1996-07-14
Recovered original text · preserved verbatim
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NEVERWINTER NEWS
Issue # 142
Week Ending 7-14-96
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FRONT PAGE
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Congratulations to Lake Mist for winning last week's News of the Realm
contest for his story entitled "Sacred Heart".
Lake Mist 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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Minor Gauntlet Booth Results - 07/07/96
The cry went out! "We need powerful warriors, mages, and holy men. Prove
you can withstand the running of the Minor Gauntlet and win 2 pearls!!"
Oberon was selected to seek the strongest and no less then 6 proved up to the
task by thwarting Oberon's charms, his powerful poison potion, and a hold
monster!
Congrats to Sigfreed, Vinman88, Mordor Xax, K1ng K0bra, Myschyff, and KTO
Bear. Thanks to all who participated.
NWA Oberon
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New Player Tour - 7/5
We gathered under the ancient tree in NeverWinter, a party of brave and
fearless souls. Alkins, Tyrs Sword, Srfnw, Varilous Eagle V1ew, and myself.
Having been asked to venture to Port Llast by Lord Nasher himself, we left on
our journey. Heading North to Windy Cliffs, we came across a secret passage
along the hedgerows.
We entered and found a hallway and a fairly safe and much shorter
passage than traveling the wooded path through town.
As we arrived in Port Llast, we were greeted by a large hoarde of wild
boars and giant rats. They took their toll on our party. Alkins and Srfnw
fell in battle and were unable to return; however, we continued on.
After resting at the Griffon Inn, we headed to the crossroads in the center
of town, then down a short side street to a square. Here we encountered Lord
Raz0r a brave and noble warrior in need of a strong party to help him clear
the dungeon of Port Llast. Apparently, Lord Nasher had sent him ahead as a
scout and he awaited our arrival in LLast so that he could lead us to the
dungeons below. We ventured deep into the depths of the dungeons of Port
Llast.
After many fierce encounters, Lord Raz0r pointed to a door. "Through there,"
he shouted, " the ones responsible for our losses this eve." We pushed
forward and found two evil mages in the midst of summoning monsters which
they planned on unleasing on the citizens of Port Llast. Just as the
conjurations finished, we jumped into action. Trolls, bullettes, and umber
hulks surrounded us, and we fought valiantly in the name of our Lord Nasher.
Even with the blessings of Tyr and a few well placed spells, we were unable
to overcome the evil beasts and were by bested the mages.
Returning to the Griffon Inn, we sat down to a hearty meal and a well
deserved round of ales. Lord Raz0r left to return to Neverwinter and the
others retired, leaving Tyr's sword and myself to reconsider our defeat alone
in front of a blazing fire.
NW Thorn
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Tour 7/10 12amET
We departed a hearty band of 8 from the Neverwinter Gardens. The Party
members where:
Ilixiter, 1st level Pal
Attricius, 1/1 cl/mu
Roooster7 4/3 cl/mu
Dakor 1st, mu
Vikingkill, 1st Pal
Red Hug, 2/1/2, F/mu/T
Westwind25, 5 Pal
The group was well balanced. Roooster7 help to teach the other spell
casters, while Westwind25 worked with the fighter classes. They all began to
learn the nature of some of the tricks around in Southwall before we where
done. All and all, they seem to have a good time ;)
Respectfully,
NWA Elwind
Our band explored the back rooms of Southwall...;)
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July GOH Booth #1 Results!!
The members of the Guild of Heroes were asked to brave the power of the magic
missile spell. The ones who took the highest and lowest amounts of damage
would be declared the winners of the first GoH booth for July.
Congratulations to Men0sis, who showed he can take a really good hit (47
damage from 2 missiles), and Thorn Hawk who displayed his semi-immunity to
the spells (37 damage from 2 missiles). They both take home pearl prizes for
their efforts, Men0sis wins 6 pearls and Thorn Hawk receives 3.
-- NW Strahd :)
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Rigors Booth Winner!! - 7/13
Player Winner: Taryn100 wins the booth with a score of 40.
Prize Won: 5 pearls
Congratulations!!
Ick :)
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NEVERWINTER CALENDAR
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Come join NW Ember and NW Ulfius for the July edition of:
<<>><<>> Who/What/Am/I <<>><<>>
Thurs. July 18th at 10 pm ET in the Great Hall Tavern.
Prizes:
First Place: 25 Pearls + 4 hours
Second Place: 20 Pearls + 3 hours
Third Place: 15 Pearls + 2 hours
Winners of First thru Third place will also receive GOH access!
Cya There!
NW Ember and NW Ulfius
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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!
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New Player Tours:
Join the following staff members for a tour of the Realm:
July 14th Sunday 1:00 PM EDT - with NW Baldor.
July 16th *Tuesday 1:00 AM EDT - with NWA Leto.
July 19th Friday 7:00 PM EDT - with NWA Shaggy.
* The midnight following Wednesday evening to keep it from getting too
complicated.
Those interested in any of these tours should keep an eye out for the banner
telling where to meet! ;D
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Congratulations to Lake Mist for winning last week's News of the Realm
contest for the story "Sacred Heart".
Lake Mist has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of
Heroes). Keep up the good work! ;D
ElvinPride's Quest - Part 4
(submitted by: ElvinPride)
The Rebirthing
Visibly shaken from his meeting with the Cloak Rider; a solemn ElvinPride
slinks into the guild hall, down the long hallway, stopping in the archway
separating hall and council chamber.
"Ahem...", clearing his throat as he prepares his words. The Clan Leaders
sit grouped at a large table discussing business of the realm ( primarily
MECH today. They seemed to be at war with most of the guilds). Elvin speaks
out during a lull in the conversation. "Umm, pardon me, Cala'Quessirs. I am
sorry about the intrusion. May I have a moment of your time? It is of great
importance to me that I have a word with the Council."
"Enter, Elvin." Cyrwin replies. The dark-skinned Ambassador detects the
despair hiding within the poor elf. "Elvin my toror', there is great sadness
within you, I feel. Would you care to talk about it?"
"Yes, Cyrwin." The wood-elf rattles off his tale of sorrow. The loss of
Krysthiial, the evil arising in his homeland of Gammon, the dark armies
spreading. Elvin told of all. Out of breath, he pauses; then addresses the
council. "Honorable guild members. I now have no reason to return to my
homeland, nor Brass Crown, due to my recent loss. I cannot bear to re-live
the memories. Therefore, I am dedicated to your cause in NeverWinter and
wish to be a full-fledged member of The Children of the Seldarine!"
Cyrwin looks at him with dark, piercing, eyes. Walking towards a locked
cabinet, the Guild Master Designate unpockets a key and inserts it into the
lock. Retrieving a vial of bluish liquid, he turns to Elvin. "Elvin, we had
already decided to accept you into the guild. Welcome! You shall be known
in the future as TCS Elvin!". He now hands the vial to the new member.
"Now, ElvinPride...Let the rebirth begin!! Drink!".
Elvin swallows the bitter liquid. Instantly, the room starts to distort;
twisting in and out of focus. "OOHHH!!!!! I don't feel so good!", he groans,
wiping traces of moisture off his lips. His surroundings begin spinning,
faster and faster, until the poor elf can take no more. His eyes close
tightly as he slips to the floor.
