spoke, "We
should go. They may return. Gars are not the smartest of creatures, but I
believe our chances are better if we move on and leave the area." Everyone
agreed and began gathering their blankets and prepared to continue their
journey.
Taarla climbed into the saddle in front of Osiris and just as they were
beginning to leave the clearing, she said, "Wait... where is Dragonslayer?"
Jack Raven shook his head and said, "I haven't seen him since we set up camp
for the night." Sir Sentra shrugged his shoulders indicating he didn't know
of the cat's whereabouts either. "I'm sure he's about, Love... He'll catch
up with us if he isn't ahead of us already," Osiris assured Taarla. She let
out a deep breath and said, "I hope you are right," and her thoughts replayed
the scene of the carcass of her horse and she shuddered.
They continued traveling east, their pace slowed by the darkness of the woods
at night. The motion of the horse and the exhaustion caused by the seemingly
unending events let Taarla fall asleep as she leaned against Osiris. Thankful
that his wife finally slept, Osiris motioned for Jack to slow his horse and
soon they were riding side by side. "Jack, we're being hunted," Osiris spoke
in hushed tones. Jack nodded his agreement. "The Gars are rare... they were
not there by mere chance... they were sent." Taarla stirred in her sleep and
Jack and Osiris were silent for several minutes. When Osiris felt sure she
was sleeping soundly again, he said, "What has Sir Sentra said of the
incident?" Jack responded, "He thinks we are being followed, Osiris... he
has thought it for quite some time. He has not spoken of it because he was
not sure. Now with the appearance of the Gar, he is quite sure of it."
Osiris thought about this for awhile and then said, "We will ride for as long
as we can without resting. Once we stop, one of us will backtrack and see if
we can find out who is following us." Jack nodded his agreement and then
rode towards Sir Sentra to relay the conversation to him. Taarla cursed
silently for she had heard every word. She remembered the conversation she
had overheard in the gardens and knew whoever was following them sought to
keep her from reaching the amulet. It was her they wanted and somehow she
had to think of a way to reach the boundary without further endangering Jack
and Sir Sentra... and most of all, Osiris.
As the sun began to rise, the party reached the edge of the woods and a
barren plain stretched for miles before them. Rocks jutted out from the
earth and on one particular rock sat a very large, orange cat. Taarla saw
him immediately and when she called his name, Dragonslayer ran towards them
and jumped into her lap. "Where have you been, lil' one?" she asked him as
she scratched his ears. Dragonslayer just purred and Taarla was relieved
that her beloved pet had not fallen at the hands of the Gar. "I wonder where
he wandered off to," Jack said. "It's hard to tell with him, Jack," Osiris
answered him. "It's rare that he ever leaves Taarla's side. There must have
been a reason for it. Come, let's keep going. We'll make better time now
that we're out of the forest." Urging the horses foward, they started across
the plain.
After several miles they came to a small stream meandering through the
rock-strewn land and stopped to let the horses rest. Taarla walked to a rock
worn smooth by the weather and the passing of time and sat there as she
waited for Osiris to tend to the horses. She watched as he began talking to
Jack and Sir Sentra and knew one of them would be going back to seek out
whoever was trailing them. As she continued to watch, she saw Sir Sentra nod
and knew it would be him that would be going. His skills as a ranger would
be put to the test, she knew, for whoever or whatever was out there would be
very elusive to being found.
Osiris came to sit on the rock next to her and told her what she already
knew. He told her Sir Sentra was going to go back and try to find out who
was trailing them. She looked at him and saw how tired he was. He had not
slept since they had left Neverwinter and his eyes were darkened with
weariness. She knew without asking that Sir Sentra would go alone... if Jack
or Osiris went with him, it would slow his movements and it would be harder
for their unseen enemy to spot a single rider. She stood up then and walked
over to Sir Sentra as he was preparing to climb back onto his horse.
He turned to her as he saw her approach, and Taarla tried her best to smile
at him. "Milady," he bowed as he greeted her. "Sir Sentra, you do not need
to be so gracious with me. We've been friends for a long time," Taarla said.
"You will just have to get used to it, milady, for I would never greet you
any other way." Taarla smiled, genuinely this time. The young man before
her was one of the first to befriend her when she arrived in the realms
surrounding the town of Neverwinter and as she looked at him she noticed how
much he had changed sinice they first met. He stood several inches taller
than she, when before they had been nearly the same height. She knew that
after Magicstarx had stopped speaking to her, he had continued to teach Sir
Sentra the ways of a true ranger and she was grateful that he had had such a
fine teacher as Magic. She prayed then that he had learned enough to keep
him safe on this journey. Sir Sentra looked at her as she stood unspeaking
and then said, "Don't worry, Taarla, everything will turn out fine... just
you wait and see." "Be careful, my friend. Remember all that you've been
taught," she said to him as he climbed into the saddle. Osiris came to stand
at Taarla's side and spoke as well, "Watch yourself, Sentra... when this is
all over with, I'll introduce you to a friend of mine... a friend by the name
of Frenzy." Sir Sentra laughed and said, "I'm afraid ol' Jack over there has
already acquainted me with that." Jack roared with laughter as he came to
say his farewell. "Aye, I have at that," he said. The group stood in
silence a moment, no one really knowing what else to say, but knowing of the
danger Sir Sentra would be in. "Godspeed to you all," Sir Sentra said with a
wave of his hat and then digging his boots against his horse's sides, he was
headed back towards the woods. "We should go," Taarla said, "no sense
wasting anymore time. There's only a day and a half left to reach the
boundary and it's hard to tell what's going to happen next." With that, the
three of them mounted their horses once again and continued the trek across
the plains that stretched before them. Dragonslayer jumped up in the saddle
with Taarla, apparently deciding he had walked far enough.
The sun was directly overhead and the day grew unseasonably warm. The further
they rode, the rockier their path became and it felt at times they were going
slower here than they had been in the forest. Taarla tried not to think
about Sir Sentra, instead she focused her thoughts on what lay ahead of
her... the boundary of the netherworld, and the Cave of Lost Souls.
*********to becontinued*********
A Story
(Submitted by Elgiem)
Alone at last Elgiem tried unsuccessfully to collect his thoughts. His mind
was a shambles. Even the familiar and normally comforting silence and candle
lit space of the chapel held no comfort for him on this night. He forced
himself thru his daily devotions hoping to dispel the cobwebs from his mind.
Slowly, imperceptibly at first, the familial litany, the time smoothed
nuances of the ancient ritual he had known since childhood took on a life of
their own. His mind was at peace again. Tyr be praised! He then prostrated
himself on the cold stone floor; face up, hands clasped on his chest, and
prayed for Tyr's guidance as he never had before.
He had met the lady Sweet Wisp some time before while on a training outing,
honing his skills in fighting evil. She was a dark haired beauty wearing a
blue drapery embroidered in gold. Elgiem knew that she was an evil presence,
he could feel it in his bones, yet he felt no malice against him. Then he
remembered the words of the witch who had once, unexpectedly helped him when
he was an inexperienced squire; "One of my sisters shall come to you before
long." He had quite forgotten by now yet here she was.
It seemed harmless enough at the time to go along with the lady and hear her
tale. If he was to be waylaid, however sweetly, by witches and sorceress
then it behooved him to learn about them and how to counter their guile. They
fought together against some griffons and their cloud giant masters. The lady
showed extraordinary courage as well as uncommon prowess and they where soon
laughing as they walked about Longsaddle and talked. That's when a fateful
wind blew away the lady's cloak to reveal the medallion that marked her as a
priestess of Bain.
In the weeks that followed they talked seldom. Elgiem kept thinking about
the lady Sweet Wisp. He kept wishing it would all have turned out otherwise.
He strove to put her out of his memory. The loveliest of ladies, and the most
perilous.
All was good and well till they met again at the dracolich's lair in Vilnask.
She was wearing the heavy, deep blue drapery he had first seen her in. Her
long, silky black hair shining as a ravens wings, struggling against the
bondage of tall silver combs. And her eyes, bright amber pools as the clean,
fresh, rain fed water holes often found in the Windyclifts. She was radiant;
he was caught. If the eyes be truly the mirrors of the soul then, by all the
gods! , There could be no evil in her.
