1996-03-24

Recovered original text · preserved verbatim

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NEVERWINTER NEWS
Issue # 126
Week Ending 3-24-96
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FRONT PAGE
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Congratulations to V Bastion for winning last week's News of the Realm
contest for the story "Prelude to a Kiss".

V Bastion has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of
Heroes).  Keep up the good work!  ;D

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New Player Tour - 3/16  11pm

STORY..

The cry went out... Something was amiss in Port Llast, The Gallant Prince
arrived at the port deserted and in disaray. I cried out for help to seek out
the trouble and the call was answered by Shadow5680, L 5000s, Javdsr,
Badasset, Pokiedoo, Lordwarder, and LrdStarion. 

We set off North and immediately encountered trouble. We were jumped by
lizard men and a Pyro Snake! Fortunately we came out of the battle unscathed,
but Badasset was torn from us by the Gods, he just vanished!! Onward we went,
and closing in on the town of Windy Cliffs we were jumped by a band of
thieves! Pokiedoo was a casualty, the stout dwarf was poisoned in a freak
accident.. the mood turned somber, but we knew our task had to be completed.
Onward we trekked, finding acid spitting Anks and rock reptiles, packs of
wolves, and hordes of rats and boars, finally arriving at the port. We rested
at the inn and planned our next steps. 

Closing in on the ship, we found her in disarry. A sign said "DANGER, DO NOT
ENTER" but the group knew the mission was all important.  Our first encounter
was with Giant Skeletons, and ghouls.. but we dispatched them with no
problem.. After the battle, we almost decided to turn back, as a man turned
into stone in front of our eyes, but we pushed ahead.  "Medusa" the group
yelled in unison, and sure enough three of the dreaded witches were there to
stop us! Lordwarder was lost, but we avenged his death and defeated the vile
creatures.  

We had much to report to Nasher, having found and defeated the Medusae, so we
headed back to the safety of Neverwinter. And the comfort of an ale.

- Oberon

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Poison Booth Winners - 3/18  9pm

The Poison (survival) Booth winners were:

Mershu
The Bonze
Sir Helios
Sol Lethal
Itb Twit
Warr Gumba
Rove
Sylverion
Deth Troll

Prize Won: 2 pearls each

 - Donagh

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Location Hunt Winner - 3/19

T'was an easy location hunt this week. N0r Gnicht found the Dwarven Miner's
Shoppe and Assay Office in record time. :)

- Kel

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Magic Missile Booth Winner -  3/21 10pm

Aurela fried my gator in a Magic Missle Booth with a toasty 72 points. I had
to douse myself in swamp water to quench the flames. She wins 4 pearls and
one free hour online time.

- Cajun

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Hold Monster Booth Winners - 3/22  11:45pm


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I was feeling lonely and decided to try my hand at making the good citizens
of Neverwinter "hold" still for a bit.. so it was time for a Hold Monster
Booth!

Congrats go out to... Mob Nuzzio, Rove, Syren Coal, Ruddra, SK  Ntstkr, Lion
Kom, Bard Duke, and TSoulman for avoiding a "sticky" situation ;) They each
win 2 pearls!!

Thanks to all who participated!

NWA Oberon

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NEVERWINTER CALENDAR
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Keep an eye peeled for those Mini-Booths because they will appear when you
least expect in different areas of the Realms!

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 Tours:

Join the following staff members for a tour of the Realm:

March 25th Monday  8:00 PM EST - with NWA Shaggy.
March 29th Friday  5:00 PM EST - with NW Tempus.
March 30th Saturday  4:00 PM EST - with NW Kregar.

Those interested in any of these tours should keep an eye out for the banner
telling where to meet!  ;D

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(submitted by: SOL Saybr)

Dear NW Abby,

I have a serious problem, and I need your advice once again.

My guild brother, Galen, talked me into trying his new batch of "Brew".  It
tasted awful, and, well, it turned me blue.  Not sad, but actually,
physically blue.  And to make matters worse, apparently I'm leaving blue
footprints all over the keep.

I've noticed that people are always staring, and women won't even talk to me
anymore.  This has really damaged my self esteem.

Any suggestions???

"Blue in the woods"

###

Dear Blue,

I don't know about you, but I do know of a few smurfs that would be more than
willing to give you a second look.  They don't seem to be crying the blues
due to their skin condition.

However, if you really wish to get rid of your sour facial, then take a visit
over to the Great Hall Tavern and have Cyan give you one of her special
concoctions by the name of Red Dragon Ale.  It's guaranteed to make you see
red and you'll no longer be blue in the face!!

NW AbbyPrelude to a Kiss
(submitted by: V Bastion)

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Nitengale is laying in her large wooden bed which hangs from the
ceiling in her opulent bedroom.  The raised dais underneath it has four large
pillars with jasmine climbing up them until they hit the ceiling and begin
intertwining in the chandelier over her bed.  It is night and she should be
out checking to see if her progeny are safe and well, however, tonight she
just wants to lie between her silk sheets and relax.  Even in her relaxation
though, her mind drifts to Clan matters and to the letter she just sent the
mysterious mortal.  "Damn me for being so picky in my Clan." she thought to
herself.  "Sure, the others have more members, but I wish for only the best
and most talented from the Realms." She truly hoped that this one would
choose to join her.

        A knock on the thick mahogany door across the room interrupted her
musings.  With a thought, the iron bar which secured the door was lifted and
the door opened.

        "Come in Malachite."

        Her Ghoul was a seven foot tall man whom she had met in her travels,
in a place far to the east.  He was a master swordsman and an excellent
warrior in hand to hand styles.   He was very dangerous and had a strong
will... he had been involved with the Dark Arts when they met.  He had
assured her that if she allowed him to become Kindred, he would never hurt
her.  But Nitengale had not survived for these many centuries by being naive,
she knew that his lust for power was great.  They had reached an impasse, she
required for him to be bloodbonded to her before giving him the gift, he did
not want that because he knew that meant she would have ultimate power over
him, that her wish would be his desire.  For now, they had compromised by his
becoming her Ghoul, and he had served her well.

        "A message has come for you from the mortal you wrote the other
night, milady."

        The envelope he held immediately tugged out of his hand and floated
across the room to her outstretched fingers.

        "Thank you Malachite, that will be all for now."

        With that he exited and with a small gesture the door closed and the
beams returned to their place.  She read the letter, sighed and got up to
retrieve the materials she needed.  Quill, ink, and the green parchment she
always wrote her letters on.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------

        Dear Bass,

                I am glad to have received your letter, I see that I was not
mistaken in my first impression of you... you are truly talented and it would
be sad to see your talents fade away with the passing of the years.  I wish
to offer you a position in my Clan, if you choose to join us.  This is not a
bribe, but in seeing your writing, I know that you deserve it.  In my Clan,
and mine is only like this... we have households for the Arts.  There is a
household which is devoted completely to the pen, and if you should choose to
join, I would like to offer you the title of Master of that Household.  You
would be in charge of all the other writers and poets.  They would answer to
you, and you would only answer to myself and my Vox Coterie (Voice of the
Kindred) who is the speaker for the households.  You would have full reign
over that household... it is yours, if you wish it.

        I completely understand your desire to wait before making your
decision.  This is an eternal choice you are making, and you must decide
where your heart lies.  I am not upset in the least by this fact.  I just
hope that whatever decision you make, your talents are not wasted.  Please
remember me when you are writing, I would enjoy reading your work in the
future.  I would hope your decision will keep your talents from passing in
time... But this is entirely up to you.  No matter what, I want you to know
you will always have a friend in me.

        I hope to hear from you soon....

Love throughout eternity,
Nitengale
Toreador Elder
3rd Generation Antediluvian

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        With that she blows on the letter's ink to dry it and puts the
parchment into the envelope.  She pulls out a bottle of scent and sprays some
on the letter.  With a snap of her fingers, it disappeared.

        A knock upon Bass' door rouses Gaylar.  He opens the door to find a
dozen tulips lying upon the doorstep with a Green envelope in their midst.

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       A knock sounds upon the door of him innermost sanctum...

      "Come...."  the speaker sets down the tulip which he has been looking
at.

      "What is it, Gaylar?"

      The small man enters the room quietly, trying to not disturb his
employer. "The collectors waiting for you have traveled very far to see you
and the items which you offer for sale.   Will you not even come to meet with
them?"

       "I care not to see them, what is their offer like?"

       Gaylar knew not what had come over his master, but he knew the value
of rare art, "The offer which they have made is low, but not by much.  It
appears they wish to haggle with you to try to gain prestige."

       A look of resignation came over Bass's face, a look Gaylar had come to
know well these last couple weeks.  "Feed them, spare no expense.  Make sure
they are well treated and when the meal is over, accept the offer they have
made."

       "But why?"  The servant knew he was treading on the line separating
Master and Slave, from Friend and Confidant.  "The piece you sell is worth
much more than that from someone else, if you but just hold it for a
fortnight or so...."

      "I care not.   My life is about to change in ways you cannot
comprehend.  I would tell you of the changes, but even I do not understand
all which will happen to me."

      "Does this have to do with all the information you have attempted to
gather in the last weeks?"

       Smiling for the first time in days, Bass motioned his friend over to
sit by him.  "Yes, I have tried to gather as much information as I can. The
reasons for this are unknown to you, but this is how it must be.  I value our
friendship, I think not of you as a Slave, you are more of a friend, how long
have we known each other?"