The Rebirthing has been set in motion.............
Divine Intervention
Unbeknownst to the Elven Council, the Gods from above had made different
plans for the wood-elf from Brass Crown. He had been the chosen one from the
beginning. Rebirthing was the rejuvination of the body and soul (along with
a name change), designed by the Gods to lengthen an Elf's time in the realm.
But....this time was different. As Cyrwin, Rotiss, and the other Clan
Leaders looked upon ElvinPride, awaiting the return of his youthfulness;
thier smiles of hope slowly vanished. Cyrwin was the first to speak out.
"My friends, something here has gone terribly wrong! ElvinPride remains
ElvinPride!!". Looks of dismay cross the faces of the Elven Council, as
dashed hopes lay heavy on thier hearts. Cyrwin and the others turn away,
heads hung low with grief, as they slowly walk out of the room.
Meanwhile.......In the NeverWinter Woods......A misty apparition escapes from
a crack in the ground. A wisp of vapor; steadily
increasing......swirling.........forming........assuming elven form.........
Awakening...
A groggy ElvinPride awakes in a room strange to him. Rubbing his eyes,
trying to regain his senses; the wood-elf looks curiously around at his
surroundings. The TCS Coat-of-Arms hangs auspiciously on one wall. A desk
cluttered with parchment sits unused in one corner. Shelves behind the desk
house many books and tomes. "This must be Xzaver's office!", he deems.
Rising weakly, and anxious to do some exploring here, the elf walks towards
the shelves. Approaching footsteps stifle his plans. The thick door swings
open abruptly, with Aquaic standing there; a silly sea-elf grin on his face.
"Elvin!!", Aquaic greets him emphatically. "Elvin, hurry!! TCS Xzaver is
back in NeverWinter!". ElvinPride looks to the books, then back to Aquaic.
"Elvin, NO! Those are not for you to look at.", Aquaic states. The wood-elf
drops his jaw in surprise, now feeling guilty for desiring to snoop in the
Guild Masters chamber. Feeling very small, he grabs his belongings and
follows Aquaic out.
The Guild Master
The Council Chamber was bustling with activity when the two elves entered.
Everyone was filling Xzaver in on all the recent activities in NeverWinter.
ElvinPride watches Aquaic as he elbows his way through the crowd, working his
way to Xzaver. The blue-skinned one drops to one knee in front of his
leader. "M'lord, I am over-whelmed by your return!", he voices, with a large
grin and eyes sparkling with excitement. "I've spread the word of your
greatness to many new recruits. It is you that has the blood of the King of
Myth Drannor running through your veins. It was you that called me, Aquaic,
from the sea!". Aquaic bows his head and continues. "I will stand behind
you until the end, M'lord.".
Xzaver lays a regal hand upon Aquaic's shoulder. "Thank you for those kind
words, toror' ", smiling as he looks down upon the sea-elf.
The Guild Master then raises both hands in the air, in order to silence the
crowd. "Clan Leaders. Please meet me in my chamber now. We have business
to attend to!". The High Council files out, with Xzaver in tow.
ElvinPride's eyes catch those of the High-Elf as he exits, and for a fleeting
second he detects a feeling of great uneasiness relaying from the Elven Lord.
<To be continued>Elven Saga - Chapter 3
(submitted by: Nilgeit)
The sun set on the third day since the urd had died. The elf was still
unsure how the spell had taken him, but he suspected it had to do with the
mirror--when Oltch had failed to respond to his Master's summons (the mirror
was in the elf's backpack), he'd stiffened and fallen over. Partly saddened
for the stupid creature, partly relieved for not having to keep him prisoner,
and partly annoyed at losing his source of information, the elf had little
choice but to head eastward and hope to find something there.
The elf sat at a small fire now, pondering his plans over the crumbs of
waybread and the dregs of a vegetable stew. He could head straight to the
Greycloaks, and speak with his family, or he could attempt to find this
wizard's camp and gather information. If there had been a town between him
and the South Wood, he could have sent word by messenger, but only untamed
wilderness and the occasional farming community lay between him and his
objective. He could travel back into Red Larch, the nearest town, but that
would add several days to his trip...
The cord was around his neck before he knew what was happening. Knees
braced against his back, and the elf felt the thin garrot bite into his neck
as he scrabbled for a hold on it. Fighting panic, he grabbed the end of a
large stick from the fire, and struck blindly behind him. The attacker
screamed and tried to avoid the brand, and the elf used the moment of shift
to grab the cord with one hand. Quickly he twisted and lurched forward,
sending the would-be assassin over his shoulder and onto the small cookfire.
He slipped out of the garrot, and backed away quickly, coughing and reaching
for a dagger in his boot.
The creature flailing about on the ground put the flames out and stood,
facing the elf. It was smaller than a normal human, with thick waxy hair and
large black eyes. It's skin was splotched with patches of red, but looked
sickly greyish green in the dying light of the campfire. The elf let his
vision slip into Infrared as the flames sputtered out.
The meazle, a vicious and malicious creature, paused for a moment before
springing at the elf with bared claws. The elf danced sideways, slashing at
the outstretched hands but more concerned with moving towards his sword,
still in its sheathe near his pack. The meazle hissed and struck out again,
and the elf dodged back, frustrated. A quick chant sent magical bolts of
energy slamming into the small assailant, and it fell over dead. Frustrated
from an inability to capture it, the elf searched the small, smelly body. As
he suspected, he found three items--a brass ring, a small mirror, and a
magical crystal.
Apparently he was on the right track. He hadn't seen this one before, and
meazles wouldn't enter towns or inhabited areas. It was a sneaky little
bugger, but it couldn't have followed him all the way from Red Larch, across
open plains--it wasn't smart enough. It had to have been waiting for him.
This wizard was really becoming an annoyance.A Fair Maiden's Voyage
(submitted by: Doc Ridge)
As I stood outside the vaults in Neverwinter Square, out of the corner of my
eyes I noticed a fair maiden with tattered clothes and a look a bewliderment
on her face. I thought of approaching the young woman but at that moment I
was in the process of completing a trade with my good friend JP Mujawa. The
trade was completed and I set out on a quest to find this fair maiden who had
left an impression without saying a word.
Eventually, out paths crossed when I found her croutching against a wall in
the Neverwinter Gardens with a tear in her stale blue eyes. As I approached
the sulken woman I asked "M'lady, is there something the matter? What
troubles you this fine summer day?" Looking up, she spoke in a whisper with
a crackling in her voice. She told me the tale of how she and her parents
were out walking in the woods one day when a pack of trolls ambushed the
three of them. She was able to flee but suffered an unfortunate blow and
when she returned to the scene hours later she found her parents cold bodies
dead alongside the bridge. She remembered nothing, not even her name. I
thought to myself, was it something caused by the blow to her head of perhaps
the brutal memories of the days events she wished to block out?
Left without a family, she made her way west to the city of Neverwinter which
she had never visited before but hoped the large city would bring some sort
of fortune to her. Upon reaching Neverwinter she was overwhelmed by the
bustle of such a place. Finally, she found the indoor gardens and found
solitude in the peacefulness of the gardens. It was here that she collected
her thoughts and swore to avenge the death of her parents.