With her came the witch who had first announced (or planned?) their meeting.
This made Elgiem uneasy. Had she come to gloat over an easy pray? Was he a
mere pawn in some grand game he failed to comprehend? He resolved to find
his answers. He invited the lady to a walk in the woods four days hence. If
this was just a ploy, her true nature would come thru soon enough. He had
just come from the walk in the woods when he felt the need for guidance and
went to the chapel. No evil could he find in the lady. Nor when they had
fought one another had she revealed any evil intent or performed any evil
actions even tho she had him at her mercy more than once.
The sound of the door opening took his mind away from his memories. Elgiem
looked to the door of the chapel at the silent figure of LordTheido. He
discerned at least a part of his own doubt in his eyes. While walking thru
the woods with the lady Sweet and some others, Elgiem had happened against
LordTheido and the witch. Again the feeling of being in the center of an
inescapable web of lies and deceit came upon him at that moment. Was Sweet
Wisp in league with the witch to snare him, or had they all been caught in
someone else's trap? The two knights looked each other in the eye then
LordTheido left. Elgiem stood, prayed for Tyr's blessing and went to rest.
A Shadow Returns Pt.2
(Submitted by HG Shadow)
The shapes and sounds that had been swimming in Shadow's head came into
focus at last. He opened his eyes and saw a welcome sight; the ceiling of his
room. He sat up, and found himself staring into the smiling face of Renik.
Shadow had to smile also when he saw the look of relief wash across the
visage of his friend.
"Silly Paladin, what did you get yourself into this time?" Renik asked
in mock consternation.
"Actually, this time It wasn't my fault." Shadow responded in a hoarse
voice.
"Oh, of course not."
"No, really. This time I was minding my own business..."
Renik cut him off, "Since when have you ever minded your own business?"
Shadow smiled and continued,"Ok, I'll admit that in the past, on
occasion, I've gotten myself into some pretty good messes by sticking my
sword where it didn't belong. This time though, I was jumped from behind."
Renik remained unconvinced, "Oh, yea? And how did you let that happen?"
Shadow began his tale.
"Some weeks back, I heard a rumor from a spice merchant headed for
Neverwinter. He claimed that the eastern passage from Triboar to Longsaddle
had been re-opened by thieves. He claimed they were using this route to make
good their escape from either town without having to pass though the remains
of Berun's Hill. If this were true, and the thieves were vanquished, passage
from our Hall to the southern lands would be much easier. After days of
near-constant reminders from Sinn about what happened the last time I went
exploring without him, I asked the Wise Raven to join me. On the day of my
disappearance, we rode to the gate to verify the merchant's story. As we
neared the gate, I told Sinn to fly ahead to see if he could spot any
activity from the air. He was too far ahead to warn me when I was ambushed.
"Arriving at the gate, I was attacked by a large group of Trolls. They
were not so many that I was in serious danger, but the battle did require the
majority of my attention. As you know, Fireballs work especially well against
these beasts, and after a pair of such spells cast in rapid succession, only
the three hardiest were left standing.
"As I charged in to finish off the nearest Troll, I noticed movement
behind me at the treeline. My Trident found it's mark and the beast fell
dead. While I reset for the next attack, I cast a quick glance in the
direction of the movement. Standing there, watching the carnage as if he had
no care in the world, was a grimy, old man.
"He wore a stained, brown tunic that bore no emblem or ensignia. What
little white hair remained on his head, appeared desperate to leave. Wisps of
white stuck out in every direction imaginable, and more than a few small
sticks and twigs had become entangled in the dirty mass. As he noticed my
attention, he cocked his head to one side and smiled a silent toothless grin.
My first thought was that someone had left a door unlocked somewhere, and now
their father, or grandfather, had gone a-wandering. My thoughts abruptly
returned to the matter at hand, as the last two Trolls had recovered enough
from my first attack to jointly mount one of thier own.
"The last two beasts roared and charged. They came at me together, yet
far enough apart that a single spell would not kill them both. Having few
options, I hefted my Trident to shoulder level, cocked my arm and threw it
with all my strength. As my weapon flew on its path, I turned and cast a
Magic Missle at the other beast. But as I spoke the encantation, my words
echoed strangely in the woods around me. I realized the danger too late, and
turned to face the old Mage just as a Lightning Bolt struck me square in the
chest.
"The spell hit me with such force that I was thrown back over the two
newly-dead Trolls. I fought the spasms in my arms and legs, trying to bring
my body back under control. Lying on my back, arms still twitching, I heard
the Mage laugh and begin another enchantment. With what remained of my
strength, I rolled to my stomach, brought my knees up under myself and as the
Mage completed the Spell, jumped as high and as far to the side as I could.
Unfortunately, it was not a directed spell that I had struggled in vain to
avoid.
"All I could do is cover my head as the Fireball detonated not five feet
from where I had landed. Once again, I entered the familiar Realm of
Unconsciousness."
To be continued...
The Legacy of the Family Elvensight
::As told by member Unityex::
(Submitted by UnityEX)
Kaelon Elvensight bursts through the door in a fit of rage. "Those
devils at the jewelers will be the end of me...I can't even put the bread on
the table with the exchange they give me!" His wife Alystra was all too
familiar with the entrance of her husband and she just smiled. She knew
there would be bread on the table as it has always been. For Kaelon was a
good and noble man who provided for his family and Alystra, with one child
born and another on its way, was in need of his strength. "Calm down my
husband...you are a good man, there is no need to worry." Kaelon, still
angered, was about to unleash another verbal assualt when his eyes met those
of his wife. Her peacefulness and gentleness seemed to sudue his fury and he
moved over to her, putting his head on her lap. "It's just...that..," he
began.
"I know dear...I know," she responded softly. As she brushed back his hair
and whispered in his ear to calm him a small child entered the room. "Lia!
What are you doing up my child?" The child, not yet able to speak, just
looked up puzzled at Alystra . Gently lifting Kaelon's head and kissing him
on the cheek, she walked over and took her wayward child in her arms. "If
you're up this late the ogres will get ya sweetie," she said with a grin.
Lia just smiled and closed her eyes, not responding to the words her mother
spoke, but more to the warmth of her hold. As Alystra and Lia exited the
room Kaelon was left there to ponder by himself. Thus was a typical night in
the family Elvensight...
...Kaelon was outside cutting wood, but all was not peaceful. He seemed
distressed as his brow cringed in a worried look. Every now and then he
would look over to his dwelling then quickly look away as if he was forbidden
to look upon the house that he had built. As he hurriedly cut the same piece
of wood tenfold, his mind seemed to be someplace else other than on the job
at hand. All the sudden a scream was heard coming from inside the house.
Kaelon turned around to face the noise but did not advance to explore any
further. Picking up the axe he went on cutting the same piece of wood.
Another scream...then another...and another...then all of the sudden an
unsettling silence. Upon hearing no more Kaelon turned again to the house
and gazed upon it as if he was trying to look through the very walls
themselves. He was worried, not that the noise had began, but more on why it
had stopped. A small, more faint cry could now be heard and Kaelon moved
closer to the house, stopping by the door. As he approached the door creaked
open, seemingly inviting him in. Sitting on the bed as he entered, along
with the now sleeping Alystra, was a newborn baby boy. Kaelon walked
silently to the edge of the bed as to not awake his wife, but she seemed to
sense him there and she opened her eyes. "Hello Kae," she said faintly with
a tired smile, "Come hither and give your love and strength to your newborn
son." Kaelon took the boy in one arm and held the hand of his wife in the
other. As they looked into each other's eyes Alystra spoke softly, "And what
shall we call this one M'lord?" she said with a smile. Kaelon glanced upon
the face of his son then at the figure of his peaceful wife. Calling Lia
over to join the family in their happiness Kaelon gladly put forth, "We shall
call this boy Unity...Unity Elvensight!"...