       "For as long as I can remember Master.  I was bought by your father's
brother.   I am supposed to be the same age as you, sent to you, a younger
son of a younger son as a gift when your uncle took over the holdings of your
family."  Eyes focusing upon nothing as remembrance takes him, "When your
uncle's wife had delivered of him twin boys, it was known that you would
never gain any family lands, but since you were always a favorite of your
uncle, he wished to gift you in some way.  That was me."

       "Have you ever known any reason to regret this, Gaylar?"

       "No Master, I was an orphan in the slums of some great city to the
East.  I have had a much greater life than I would have expected had I been
free."

        Taking a letter out of his desk, Bass hands it to Gaylar, "This is
your freedom my friend, I will not be around much longer and I wish to gift
you for your years of service to me."   Holding up a hand to forestall any
arguments, "No, listen to me.  I will brook no retorts to this.   I am still
your master, at least until I am gone from this world.  I am going to need
you to maintain this residence for me.  I may be in need of it in some time
in the future.  In this desk are documents which will give to you ownership
of this estate, as well as mastership over the other slaves and servants.
The only thing I ask is that you keep this house as I would have kept it.
Assume that I am away on an extended trip and will return in a day or so.  I
want all the servants of this house to think this, you will be the only one
who knows the truth."

        "Bass," for the first time in years, calling him by the name he knew
him by in childhood, "Where you go, I am to attend you.  Why will you not let
me accompany you wherever this takes you?"

        A smile crosses Bass's face as he shakes his head sadly, "No Gaylar,
Even I know not where I will be taken in the next few weeks.  I cannot ask
you to go with me, it may mean death, or worse...."

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         Long after sending Gaylar away to do his bidding, Bass stands in the
window of his study.  He watches as the collectors are ushered out the door
with their prize.   They have it held tightly to their breast as a mother
would hold a new-born babe.  Afraid to look away from it as they are scared
that the deal of a lifetime would slip away as the mist into the night.  Soon
all the sounds of them are hidden by the underlying sounds of the night...

          Those sounds hold a new fascination for Bass now.  He knows that he
has gathered all the information that a mortal can, but he knows he is still
has very little knowledge of the Vampires.  The Lady Nitengale had contacted
him on several occasions by note, the information given to him in these
missives was not for just any mortal, as he well knew.  If he had not asked
to become one with the Camarilla (as the Vampires in NeverWinter called
themselves) he would never have even heard of her.   But as he thinks back,
it seems that she knew more of him than should have been obvious.  He was
secretive as well, for a collector of rare and fine items is always a target
for the thieves of any city.  He was sure that these Masters of the Night
were masters of secrecy as well, how else could one live in the middle of
Humanoid society and not be found out?

          Returning to his desk, he gathers the notes, all the information
which his not inconsiderable fortune had been able to buy.  Looking over
them, he notices that one seems to be missing.  He tries to think what might
have been done with it, but cannot remember moving it.  It was a note from
the Lady Nitengale herself, a response to one of Bass' letter to her.  It
contained nothing of import, no other names or places of residence, but it's
disappearance bothered Bass.

          Walking to the door, he opens it and calls for Gaylar to return.
As he enters, Bass waves for him to close the door behind himself.

          "Has anyone else been in these chambers Gaylar?"

           "No milord.... "

           "Then I must ask you, what happened to these letters on this desk.
One seems to be gone, and you and myself are the only ones with access to
them."

           With a look of utter shame, Gaylar removes the missing letter from
his breast and returns it.  "I worried about your safety.  I wished to know
what it was that you were delving into and you would not answer my questions.
I had hoped to return this before you missed it, but I forgot in the press of
affairs."  With concern obvious on his face, he continued...  "Milord, you
cannot be serious about joining with these people, they are probably only
thieves who have come up with an elaborate ruse to take your wealth, but if
they are not..."  The thought trailed off.

          "I know you are concerned, but I have made my decision.  It was
made when I received my first letter from this one called Nitengale, had I
but known.  As for your worry about these being thieves, you may forget those
thoughts.  I should have let you in my deliberations from the start, as you
will be affected as much as I. But I was under edict from the Lady to tell no
other what I learned.  Had I decided to not join with these people, and had I
told anyone else of them, I would have been killed out of hand, along with
any that I had told.  They have a formidable arm in these parts.  I was only
trying to protect you, but this was wrong as I now see.  How could they not
take you as well if there became a need to destroy me.  Any who know you,
knows you are my confidant.  I put your life in peril without your leave."
Motioning Gaylar over to the desk, he begins to go over all that he had
learned....


---------------------------------------------------------------------------"The
Bulette and the Potato Farmer" (a folktale)
(submitted by: Karamiran)

     Once, a very long time ago, in a country a very long way away, lived a
halfling.  Well, really, many halflings lived there... and humans and dwarves
and elves and...  But they really don't come into our story at all.  Just the
one.  His name was Sef.  Actually it was Sefthransir Ilarin Stoutfoot, his
family had pretensions, but to the rest of Greenberry village it was just Sef
the potato farmer.  Greenberry was very good for potato crops, and corn, and
cabbage, and many other veggies for the pot.  Not so good for fruit, but they
got a good strawberry crop, some wild blackberries if the birds didn't get
them, nothing on trees because they were halflings, after all, and very
short.  Most of them got dizzy on a ladder.  Trees would've been a real
challenge.  Sef grew potatoes.  He grew a few other crops, too, but potatoes
were his baby, you might say, everyone knew that.  Sef was THE potato farmer.

     Life was good in Greenberry.  They planted crops, and weeded, and all
that other stuff you do with plants, but that really doesn't come into our
story at all.  Just that Sef was a farmer.  Then one day one of the children
came back screaming from berrypicking that she'd seen a monster in the woods.
Well, the good people of Greenberry, they weren't fighters, they were
farmers, they were better at lifting ale mugs and forks than shields and
spears, but Greenberry was THEIR town, and they weren't going to let any
monsters start scaring THEIR children.  Not to mention ruining the berry
season.  So off they went to the woods to find the monster.  It was pretty
easy, actually.  The woods around Greenberry weren't like the woods around
here, dark and deep and full of secrets and you always think there's
something watching you but when you turn around there's nothing there.  No,
Greenberry's woods were happy and sunlit and very, very tame.  So the monster
sort of stuck out in all that sweetness and light.

     It was a bulette.  Even one bulette is serious stuff.  They can tear a
strong hero up in just seconds.  And these were just halfling farmers.  So
they ran back to Greenberry and they met in the Town Hall (which was also the
Alehall) and knocked back a few and figured out what to do.  "Let's hire a
ranger," someone said, because rangers are big and strong and know woodcraft,
and one of them could get rid of the bulette easy as pie.  And there was one
right nearby, a ranger not a bulette, in the city of Silverush.  (Silverush
wasn't really a city, out here we'd call it a middling-large town.  But that
really doesn't come into our story at all.  Just that it was nearby.)  So
they sent their fastest runner off to Silverush.  That would be Jenna
Curlytoes, a pretty girl but a bit thin for a halfling.  But Jenna really
doesn't come into our story at all.  Just that she was fast.

     But that night the bulette got into Sef's prized potato patch, and the
next morning it was all torn up, and Sef'd lost that whole crop.  Because
bulettes are awful hungry all the time, and I guess dirty potatoes are better
than nothing.  Sef was hopping mad.  Said he wasn't waiting around for some
fool ranger, he was gonna take care of that bulette RIGHT NOW!  So he put on
his helmet and picked up his shield and trident (really an iron pot, a pot
lid and a pitchfork, but it sounds better the other way) and marched off into
the woods.  Greenberry was sure it'd seen the last of Sef.

     But Sef had a plan.  So when he found the bulette - he was downwind of
the monster and small and in the bushes, it hadn't seen him yet, bulettes are
mean but not too bright - he sat right down and opened up his sack and
started spreading veggies out in a line, and at the end of the line was a big
barrel of ale with the top open.  (It was a magic bag, that held a lot more
stuff than it looked like it could.)  And then Sef went to the edge of the
bushes and shouted and banged on his pot lid.  "Hey!  Stupid!" he yelled at
the bulette.  (Sef wasn't much for dramatics.)  And the bulette came after
him, but it stopped to eat all the veggies Sef left out.  Then Sef climbed a
tree as fast as his short stout legs could go, but it was alright because the
bulette found the ale barrel and couldn't resist giving it a try and...

     Did you know that bulettes can get drunk?  VERY drunk.  So when Jenna
got back with the ranger and the ranger came into the woods, thinking all the
while that she'd find Sef's mangled bones, what did she find but a happy Sef
with his pitchfork in the dead bulette's back?

     So don't ever underestimate a potato farmer with a pitchfork.  And don't
EVER drink anything from an ale barrel that you find in the woods!From the
Neverwinter Chronicles
(submitted by: Rysun)

The boisterous guild hall of a moment ago becomes silent as a tall stranger
strolls boldly into your midst. For a moment everyone pauses eyeing the
stranger speculatively...then the ranks part like the parting of the great
sea of legend, giving the stranger ample room to walk deeper into the midst
of the now waiting throng.

Out of habit, some hands find comfort in the reassuring feel of a sword hilt
while others finger dangerously dark scrolls gaining confidence with the
memory of their ability unleash death at a moment's notice.  Each are seeking
some sign of provocation, some movement that would betray evil intent. All
are curious to see why such an interloper would dare invade the intersanctum
of your guild...

When the stranger was sure he had everyone's attention,  he threw back his
hood revealing a somewhat handsome face with startingly clear pure blue
eyes... Deliberately, the stranger searches out, catches and holds the eyes
of several within the room who might confront him in what is obviously a
challenge of wills. It seems to please him that all challenged refuse to
flinch or look away.