I spoke of my adventures and my quests to rid Neverwinter of the evil that
plagues its land and the realms surrounding it. She asked, "would it be too
much trouble if I could accompany you on your journeys?" Without hesitation,
I invited her to join me. First, we would stop for a night's rest and a
hearty meal at Strider's Tavern. Upon entering the tavern Strider himself
exclaimed, "well met stranger." It was then I realized I did not know what
to call this fair maiden. As we sat by the fire enjoyng a fine bite to eat I
asked the young woman, "how would you like to be recognized m'lady? What do
you wish me to call you?" Her face turned blank and then she replied, "may I
ask your name kind sir?" I exclaimed, "Doc Ridge of the COR guild!" Her
next question both surprised and flattered me at the same time. "May I take
your last name until I can find out my own identity?" I thought to myself,
what an honor this would be and quickly resonded with a "Yes." It was as
simple as that, until the fair maiden could find her true identity she would
be known from this day forward as Lady Ridge. Soon thereafter, we retired
for the evening in hopes of pursuing her dreams the following day.
As the morning sun broke upon Neverwinter I heard a loud knock on the door of
my quarters followed by a voice full of eagerness asking, "Doc, are you ready
to teach me the art of becoming a warrior?" I leaped from my bed and
together we made our way to my private vault where I would equip Lady Ridge
with the necessary armor and weapons to defeat evil in the surrounding areas.
Eventually, we passed through the gates of Neverwinter and proceeded east to
the town of Floodblest. It was here I taught her to wield her flail and
dodge the monsters as they approached us. Alas, she was ready to try to
defeat a group of giant lizards and a pyro snake by herself. As I watched
Lady Ridge attack the lizards, I realized she was a natural but what
disturbed me greatly was the amount of pleasure she took in crushing the
lizards before her. Apparently, she felt great satsfaction in knowing that
in some way she was avenging her parents death. Feeling that this was enough
experience for one day we travelled back west to Neverwinter where we would
retire for the evening.
It was during our walk back to Neverwinter when Lady Ridge posed a question
to me, "Doc, would it be to much trouble to find the trolls that killed my
family?" I looked into her eyes and saw the hope and desire in them and
responded, "Lady Ridge tomorrow that will be our destination." I remembered
the story she told me of how her parents were killed near a bridge in the
woods and figured it must be the bridge in the West Woods.
The following morning I woke to complete silence wondering wear Lady Ridge
was on this fine day. Why someone who was so eager the day before would not
be just as eager on the day we are out to avenge her parents deaths. As I
left my quarters, I passed by Strider who informed my that Lady Ridge had
left at the break of dawn and set out east. Hoping she was not too far
ahead, I collected my belongs and raced after her hoping to reach her before
it was too late. True, she had accomplished many things the day before, but
enough to defeat a pack of trolls by herself?
I hadn't reached the fair maiden in time and as I entered the western part of
the woods, I feared what was ahead. Soon the bridge came into view, and I
noticed a couple of figures in the far off distance doing battle. It was
Lady Ridge attempting to defeat the trolls that had ambushed her and her
parents just days before. Dropping my belongs, I raced towards the bridge.
Once in range, I casted a fireball that would kill all of the trolls that
surrounded Lady Ridge. As each troll fell to its death around Lady Ridge's
feet she turned with a wry smile and declared, "Doc I had the situation
completely under control." I smiled back at her and noticed the stale look
that was once in her eyes was now replaced with a twinkle. She approached me
with a bounce in her walk like never before and as she drew near she placed
her hand in mine and we once again set back to the city of Neverwinter. It
was apparent that Lady Ridge had put her past behind her and with each ending
there is a new beginning. And this my friends, is the story of A Fair
Maiden's Voyage.
Doc Ridge
CORDark Times Ahead - Part 2
(submitted by: LafeL)
"I cannot ask my bretheren to risk their lives, and not take the same risk",
Tyst said to himself as he headed thru the woods near Wyndycliffs. The
Highlord of The Protectorate, Tyst, was not one to sit idely by and let
others do the work. He has spent most of his life fighting evil, be it the
Drow who tried to corrupt his soul, or dark spellcasters infesting the sewers
under Neverwinter. Tyst was cursed to carry a reminder of his hatred for
evil; a green shade had tainted his skin, a result of a horrific ritual
performed on him by the nefarious Drow. Thru the years, the shade of green
became lighter; a testament to the life of good he followed. Now more so than
not, his skin has become more of a topic for jokes, rather than a badge of
hate.
Tyst rode his steed thru the woods and found himself coming upon the coastal
town of Port Llast. Townsfolk seemed to shy away from the Highlord, almost
as if in fear of him. Entering the town square, Tyst was met by a group of
men wielding pitchforks. "Stop, proceed no farther evil one", one of the men
said. "I am no more evil than you good sir " came Tyst's reply. " You have
the evil one's color stranger, and are not welcome here " the man stated.
Tyst pulled his cloak to the side to reveal the crest on his armor. " I am
Tyst of The Protectorate and offer my services to you."
Tyst was brought to the inn and offered food and drink. " What is this evil
that you associate my skin color with?" Tyst asked of the townsfolk. An
elderly man stepped forward and began to speak, " It seems evil has found
it's way to our town. There lies a ship in our harbor, The Gallent Prince,
once the pride of the seas; now a source of unspeakable terror. Our finest
warriors went in looking for answers, only one came out. Terror filled his
mind, all he could mumble was ' green skinned monsters'; so naturally when
you came to our town, we thought you were one of the same. We cannot spare
any more of our men; will you find this evil and save our town? " Tyst stood
and replied, "On my honor, I will."
A cold chill came over Tyst as he approached the Gallent Prince.Stepping onto
the docks, he was met by a nervous watchman. "Proceed at your own peril,
those who step down do not return", came the warning. Years of battling evil
had given Tyst a knack for sensing evil, much like that of a paladin; and
evil was here in this place. Moving down a narrow corridor, he followed the
path to a door that had seen better days. Dropping his shoulder, Tyst broke
thru the door and entered a room. Smashed chests strewn on the floor, "
Someone or something ransacked this place" Tyst said to himself as he stepped
forward. ::whoosh:: ::thud:: Tyst spun around and noticed a spear embedded on
a wall next to him. Turning the other way, he saw figures charging at him.
Wielding his flail and taking a defensive stance; Tyst prepared to meet his
attackers. Four bugbears raced at him, spears at the ready. Calmy, Tyst
closed his eyes and raised his hand. A blue mist formed around the bugbears;
suddenly grabbing at their throats. One by one they slumped to the ground,
falling to the effects of the spell. Satisfied that the threat had been
vanquished, Tyst turned to move on; unfortunately he turned into the path of
a lumbering troll. The troll lashed out and caught the suprised cleric,
raking it's claws across his chest. Unable to cast, Tyst swung at the
monster.Knowing that the troll would regenerate, Tyst knew that fire was the
trolls bane.Moving to get postion; he unleashed a ball of flame at the
monster. Growing as it flew; flames enguled the troll, burning it into
oblivion.