...Lia and Unity were out in front of the house. Lia picked up a huge branch
and bashed Unity on the head with it. "Hey!" Unity cried as he rubbed his
head in disbelief, "What are you doing sis!"
"I'm going to be a strong knight someday and I'm practicing my sword play,"
she said uplifting her head confidently. As she raised the branch to hit her
brother again, Unity moved under the protective shelter of a large tree limb.
Beckoning his sister to come forth and strike him again, she charged
faithfully to honor her brother's request. As she brought the branch down
from over her head she struck the higher, more secure tree limb thus sending
a jolt through her entire body. She dropped the branch in shock and
confusedly said, "Hey! What are you going bro?"
"I too plan to be a powerful knight someday...and I'm practicing using my
wits to overcome headstrong bullies like yourself!" Unity responded
confidently.
"Headstrong...what?...you little..." Lia got to her feet and grabbed the
branch rushing at her brother...while Unity, foreseeing his sister's actions,
nimbly climbed the huge tree in front of him. Just then Alystra stuck her
head out the window, "Suppertime children...come in and eat!" Lia and Unity,
both refusing to pass up a good meal, smiled at each other, embraced, then
enterd the house to eat their fill (Lia still holding the branch)...
...Kaelon drew his sword as he approached the deserted campsite. He seemed
to sense that all was not right as he walked cautiously to examine the still
warm embers. He was unfamiliar to seeing such a campsite so close to his
land and wondered who it belonged to. He sat and sifted through the camp,
reviewing personal items that were left behind. Nothing he found answered
his many questions and puzzled he turned to leave and head back to his home
and awaiting family. As he approached his horse an arrow whizzed passed his
head and struck his steed in the neck. Jumping to his side out of instinct
Kaelon avoided a bombardment of ajoining arrows that were trying to find
their deadly mark. Kaelon turned to face his enemy with the look of the
devil in his eyes and the strength of a tiger in his grip. Brandishing his
sword and holding it in the direction of the activity filled brush, his enemy
came out of hiding...one by one. The first orc charged foolishly and met his
death quickly...he was the lucky one. The rest, more cautious but confident
in their numbers, charged Kaelon all at once. As they cut and slashed at
Kaelon he fended them off effortlessly, moving back as he parried their
blows. As he stepped further back he tripped on the now fallen carcass of
his dead horse and fell to the ground. The orcs, in their bloodlust, renewed
their frenzy, managing to wound Kaelon in the process with a cut to his
wrist. Upon seeing his own blood, much like a wounded lion, Kaelon jumped up
and quickly dispatched the rest. With little time to rest Kaelon noticed
smoke coming from the direction of his house. With the worst in his mind he
ran with haste through the fire filled fields towards his house. He was met
with a disturbing sight...one he was not prepared for...
Kaelon's house was burnt near to the ground. All that remained were
the doorframe and the reinforced back room. Approaching disheartened and
moving quickly through the ruins, Kaelon rushed to the door of the back room.
Pounding on the door Kaelon was met only with the cries of his family inside.
"It is I, Kaelon...open the door, they have left." A large bolt could be
heard releasing from within and the door opened easily shortly thereafter.
The sight that met Kaelon's eyes was not as easy, however. Unity layed
hunched over the the fallen figure of his mother with Lia running to join the
two after she opened the door. "What is going on here?!" Kaelon cried out in
disbelief, but there was only silence...
Moving upon the figure of his fallen wife, Kaelon carefully brushes
his children aside to glance at Alystra. Still breathing, with an arrow
embedded in her chest, she looks into Kaelon's eyes and he notices that she
is still peaceful. "Are they gone M'lord?" she asks painfully forming the
words. Kaelon, with a tear in his eye, just nods his head.
"Good...<cough>...that is..." But she cannot finish her statement and tired,
she again closes her eyes. Kaelon, kneeling by her head, lays it on his lap.
Brushing her hair and whispering in her ear, he tries to comfort her pain.
She again opens her eyes and Kaelon is there to meet her gaze. He notices
not peacefulness but instead fear...then nothing...
Putting his hand over her eyes, he closes them for the last time.
Gathering Lia and Unity under his arms, Kaelon lowers his head and weeps for
the first time...
...five years later...
Kaelon stood by the window of his house and looked over the land in
vigilant watch. "I'll be ready for those cretins if they decide to show
themselves. They will not get by me this day!" Unity and Lia glanced at the
all to familiar sight and Lia got up to leave the house. "Where are you
going sis?" Unity asked politely.
"OUT!" barked Lia. As she turned leave, Kaelon shouted his warning at Lia to
avoid the north road and then continued his watch. Unity looked at his
father and got up to comfort him. As the door slammed shut with Lia's exit
Unity spoke softly to his father, "Do not trouble yourself with this watch
M'lord...it is not your battle anymore. Sit and rest, for Lia and I are
capable of handling any trouble that comes our way."
"As long as I can carry my sword and speak the King's english there will be
no one that will relieve me of this post...do you understand son?!" Kaelon
turned to Unity and stared at him with sane eyes. Upon Unity's approval
Kaelon continued his watch.
The sound of running footsteps were heard approaching the door. Unity
drew his sword and prepared for the worst while Kaelon put his hand on
Unity's shoulder to hold him back. "Put that away before you hurt yourself
son," he said with a smile, "It is only your sister." Unity, feeling
foolish, did as his father said. Lia came bursting through the door in a
fury. "Those devils at the jewelers...I've had enough of the likes of
them!!" Kaelon, recognizing the voice that was once his, quietly laughed to
himself, which turned to bitter shock when Lia continued to tell how she ran
a jeweler through with her sword for insulting her.
"You did what?!" Kaelon exclaimed, but it was too late, the guards
were already approaching. As Unity and Lia began to panic, Kaelon traveled
outside to try and talk to the three guards. From inside the house Unity and
Lia heard their father reasoning with the guards and taking the blame for
what happened upon himself. The reasoning turned to arguing and the arguing
escalated into shouting. Unity, afraid for his father's safety, grabbed his
sword with an unfamiliar feeling of might rather than wits, and charged
outside, running one of the guards through.
"Noooo!!...Unity!!" screamed Kaelon, but his warning was late as the
guards drew their swords. However, his reflexes were not. Kaelon parried a
deadly blow that was heading for Unity, one that Unity did not see, then
kicked the other guard to the floor. "There is no reason to fight here!"
shouted Kaelon as he tried to subdue the guards without hurting them, "The
family Elvensight believes in honor and atoning for false actions." The
guards stood there as Kaelon explained that he would go peacefully with the
guards to pay whatever the penalty was for his family's wrongdoings. The
guards, realizing that they would be bested by force, accepted this and tied
Kaelon's hands and began to lead him away. Lia came running out of the house
but was stopped cold by Kaelon's glare. "Do not worry children, everything
will be alright," Kaelon said calmly. But as he turned to leave one of the
guards seized the treacherous moment and stabbed Kaelon in the back with a
dagger he had taken from his pack...
Falling to his knees, Kaelon could only watch helplessly as his
children drew their swords and killed the remaining two guards. As Unity and
Lia circled back to back, awaiting the possibility of more guards, Kaelon lay
in the mud dying slowly. The rage having subsided Unity noticed his father
down on the ground. "Father!"
Rushing over to him with Lia right behind they fell to their knees to
try and help Kaelon. "It is too late for me my children...I will soon
pass...mine is a mortal wound. But with my death I give you life. You must
leave this place and start anew. Travel north and seek out the Knights of
the Round Table. Listen to what they have to say and learn from your
mistakes. If they honor you with acceptance, honor them with allegiance. If
they teach you how to survive, show them what you have learned by surviving.
You've been born into a family with rich history, honor us by honoring
thyself and others around you. Your mother would have wanted it that
way...she was a good and noble spirit and she passed that on to the both of
you...<cough>...do the family prou...proud..." And with that Kaelon passed
away. Unity cradled the body of his father in his arms, "We will father," he
said crying, "We will..."
And thus begins the destiny of Unity and Lia Elvensight...where they
go or who they become is yet to be seen...