After a few long moments, the stranger speaks. His voice is strong, clear,
and full of determination.

"I am Rysun Pride, son of Aslym Pride and brother of Ryym.  As some of you
know, I have only recently appeared in this realm. How I arrived is still a
mystery to me and is of little importance now.  Fortunately, I was found
almost immediately by an adventurer known only as Rathgar, a noble member of
the Order of the Crimson Cross.  When he found me I was lost, naked, and in a
delirium... I am told that I was repeating my brother's name over and over
again.

"Rathgar healed me, clothed me, and armed me.  He then began to show me the
realm unto which I had fallen.  Soon thereafter and to my great alarm, my
brother began to speak to me. No, not it words, but in my mind.  A strange
manner of communicating which I have now come to know as ESP.

"Under Rathgar's tuteludge, I developed enough weaponry skill so as to be
able to protect myself from the thieves and Kracken spies that pervade this
realm...He introduced me to Exebius and others of his guild who also
befriended me and offered me aid.

"Once the initial shock of learning that I could communicate with my mind had
passed, I learned that my brother was questing with people known as the Jedi
Praxium.  I wondered what strange manner of beasts these Jedi Praxium were
and was later embarrassed to find that Jedi Praxium was simply the name of
another guild.

"Then I began to receive communication from a holy man known to me only as
Fyrthorn. He offered me comfort and reassurance. I told him I was in need of
neither because I was with Rathgar and I am a hero after all.

"While my brother was talking to me about joining the Jedi Praxium in my
mind, some of Rathgar's friends invited me to join the Order of the Crimson
Cross. I must say, this conflict caused me some concern.

"Because of other duties known only to my friend, Rathgar and I parted soon
after.  Because of his kindness and unselfishness, I swore my friendship and
sword to his call.

"Within moments...JP zimdol and a rather strange individual calling himself
Uncle Ira found me.  It turned out that my brother Ryym had asked them to
look out for me. They were also members of the Jedi Praxium.  I was also
secretly relieved to find that they were not some form of foul smelly
beast...although they did spend a lot of time talking to themselves, mumbling
such things as "Silvanesa, ummmm..." or "A sweet delicate hand appears and
slaps Zimdol." All very strange. I thought perhaps it was some sort of secret
guild language.

"Where Rathgar left off, Zimdol and Uncle Ira took over. After a few
adventures, they decided I was ready to fight "Ducks" at their side.
Although honored at their confidence in me, I was truly confused...why would
they need a hero like myself to fight "ducks?"  Well, it turned out to be
something called "Dracs."  Imagine my surprise!  Nevertheless, I did honor to
my Gods by facing them heroically and unflinchingly.

"I am now told that Uncle Ira has gone adventuring in far off lands and I
have not had the honor of seeing the noble JP Zimdol since that time.
However, because of their courage and unselfishness, I swore my friendship
and my sword.

Soon after, I was befriended by another powerful adventurer known as KF
Smokin.  He is a member of the Knights of Freedom.  Smoke, as I came to call
him, is a pure warrior who, like those who came before him (Rathgar, Zimdol,
etc..), did nothing but bring honor to his guild.  We fought many battles
side by side and his loyalty was unquestionable.  If I was in trouble he
would sweep across the realm in an effort to aid me.  As you might imagine, I
have also sworn my friendship and sword to him and Smoke's enemies are now my
enemies.

"Then today, I was again befriended by another powerful figure known as
Lordgyphon.  It turns out that Lordgyphon is a member of the Knights of
Justice and he too, was a noble and valiant friend.  And yes, I have sworn
him my friendship and sword.

"Now then, that brings us to the purpose of my appearance in your
hall...First, I have been offered either the opportunity to apply or a
position in at least four quilds...in all of which, the members that I have
met were noble, unselfish, and valiant warriors. As you might imagine this
leaves me in a predicament...I have given an oath as only a warrior can
swear, to members of each of these guilds... therefore, I humble myself in
front of each of you and your noble guilds to ask forgiveness for the fact
that I do not chose a guild..So as not to offend any of those I call friend,
...I chose to roam the realm guildless.  I ask the forgiveness of all, for I
offer no slight and choose to honor each of you with this gesture.

"Secondly, I would recount a recent experience. During my travels with KF
Smokin, we befriended a young adventurer known as Evilthumb. A man of good
heart who unfortunately had a mother who could not see the goodness of his
soul and therefore named him after the poor deformed digit on his left hand.

"During our travels and after having met so many noble people, I became
aqquainted with a man known to me as Primedevil.  Primedevil began to taunt
my friend Evilthumb. In fact, when Primedevil found out that Evilthumb was
pure of heart, he threatened to kill him.  Of course I stepped in and
attempted to protect my young friend...KF Smokin, also being of noble heart,
thrust himself between us all.  Primedevil then began to insult Smoke's guild
and brag about having killed other Knights of Freedom...Smoke offered to meet
him in the Sewers but the thrown gauntlet was never picked up.

"Since then, I have found that Primedevil is the Guild Master of S.A.T.A.N.,
an evil and wicked guild that prides itself on destroying those adventurers
in the realm that would aid the cause of justice and righteousness.  Once
beaten, S.A.T.A.N.'s guildmembers take the charred and broken bodies of these
valiant and courageous heroes and presents them as a gifts to Primedevil and
S.A.T.A.N.

"I now understand that KF Smokin is being hunted by Primedevil and that his
name has been taken to the great hall of S.A.T.A.N. and the slaves of
Primedevil have been ordered to find him and make him pay for his insolence
and for even thinking he could stand up to Primedevil.

"Oh...that the Gods would give me the power and the strength to defeat this
vile being and his unfortunate slaves.  But that is not to be...for now, at
least...

"I am but a young and humble hero...seeking to do what is right and to honor
my oath to my friends.  After much thought and concern for my friend I see
few alternatives.

"So I come here today to throw down the gauntlet (the stranger slaps down an
ornate black leather glove upon the floor) of a grand quest to the noble
guilds that I have mentioned in my tales.  Let us band together the OCC, the
JP, the KOJ, and the KF and make it our quest, nay, the very purpose of our
being to destory this evil guild.  Let us take up the mantle of this
challenge together.  Young and old, the experienced and inexperienced... The
evil in this realm is not just the monsters we fight as part of our daily
fare, it is also the evil adventurers that would delay us in our fight to aid
this poor evil-stricken realm...

"Let us raise our swords together to defeat this evil! Remember, daily good
deeds alone will not save this realm.  The gauntlet is thrown, will you and
your noble bretheren pick it up?"

With the final words said, the stranger lowers his hood upon his brow, turns,
and marches swiftly out of the silent hall.CHANCE ENCOUNTER
(submitted by: Devin Tir)

              Devin entered the town square and muscled through the throng of
people milling about to find his usual spot.  He greeted the guard on duty
politely and sat on the clean, spacious, white bench.

The guard looked at him curiously.  "Devy..." the guard began, and then
erupted into laughter.

Devy stared back up at the guard, confused.  "What is it?"

"Did you not notice the 'wet paint' sign on that bench?"

He jumped up, blushing furiously, looked at his cloak in consternation, and
moved to another bench.  He heard a soft giggle from the crowd and looked up
to see a silver-eyed lady glancing quickly away.  He had seen her before,
briefly, and been captivated by her beauty.  Now was his chance to speak with
her.  "Hello milady, do I know you?"  He said in a muffled tone.  He then
noticed that she wore the mark of the Round Table upon her shield.  

She looked about her, and then back at him.  "Are you speaking to me?"

He merely nodded.

"My name is Capybarra," she curtsied.  "I do not believe we are acquainted.
I am pleased to meet you."

"Would you care to sit?" he mumbled.

As she sat next to him, his heart skipped a beat, shocked that one so fair
would take any interest in him.  He gazed at her, and then looked down,
embarrassed by his inability to speak.  At that moment, he noticed the sorry
state of his boots, and groaned at the pain in his feet.  His footwear had
recently been damaged by an excessively playful wolf, and his toes were
poking through, chilly and chafed.  He grumbled something under his breath
about needing new boots.  

"Yes, those cannot possibly be good for you," she said in a motherly tone.
"Are your feet well?" 

Looking into her eyes, Devy forgot the pain, finding his concentration
focused solely on her.  "Tis nothing, milady, just a minor injury.  It seems
I have neglected the care of my feet," he said in a soft tone.  Never had he
seen such beauty, and the effect she had on him surprised him.  Normally calm
and composed, he was now struggling to find the right words to say.  He even
noticed his heart beating erratically.  

"Are you quite sure?" she asked, concern written on her face.

He stared back at her, and then a thought crossed his mind.  "Actually, no,
my feet pain me.  Perhaps you could take a look at them?"

Capy looked at the others about them.  "I am not sure if it is the right
thing to do," she responded.

The thought of her touching his feet began to fascinate him.  "Please," he
asked, "if you could possibly help me with this problem, I will be forever
indebted to you."

She hesitated, considering the matter.  Suddenly, she rose.  "Perhaps I can
help if you come away for a few moments." 

He almost blurted out, "I would go anywhere with you."  Catching himself, he
just nodded his agreement and stood to follow her.  Walking behind her, he
watched the sway of her hips and the bounce in her step.  He was so entranced
by her movements that he barely noticed entering a building.  Suddenly they
were inside, alone, and she was motioning for him to sit.  

"Let me have a look."  Kneeling before him, Capy pulled off his boots.  Her
head bent over his injured feet, examining them.  His gaze moved from her
silver hair falling in her face, and wandered over her in an effort to
memorize every nuance of her form.  He stared until he noticed she was again
looking up at him.