Stepping thru another door in the room, Tyst found himself in a different
corridor. The stench of death filled the air as soft groans caught his
attention. Reaching for his holy symbol, Tyst stood face to face with the
undead. Rays of light sprang forth from the symbol and banished the ghouls
from this plane. Stepping forward with his flail in his hands; Tyst reduced
a pair of giant skeletons to a pile of bones. Retracing his steps, Tyst sees
a human in chains. " I am the last of the crew....unspeakable
horrors....pirates from Luskan....." the voice trails off as the human
crumbles into a pile of dust.
Returning to the captain's quarters, Tyst finds another side door and walks
thru it. Once again, he finds himself in another corridor. Confronting him
are three hideous monstrosities. Medusae, whose gaze turns men to stone and a
deadly poison to match. "Welcome to our home stranger" one of the creature
speaks. "So kind of you to be our dinner." Before the medusae can attack,
Tyst unleashes a lighting bolt killing two of the monsters. The remaining
medusae bites into Tyst, releasing it's venom. Tyst shrugs it off and laughs,
"Your feeble poison has no effect on me foul creature; your end has come."
With a mighty swing, Tyst sends the medusae to meet it's maker.
With the death of the medusae, the sense of evil wanes as Tyst turns to leave
the Gallant Prince. Walking forward, a glint of light catches his eye.
Bending down, he notices a brass button lying on the ground. A smile forms on
his face as Tyst picks up the button and walks away................
Lafel
Star's Hubby
The ProtectorateWar Chronicles
(submitted by: Zindio)
NEWS FLASH From Zindio,
TP Cadet<War Correspondent>
Be it known that within the next couple of days a full report will be sent to
NW News about the impending war between The Protectorates and House of ITB.
Manuscript will be sent via Thunderwing, Zindio's Griffen, from the
battlefields somewhere in Triboar.
Respectfully submitted
11July96
Zindio, TP CadetReflections
of a Squire
(submitted by: Danen1)
Danen lay on his bed in the Squires quarters and reflected on the day's
events. He had just completed a quest laid upon him by the Knight he served,
JWoodsman. Danen was happy with the accomplishment of his mission, but that
joy was dimmed by the news he received upon his return. It would seem that
Lord Shumard had stepped down from his position as Chancellor. 'Ah well'
thought Danen to himself, 'the changing of the Chancellor was bound to happen
sooner or later in my life. But it still doesn't make it any easier. I
didn't even get a chance to say goodbye.' Danen wiped a tear away and rolled
over on his side. 'Lady Nalika will be good for the Knights though, and we
shall continue to be a force for good in the Realms.'
With that upbeat thought in his mind, Danen thought once again on the
mission he had just completed. JWoodsman had tasked him with taking a young
charge under his wing and showing him or her some of the areas outside of
Neverwinter. The only stipulations that were placed on him were that he had
to choose someone who was not at all experienced and also someone who was not
inherently good in nature. This last point confused Danen, but he did not
question the wisdom of his patron. Later, Danen himself came to realize why
this was.
Danen set out early that next morning, full of fire and vinegar. He was
sure that finding a person who met the prerequisites would be fairly easy.
After all, the Realms were full of bright new adventurers, not all of whom
agreed with the tenets of goodliness. Danen roamed the streets of
Neverwinter throughout that morning, having little or no luck in the process.
It seemed that most persons of a less than wholesome outlook on life already
had those who were more than willing to help promote them and give them
experience in the world. Undaunted though, Danen continued to search. Danen
haunted the inns that afternoon, searching and speaking to others, looking
for the right cadidate. But, it was all for naught. There was more to this
quest than he had originally thought!
Danen decided then to take his supper at Strider's and then continue out
in the areas surrounding Neverwinter. On his way to the inn, Danen ran into
Sir STR. "Well, Bro, how are you today?" STR greeted Danen. "I am well,
M'Lord" replied Danen, "but I am having a bit of trouble with my quest." Sir
STR smiled and said, "Aye, I remember my days as a squire well. But fear
not, lad, for you shall overcome any obstacles, I am sure." Danen smiled at
the encouragement and bowed, "Well, if I am to finish it, I must be on my way
M'Lord. Farewell for now." Sir STR returned the bow and stood up, holding a
keg, like that used for ale. Danen decided not to ask what it was, though he
supposed Lady Fel would know. Sir STR gave a sly wink and walked away,
whistling a lively tune. Danen then continued on to his supper at Strider's.
After his evening repast was complete, Danen headed off in the direction
of the Wharves. Surely there would be someone there who required assistance!
At least, Danen fervently hoped that this would be the case. As soon as he
passed through the gate, Danen noticed a battle up ahead of him. A male
human and a female elf were engaged in combat with a group of kobolds. Danen
rushed up to them, shouting "Do ye require assistance?" The elf maiden
replied "No, thanks. This trash is not difficult to handle." With that she
swung her sword violently, though somewhat ineptly to Danen's trained eye,
and dispatched the last standing kobold. The two then started rummaging
through the pouches and packs of the vile creatures. Danen stood back and
watched. Then he said "Are you not going to remove the corpses from the
streets?"
"What for?" answered the elf, "let them serve as a warning to others."
With that she cleaned her sword and returned it to it's scabbard. Danen
looked to the human, who returned his gaze, shrugged, and continued to count
the paltry sum he had collected from the bodies.
Danen sighed and started to drag the dead kobolds off to the side of the
road. When that was done, he turned to the others. "I noticed that you two
are somewhat new to the art of fighting. Perhaps ye would like to accompany
me on a tour of the Realms? I promise you that I shall protect you and allow
no harm to come to you." They both eyed Danen suspiciously, and the human
asked, "What do you get out of this venture? For we have nothing to offer in
return." Danen grinned and replied "I am Danen, Squire to the Knight
JWoodsman, of the Knights of the Round Table. Perhaps you have heard of us?"
Both replied in the negative so Danen continued, "You asked what I get out of
this. Well, I get the pleasure of seeing two who are inexperienced gain in
confidence and abilities. Plus, I will have made two friends this day. And
that is worth more than the treasure of a thousand Dragons. The knights
believe in unity and doing that which is good for the realms, not just for
oneself." With that said, Danen bowed with a flourish. The two turned aside
and conversed for a moment. Then they turned back and the elven woman said
"We would be honored to accompany you, Sir Danen. I am called RLewis(2565)
and this is my companion Blade (00z). Well met and thank you for your help."
Danen smiled and said "Good. Well then, shall we proceed? I think perhaps
we will go to a place called Floodblest. When I first entered in the service
of KORT, a kindly knight by the name of Sir Dagron took me there and we
hunted Cloud Giants. Does this meet with your approval?" Both looked at
each other, then at Danen. Blade stuttered a moment then cleared his throat
and said "Umm..perhaps you haven't noticed, but we are not real strong. Will
it be safe for us?" Danen drew his sword, kneeled and said "I will protect
thee unto my last breath. This I do swear in sight of Tyr and by my sword
Glavindril" Danen rose, "Now, let us go and fear not. for ye shall be safe."
They both smiled and said the human, "Lead on friend, lead on."