Unity Elvensight "The Lone Squire"
Sister to Ldy Lia and squire to Sir
Darkon
of the Knights of the Round Table
Eternity Blade part 5
(Submitted by Lian Storm)
I greeted the sunrise silently, trying to block out my pain. The white
hot agony I had been forced to see a few hours ago was still fresh in my
mind. The rising sun did little to ease or heal it. I glared at Eternity, the
elven sword lodged in the ground next to me. In the back of my mind, behind
the pain and the anger, was Elbereth's guilt. Couldn't he understand that the
last thing I wanted was to have him in my head? I threw a rock at the sword's
sapphire pommel. I missed, but he took the hint and the guilt faded away
almost immediately.
Footsteps sounded behind me. Preferring not to use the enchanted sword,
I drew a small dagger from my boot and spun to face the noise. A tall man in
a bent mage's cap and dark blue robes that were far too short for him stood
in the shadows.
"Really, Lianne!" he said indignantly, "Does my friendship mean so
little? Ye're a fickle woman!"
"Funny, that's what my last five lovers have said," I intoned, sheathing
the dagger.
"Five?" he said eyebrows rising, "Has it been a slow week?" I smiled
back and stuck out my tongue. We continued the exchange until we were
interrupted by a tinkling giggle from Nina. With a flutter of her
butterfly-like wings, a red faerie dragon, no larger than a small cat, glided
over to my discarded sword. I tried to warn her that it would shock her, as
it had everyone but be who'd touched it. Nina lightly perched it and wrapped
herself around the hilt, showing no signs of pain.
"Eternity will not harm any who walk the path of light," she purred
contentedly, in her high pitched laughing voice. "Justar and I translated the
runes, and they told us the true purpose of your sword." She began to read
the old rhyme in high elvish. I could make out almost nothing, but a voice in
the shadows repeated quietly:
"Eternity, may you grant Life,"
"Chose a champion of Light,"
"To strike down Death,"
"And endless evil Night."
Divon stepped reverently out from the tree's shadows. The moon elf
seemed to forget his sorrow and become transfixed upon Eternity.
"The rhyme," Nina purred, "means your sword is sworn to protect light
and life, so it will not strike at people of a benign nature." She noticed my
confused look. "The company you guided were most likely mercenaries, acting
in their own interest. The blade's purpose is to fight evil and death. I
believe that would suggest an ability to heal." I nodded. The sword had
healed me on more than one occasion. On an impulse, I flexed my knee, were
the troll's hand had wounded me. It was healed. I removed the bandage and
found no scar. At first I thought it had been Elbereth, but I had triggered
the healing, I realized, by wanting to stop the pain.
"I suggest," said Justar, "that you take it to Evermeet. In fact, I've
arranged passage on the Selkie for you."
I stared blankly at him. His jokes were often offensive, but they had
never been so cruel. I was only half elven and Evermeet remained forever
beyond my reach. And he knew it pained me greatly. I could already feel a
burning anguish as I pictured the disgust on the face of some elven captain
at the thought of taking "a 'breed" aboard. When I came to Waterdeep, I had
only planned to see Divon on his way, the set out south for Evereska, where
half elves were accepted, if not openly welcomed. Again I felt Elbereth's
sorrow rise in the back of my mind. It was all too much!
I grabbed Eternity, threw it at the moon elf and stormed away before the
first tears fell.
I found my way to the City of the Dead, Waterdeep's vast graveyard. I
sank to the ground behind its huge statue of battling warriors, tears
steaming down my face. I shouldn't have lashed out at Divon, simply because
he could live happily in a paradise coincidence had forever exiled me from.
He had already been through so much. I forgave Elbereth and Justar in those
cathartic moments; they had been trying to help me. It wasn't their fault.
All my anger washed out by a flood of tears, I was left empty. I had done
this often when I was a child. Too proud to let others know that their taunts
hurt me, I cried alone. When I left to seek adventure I had found some
acceptance, but the names, the rejection, the alienation still wounded me.
"Don't cry, oh please, don't cry." It was Elbereth's voice. I lifted my
head as if I expected to see him, but I was still alone. I sighed and nodded
resolutely, not trusting my voice to be strong yet. I had cried enough
anyway.
"It will all be fine," the elf's voice said soothingly. I was amazed at
how quickly his kind words affected me. I whished he could be her with me,
and to feel his gentle touch again. Then I remembered another who needed the
elf's compassion more than I did.
"Will you talk to Divon for me?" I asked out loud. Had anyone been
passing they would have taken me for a lunatic. "He lost his human love.
Justar and I-" I paused to collect myself, "He needs another elf to talk to."
"I understand," Elbereth said solemnly. There was a pause and then he
spoke soothingly once again. "Lianne, I can arrange for you to go to
Evermeet. Will you come with me?"
Hope filled the empty space in my heart. I had denied that possibility
for so long and now it was handed to me. My voice quavered again, this time
with joy
"Yes!"
Death on the Winds
(Submitted by UDL Diablo)
The spectre floated slowly up the wall of the spire, the tallest tower in the
Castle of Bones. The night was dark, clouds blowing in from all directions.
It was a night of insights, as Diablo reached the top, resting there, his
crimson eyes taking in the brewing storm.
Yes, a storm was brewing, but one night like this night, but one where it
would rain blood, one where the winds would be the battle cries of the many.
It was all coming to a head soon, within days and tonight Diablo sought more
answers.
Looking up into the swirling darkness, the demonic spectre set words on the
winds. "Myrkul, give me a vision, grant this to one who serves you well',
the sound traveled. The words were repeated many times over a period of
hours as Diablo sat and watched, an occasional scream from the castle below
the only other sound besides the storm.
Then the clouds started to flash with lightning as a small area started to
glow a soft red. A face formed within the clouds, a face of death, Myrkul.
The crimson eyes of the spectre glowed through the night as Diablo rose and
stood before his lord.
"War is coming Diablo, many souls shall embrace me, but it is of another I
need speak. With war another god grows strong my servant. You know of whom
I speak. His servants, those of the light, bring them down Diablo. I give
thee this quest, do not fail me", the last words spoken as to drive home the
fear of failure.
"I shall not fail you master", the spectre bows before the night. "The
soldiers shall be brought to their knees as is your will".
The storm then moved out as quickly as it appeared, only the wind remaining,
but now adding it's howl to the screams from below. Diablo had heard
Myrkul's words and thought about the consequences. Spawn had declared the
Camarilla an enemy, The Protectorate situation was about to come to a head
and now Myrkul asks for this.
The spectre then floats from the tall spire and drifts out into the darkness
of the night. Diablo needed to hunt once again, to search for answers to
this vision. He also needed to hear from the others within the castle, as to
their thoughts on Myrkul's desire.
Part 7 - Bandits
(Submitted by Whiiplash)
Although Whiiplash rode along the beaten path toward Neverwinter, his
thoughts remained back with the small town and the minotaur. Daggers of guilt
stabbed at his heart for what he had done. His boyhood dreams of becoming a
hero were shattered by the all too real feelings of remorse for killing the
minotaur. There were a hundred things he could have done, yet in that instant
he chose to destroy it. Suddenly Whiiplash realized that it was so very easy
to follow the dark path, that the weak fall prey to the darkness. His sudden
realization of what could befall him should he always kill sent a chill up
his spine. He thought of the raiders destroying his town, and he made a
second vow to the gods, riding along that beaten path -- he would not fall
prey to the consuming darkness.
Suddenly Whiiplash realized it was quiet. For how long it had been like
this he did not know, but it seemed unnatural. The birds' songs were
silenced, the wind halted. Hand hovering near his sword, he urged his mount
to move faster through this creepy area.
Movement caught his eye. Quickly snatching his sword from its place at
his side, Whiiplash whirled the horse around. A huge creature, humanlike but
with broad shoulders and rippling muscles, stood at the edge of the forest.
Its tusked face was disgustingly deformed, with hair sprouting from its
thick, leathery hide, making it look more animal than man. Its nose was
peirced by a ring of gold, which the creature tugged at, grinning. The other
hand held a massive spiked club.