"Your boots are old and in need of repair, and you seem to have an ingrown
toenail.  Perhaps wearing socks might help protect your feet."  

He stared, confused.  "Socks?"

"Do you not know what socks are?"  

He could only shake his head, still in a daze.

She nodded.  "Yes, unfortunately, they are a rare commodity in these parts."
she stopped and sat back, pulling up her long skirt, unlacing one of her own
boots.  The glimpse of her bare calf made him quiver, and he reluctantly
brought his eyes to the fabric that covered her foot and ankle.  "My late
husband bought me these stockings on a journey to Waterdeep.  These are silk.
For your own use I might suggest wool, as it is hardier.  Unfortunately my
skin is sensitive, and I cannot wear wool against it."  She blushed and
glanced up at him.  "Here, feel them..." she pulled the fabric away from her
calf slightly.

As he touched the cloth, his knuckles grazed her skin for a brief,
scintillating moment.  His breath caught.  "They are very fine milady."

She removed the stocking, revealing a dainty, soft, unblemished foot.  "Do
you see how well they protect?"

"Aye, milady," he stammered, unable to manage any further comment.

Seemingly oblivious to his enraptured state, she replaced her stocking and
boot, and knelt again, examining his injured feet and toes.  Her touch
against his skin sent a tingle up his leg.  He did not even notice when a boy
brought her water, soap, a soft cloth, and a towel.  Tenderly, she took each
foot in turn in her hands, and immersed it in the warm water, using the cloth
to scrub at his feet.  She frowned in concentration as she used more soap on
them, and then sighed.  Looking up, her silver eyes met his green ones.  "Do
not worry," she began, and then paused, appearing momentarily distracted.  "I
seem not to have caught your name."  

"Devin Tir, milady."  

"Don't worry, Devin Tir, I will be done in a moment.  Unfortunately, your
feet are very dirty."  She reached in her pack and removed a short-bristled
brush, the likes of which he had never seen, and began to use it to scrub his
feet.  He trembled slightly at the sensation produced by this new experience.
Suddenly, she was rubbing his feet in a towel.  Then the towel was gone, and
she was massaging his feet tenderly.  This brought a soft moan from him that
was barely audible.  The pleasure was over too quickly.  "My advice to you is
to look for some socks, and get some new boots.  These," she gestured to the
worn-out leather boots in the corner, "will no longer do."  He watched as she
took a small, sharp dagger from her belt and began paring his toenails.

"Indeed, milady."  He stuttered slightly.

"See, all better."  Capy gave Devin a warm smile and then looked quickly
away.  "I should go now," she said with a frown, as she gathered her things,
rinsing and wiping them.  "It is getting late, and it might be unseemly for
me to be seen..."  suddenly her cheeks turned bright red.

"Not a problem, milady.  You have done me a great service," he spluttered,
thinking to draw the moment out as long as possible.  "I hope I was not a
burden."

"No, of course not.  I always help those in need." 

"Good night milady, I do so hope we meet again," he stammered.

"Yes, and please think on my advice," she smiled at him as she slung her pack
over her shoulder, and was gone.

Devin Tir
AGM
Grey KnightsFloodblest Well
(submitted by: Felena)

It was a warm spring day as she completed her tasks in and around Camelot.
It was midmorning when she finished, and she headed toward her room to gather
her weapon, cloak and shield for the quest she was beginning.  Her plan was
to learn the Floodblest Well and the fights therein, well enough that she
could follow the trail in her sleep if need be.  She had been charged with
preparing for a new player tour, and she took very seriously the safety of
those who would be under her care while they ventured into the depths of that
area.

She traveled to Floodblest along the road through the Wharves.  It seemed
rather quiet in the area, but since she had rarely traveled this way, she was
not sure if that was normal or not.  As she approached the center of town,
she happened across the Rankled Boar Inn, and she stopped in for a bit to
rest and take refreshment before continuing on to the well. She finished her
fruit and cheese, drained the last of her tankard of ale, and paid the
Innkeep before stepping back into the street.  There she proceeded to the
part of town where she knew she would find the entrance to the well.  

She climbed down the ladder carefully as it was damp and slippery, and gained
her footing before releasing her grip on the ladder.  The floor was muddy,
and she felt it squish beneath her soft leather boots.  The walls around her
were of dark red clay, and moisture dripped continually down the sides, thus
explaining the muddy floor.  She proceeded into the chasm, around a corner
and through a door where she chanced across another adventurer battling with
some Owlbears and a Carrion Crawler.  She entered the fight at his request,
and as fate would have it, just in time, for the traveler had been stung by
the Crawler, and stood paralyzed and helpless.  Felena quickly sent the
Crawler to its god, and set about the task of protecting the unfortunate
traveler from the Owlbears.  It wasn't long before they had joined the
Crawler, and Felena turned to the adventurer and saw to his wounds.  She made
sure he was safe, bid him fare well, and continued on her way.

She traveled further along the corridor, the floor becoming more slippery
with each step, following the path she remembered from her few brief trips
into the area (3 to be exact).  As she pushed forward, easily dispensing with
the roaming bands of Owlbears, Crawlers and Lizards, she became more and more
unsure of her location, and the way out of the well. (Doh!!! Wrong way Fel!!
;) ) She entered a room, paying more attention to her location, than to the
noises from within, but was immediately jolted from her indecision by a stab
of pain that ripped through her shoulder.  She gasped, her hand moving
instinctively to her flail, and began a counter spell to stop the fleeing
wizard who had wounded her.  However the guard of Gnolls distracted her just
long enough for him to escape, and the ensuing battle kept her from following
him until his trail was long covered.  She rested after the battle, seeing to
her shoulder wound, and wishing she had placed a container of the salve from
her home of Winterbrook, famous for its healing properties, and virtual
prevention of scarring.  This wound would leave a scar now, of that she was
certain.  

Felena stood and surveyed her surroundings.  There were several doors leading
from her location, and she could not remember the path from here.  She
entered each of them, searching  for the secret passage she knew she must
locate.  Upon striking a wall she located a hidden door.  But each attempt to
pass was to no avail.  She tried time and again, yet the passageway would not
yield.  Thinking this was the correct exit, she kept trying, becoming
frustrated in her failure.  It was then that she felt the presence of her
sponsor in her mind.  "Greetings, Squire," Windgrey said.  "Good eve, Sire,"
she answered.  "I am exploring the well, in preparation for my next quest.
But I fear I have lost my way."  She then told him briefly of the hidden
passage she had found, and her failure at passing through.  He told her he
was in the area, and would find her.  It wasn't long before he was beside
her, and they proceeded to the passageway of which she had spoken.  He
repeated the same procedures she had previously done, with the same results,
and a band of Owlbears set upon them as they puzzled over the problem.  The
monsters were defeated quickly, and Windgrey, having been called to an urgent
task, bid Felena continue her search until his return.  She watched him
depart, and tried the last door in the area, which, to her surprise and
delight, held the doorway for which she had been searching.  

She passed through it, into a narrow hallway, around a corner, and into a
maze.  She moved cautiously here, having heard grunts and growls from ahead,
and rounding a corner, happened upon a band of Lizards.  She defeated them
easily, rested and continued along her way.  As she rounded another corner,
she was surprised by 2 Minotaurs blocking her path.  She threw several bolts
at them, not noticing the Umber Hulk lurking in the shadows, until her best
spells had been expended.  He bore down upon her then, gazing at her as rays
of confusion spewed forth from his tentacles.  The first ray hit her solidly,
and she stared blankly, fighting with all her will to clear her mind of the
confusion she felt.  She succeeded briefly, and he sent more rays at her,
confusing her yet again.  She shook her head against the effects, cleared her
mind, and struck out, landing a blow solidly in his blue bulk with a thud.
He screamed in outrage, and pain, and gazed at her again, and Felena was able
to overcome the effects more easily this time.  She brought her flail high
over her head, calling on the assistance of Tyr to give her strength, as she
brought it around to catch the Hulk in a fatal blow to the neck.  She felt
slightly nauseated, as he crumpled to the floor in a hideous blue heap, and
she stumbled to a nearby chair to rest and recover her nerves.  She would not
repeat the mistake she had made.  She made a note in her mind to survey the
battle field completely, before plunging headlong into an unfamiliar
encounter again.  

She sat there for some time, and when she felt sufficiently calm, continued
to search for the exit.  She found it after many wrong turns, and random
fights, and ascended into the fresh air of the town above.  Another encounter
ensued, as she disturbed a sleeping cloud giant when she passed through its
resting place, and finally Felena was again on the familiar street of
Floodblest.  Windgrey called to her again, as she entered the Inn, and he
expressed his pleasure at her accomplishment.  She felt as though she had
grown in maturity this day, and was content with her efforts as she rewarded
herself with a frosty mug of ale to quench her thirst.Sparing Around the
Crock
(submitted by: Aluric)

    Aluric walked cross the courtyard dragging his gunny sack of equipage
behind him and trailing sweat with a path a salmon could have spawned in.

    A few of the pages and an assistant scribe came to aid him tired as he
appeared, but he dispatched them all save the scribe.

    "I thank thee with all my heart, maiden for thine aid!" was all he said
at first.  But this brought a sharp retort from his assistant!  "Alright I
have forgotten thine given name, and thou art indeed a lady in the truest
sense, it is my own short coming that I can not remember a simple name to go
with a face as pretty as thine own.  Please berate me not! My head aches only
slightly more then the balance of my body at the moment, and I am not
myself."