Danen set off at a fast pace. The two others ran to catch up. Blade
asked "Why do we move so fast Danen?" "Because the morning is almost upon
us." he answered, "and the giants return to their lairs during the day light
hours. So, if you want to see them, we must hurry." Both chose not to
reply, intent instead on saving their breath for more important matters, such
as breathing. The three passed through the Floodblest gate without incident.
As they made their way down the streets towards the city proper, they passed
many others in battles with giant lizards and pyro snakes. At each such
scene, Danen stopped and hailed the combatants. "Do ye require assistance?"
He called to each. The first time, a hard pressed mage answered "Yes please.
They almost have the best of me. Hurry!!!!" The three traveler's drew their
weapons and charged into the fray. Danen struck the first blow, casting a
spell he had memorized that would hold monsters in place, thereby making them
easy to dispatch. Three of the four lizards were held, thereby allowing him
to move up to the pyro snake, which was the most dangerous of the monsters.
Danen prepared to strike the snake with Glavindril. Before he could do so
though, Blade entered the fray and struck down one of the lizards. "Well
done Blade" Danen called out "you three handle the other three lizards. I
shall handle this one." With that said, Danen saw RLewis dispatch another
lizard. But then his attention was brought back to the snake as it breathed
fire upon him, starting Danen's clothing to smoking. Danen quickly decided
to end the fight quickly when the mage shouted "I don't think that I'm going
to make it out of this one." Danen flew into action again, casting a bolt of
lightning at the two lizards, bringing both down with one fell swoop. Then
he turned to the snake and swung Glavindril with all his might, snuffing out
the fire that was the pyro snakes life.
The other three stood in place a moment, a look of awe on their faces.
"Wow!" said RLewis, "maybe I should have become a mage. That was great."
"Aye" replied Danen, wiping a bead of sweat from his face. "I too followed
only the way of the sword. But then I saw Sir Dagron, who is a Knight-Count,
Sir Caladan, KORT's ammbassador to Clan Axepeak and Lord Tuvor, the Arch-Mage
of KORT, in action against beholders. They, through their actions, showed me
that the combination of steel and spells is nearly unbeatable against the
creatures who would rule the Realms. Perhaps you should reconsider your
callings also." Blade spoke up then, saying "Well, RLewis is also a rogue in
addition to being a fighter. Does that have much use in the Realms?" "All
classes have their benefits, young one." Danen replied "It is how you use
them that makes the difference. I am a Paladin of Tyr, who also practices
the arcane arts. But it would matter not if I did not know how to best
utilize my abilities. Being a thief can be useful, I suppose. But it just
goes against all that I believe in and have been taught. So I can not
answer, since it is out of my sphere of understanding. Come, we must hurry
if we are to greet the giants." With that said, Danen bent to gather up the
bodies of the slain monsters. To his delight, he saw the other two also bend
down to do the same.
The trio stopped at the Rankled Boar Inn to rest and recover. Danen
explained the plan he had in mind to the other two. "I am going to cast a
spell on the two of you. This spell will make you invisible to the monsters
that we will encounter. As long as you don't get near a monster, and don't
take any offensive action against them, you should be okay. I will handle
the giant and will also take care of some of the bugbears that usually
accompany them. Do you both understand?" Danen paused to look both in the
eye. He could sense the excitement and underlying fear that both exuded.
"Remember," Danen cautioned them "A cloud giant is one of the strongest
creatures to walk on two feet. One swipe of his club could remove you from
this world without a trace. Do not do anything until I tell you that it is
safe to do so. After I have subdued the giant, you can enter and battle the
bugbears with me. Are you ready?" Both answered with an excited yes, so
Danen cast a spell of invisibility on both of them. He also called down the
blessing of Tyr on them, for luck. For an added measure of protection, he
cast an enlarge spell on the two, giving them greater strength. Confident
that they were ready, Danen set off to the well.
The last time that he was here, Danen was just a young pup, being led by
Sir Dagron. How the circle had come back around, Danen thought! Once he
ensured himself that the two youngsters were in position, Danen made a
commotion and drew the attention of the monsters. Sure enough, there they
were! Six bugbears and a Cloud Giant, smelling up the place and on the hunt.
Danen quickly called to mind a spell. This one created a ball of fire.
Danen cast it in the direction of the crowd of monsters. The ball grew in
size until it reached the desired spot Danen wanted it. Then it exploded!
Danen watched, with a bit of remorse, as the fire consumed three bugbears and
did damage to the giant. Danen didn't expect the fireball to destroy the
giant, but it was good to hope anyway. He then brought out the components
for the next spell. Danen cast and Tyr smiled down on him! The spell held
in place all four opponents that were left! "It is safe to come out now.
They have all been held." Danen called out. "You two dispatch these, while
I go to find out if any others still roam the area." With that said, Danen
wandered off to find if any evil creatures still hunted the well. Blade and
RLewis summarily dispatched the creatures and Danen then called out quietly
"Over here you two. I think more are coming." This continued on until the
sun came up over the horizon.
Danen viewed the area surrounding the well. It looked as if a war had been
fought here! "We have done well this night" he said "these creatures will
bother the citizens of Floodblest no more. Come let us burn the bodies so
they do not carry disease to the surrounding areas. Any treasure you find is
yours. I think you may need it to pay the swordmaster, for I feel you are
ready to train now." With that said, the three gathered up the bodies and
made a pyre for them. Then they set the torch to the pile and returned the
creatures to ashes.
Danen escorted the two to the training hall located in Neverwinter.
Both entered and came right back out. "What is the matter?" Danen asked.
"We do not have enough money to continue our training." they said with
downcast looks. "Heh heh..wait here." Danen said and with that ran down the
street to the Neverwinter Vaults. Danen entered and withdrew 2000 platinum
pieces. He returned to the training hall and gave each 1000 platinum. "That
should tide you over." He said with a grin. Both looked at him dumbfounded
and then RLewis said "Are all in KORT as nice and good as you?" Danen
laughed and said "Nope...some are even nicer." The two young ones scurried
back through the door and Danen wandered around, saying hello to those he
knew in the streets. Then he went to the Inn and grabbed an ale to slake his
thirst, wishing that it was a pint of Allsfaire's famous brew.
Thinking that it was time to pick up his charges again, Danen returned
to the training hall. There they stood, with big smiles upon their faces.
"Wow, we were told to go and test our new training, and if we felt ready, we
can come back and train some more!" Blade said. "Good, let's go to wharves
and see if an errant kobold or goblin feels that you are ready." Danen said
and then went off with the two in tow. They went to the wharves and found a
pair of kobolds who were sniffing around a pile of something that wouldn't
bear investigating. The two newly trained youngsters easily slew the vile
creatures and all three returned to the hall. They entered and Danen whiled
away the time for them to return. When they emerged they thanked Danen
profusely. Danen waved their thanks away, saying "The joy on your faces is
thanks enough. How about if I show you some Dragons?" By the look on their
faces, he knew that they were more than willing to go with him.
The trio made their way through the wharves, Floodblest and into
Nightsedge. Danen pointed out different sights along the way. The creatures
who dared to intrude upon them were easily taken care of in short order.