Whiiplash, disgusted by the creature, turned to leave. Sword still in
hand, he hoped the creature would stay where it was. Without warning it
hefted the club two-handed, walking slowly toward the horse and rider.
Whiiplash quickly mouthed the words to a druid's spell. Startled, the
creature looked down at his feet. Roots and plants were growing from the
ground, wrapping themselves around the surprised beast. More sprouted from
the ground, entangling themselves around the creature's arms. Soon the
creature stood neck-deep in roots and plants, a surprised look still on its
face. It grunted and tried to break free, but the thick roots easily kept him
in place.
Whiiplash, sorry to leave it like that but sure it would eventually
break free, began to ride away. He did not see, or feel, the poison dart that
had caught him on the back of the neck...
He awoke in darkness. He was suddenly afraid they had cut off his limbs,
but after wiggling about feeling returned to them. His face was burnt by the
fire crackling nearby, and he opened his burning eyes to let the painful
firelight in. He struggled to break free of the tight ropes, but they held
him securely to the ground. Not only that, but he was gagged to keep him from
spellcasting.
"The magic-user awakens... Grog, get over here." The voice was young,
but seemed to hint at experience. Whiiplash tried to turn his head, but he
could not see the one who spoke. Grog, it seemed, was the creature he had
entangled in the roots, for after being called he stomped over to Whiiplash
and ripped the gag off.
"Cast a spell and we'll cut your throat. Understand?" Whiiplash tried to
nod and mumbled he did, and the man continued. "Good. Now, who are you?"
Whiiplash was slightly surprised by the blunt question. He tried to
loosen the rope holding down his neck before talking. "I go by Whiiplash,
Guardian Druid of the Grove."
"I see. Never heard of them. Grog?" The creature shrugged, a tusked grin
splitting his face. "Hmm... We are looking for more... members. Your magic
would make you a very... interesting... addition to our elite little group.
Of course we aren't going to let you go right away, I'm still thinking of a
way to prove your loyalty. Until I find one, you will remain bound and
gagged. Of course if you refuse I'll let Grog have you..." The main got up
and walked away, shouting back, "Oh, should you think of something, just
call!"
Whiiplash awoke to sounds of fighting nearby. He tried to wiggle free of
his bonds, but they were tightly knotted and staked. The fighting was
obviously fierce, as he could hear Grog roaring and pounding his club against
something. Whiiplash recognized the chanting of a mage, but the words and
spells were strange to him. A thunderous explosion rocked the nearby trees,
and Whiiplash realized this as his possible salvation. He quickly tried to
bite through his gag to call out to his saviors.
Grog roared again. The hair had been singed from his face and arms, but
he raised his bloody spiked club for another bash. The fighter seemed made of
iron, for he easily knocked aside the club with his small shield and taunted
his opponent with his free blade. Blood flowed from his arms and face, but he
ignored it. With a deft stroke, he sent his longsword wiggling in through the
creature's meager defenses. Surprise crossed the ogre's face an instant
before the grinning fighter drove his sword home.
The mage was easily keeping the young theif at bay with her enchanted
quarterstaff. The theif lunged, trying to score even a small scratch before
she unleashed another deadly explosion. His left arm hung limp, scorched.
Clothes were nearly disintegrated, and his longsword, taken from the
unconcious Whiiplash, was hot in his hand. He tried to get through the
swinging quarterstaff, but he was too clumsy with the sword. Soon, the mage
finished chanting and her hands glowed with a deep fire. A small ball formed,
a mass of fire, and suddenly hurtled toward the theif. He dropped to the
ground, thinking himself lucky, but suddenly screamed as another explosion
burnt the nearby trees and incinerated the screaming young theif.
The mage searched through the sickly corpse, saying, "Hmm, don't see
their like around here often. And look, the theif weilds quite a powerful
weapon... Seems they've had at least a little luck in their work." The mute
fighter waited for the longsword to cool before hefting it in one hand and
adding it to his backpack's collection. Both fighter and mage turned as
someone called out to them from nearby in the forest.
The fighter was tall, with broad shoulders and a calm, stone face. He
carried a huge two-handed sword, which he promptly drew and moved toward
Whiiplash. His chain armor glowed with a soft red light, blending with the
golden glow from his cloak. He seemed to study Whiiplash, his tall frame and
glowing armor making him seem like some kind of demigod. Whiiplash tried to
mumble out something, but the man seemed not to understand.
The mage approached behind the fighter. She was small, and her pointed
ears and graceful movements betrayed her as of elven descent. She whispered
something in the fighter's ear, and he moved toward Whiiplash, sword in hand.
Whiiplash stuttered out a plead for help, and just as he thought the killing
blow about to be delivered, he carefully cut his bonds.
"Thank you..." Whiiplash said, rubbing his aching limbs. The fighter
reached into his backpack and retrieved the longsword. Whiiplash quickly
checked through his robes, and found all of his possessions. His longbow was
nearby, against his tree, though it seemed that his horse had been driven
off. The mage nodded, and the fighter disappeared into the forest, following
the horse's faint tracks.
"You are fortunate."
Whiiplash nodded agreement, still rubbing his wrists.
"Why did they keep you alive?" The elf seemed friendly enough, with a
generous smile and a fair face.
"They wanted me to join them. I was going to refuse and let them kill
me, but thankfully you showed up. The gods are with me today..." Whiiplash
said, his smile showing much thanks.
"No need. We are of a noble guild, sworn to protect. You were in need,
we will help. Merklon will be back soon with your horse, he is a ranger. My
name is Roanna. And yours?"
"Whiiplash... Are you by chance on your way to the city of Neverwinter?"
Whiiplash secretly hoped to ask them of the Black Widow. Thankfully the mage
kept him from wandering back to thoughts of the minotaur...
"Indeed. We would be pleased if you were to join us."
"Thank you, once again. You are very kind..."
Soon, the strange fighter named Merklon returned. He lead Whiiplash's
tan horse.
"Oh, you must excuse Merklon. He does not speak our language...." She
paused, lost in other thoughts. "Come, Neverwinter awaits."
History of a Seeker
Part 8 - Companions
(Submitted by Whiiplash)
They rode in silence. Tall trees, dark and mysterious, towered overhead,
creatures scittering along their heights. Below, the forest floor was damp,
with a strange mist hanging low and thick. Silence was broken only by the
cries of distant birds, or the deep rumbling that came from deep within the
forest's heart.
The elven mage riding alongside him named the forest 'Neverwinter Wood'.
Eyes, glowing with inner evil, peered at them from the concealing shadows,
and Whiiplash pulled his robes closer to him as they rode along a narrow
path. This Neverwinter Wood was putting him on the edge of sanity.
Darkness overtook them. Shrouding the normally dark woods in total
blackness, the three riders rode close together and swiftly, weapons drawn at
all times. Yet, for some reason, none dared leave the masking shadows in
which they hid.
Whiiplash peered into the darkness and thought of the strange evil
seeming to permeate everything in this creepy forest. His eyes wandered and
locked with those in the darkness, their eyes betraying the evil within in
their souls. They seemed to glare at him... Whiiplash thought they would
charge them at any and every opportunity, yet still they hid within the
trees.
Suddenly the elven mage leaned over to him and whispered, "We near the
road leading to Neverwinter... Soon we shall be free of this cursed wood."
Pleased at the thought of being free of the maddening creatures, he
rested easier in his saddle.
They entered Neverwinter's gates silently. The streets were filled with
adventurers, although the commonfolk of the town lay slumbering. Taverns were
packed with drunken soldiers, and brawls could be heard erupting through the
night. The three companions parted company, biding farewell to each other and
going about their business. Whiiplash watched the two go, thinking of what he
would do next. What would he do? He hadn't given any thought as to why he
came here, who he could find to help him. He dismissed the idea of asking
every adventurer passing by even before it occured to him, for surely they
would not listen to his woeful tale. Sighing in resolve, he began to wander
from tavern to tavern, telling himself there must be someone that can help
him in his lifequest.