    His assistant let up on the stinging repartee, only long enough to ask
why he had then waved off the pages that came to his aid.   "Simply put madam
I am embarrassed, and would have done likewise unto thee if not for my
thinking of you as a mothering sort,  (at which she hit him in a spot already
tender from the last of the fights with the younger Rathar).  "Go, Milady and
attend to business elsewhere for this is of no comfort."

    Standing erect he took up his load and wandered into the corridors where
the sons of Adam housed as members of the guild.  Upon the door closing
behind him 2 of the house staff  took up his load and escorted him to his
apartment.  "Pleaaaseeee Magister, tell us the tale if you would! whined the
younger of the two.

    Very well then, for soon enough you'll have the tale from young Rathar
himself, best ye had my side of it before then else I'll never save face.

    I went out this afternoon to answer a challenge from the ladder by young
Rathar.  For the first time ever I was in rare form, and laid on the lad like
leather on a cows back!  first set, the poor kid couldn't get out of his own
way, in the end he fell to a simple but critical laying on of my hands.  Not
satisfied, he ran back from the gates of Southwall and Neverwinter for the
second round.  Again I struck him several light blows not wanting to be too
rough on him or he on me since I thought it a fluke of the creators sense of
humor to permit me another win, and fully expected to be dropped into the
earth upon which we stood.

    But this son of a norseman was still standing after several rounds and I
had lost all track of time.  Well it appears so had he or simply luck was not
his for on an whim I cast a hold upon his head and he did not move!  Amazed
as I was, I did not think fast enough to save him from his embarrassing fate.
And the lowly crocodile bit him in the nether regions sending him to eat gate
wood once more.  That being 2 out of 3 (actually 2 in a row) I though myself
lucky and knelt in prayerful thanks. But lo! he was back!

    "Yes", I asked with a tilt of me head, "magister you are the victor, but
I still get my crown points so I am happy" was his reply.  With a sad snicker
of a laugh, (for I already hurt from our engagement) I said; "Sorry son but
Since I did see thee posted a challenge to me for my position upon the ladder
this cannot count for your knighting points."

   But Sir!  I had given word to send to the for a formal challenge by way of
the points I do need for my knighting!   Aluirc was about to stifle the lad,
when a young supplicant of the KEF guild did round the very door way where
the 2 now stood, dressed in the livery of one of the guilds pages.  "Aluric,
Magister Aluric, ALURIC where are thee master" was his vocalization
(screaming as it would have been called by others).  Coming up short of
crashing into the 2 knights, "Magister, Finally I have found thee".  The
Herald's page then turned with a start and bowed once and then again when he
realized he had neglected to acknowledge the younger knight of the pair
standing before him.  "your pardon sirs!  please do not inform my master of
my tardiness or my lack of grace and courtesy"  Aluric replied gently (for
this child was now staring directly at the angry red Rathar, who was still
none to thrilled at learning he would not earn his points for knighting).
"Son what is that you said about you're tardiness?"  The herald near jumped
from his boots; "sir oh I almost forgot again!" "There has been a formal
challenge issued by Lrd Rathar for points of knighting"  "I did receive my
instructions to deliver it yesterday, but the hour was late and so I thought
I could seek thee out at suns rise and deliver it before you where done with
the breaking of the fast!"  "Again I do apologize, for I over slept, the bed
was warm and...." Enough! I will advise you master of your delivery, thou
some what less than expected, no harm from it resulted, save something of my
reputation!"  The Heralds page looked somewhat confused.  So Aluric provided
illumination.  "Recite for me again the time and place of this challenge!
Like the twang of a bows string after the shaft has sped upon it way, insight
did come to this young one, prostrating himself for the flogging he expected
would come.  Aluric instead drew him up, brushed him off and introduced him
to Lrd Rathar!  Again the boy near fainted away at realizing he had failed
miserably in his assignment.

   "Away, with you now.  Ill set the matter right, and say nothing to you
master, for the trouble you are now in is nothing compared to the trouble you
will be in when the house mother sees what your groveling and such hast done
to your doublet hose, let alone the dirt stains upon that new tunic!  "The
youngsters face went ash as he fled from the room, trying to figure out what
to do now!

  Laughingly Aluric turned to face the none to leased Rathar.  "It would seem
I did have another bout upon my dance card with thee when I accepted this
ladder engagement.  Rathar quickly offered to postpone the match for points.
But Aluric would have none of that,  "Its high time you lads in the common
ranks learned to buck up and take what's coming to you, its a fight you want
and its a fight you'll get. I am the present scribe for the Knights of the
Eternal Flame, but I still follow the paths of sword and shield!"  Now lest
get set and go for the gust, and may the better man win! Good Luck!.  Aluric
figured Rathar would need it since he had already felled to Aluric 2 straight
matches this day. Surly the creator was with him. No?  NO!

   Aluric released the beast, someone's pet reptile.  Though not before
casting the proper spells to make himself a prayerfully blessed holy,
protected, shielded and downright friendly sort of fellow just as he always
had before.  And once the crocodile was away he set about placing a globe
between himself and the now entered Rathar.  But the crock really took a
liking to Aluric and pursued him all over the room.  Had Aluric but known
that this  was what would happened, surely he never would have attempted to
silence the poor excuse for a ladies handbag. Clumsily Aluric now stumbled in
and out of various clouds of noxious vapors, continually harried by the
"friendlier crocodile", who constantly was taking away little, but still,
significant parts of Alurics backside with each attempt to place distance
between him and the enamored if not succulent knight of the realms!  Rathar
could not seem to get a hold upon Aluric, but not to be out done by this low
lying leathered layers of teeth, occasionally Rathar would spice it up a bit
with a bit of electrical discharges.  In the end Aluric could no longer stand
from the holes bitten or burned through his body and found himself upon the
fine mahogany wood  that comprised the gate between South Wall and
Neverwinter Proper.  Applying some healing magics,  Aluric did again return.

  This time was Rathar's turn to set free the caged but "ever so friendly"
crocodile.  Aluric thought to himself, "the tag on the cage said it was the
property of the now departed Sunglitz,  now I know why she had kept it
around!"  On que, Aluric entered and the 2 knights again began the dance.
Exchanging volleys of magic missles for light wound, light wounds and fumbles
for confusions and holds but no spell Aluric cast seemed to stick, then in
the 11th round Rathar re globed. and Spells where again exchanged, but when
in the 17th round Aluric now globed for but the first time. having gone the
whole time unchecked, and to Rathar's amazement, unglobed, though not
unprotected.    You hadn't globed?  "he asked as Aluric and he again,
exchanged ineffective spells.  "Nope,  and  you did not even check! taunted
Aluric.

   Now did Rathar pull out all the stops, using scroll, and wand and scroll,
(or was that scroll, scroll, scroll, spell).   I forget Aluric narrated to
the fellow, who was now seated upon Aluric's bed listening intently.  The
second laid out the equipment they had carried up while Aluric continued to
spin his tale.  All I do clearly remember was that stupid, stinking swamp
creature biting me with little nibbles while Rathar somehow took the
initiative in such a way as to get 4 spells off in a row.  At that point I
was near dead! One more spell would have done me in for good and I do so tire
of eating wood.  All the while Rathar was hard pressed to not look like he
had been in some sort of a scrape but a single fix would be all he needed.
Aluric then heard Rathar say "the hour grows late, and I needs take my leave
of thee and go anon to the other world.  But I shall give thee a rematch on
the morrow."

   "OH NO YOU DON'T!, I have had my fill of thee, bested now twice, though I
have not yet gone to the gate.  I concede happily to thee, this round which
makes thee the victor and valid holder of you first points towards knighting.
No more this day or this week will I fight the likes of thee! Nope If its a
fight you want go and find the Lady Fair Star! Ask of her a lesson or two the
likes of which she gave me and get you're points from her if you would
(dare)."  Rathar replied; "directly will I do as thee have suggested and seek
out the lady."  And thank thee milord scribe.  You are a worthy knight. and a
good sport.

  I then silently said a prayer for forgiveness, for my lack of kindness to
young Rathar.  With the glow of victory still upon his face he had no idea
what he was in for and it will be My pleasure to read of those exploits!

  Some what happy again,  Aluric hurried the young assistants out of the room
so he could go soak his head and the rest of his hurting body in a warm hot
bath, with a warm hot mead from the box hidden under the floor boards in his
room.

   Another day or two to recover his pride and Aluric will challenge the one
know as Kef Furry to a match upon the ladder.  But now tis time to
rest.Chance Meeting
(submitted by: Lake Mist)

     The mid-February storm had broken about ten in the evening.  The wind
still howled like a pack of ice hounds, but the snow had let up.  The snow
was still falling, but not nearly as heavily as earlier in the day.

     Within the Red Mage Inn, near Southwall, all was warm and lit with
merriment.  A mighty fire roared in the stone hearth, filling the gathering
hall with flickering orange light and a steamy heat.  Mages, clerics and an
occasional traveler caught by the storm sprawled on benches before long
tables, consuming the local ale, or if they could afford it, the finer wines
from the cellar.  A quarter of owlbear turned on the creaking spit above the
roaring blaze, and the rich smell of roasting meat filled the room.

     Caught by the wind, the heavy wooden door crashed open.  Everyone
turned, startled, to see a tall figure looming in the doorway.  From throat
to heel he was wrapped in a black cloak.  Water was starting to stream from
the snow on his shoulders and head with the sudden warmth of the room upon
it, forming puddles on the floor around his boots.  Under the black hood was
glimpsed a dangerous blue eye in a bronzed, weather beaten face and the gold
of a well kept beard as the stranger stamped in, slamming the door shut
behind him and removing his cloak to wring the snow and water from it.
That's when I noticed the patch over his left eye.