Making their way to the city of Nightsedge, Danen told the pair "The farther
away you travel from Neverwinter, the greater the danger. I will show you
the city of Nightsedge. Then we will rest and I will invis you once again.
The giants were child's play, considering where we go next. Dragon's are the
single most dangerous creatures in the Realms, outside of Dracoliches. So be
aware of what is happening and don't get close to them. Though you are both
stronger now, they can still take you out with one breath!" We will be
careful." they promised. Danen then showed them the Armory, Training hall,
Temple and Inn of Nightsedge. While they were at the Inn, Danen gave them an
option. "We do not have to go to the dragon's if you decide not to. I know
of a place that is beset by ogres and orcs nearby. We can go there if you
want." Both declined, so Danen invised the two and they set out. Danen
stopped at the training hall and both entered. After a while, they came out.
"We were able to train again!" RLewis said. "Good, you will need the help
where we go." Danen softened his reply with a smile. But he needed to
impress upon the two the seriousness of where they went.
After a small trek, the trio entered an area that gave off a very
offensive odor. "They are home!" Danen whispered. He then cast a few spells
in preparation for the upcoming battle.
"Remember, stay back and don't fight. Your time will come later to battle
the evil wyrms." With that said, the three entered the lair of the Black
Dragons. Danen looked about and spotted them. Two black Dragons and two
White Gorgimeras. Danen quickly cast a fireball and then another. With the
second fireball, a dragon and a Gorgimera went down. Blade and RLewis both
watched in awe. "Are you invincible?" she said. "Quiet, or they will hear
you." Danen yelled, but it was too late. A Gorgimera moved in the direction
of the voices. Danen turned his back to the remaining Dragon and cast a bolt
of lightning at the Gorgimera. The creature fell in a smoking heap, but
Danen was covered by a stream of acid breathed out by the Black Dragon.
Gritting his teeth in pain, Danen turned to face the beast. "For that, foul
creature of the night, you shall pay!" So saying, Danen hefted Glavindril
and moved towards the dragon. The Dragon swiped at Danen with both claws,
but they were deflected by Danen's shield. The creature attempted to bite
Danen, but that too, was rebuffed. With a cry of "KORT!! For the good of the
Realms!!!!, Danen struck the creature two mighty blows, nearly severing it's
head from it's body. Danen paused after the fight was through and realized
that he had acted out of anger. He took a moment to ask Tyr's forgiveness,
and then turned to the two. "Dragon's are notorious for hoarding treasure.
I am sure that if you look about, you'll find some useful items." The two
started searching for anything that they could find, while Danen bound his
wounds. When they were done, all three set out once again for the town of
Nightsedge.
On their way through the streets of Nightsedge, the trio was beset by a
cockatrice and a horde of giant lizards. " 'Ware the cockatrice!" Danen
shouted, "if it touches you, it can turn you to stone!" Danen then cast his
last fireball that he had memorized. Unfortunately, it was not powerful
enough to destroy the foul bird. But it did take down a few lizards. Danen
began to get worried. The two fighters he had charge of were not powerful
enough to withstand the petrification powers of the cockatrice. And if he
should fall to the beasts foul powers, the two would be left defenseless.
Then, rounding a corner were some hardy looking adventurers. "Hail" they
called out "do you need help?" "Yes, and none too soon!" Danen said. The
group entered the fray and Danen recognized the device of the Crusaders of
the Realms on their shields. With so many powerful allies, the trio was soon
out of danger. Danen thanked the Crusaders and they went on their way.
The trio then went back to the Nightsedge training hall. Danen said "I
will go to the Inn to refresh myself. Stay here if I have not yet returned.
Above all else, PLEASE! do not go wandering about. The creatures here are
still too powerful for you to handle." With that, the group went off to tend
to their business.
Danen returned after a short rest and found the two just emerging from
the hall. "Well" said Danen, "I think we should return to Neverwinter. It
was just too close of a call during that last battle. What do you two
think?" They were all in agreement, so the group headed off with only a few
minor incidents to pester them on the way. Although RLewis did aquire a new
magical battleaxe from a battle with minotaurs.
Upon their arrival in Neverwinter, Danen stopped at his vault. He
emerged with a magical suit of leather armor and gave it to RLewis. He also
offered a magical halberd to Blade, but Blade declined, saying "I prefer a
sword." RLewis also accepted the halberd. Danen said to both, "You have
both done very well. You are now five times more experienced than when I met
you. I am going to Camelot, for I have to groom JWoodsman's horse in the
morning, in addition to a few other things of which I have been lax in these
last few days. I will take you to wherever you wish to go."
They agreed to be escorted as far as Southwall, so Danen took them to there.
The group then said their farewells. Both thanked Danen profusely, slightly
embarrassing the young Squire. Danen thanked them for their company and the
group split up. Danen walked the rest of the way to Camelot. Upon his
arrival there, he went up to his room for some much needed rest. No one was
about, and he didn't give it much thought, as it was quite late.
Danen awoke the next morning and went about his chores with a happy tune
rolling through his mind. As he passed the board at the end of the day, he
noticed a few new messages posted. He read the first from RLewis. Now it
became clear to him why the stipulations were placed for his first quest. It
not only promoted goodwill and unity, but also showed those who have traveled
a dark path that those of good intentions did not hold their beliefs against
them. Then Danen read the next. It was about the KORT gathering that Danen
had missed, and announced to all Lord Shumard's abdication as Chancellor.
Danen returned to his room, his elation somewhat dimmed.
Danen sighed and sat up in his bed, his early morning reflection
completed. He rose and stretched, ready to face the day once more.
JWoodsman had contacted him the night before and had tasked him with another
quest. He'd better get cracking on it. If it was like the last one, it may
take a while to get it started :)
Danen
Squire to JWoodsman
Brother to Vex Storm
KORT!!!!!!!!!!!!!
For the Good of the Realms!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!Death in the Caverns
(submitted by: Xylina)
You are TP Havok.
Your Mission: Destroy the Evil Witch Xylina and purge the Death That Is
KAAOS from the Nightsedge Caverns.
Your Weapons: A trusty sword and shining mail. Armed with these and the
Faith of the Light, you must Do Battle with the Evil. Luck and a Really
Crappy fight location will assist you. Go now Havok, and Conquer!
You enter the Caverns, your stomach tightened in Fear. Around the bend you
spy the reddish light of a burning fire. In front of the firepit you see the
Evil Being that has terrorized the area. Before you is Xylina! What do you
do?
a) Shout "Die Evil Scum!", and charge, drawing your sword.
b) Draw your sword, shout "Die Evil Scum!", and charge.
c) Charge, drawing your sword, and shout "Die Evil Scum!"
Alas, the Grand Empress Lady Xylina turns aside your attack and hurls a
Diseased Rat at you. The Diseased Rat bounces off your Shining Armor and you
laugh loudly. "Haha! Foul Witch Goddess, Diseased Rats cannot hurt me, for
I am a Paladin of True Heart!".
"Curses!", Xylina curses. "But you shall not stop me! For I am Evil!".
The Bad Witch fills the room with a Cloud of Poisonous Vapors, but with a
deft flick of your wrist, you manage to toss your Holy Lasso over her
shoulders, imprisoning her! What do you do?
a) Reglobe, knowing your time is soon upon you.
b) Fire a Bolt of Sacred Lightning at the Witch.
c) Go play Checkers with a Minotaur.