This tavern, like the others, smelled of foul smoke and ale. People were
crowded into the small room, laughing and arguing amongst themselves. Toward
the back, men sat around a table, cards arrayed in some strange fashion for
some odd game. Whiiplash sat down at a table listening to all that was said
with more than common interest. While not sure of what he would find, his
hope led him to believe that there must be something to defeat an army of
fighters.
The night dragged on. He had seen people come and go, even asked a few
if they knew anything about mercenaries or the Black Widow, whatever that
was. No one knew of the artifact or of mercinaries, but several knew of
adventurers willing to help those in need.
Whiiplash approached one of those such adventurers. He stood outside the
inn, talking with a man in a Neverwinter uniform, their laughter echoing
through the night. The man turned as Whiiplash approached, greeting him with
a wave of his hand. Across his back was strapped some kind of two-handed
mace, its barbed head glowing with a sparkling light. He was fully armored in
white plate mail, scrubbed clean and reflecting images upon its surface. He
appeared to be heavily built underneath the armor, making him appear fearsome
in his clerical items. He turned again to the tattered druid, who now stood
beside him, waiting for his attention.
"Yes?" The cleric asked, waving farewell to his companion.
"I met a man inside this inn, said you could help me." Whiiplash went on
to describe his position, and his need for revenge. He related his tale, from
his escape from the raiders to passing through Neverwinter Wood, into a small
village and finally to Neverwinter.
"I see... Revenge is a dangerous thing, young Whiiplash. Perhaps you
should seek out a friend of mine, he may be able to help you. Tell him Jaden
sent you... He should be at the Red Mage Inn, you can spot him by his blue
robes, a green symbol on the chest... Good luck..."
Whiiplash thanked him and began to wander the city of Neverwinter in
search of the Red Mage Inn.
It didn't take him long. Inside the small but clean Inn, a man sat at a
table with several others, talking. He wore blue robes, and a green symbol
was woven onto his chest. This was him.
"Excuse me, sir, Jaden said you would be able to help me."
"Help you? With what, friend?" He stood up and motioned for him to join
him at the bar. The man pulled back his hood and turned to the young druid.
He seemed powerful, as if it could be felt, a strange magical aura
surrounding him. Whiiplash began to tell his tale, missing nothing. Soon he
finished, talking to him of Jaden, the man he had met in the square.
"I see. I can only think Jaden sent you because I am the recruiter for
the Seekers."
"The Seekers?"
"Come, it would be best if I were to show you." The man reached out and
touched the young druid on the arm, and suddenly they were gone.
Whiiplash staggered. The quick transport had caused a moment of
disorientation, and blinked his eyes rapidly.
The Seeker Hall was magnificent. In the center of the huge room, a
fountain sprayed crystaline shards of water, which reflected light in
beautiful rainbow patterns as it dispersed into a fine mist. The walls rose
up at least three dozen feet, and upon them were woven murals, depicting
armored figures fighting back creatures and great mages wreaking their magic
upon beings of evil. It seemed to change, slowly, as if it were showing the
battles as they unfolded. Men rode atop dragons' backs, precariously fighting
hundreds of feet above the ground. Others fought in the forests, driving back
armies of undead, or protecting towns from certain destruction at the hands
of great worms. Still more fought in natural, underground caverns, battling
with fearsome creatures or great magicians of the dark arts. Whiiplash stood
in awe of the great works, his eyes wandering from scene to scene, from
battle to battle. Behind him the man in the blue robes watched, smiling.
Soon, Whiiplash exhausted himself. There were more murals, but it seemed
as if they would go on forever if he didn't stop now.
"Come, there is much more." The man ascended a great spiraling
staircase, leaving behind the main hall, with its beautiful fountain and
woven murals, flagstone floor and oaken doors.
The second level was just as incredible. Down a long, sunlit hallway,
doors branched off to the living quarters. They were finely furnished, with a
pleasant view and luxurious beds. Past the living quarters, a great iron door
stood. Upon its surfaced was cut "Seeker Guild Vaults -- See Senior
Officers". The man turned at the last door, however, before the great door.
He opened it up and motioned that it was his room.
"My room?" Whiiplash was awestruck, as it was furnished as splendidly as
the others'.
"Of course -- until you leave or join, you are our guest. We treat our
guests as best we can. You may leave your weapons here."
The underground level was just as spectacular. In its seemingly sunlit
hallways, corridors branched off to shops and the library. The alchemist's
shop smelled of sulfur, its large space packed full of potions and brewing
devices. Whiiplash even caught the scent of ale, and suspected they were not
all magical brews of healing and strength.
The "Enchanter's Emporium" was basically cluttered with magical devices,
from wands to amulets, plate mail to tridents. It seemed as though no one
worked at the shops, and when he raised the question to the man leading him
through the area, he simply said that everyone helped themselves.
The library was huge. Shelves upon shelves of books lined the walls, and
packed islands of bookshelves crowded the center. Small gnomes scurried
about, constantly rearranging and writing down in a large tome on the nearest
table. The library seemed to extend down to lower levels, and soon they were
descending these stairs, the man leading the gaping drid along. At the base
of the stairs, at least two levels down, he found A man sitting at a table,
apparently absorbed into a book.
"Ahem."
The man glanced up from his book and smiled, motioning for Whiiplash to
be seated. He explained that Dethlicker, the man who had brought him here and
the cheif recruiter, was quite busy.
"He should be able to talk to you later, though. I am in no position to
assign you a quest, necessary to being accepted, so you'll have to wait. I
can, however, tell you of the laws and such required of a Seeker."
"Wait... Quest? Gods, I got one already! That's the whole reason I'm
here!" Whiiplash, for seemingly the hundredth time, retold what had befallen
him.
"I see." Deere Jon said after the druid had explained everything. "Well,
I will have to talk to Dethlicker, but I suppose that's alright... Well, I
suppose we should find you some Seeker clothes, eh?" He leafed through his
book a moment, studying a few pages, then put a cloth bookmark in and touched
Whiiplash on the arm.
A burst of light and color, a little dizziness, and a lot of confusion,
and they were standing outside the huge iron door. He touched his hand to it,
and cursed when nothing happened. "DETHLICKER!!!" He shouted, the name
echoing through the halls. In a second the called Seeker appeared, looking a
little irritated.
"Yes?"
"Open the door, I'm going to get him into some decent clothes. I'll
explain about the skipping of the quest later."
Dethlicker nodded and touched the huge iron door. Slowly, with a
protesting screech, it swung inward.
What Whiiplash saw made him stumble. Inside the door, a huge room was
full of armor and weapons, artifacts and gadgets. Swords of power hung on
walls, armor, glowing with magic, rested in upright positions about the room.
Suits of chain mail hung on pegs, and chests full of bracers and rings rested
in far corners. A bookcase was cluttered with scrolls, and a pile of jewels
lay near the far corner. Long, Y-shaped tabards of blue cloth, the green
symbol of the Seekers emblazoned upon it, hung on the near walls. Deere Jon
grabbed one of these and motioned for him to take it. He disappeared for a
minute and came back arms full of Whiiplash's stuff. He inspected the sword,
sighed, and tossed it in what was apparently a trash chest. He handed a huge,
two-handed sword to Whiiplash, its hilt set with jewels and blade glowing
fiercely. He began to hand the startled Whiiplash various items, including a
suit of sparkling chan mail, a set of magical bracers, a small golden ring
and a set of finely made padded leather boots.
Deere Jon tossed all but Whiiplash's longbow (which he never learned to
use) and his robes, explaining it was incredibly powerful, a variation of the
famous "Cloak of Elven Kind". Whiiplash wandered back to his beautiful guest
room and tried on the equipment. The chain mail fit perfectly, as if by
magic, although he skipped the heavy looking chain helm (or whatever). He
slipped on the long tabard, its length hanging to his knees. The heavy sword
he sheathed on his back, shouldered the longbow, and donned his ring,
bracers, and boots. When all this was finished, he glanced in the mirror and
smiled. He quickly slipped on the heavy robes, but finding them quite hot,
left them on his bed instead. Outside, he found Deere Jon waiting, impressed
by the druid-turned-warrior. He then touched the druid on the arm and they
disappeared, whisked upon magic's wings down to the underground training
level.