     The fat, perspiring innkeeper hurried over to ask the stranger's needs.
He was quite awkward, and kept rubbing his fat hands on the well worn leather
apron that barely offered protection.

     "Hot spiced ale," the stranger growled, as he sat down at a bench near
the fire.  "And a cut of that owlbear I smell roasting, if 'tis done.  Quick,
man.  I'm frozen to the bone and hungry as a famished hell hound."

     As the innkeeper hurried away to begin serving the stranger, a burly
local townsman, much worse for wine and ale, nudged his companions and rose
to his feet and moved to the fire, swaying a little as he tried to stand.  He
was big, with a thick throat and broad shoulders.  The expression on his boar
like face resembled that of cunning with just a dash of stupidity.  He stood
there, looking down at the stranger, with a drunken grin, taking in the scar
that ran down the entire side of the stranger's face and disappeared into the
top of his tunic.  Spreading his cloak to catch the heat of the fire, the
stranger paid him no heed.

     "What do we have here, lads, eh?" said the local townsman in a thick
drunken voice.

     "Looks like a Triboarian bushwacker to me, ThistleRoc," said WarnOrd.

     ThistleRoc looked the stranger up and down.  "Long in the tooth for a
bushwacker, lads," he jeered,  "and look at the dog sitting there, hogging
the best seat in the Red Mage.  Hey, yellow beard.  Drag your frozen bones to
the back and let honest men soak up some heat."

     If ThistleRoc had not been so deep in his cup and spoiling for a fight,
he might have noticed the fire in the blazing eye that was raised to him.
Alas, the warning glare only enraged him to petty fury.  Rage flared in his
bloodshot eyes, and his face flushed crimson.

     "I'm talking to you, newby." he snarled, and swung a heavy foot to kick
the stranger's shin with a thud, startlingly loud in the gathering hall,
which had become eerily quiet.  This was the local bully, the strong arm, the
loudmouth.  The other locals began to chuckle and nudge each other, waiting
for the fun when ThistleRoc goaded the stranger into a rage.

     At the other end of the gathering hall I sat silently, catlike in a
shadowy corner, enveloped in a thick, forest green cloak with the hood drawn
close about my face.  I leaned forward to observe the quarrel.  If the
stranger was who I thought he was, this wouldn't last long. 

     The stranger moved like a striking tiger.  One moment he sat folded
under his steaming cloak; the next, he surged to his feet, clamped a vise
like grip around one of ThistleRoc' fleshy thighs; then caught the bully's
throat with a throttling force.  Incredibly, he swung the bully off his feet
and hurled him across the room.  His body struck the wall with a force that
shook the entire inn, and then thudded to the wooden floor, where he
sprawled.  For a moment he lay there, gasping.  A look of disbelief growing
over the faces of his comrades.

     His face an even brighter crimson, ThistleRoc jumped to his feet.
Swearing an oath, he lunged across the hall with his arms outspread.

     The stranger stepped forward to meet his charge.  He sank his left fist
into the other's midsection.  As the air whistled from ThistleRoc's lips, the
stranger's right fist caught him in the face with a smack that sounded of
breaking bone.  With a smash from the left fist to the face, ThistleRoc's
head snapped back and he was lifted from the floor.  As his body fell in a
heap to the floor, the stranger booted him into the hearth.

     Coals flew and soot shot out in a thick grey-black cloud.  Screaming in
alarm, ThistleRoc's comrades rushed to drag him out of the hearth.
Blackened, singed, and grease spattered, they tried to rouse him.  Blood
running from his broken nose and cut lip, they carried his unconscious bulk
to another room for recovery.

     The tension in the gathering hall broke with a chorus of laughter,
congratulations, and compliments on the strangers prowess.  Many of those
present this eve had long hoped that someone would some day take that
overbearing bully's measure.  The stranger gave them all a half-smile and
turned his attention to the ale and owlbear being served to him.

     I made my way through the crowd to the table where the stranger sat,
just finishing his first mug of ale.  "Innkeeper, two mugs of frenzy," I
called over my shoulder as I sat down across from the stranger.  "By the
Morning Star Archet, there's only one mortal in twenty realms that has the
daring to do that.  Is it...can it be?" I asked as the stranger looked me
over.

     Forest green cloak over plate mail, a massive broad sword strapped to
the back, beard and a youthful glint from the eyes.  The eyes, he lifted his
voice in a bellow of joy "Lake Mist."

     It was true, "Garthlik, by the claws of a tiger, it warms my heart to
set eyes on you after so long," I said as the innkeeper placed two mugs of
frenzy on the table.

     Over hot owlbear and more frenzy, we exchanged stories of events that
had transpired since that day long ago when Garthlik had ventured thru my
village and set me on the road to Neverwinter and the path of a ranger.
Garthlik was winding up his story, "Now I too have chosen to follow the path
of a ranger.  It is hard giving up the ways of a thief and to follow the path
of another.  I am surely trying, but am not sure where this will all lead.  I
chose not to join any guilds at this time, least till I know what path awaits
me."

     With that, I wished my old friend luck and a smooth path.  We moved off
to our rooms for the night.  When I awoke the next morn, Garthlik had already
arisen and journeyed on.Siege at Floodblest - Chapter 4
(submitted by: Makmorg)

It was sheer havoc outside the Rankled Boar Inn.  The sounds of battle and
the shrieks of the mortally wounded echoed through the night.  The injured
cleric was right.  Before my eyes the adventurers in Floodblest were being
slaughtered.  

Griffons swooped down from above like raptors and snatched adventurers off
the ground only to release them while high in the darkened sky.  Even the
bravest screamed as they plummeted to their deaths.  Huge groups of owlbears,
fighting en mass, viciously mauled those unable to withstand their powerful
onslaught.  And giant lizards, scampering across the sides of buildings,
easily ambushed the unwary, snapping up unfortunate heroes in their hungry
jaws.  Urging on the monsters were bow wielding bugbears, the evil giant,
hairy cousins of the goblins .  They took wicked delight in shooting arrows
at adventurers while their backs were turned in combat.

I tried to locate my friends in the mass of  battling adventurers.
Particularly Saralla.  I wasn't worried about her per se and realized anyway
that I would never be able spot her or the others in this chaos.  Just as
well for they would be busy enough trying to stay alive in this
conflagration.  Fortunately none of the buildings or homes in Floodblest were
being attacked which meant that the citizens of Floodblest would be safe for
now, if they were smart enough to stay indoors behind their barricades.  One
less thing to worry about.  At the moment it appeared as if the monsters were
solely hunting adventurers but for reason I could not even begin to guess at.


"Mak, we have to do something.  Everyone is being murdered."  It was the
hulking Lander who spoke.  The strain in his voice made him sound much more
like a boy now, an innocent youth trapped in a grown man's body.

"These damn fools are allowing themselves to get boxed in between these
buildings and alleys."  I observed angrily.  "They're chasing monsters and
are getting ambushed."

Just then Kel the half elf thief shouted a warning.  "Mak, look out!"

A griffon was bearing down on us, it wicked talons eager for flesh.  In one
fluid movement I brought up my crossbow and fired.  I watched the bolt sink
into the avian beast's forehead.  Unable to halt its momentum the griffon's
corpse sailed over us-my youthful companions had enough battle sense to lower
their heads-and smacked against the side of the inn in a bone sickening
crunch.

"That was too close for comfort."  Fox said relieved after the attack.  "That
griffon almost had us there."

Staring at the circular, bloody smear on the inn's stony walls I replied,
"Yeah, the griffon went from a bird's eye to a bull's eye."  I then returned
my focus to the conflict.  Lander was correct by his earlier statement.  We
had to act soon.  If we didn't do something to help our fellow adventurers
everything-Floodblest, it's people, and maybe even Neverwinter-would be lost.


"Okay young ones, this is your chance to be heroes," I started.  "If you want
to help out the other adventurers you have to do what I tell you,
understood?"  Like a single organism they all nodded their heads in
agreement, the anticipation of battle silencing their voices at the moment.

"Lander, you and I are the front runners.  Kel and Mort follow behind us and
shoot at anything that isn't friendly with your arrows and magic missiles.
Remember to keep an eye on the skies.  Fox and Nira, keeping our rear flank
safe is your responsibility.  Ready?"  I looked at their faces one more time
to gauge their readiness and was met by a powerful look of determination, the
sincere desire to do some good.  Yes, the fear was still lurking in their
visages but I knew it would only drive them forward not hold them back at
this point.  They were indeed ready.

"Okay let's do it!"  I ordered.  

The Party of Five and I charged into the bloody fray in front of the Sinda's
Trading Post, fighting our way through the monstrous horde to help our fellow
warriors.  I took care of the owlbears, which were the most immediate threat,
going for fatal head shots with my crossbow this time around.  Lander, armed
with a powerful two handed sword, followed my lead and hacked away at any of
the shaggy monsters that had anyone pinned down.  Kel the half elf thief was
deadly accurate with her bow and with ease had the bugbears on the field
ducking and running for cover, some never reaching safety at all.  Mort kept
the skies clear with magic missiles and managed to keep the griffons at a
safe distance.  And Fox, armed with a short sword, and Nira, armed with a
flail, slashed and bashed away at giant lizards who attempted to stealthily
attack us from our rear.  The sudden arrival and successful attack of our
fighting unit gave the other adventurers a chance to recoup and organize
themselves.