After several games, you finally gain the upper hand on the Minotaur and
return to the Witch's Unholy Cave to finish her off, but alas, the Evil
Despicable Xylina has broken free of the Holy Lasso (it was, after all, only
made of Recycled Scrolls). She dons the protection of Mirrors and Globe and
stands ready to face you. What do you do?
a) Go play Checkers again.
b) Reglobe!
c) Throw Lasso #2 at her.
Xylina deftly dodges Lasso #2 and pulls from her pouch a Most Fell and
Ruinous Object, the Dreaded Wingwang of Paladin Slaying! She attacks you
with the Dreaded Wingwang and you are knocked off your feet. The Evil Witch
closes in for the Kill! What do you do?
a) Reglobe!
b) Throw Lasso #3
c) Reglobe! Reglobe!! Reglobe!!!
But No! Xylina uses the Dreaded Wingwang to knock aside Holy Lasso #3! She
draws nearer and raises the Wingwang, cackling her Evil Cackle. Alas Poor
Knight, thy Doom is at Hand!!!
Xylina Defeats You
Xylina
KAAOSThe Hunter - Part 1
(submitted by: Thorn Hawk)
A long line of trees loomed up from the East as a lone figure left a smoking
farm behind. Heading into the forest at a steady run, the figure followed a
clearly marked path left by the marauders. It may have been a trick of
light, but the cloaked man suddenly disappeared leaving no trace of his
passing. Back toward the farm, a small fire caught the bodies that had been
piled up and consumed them . . .
~~~
"Father," yelled Callus as shadowy figures, dressed in black, moved through
the village. Banging could be heard throughout the village, as the clan
responded to the attack. The young boy stood frozen as the clash of steel
blended in with the sound of yelling, banging, and those dying. A figure
loomed out of the darkness in front of the young boy, jarring him into
motion, only to be stopped by arrows sprouting from his chest. Callus looked
around for his father. Finding no familiar faces, the boy looked for a place
to hide. Heading for the well, Callus tripped over a body, shadowed in black
clothes. As he neared the well, a leering face appeared before him causing
him to scream. The figure of a man, dressed in a flowing black aba, advanced
upon the boy who now held a dagger. Backing up, Callus fell over as the man
lunged causing them both to fall to the ground. Dazed, Callus tried to move,
but was pinned by the weight the man atop him. It was then that he noticed
the man didn't move and blood was pooling on the ground around him. At the
sight of so much blood, his stomach turned and darkness claimed the youth.
"Will he be all right?" a feminine voice asked. "Yes, with rest," replied
another woman only older, "he should recover quickly." Callus became aware
of lights and then his mothers' face, worry plainly written in her eyes.
"Mother," he croaked, his throat dry, "What happened?"
"We were attacked by a bedine raiding party last night," replied Callus's
father. An older, gruff looking man wearing the apron of a potter. "They
came looking for livestock and iron goods, I think. The battle didn't last
long, nor did we lose many to the raid. Only three were killed, but many
bedine lost their lives. And you, my son, killed one of the raiders. You
make me and your mother very proud."
"I killed one?" asked the boy, shyly, unused to such praise.
"Yes you did and if the wise one permits you can attend the burning with me,"
replied Sharii', Callus's father, glancing at the wise one. "I guess he can,
but first he must rest," answered Kabina, the wise one, "so everyone out."
With that, the three left Callus alone to rest. Callus soon fell asleep with
the sight of his father, pride showing on his face, clearly etched in his
mind.
As the sun set and with it the heat of the day, Callus and his father stood
next to a great mound some distance from the village. Upon it rested the
bodies of their slain enemies. Around the pyre, the various warriors of the
clan were gathered to pay honor to the fallen. The Alaie' held great respect
for those who lived by the sword even their enemies. Next to the pyre,
Kabina stood with a flaming brand in her hand. Saying a prayer that only she
knew, Kabina cast the brand into the pyre setting it alight. Standing,
holding his father's hand, Callus watched as the fire consumed the bodies of
the fallen with tears running down his face. He was only six at the time . .
.
Thorn Hawk,
Brotherhood of PathfindersThe Crossergate Banshees
(submitted by: Lake Mist)
While finishing the morning meal in the bunkhouse, I related a story
told to me by an old traveler named Andreas about some Banshees. Young
Thralos immediately sat up to listen, eyes wide.
"A long time ago, when the temple in Crossergate was used for good, two
sisters decided that they wanted all the gold that was kept there. Reas and
Fein Inger had always been lustful for gold and power. They had long since
sold their souls to witchcraft and the power of black magic. After years of
practicing their magic, they had gathered many followers. Three Giants were
always at the sides for protection.
One winter's eve, the sisters decided it was time to collect the gold
from Crossergate. They enlisted the aide of a Cloud Giant and a Green Hag,
promising them both great wealth and power. The Green Hag was sent to guard
the right passage from intruders and the Cloud Giant was sent to guard the
left passage.
With all in place, the sisters stole into the temple with their Giants
and gathered all the gold there. It was all the three Giants could do to
carry the treasure out of the temple, so great was the quantity. As they
left, the sisters each used their black magic to erase the memories of the
Cloud Giant and Green Hag, leaving only those memories that would make them
guard the passages forever.
As they made their way out, setting other traps as they departed, a
young Ranger happened to be making his way through the corridors near them.
This young Ranger had been to Crossergate many times and had worshipped the
Goddess Mielikki in the temple on most of these occasions. This was where he
was headed when he happened upon the sisters and their Giants just coming
from the chambers.
All were surprised. The Giants could not react quickly because of the
gold they carried and the sisters had not prepared to meet anyone on their
way out. All the villagers of Crossergate were at a winter feast. Not able
to draw his sword quick enough, the young Ranger decided to send a fireball
into the mass ahead of him. Just as the fireball hit the sisters and their
Giants, the God of the Underworld grabbed at their souls. He turned the
sisters into Banshees and the Giants into their Skeleton slaves. They were
made to guard the entrance to the temple, forever looking for gold and power
that would never be theirs.
Gathering the gold, the young Ranger made his way back to Crossergate as
best he could. When he arrived at the festival, he told all of what had
happened. The villagers decided to no longer use the temple for fear of the
spirits that now lurked there. The young Ranger disappeared shortly after
and no one ever found out his name or where he was from. It is also rumored
that Dracolithes have moved into a chamber off one of the corridors since the
abandonment of the temple."
Finishing the story, I took a draw on my mug of frenzy as I watched the
eyes of the young Thralos bursts into flame at the thought of encountering
yet another Banshee.Top Ten Rejected Pearl Items
(submitted by: Wgbt)
Welcome, once again it's the Late Show with Wagebolt. Yes I am Wagebolt of
the Winterguard, here with me, staight from the Home Office in Port Llast,
the Top Ten list for you tonight!!! Featuring...
<Here we go!>
TOP TEN REJECTED NEW PEARL ITEMS!