GOOD VERSUS EVIL - THE ENCOUNTER
(Submitted by Bobsil1)
The ederly wizard awoke from a deep Neverwinter slumber. Over the hundreds
of years of his existence, a truly sound sleep had become a treat to be
relished. His bones betrayed their age as he shuffled across the floor. He
smiled as he thought to himself, "Ol' wiz is so tired."
The sorcerer picked up a long staff, worn smooth with use over the years. As
he nestled the familiar object in his gnarled hands he seemed to feed off an
energy within it. He quickly muttered a familiar incantation as he peered
towards the window. A purple haze formed on the window sill.
As the mist dissipated, four tiny winged dragons appeared and perched in a
row on the sill of the large window. With the wave of his hand the small
creatures flew towards the heavens, each soaring in a different direction.
The mage then walked to a table which displayed a large crystal sphere. He
peered at the images within the clear globe. It presented an airborne view
from the four corners of Neverwinter. Whatever the eyes of the flying
dragons viewed, so did the ancient seer. At this time all that there was to
see was the peaceful calm that enveloped Neverwinter.
He made his way to the large stone fireplace where a small fire burned and
removed a black caldron from the shelf above. Hanging the pot over the fire
he poured water from a pitcher into the vessel and threw in some herbs. This
making of his morning brew was a ritual he cherished.
He poured the dark liquid into a golden, jewel encrusted tankard. A gift
from Lord Nasher, given to the old mage, for kindnesses and good deeds done.
A conjuring of the more difficult variety, in his later years at least,
seemed to leave him drained. He relaxed in front of the fireplace, seated in
a large thrown type chair, sipping the warm mixture he had prepared, all the
while enjoying the tranquility of the lands.
The day passed and night fell without incident. He decided an evening stroll
would be enjoyable and headed out the door towards town. He followed the
winding pathway into the darkness heading toward the town proper of
Neverwinter. As he travelled closer to the town the magician noted an
uneasiness in the air. He had not yet been able to quite grasp what it was.
Then, with only the warning of an unusal cold chill in the air, an ominous
image emerged from the darkness. The figure was clothed in long, flowing
black robes that draped to the ground. A large, full, black hood concealed
the features of the wearer. Glowing eyes peered forth from inside the hood.
It too, carried a long staff.
Although difficult to discern in the night, once the eyes were adjusted to
the darkness and one looked closely enough, it was apparent that there was a
black ectoplasmic energy emanating from the staff. Some things are birthed
and thrive in the dark corners of the the night and there was little doubt
that this fit snugly into that category. There was an aura surrounding the
apparition and one could not mistake that it was the essence of evil.
The old mage, taken aback and startled, steeled himself from showing any
reaction or emotion. Such a display would only be interpreted as a sign of
weakness. The aging seer knew from instinct that if this hideous creature
sensed any fear whatsoever, there would be a battle to the death. Whose
death was an uncertainty. Now was not the time nor the place for such an
encounter. There would be no battle as long as the evil one believed that
his black magic was not substantially more powerful than that of his
adversary.
The dark one spoke. "Out for an evening stroll, old man?", he questioned.
The old magician answered his query with a question. "What is your business
here in Neverwinter?"
The dark mage queried back, "my business you ask?" "My business is
Neverwinter. Soon it will be my dominion. The battles will continue, only
now the true evil will be unleashed. I have no quarrel with you old man, so
do not involve yourself further. That is my warning. Heed it well!"
The old man replied, "Neverwinter is under my protection. Heed that well, oh
dark one!"
The black figure lifted his staff high in the air, thought better of his
reaction, and lowered it without incident. "So be it. Till we meet again
then." With a wave of his hand, the evil one enveloped himself in a dark
cloud. When the cloud dissipated, all that remained was a haunting, mocking
laughter, trailing off in the distance.
The old mage returned home. That evening he did not enjoy the peaceful sleep
that he had the night before. Nor did he the next evening, nor the next
after that. Only disturbing visions of what was yet to come haunted his
sleep. But those visions are for another time.
The Protectorate Race Around NWN..
OFFICIAL RESULTS
The Protectorate race was a success.. Leaving from the Neverwinter Gardens,
racers had to run to Triboar then to Long Saddle Under & get the Incadecent
Jewel.. Then run to the Westbridge Inn, then back to Triboar Under & get the
Letter with the Squid Emblem & then get back to NWN..
Here are the results of the race folkz.. And thier time to finish.. CONGRATS
SIR LIONE.. a TP Paladin & winner of Gauntlets of Orge Giant Strength & a +2
Mirrored Shield..
Sir Lione 38 minutes 45 seconds
Erezendes 40 minutes 0 secs
Lrd Feanor 59 minutes 45 sec
TP TEC 1 hour 43 minutes
Havock 1LE 1 hour 47 minutes 40 seconds
Hmm.. The Times seem long?? Not really!! A spy was sent into The
Protectorate from the UDL.. Osir1s spent hours getting secret information on
this TP Event.. So, when the racers hit Longsaddle Under and Tribaor Under
for the quests, an Army of Undead Lords of the Realms (UDL's) were waiting
in ambush..
ACHEIVEMENT AWARDS: Decided to PVP the UDL instead of finishing..
JDMJD
Darklymoon
BBW LOVER1
Pissed of at the UDL List:
TP SILVER
TYST
everyone else..
Thanks all.. Was an excellent race.. I had a great time setting it up. &
Rest assured the UDL shall pay dearly for intevening on our event..
Tyst
Highlord of The Protectorate
Race End
(Submitted by Nilgeit)
All that was left of the sun was a vermillion glow to the west, and the
deep blue of night was seeping over the sky as the last of the footsore
racers galloped into the gatekeep. Highlord Tyst leaned on a parapet over
the courtyard, watching tired but festive members of the Protectorate call
out greetings and head for the main hall. The Highlord's Race Around
Neverwinter had been a great deal of fun, and the festivities, as usual, were
only just beginning.
Tyst turned at the sound of a footfalls, and found his underlords Bonkon
and Sir Dorvan approaching. Despite the festive atmosphere, but looked
concerned about something.
"Greetings, Brothers," Tyst greeted them. "It seems the race has been a
great success. Sir Lione did well, as usual." Both nodded.
"All involved had fun," Bonkon said, "but there have been reports of
problems."
"It seems our friends the Undead Lords decided to make our race a little
more...challenging," Sir Dorvan continued. "They plated a spy, Osir1s, in
the racers at the beginning, who let the other UDLs know when the racers
could be expected. They were jumping people during the quest portions of the
race."
Tyst growled. "Those UDL's"
Sir Dorvan shook his head. "In most cases, it just took a little extra
time to get by. A few were gated but none were feebleminded. The Temple of
Tyr is profiting from our event. Some racers abandoned the race to
counterattack the UDLs...JDMJD, Darklymoon, and BBW LOVER1. Even Lord
Swordshear left his post to join the fray"
Tyst thumped a fist onto the stone balcony. "They have to try to ruin
everything we do," he muttered, unconsciously putting his other hand to his
dagger hilt. He looked from one underlord to the other. Tyst closed his
eyes, thinking. "Everyone knew about the race, for it was posted for all to
see. But this is getting ridiculous. We must do something. I'll talk to
Slayer, and see if we can come to an agreement of some kind. I doubt it will
do any good...soon it could be all out war."
Bonkon and Sir Dorvan nodded, and Bonkon said, " Tieglin said he spotted
Slayer in Berun a little while ago. Tieglin said he didn't look like he was
in a rush to get anywhere."
Tyst turned towards the sounds of celebration coming from the hall. He
sighed, and chuckled. "It seems the celebration will have to go on without
Tieglin and I...we leave for Berun immediately."
* * *
The stars were out when Tyst spotted the flickering light of a campfire
a few yards off the main path through the ruins of Berun. He glanced at a
sign leaning against the building, and knelt to brush the dirt and leaves off
it. The Hidden Dagger....how appropriate," Tyst said to Tieglin wryly. He
walked through the crumbling doorframe, and stepped into what had been the
common room of Berun's most popular inn.