"Shall we let these youths do of our fighting?" proclaimed a Dalesman with a
sword in the air, "Let us join ranks and take the fight to the beasts, with
gold to spare!"  The gathered adventurers let out a cheer and joined our
formation.  They fought now with new found fury and strength.

Despite overwhelming odds our small army managed to kill or send running all
the creatures in our area.  The adventurers now held this part of the town by
the inn and the trading post.  Weary from battle we took advantage of the
brief respite to catch our breaths and help out those who were wounded. 

I had to admit the Party of Five handled themselves well in battle and I
admired the bravery and stamina of these young people.  Although tired,
covered with the gore of their enemies, the young warriors were doing all
they could to assist the other people.

I noticed that there were other pockets of organized resistance from other
adventurers in some parts of Floodblest.  These groups obviously had some
kind of military experience.  They were fighting in small defensible units
and like us were keeping a part of the village free of monsters.  One group
fighting by the temple was led by the black haired female dwarf drunkard from
earlier this evening.  With no sign of her earlier inebriation she and her
unit of wily female dwarves were easily fending off an attack from a pack of
giant lizards and owlbears.  I guess battle was a sobering experience.  The
dwarves were letting the monsters come to them.  They then rushed forward in
a startling charge and chopped into the beasts with their battle axes.  An
idea then occurred to me.

"Fox, where's the largest open area in town?"

"That would be the dock area north of here." answered the Ranger, "Hasn't
seen much use lately though.  Why?"

"No time to explain.  I want you and your friends to gather the surviving
adventurers and head towards there.  Help out those in trouble along the way
but get them to there."

"Mak, I don't understand..."  Fox began.

"Just do it, boy!"  I interrupted.  "Can you heroes handle it?"

Steeling himself with confidence Fox said, "You can count on us Mak."
Turning to his friends he said, "Come on Party of Five.  For honor and
justice."  

As one they lifted their weapons and shouted in unison, "For honor and
justice."  They then quickly spread word among the heroes gathered there.
There was some reluctance on the part of some of the adventurers at first but
with skillful words Fox was able to convince them otherwise.  Soon the small
army was surging to the north attacking groups of monsters along the way.

I ran off and left them to their task, shouting out some parting words of
wisdom.  "Remember, fight in formation.  Hold the dock area until I get there
with help!"  Then I was gone.

Reaching the female dwarven unit by the temple was a very hazardous task,
considering the monsters who stood in my way.  First a wretched bugbear
popped out from an alley and challenged me.  He believed his bow was quicker
than my crossbow.  A bolt to giant goblinoid's chest proved otherwise.  A
giant lizard was my next victim, falsely secure while hidden in the shadows.
Two bolts to the head brought his mistake to light while also bringing him
down off a building wall.  The final creature I faced was a savage griffon.
It was swooping down on a pair of wounded mages when my last bolt brought the
avian beast down in a lifeless heap.  I made sure the two mages were okay and
told them to get to the open air area to the north before continuing on.

As I neared the dwarves I spotted, to my utter disgust, a thief from the
Black Daggers looting the body of a fallen adventurer.  Anger flashed through
me for a second.  I should have killed the scoundrel outright but instead I
smashed the wooden stock of my crossbow down on his unsuspecting head,
knocking him unconscious.  Let him take his chances now.

The black haired dwarf had seen my actions against the thief and when I
reached her said, "I guess that thief picked the wrong moment to pick
pockets."

"The only thing he'll be picking is his teeth off the ground if he survives
the night."  I replied.  The black haired dwarf chortled as she yanked an axe
out of a giant lizard's skull.

"That's the last of 'em."  She said with satisfaction.  Surveying the area I
had to concur.  She and her female cohorts had killed every monster that
attacked them, without even a single injury to their unit.  The female
dwarves cleaned their weapons and then gathered around the black haired
dwarf, the apparent leader of this group.  "Name's Hildha by the way.  Never
caught yer name back at the inn, handsome."  She said.

"Call me Mak."  I answered.  "You and you comrades have military experience I
take it."

"Yer looking at the former 5th Dwarven Brigade Ground Assault Unit."

"Excellent, I'm going to need your unit's battle skills then."

"I'm listening, handsome." Hildha said curiously.

"We need to get away from these alleys and into a more open area to fight.
And we have to do it in some kind of battle formation, like soldiers.  If we
don't none of us will survive this night."

"You're right about that,"  Hildha agreed, "But these durn treasure hunters
ain't much for soldiering though.  What do you suggest we do?"

I quickly outlined my plan, telling her about the dock area and the gathering
of the survivors by the Party of Five.

"If we fight them on our terms then maybe we might have a chance."  I
concluded.

Hildha nodded, showing her satisfaction with my plan.  She then pulled out a
heavy crossbow, her troops following suit.  I took this time to reload my own
crossbow.  The spunky dwarf raised her crossbow as high as her stubby arms
would allow and said, "Let's get this party started and get da rest of these
goldbricks to the north!"  The ladies of the 5th Dwarven Brigade let out a
hoarse cry and together we plunged back into the melee, making our way
through the entire town.

We helped out every adventurer we came across, regardless of their alignment,
and steered them towards the docks covering their exodus with a barrage of
crossbow bolts.  Other military veterans, including vets from King Azoun's
crusade against the Horde, joined in our efforts and helped us to herd the
remaining adventurers to the north.  They issued orders like sergeants and
got stragglers moving.  They even made sure that the injured were carried off
by the strongest warriors.  The dead were left behind.  Mages added their
mystical might to our crossbows and hurled multicolored fireballs to help
cover our retreat.

With our ragtag army we arrived at the dock area to find the adventurers
gathered there already by the Party of Five holding a tenuous line against
the bugbear lead monsters.  With the river to their backs there was no place
for the defenders to go.  Fortunately, Saralla, Rodrigo and other more
experienced adventurers were there to take command and control the situation.
They were moving up and down the line keeping the defenders together.  We had
arrived in just in time, however, for the line was starting to falter under
the unrelenting assault of the monsters.

I shouted, "For Floodblest!" and lead my group in a charge to tip the scales
in our favor.  Our sudden appearance completely surprised the bugbears and
their monster charges and our organized attack sent them fleeing for the
alleys, for now anyway.

The heroes in the square let out a cheer at our arrival.  There was no time,
however, to celebrate our brief moment of victory.  It wouldn't be long
before the bugbears reorganized the monsters for another attack.  I quickly
outlined to Hildha and the other vets what needed to be done, assigning them
each a specific task.  Once they understood my plan I left them to get the
heroes organized while I checked on my comrades.

Locating Saralla I approached the cleric of Helm but she just glanced once in
my direction and then went off to help some of the injured.  Just as well,
her clerical skills were needed now. 

Looking for the others I saw Kwarrel and Kel were joining the ranks of bowmen
being set up by a Turmish soldier by the name of Ahmed.  Lander and Fox were
gathering with the swordsmen while Mort and Kayla huddled with the other
mages.  Nira was with the other clerics tending to the wounded.  At that
moment the young cleric of Chauntea looked up at me with weary eyes, so
unused to bloodshed and battle, yet with determination returned to her
healing.  She was truly an inspiration to the other clerics.

Someone then placed a hand on my shoulder.  I turned to face Rodrigo, his
usual smile stuck on his face.

"So I hear you're organizing this little party,"  He said, "Well then what's
the plan oh, great, leader?"

Leader?  At that moment I realized that everyone was looking at me.  It was
never my intention to lead this group.  I had thought if I could just get
them organized then the rest would take care of itself.  But here they were,
a sea of faces waiting for my words.  For a brief moment I felt doubt.  I had
failed to save my wife and daughter and countless others in my years of
struggle against the Zhentarim.  How could I accept the responsibility for
the lives of these brave men and women, humans and demihumans.  I then shook
it all away.  I would not fail to save Floodblest.  By Tyr, I would not fail.

"Hear me fellow adventurers!," I started, "If you wish to live to see morning
you must follow my orders and the orders of the individuals I assigned to
organize each of the groups."

"Why is he the leader," suddenly interjected an easterner who I learned was
called Khan Gah.

Before I could reply there was a sudden thump and the Kara Turian fell to the
ground.  Hildha stood over him massaging her fist.  "Cuz, I sez so!"  She
said and then turned to the other adventurers, "Any other complaints."  When
no one responded she nodded toward me, indicating that I should continue.

"Uh, thanks Hildha."  I said, then resumed my talk.  "The monsters will be
here soon.  This is where we will make our stand.

"The bowmen will be our first line of defense.  Mages, you're split up into
two groups.  Kayla your group will launch the first attack.  Zairn keep your
group in reserve until I order otherwise."  Earlier during the retreat I had
seen the extent of the mage Zairn's power and knew he was a wizard of great
power and experience which was why I chose him to lead the reserve mages.

"The rest of you will on my command rush out and sweep the field."

"What do you mean sweep?"  Asked a swordswoman by the name of Glenda.

"He means kill anything left standing after the bowmen and mages attack."
Replied a beefy vet named Cilus.

"Right,"  I responded, "Then on my command the sweepers shall immediately
pull back.  No stragglers.

"As for the clerics, they shall protect the injured and act as our rear
guard."  I paused and gave the assembled mass of adventurers a few second to
digest my words.  I then added,  "Remember people we're fighting for our very
lives here."

"What about the bugbear archers?"  Asked a red-haired halfling named Quince.
"They'll pick us off with their arrows if we stand out here in the open."

"I already have a plan to deal with them."  I answered.  "You just remember
your task and remain in position.

"Are we clear on everything."  I looked at the haggard faces one more time.
There a general grunt of approval from everyone.  In this mass of heroes I
spotted Saralla.  For a second I thought I recognized a look of respect on
her face.  Was this for me?  Then it was gone replaced by the scowl of
impending battle.  The monsters could be heard coming.

"Okay, everyone in formation.  Now!"  I ordered.  The heroes rushed into
their assigned positions.  Group leaders made sure everyone found their place
and held them there.  I joined the ranks of archers and crossbowmen.

In the distance a line of owlbears and lizards were headed towards us pushed
on by bugbears.  Behind this group was the biggest bugbear I had ever seen in
my life.  He was a huge goblinoid beast and radiated pure savagery.  The
hairy monster held a wicked two handed sword with one hand, hefting as if it
were a mere dagger.  This had to be the leader and rightly so.  Several
bugbears stood around him like a living barrier preventing any clear shots at
him.  I'll worry about him later.  The sounds of loud screeches told me the
griffons were on the way.

"Do not attack until I give the command!"  I growled to the adventurer army.

"The line is yours Mak."  Said Rodrigo.

The land monsters were getting closer and the griffons were visible in the
moon lighted sky.

"I hope we're are not making a mistake following this man.  I was a great
leader among my people back home."  Commented Khan Gah from among the
swordmen.

The griffons were circling near by now.  Like us, waiting.  Keeping an eye on
the avian beasts I said to Khan Gah, "This is no time to dance around the
issue."

Totally confused, the Kara Turian asked, "What do you mean?"

I responded, "No one wants a Khan Gah line," then the griffons attacked.

::to be continued::Thief - Part 4
Thieves Den
(submitted by: Garthlik)

By Garthlik One Eye

     Leaving the chamber where I killed the troll, I move back down the
corridor to the chamber where I encountered the four spies.  I would search
the bodies again, but they are gone.

     Moving back to the street, I turn right and continue.  There is a door
on my left and I am on the northern side of the bazaar.  This may be my last
chance to find any clues.

     I enter the large chamber and begin to look around.  As I search the
south-east corner I discover thieves hiding in the shadows.  The eight
thieves draw their swords without a sound and move to attack.  I fell two
quickly, but the rest surround me.  Fighting from all sides, I find it
difficult to maintain a solid attack or defense.  Finally, my sword cuts the
last, and I stand victorious and wounded.

     Tending to a rather deep cut on my left arm, I notice one lone thief
cowering in a corner.  As he looks at me he says, "Please don't hurt me, I
beg of ya's."

     I move a little closer and in a low voice demand, "Tell me where your
thieves den is!"  He quickly looks around, then says, "I'll tell ya's what
ya's wants to know."

    He stammered on, "Our hide...hideout, search to the west, the
pass...password is beh..."  Just before he finishes, a dagger flies across
the room, burying itself deep in his throat.

     I turn quickly towards the door and see a figure dressed entirely in
black.  As the figure turns and melts into the shadows, I here it say, "Sing
no more, ye coward."  I think to myself that these thieves are even more
ruthless than I had originally figured, to simply kill their own.  There are
many differences between them and myself.

     Looking back into the corner, I decide to change into what appears to be
a sort of uniform for these thieves.  Maybe I will get further if I look a
little more like them.

     As I leave this chamber, I look at the rough map I made of Southwall as
I looked around.  There can only be two or three places to look at west of
here.  The closest one is near the well where I had encountered those orcs.

     I follow the street north of the well and then around to it's west side.
I turn right and enter the door.  Searching this corridor I find nothing.
Moving to the door in the north-east corner, I enter and begin to search this
chamber.  There is nothing to the east.  In the west corner I find a trap
door.  Looking at the locks, it is not to difficult, so I open it.

     When I reappear in the open, I see an archway just ahead and to the
left.  As I try to enter.  I run into an invisible barrier of some sort.
There is a weasel looking man on the other side.  He motions for me to write
on the slightly fogged surface of the clear barrier.

     What had that dying thief said, "Beh..."  I thought for second.  Just as
I started to write, a thought, and then I scrawled what I thought it should
be.

     The weasel pulls a lever and the barrier slides into the wall, I step
into the room.  As I reach the door in the north-east corner, Weasel realizes
that I don't belong here.  He sounds the alarm and attacks with four wolves.
I slay him and then the wolves and then move through the door.

     The corridor twist right, then left, then right again.  Halfway along I
find a storage room with nothing of value in it.  I must move quickly.  At
the end of the corridor, a door to the north.  I enter and find yet another
corridor.  I follow the corridor right, then make a sharp turn to the left
and head west.  The corridor turns south and I run into two thieves moving
quickly in my direction.  Surprise on my side, I kill them both quickly.

     As I move south, I see a narrow stairway to the west, leading down.
Taking this stairway, I step out into another corridor and feel a stone tile
shift under my foot.  Spears fire through holes in the wall.  I try to dodge,
but there are to many, and I have fresh wounds.  Nothing fatal, but they
still hurt.

     I move quickly, and find more stairs continuing downward.  As I descend,
I come out in yet another corridor.  I quickly look for more traps, none.  I
move north, and turn a corner to see five doors.  Two on the left and three
on the right.  I open the closest door on the right and enter.

     Pots and pans line the walls.  It looks like I am standing in the
kitchen.  Shadows appear to move to south.  As I approach, two bandits and
two thieves stop their chores and attack.  Not wanting them to sound another
alarm, I move in quickly and drop all four where they stand.

     I open the door and stumble into the mess hall.  By the looks of the
half-eaten meals on the tables, and the empty benches, the alarm was sounded
while they ate.  I step forward and three thieves jump out of the shadows.  I
think their upset at me for disturbing their meal.  Haste in mind now, I fell
these quickly and move north for the door.

     Standing in the corridor again, I face another door.  Pushing it open, I
step into the sleeping quarters.  I surprise four bandits who are trying to
get their armor on.  Sword already in hand, I rush into them and slay them
quickly.  In the north-west corner of the quarters, I open the door and find
racks full of swords and well oiled leather armor hanging on pegs on the
walls.  Even bad weapons can cut.

    I head back to the corridor and turn left.  Two doors are left to
investigate.  I step forward and open the door on the right.  It is another
storage room.

     Moving back to the corridor, I open the last door.  I enter a lavishly
decorated room with a large man sitting with his back to me behind a polished
oak desk in the far north-east corner.  He says, "You have become most
troublesome, and I'm actually surprised that you have made it as far as you
have.  You will definitely make it no further."

     He stands and faces me.  My jaw drops and shock registers.  Lord Nasher?
He starts to laugh and says, "I suppose I could tell you my plan, after all,
you will be dying soon anyway.  My name is Tandel Davaub and I am the founder
of this place you have stumbled into.  You cannot hope to stop me, my plans
are already in place, as you can see.  The Sword Coast will be under my
control."

     He clenches his fist and looks directly at me, "Your beloved Lord Nasher
will be assassinated and I will shall rule in his stead.  With Neverwinter
under my control, and Luskan as my ally, we shall go after Waterdeep itself."

     He quickly steps through a panel in the back wall as I start to move
after him.  Two thieves and three orcs, his guards, move to block my path.
This man has more tricks up his sleeve than he first appeared.  As his guards
fall, I move quickly to his desk.

     I search his desk carefully.  In a secret compartment, I find a diary
with detailed information on his plans, but it bursts into flames as I hold
it and I quickly drop it.  I suddenly realize that the only way to remove the
threat to Lord Nasher is to catch Davaub.

     I find the secret panel and step through it.  The panel slams shut,
leaving me only one way to go.  As I start to climb the rungs of the ladder,
I see movement out of the corner of my eye.  Turning, I see a sword flash
towards me.  A gasp of pain escapes my lips as feel the blade slice across my
arm.

     Davaub turns and says, "I will finish you myself." as he and two bandits
and two thieves attack.  His armor may look like Lord Nashers, but it is
cheap in comparison as my sword rips through his plate and he falls.  With
their leader dead, the others don't fight quite so hard and I slay them as
well.

     I climb the rungs and clear the well.  As I look around, I realize that
I must report to Lord Nasher as quickly as possible.

     As I enter the palace, the guards look at me in surprise.  Blood is
still seeping from the cut on my arm.  I ask to see Lord Nasher about the
mission he had given me.  The escort takes me to the back of the palace where
I wait.

     Lord Nasher appears and signals for his attendants to at least clean and
dress my wounds.  I explain in detail my findings in regards to the thieves
den.

     He sits silent for a moment then says, "You have done well Garthlik.  I
am just sorry that the rouge Davaub could not be brought forward for
justice."

     He looks up at me and continues, "I knew your parents, Elthryn and
Amrythale.  Your father as a fine ranger and your mother a good priestess of
Mielikki.  You do them no dishonor.  I had thought to charge you with
following their path, but, now I realize that would be wrong.  You have
started down the path of the ranger, and you are doing well.  I say to you
that if you wish to combine the paths of ranger and thief, I will bless it.
Always help those weaker than yourself, and be true to who you are."

     With that, he left the chamber and I rose to leave.  Follow the combined
paths of ranger and thief?  Would others accept me?  So many had turned their
backs to me at the mere thought of a thief near them.  As I left the palace,
I realized that I needed rest.  I turned left and followed the street to
Daglow's Inn.  There I purchased a meal, drink, and a room.

     Before retiring, I wondered if my father's brotherhood would accept me,
the wayward son returned home.  Well, that was for another day, sleep for
now.(submitted by: Murtano)

Two recent knightings in Camelot....


Murtano/Sr Murtano former Squire to Sylphee - Champion of KORT

Sir Str/Str187 former Squire to Sir Corw1n/Corw1n
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