The campfire was burning in the back corner of the room about twenty
feet away, covered by what little was left of the ceiling. Two figures sat
on salvaged chairs at a rickety table, a few feet from the low flames. They
ceased their conversation when Tyst and Tieglin entered the room, and turned
to the guildlord.
"Greetings Tyst," one sneered. "We were just wondering if you would
ever show up."
"Slayer," Tyst responded, recognizing the raspy voice of the Undead
Lord, "we have to have a chat. You've been a nuisance and a pain in almost
everything the Protectorate tries to accomplish. If you don't ease up, we'll
have open war in the inns and streets of every town."
Slayer snickered. "Is that a threat, or an invitation?" He looked at
his companion. "Just think...even more reason to jump every sniveling goodie
we come across. Not that we need an excuse..." Syphonsoul chuckled in
response, and Slayer turned back to Tyst. "Well, maybe we can make some sort
of agreement. We had our fun tonight...perhaps we can pick on another group
of do-rights for a little while. As a matter of fact, we even got you a sort
of consolation prize...look on the table to your right."
Tyst glanced to the side, and spotted another table a few yards away,
and an object on it. He glanced back at UDL Slayer, and murmured to Tieglin,
"Watch them. I don't like the feel of this." Tieglin stayed in the doorway
while Tyst walked to the table.
The object on the table was about 9 inches tall. In the flickering
light, it looked like some sort of statue, but it wasn't until Tyst picked it
up that he realized what it was...a wooden carving of a court jester. And it
was coated with stirge glue.
He slammed the carving onto the table in anger...and stopped in shock.
There had been no sound.... A silence spell had been cast on the
statue...and he couldn't get rid of it!!
He turned to face Slayer and Syphonsoul, who were already casting. He
turned to motion to Tieglin, but Tieglin was already fighting off several
trolls that had attacked him from behind, silenced and drawn in by another
Undead Lord and several more UDL's who had shouldered past Tieglin and joined
the other two UDLs.
A lightning bolt slammed into Tyst, bounced off the wall, and hit him
again. Suddenly, everything around him went into double speed as he was
slowed. He grabbed for the flail hanging at his side and took a few steps
towards Slayer, but received another lightning bolt--and another rebound--for
his efforts. Tieglin was already silenced by the trolls, so Tyst turned and
attacked the silenced Troll .
Tieglin tore into the green beasts with desperation. Another spell
went off, and Tieglin felt a chill stiffness pass through him...but the Hold
didn't stick. "I miss my Cloak." he heard Lord Tyst say. Out of the corner
of his eye, Tyst suddenly stopped moving. Immediately all the trolls turned
on Tieglin, grinning with anticipation.
An hour later, Tieglin stumbled up to the gate guards of the
Protectorate Keep. Near death he fell into a heap and only managed to
mutter, "They got Tyst," before he blacked out....
Helpful Hints
(Submitted by RouseE)
:-( Myth: Saving Throws are rerolled everytime you log on.
:-) FACT: Saving Throws are set by your class and level.
****** RINGS ******
2) Ring of Protection +1, lowers your AC by 1 and gives you a bonus to all
saves of +1
Ring of Protection +2, lowers your AC by 2 and gives you a bonus to all
saves of +2
Ring of Protection +3, lowers your AC by 3 and gives you a bonus to all
saves of +3 (Pearl Item) The magical properties of a ring of protection are
cumulative with ALL other magical tems of protection except as follows:
(a) The ring does NOT improve AC if Magical armor is worn, although it
DOES add to saving throws.
(b) Multiple rings of protection operating on the same person Do NOT
combine protection. ONLY one such ring, the Strongest, functions.
***** CLOAKS *******
3) Cloak of Protection +1, lowers your AC by 1 and gives you a bonus to all
saves of +1
Cloak of Protection +2, lowers your AC by 2 and gives you a bonus to all
saves of +2
Cloak of Protection +3, lowers your AC by 3 and gives you a bonus to all
saves of +3 (NOT Pearl Item) The cloaks DO function with other items (Ex:
rings, bracers, boots, etc.) and non-magical leather armor. They Do NOT
function when used in conjunction with ANY sort of magical armor, non-magical
armor NOT made of leather, or with a shield of ANY sort.
DOES NOT FUNCTION = NO bonus to AC and NO bonus to Saves.
4) Cloak of Displacement, lowers your AC by 2 and a +2 bonus to some saves
(a) ANY missle or melee attack aimed at the wearer automatically
misses the First time.
**Note: Only applys to the first attacker.**
(b) The +2 to some saves applys ONLY to attacks DIRECTED at the
wearer (such as spells, gaze weapon attacks, spitting, and breath attacks
etc., which are AIMED at the wearer of the cloak.)
The Harpers Guild of Neverwinter plans to bestow the symbol of our order,
"The Harper Pin", a pin with a Silver Moon and Silver Harp, to Neverwinter's
newest Harpers, HG Flaire, and HG Quill. The Pinning ceremony is to be held
this coming Saturday Evening, August 26th, 12am EDT, 11pm CDT, at the Harper
Hall in Longsaddle. Harper Hall adjoins the Guilded Horseshoe Inn. The Good
Folk of Neverwinter are Cordially Invited to attend.
Humbly,
HG Renik
Dedication
(Submitted by Tsabrak)
I fear this dedication is extremely belated, but I've had a compulsion to
write this for a long time, and now is no better time than any other.
Many, many moons ago a noble woman of evil nature and good humor roamed the
lands known as NeverWinter. She was an Ilhressen of House Lylyl in the
Temple of Lloth known as Innelda. Those of us who knew her were in constant
awe of her wit and talent with the pleasures of life. Many moons ago the
player of Innelda passed away, and while she did not wish anyone to grieve,
some of us still do.
Dedicated to the Mistress of Underground Pleasures:
(Taken from "Hamlet" by William Shakespeare; Act I, Sc. V)
O all you host of Heaven! O Earth! What else?
And shall I couple Hell? Oh, fie! Hold, hold, my
heart,
And you, my sinews, grow not instant old
But bear me stiffly up. Remember thee!
Yea, from the table of my memory
I'll wipe away all trivial fond records,
All saws of books, all forms, all pressures past,
That youth and observation copied there,
And thy commandment all alone shall live
Within the book and volume of my brain,
Unmixed with baser matter. Yes by Heaven!
This week's winner in the Great Hall Tavern is..... Alvetti!
Alvetti wins access to the Guild of Heroes, where he can gain exciting
information about the game and downloads galore! Not to mention the
opportunity to participate in GOH-only mini-events! :D
The Great Hall Tavern is open Wednesday and Friday nights from 11pm-1am
eastern time.
The "best" roleplayer of the week wins access to the Guild of Heroes.
Drop by and try my special concoction known as the "Carry Me."
NWT Cyane
Your friendly Neverwinter Tavernkeep
On this past day of Thor, HotShield and Velvetr0se did indeed tie the knot.
The ceremony was overseen by Whisp who gainly gave credit to all those sacred
powers that made such a union possible. The couple were attended by Desary,
maid of honor, and Naergoth, best man. After, gaining an indication from the
deities, that the wedding was indeed meant to be, Murrain consented to give
VelvetR0se away to her husband to be, as was her desire. Also in the wedding
party were AllsFaire and Sten Kiria, who acted as ushers for the throngs of
guests, seeking to witness the event (and taste some of the fine imported
food at the buffet.)
After, the wedding party had taken their photographs, they joined the guests
in the Triboar arena. There, VelvetR0se and HotShield were quite aggressive
in their aiming and throwing of the garter and bouquet. DreadWolfe was the
first to be smacked in the face by a flying garter, and then Gesselle
delicately caught the bouquet, both proceded to drool however, for the rest
of the reception.
The newlyweds wish to thank all who came to share in their bonding. May they
find their bond a happy one, for all their days to come!
AllsFaire
Lady Initiator
Knight-Commander of the Round Table
Occasional Wedding Coordinator ;)
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