10)Paper Plate Mail
9)Satisfactory LongBow
8)Potion of Tequila
7)Mood Ring + 3
6)Coke of Elven Kind
5)Lost Brand + 3
4)Gridle of GreenGiant Strength
3)Ioun Stone of Plad
2)NoseRing of Protection vs. Cold
1)SpitBalls + 3
::Wage throws blue index card out the window::
<CRASH>
(WorldWide Plate)
"May the Platemail be with you!"Songs of the Wind - Part 1
(submitted by: Cerdith)
The brisk cold winter's air blew relentlessly around the small carefully
constructed shelter. The sole inhabitant of the camoflauged wooden lean-to
sat snugly wrapped in her cloak. Bundled in such a manner, she was protected
by the exceedingly fine weave of her elven cloak, which kept even this icy
breeze from her skin. Knees pulled up against her chest, head bowed within
the concealment of the hood, her long black hair cascaded over her legs to
touch the forest floor.
With keen ears, she listened to the wind. The whistling sounds as the air
forced its way through the cracks, the rustling of the branches and leaves
above, even the howl as the sudden gusts changed direction... all had become
music to her ears. A strange music indeed, yet a harmony ever changing,
cyclical and yet unrestrained and uncontrolled. The shifts of tempo and
pitch, the sudden silences and then the renewal of the song once more had
fascinated her since she had found this small glade. She had been here a
long time, listening, striving to understand the meaning of the melody.
The voices came too, singing joyously at times.... somberly at others. The
lyrics were so difficult to hear clearly, she could almost understand them
now... almost anticipate where the song would go next. Each voice had become
distinct in her mind, different from the others and no longer simply a
chorus. Her thoughts gave each a face, an existence apart from its
individual part in the song. They had become her friends and her comrades,
though she had not dared do any more than listen and learn. The desire to
raise her own voice in song was strong.... but she could not risk the
perfection of the melody by intruding with her own sounds.
And so, she listened and waited. The voices pulling at her, calling to her,
tugging at her heart... feeling the pain when they were silent, feeling the
exaltation when they began anew. Each emotion treasured and embraced. A
long time she had listened, dimly she knew it had been a long time....
Mind wandering, soothed by the caress of the song, she remembered the other
voices...
"Sis? Pass that flask over here" and sounds of laughter....
A soothing voice, "We're here, they can't harm you..."
"Chief, is she going to be alright? What happened, she went crazy back
there....", a tone of great worry and concern.
"Well now, youngling that was most interesting. It is as I thought upon
watching you with the Trolls... you are a berserker."... a dimly remembered
voice.
"Heard it was alot of fun... use up all the lime jello?", a shout followed by
lots of laughter.
"It's beautiful isn't it?", a familiar voice, very calm.
These other voices rang through her mind and pushed the song away, forced it
from her mind. Weeping slowly, she reached again for the song.... reached
again for the comfort and beauty that she heard in the wind, reached again
for the other voices.
Never moving from her place within the glade, never lifting her head from her
knees, she slid once more into the song, hearing and striving to
understand.....
A long time, alone...The Power of Words
(submitted by: SOMNeranek)
As day broke over the quiet city of Neverwinter, a loud crash came from
the Tower of Mysteries, home of the Servants of Mystery. Neranek stalked
down the halls of the Tower, searching out the cause of the noise. Stopping
by the kitchen, he heard the crash of a dish shattering. Mumbling softly to
himself, Ner pushed the door open to the kitchen and was taken aback at what
he saw. This one's appetite never ceases to amaze me, he thought.
There, sitting on the kitchen table was the Servants very own
diminutive, blue warrior. Som Smurf looked up as Neranek swept into the room
and waved for Neranek to join him. Sighing, Neranek carefully stepped around
the broken dishes that always seemed to accompany Smurf's attempts at
cooking. As he rounded the table to take a seat, Neranek tripped and fell.
A series of cans, stacked to form stairs up to the table, went flying out
from under Neranek's feet.
Smurf could hardly contain himself. He rolled about on the table
holding his little belly while shouting "good job Grace!" Neranek blew out a
long breath and kicked the last can out from under foot and pulled himself up
to the table. Sliding over into an oak chair, Neranek tipped his head at the
Smurf.
"Why must you make such a racket at this time of the day, Smurf?"
Neranek inquired. "Haven't we already discussed the rules of the kitchen."
"Yah, but they don't apply when me belly is empty" came Smurf's reply as
he pointed to his stomach.
"What exactly is that you are eating?" All Neranek could see in Smurf's
tiny bowl were little red and blue puffs of some type.
"Tis me crunch, of course." Smurf replied, completely oblivious to
Neranek's disgusted look. "Tis the food of the Gods, why even old rotten
face eats 'em. You know, Cyr.."
Smurf's voice was cut short as Ner stood and slammed both hands down on
the table shattering it. "Enough," shouted the mage, "you do not understand
what you are doing by tossing about that name so carelessly."
Smurf noticed that Neranek carried a dangerous edge in his voice now and
decided not to press his luck. Instead, he sat up from his new position on
the floor and began to scoop his spilled cereal back into his bowl. "You
didn't have to spill me crunch, ya know."
A long-wracking cough spilled from Neranek's lips and he gripped the
counter top for strength. Smurf looked up oddly at Ner and wondered what was
wrong. The coughing spell seemed to go on for some time, until the
cleric-mage finally straightened back up and turned towards the Smurf.
"Perhaps, there is yet time. Come with me, Smurf, and I will show you the
power that words can hold." Neranek knelt and thrust his hand, palm up,
towards Smurf. Smurf looked at the hand dubiously until, finally, he
shrugged and climbed up in Neranek's hand. I didn't have anything better to
do anyway, Smurf thought.
The mage stood and lightly closed his hand around the Smurf. Smurf's
tiny blue form was an odd contrast in color against the shifting, shimmering
blackness that formed Ner's displacer cloak. Ner then turned and walked out
of the room, stepping carefully over the cans, that never seemed to stop
rolling about the floor. He entered the winding hallway and took a path that
led out of the tower.
Some minutes later, the stunning form of the Lady Talia came rushing
down the corridor in her bathrobe with her sword belt in her hand. Her
crimson hair was wet and plastered against her neck. Her purple eyes
searched out the corridor, always on guard against trouble. She came to a
sudden halt as she spotted several drops of blood leading away from the
kitchen. Kneeling, she touched a fingertip to the blood and smeared it.
Hmm, still warm she thought. Standing, the lady paladin, drew her sword and
placed the scabbard and belt down in the hallway. She stalked towards the
kitchen more cautiously than before.
Reaching the door, she paused. With a sudden flurry of activity, she
pushed the door open and charged into the room. About two steps in, she
stepped on a can and went flying across the room. She landed with a crash
against the far wall. Her wet, crimson hair spilled down covering her face.
She pushed her hair back in annoyance. Smurf must have been in here, she
mused. He'll rue the day, I catch up to him for leaving this mess. Just
then the door pushed open again and Som Lynx came bounding in.
"Lynx, Watch out" cried out Talia, already to late to stop Lynx. Lynx
hit the rolling cans and went sailing across the room, feet kicking. Lynx
came to a stop upon the sprawled form of Talia. The impact knocked Talia's
hair back down over her face.
Looking up sheepishly, Lynx blew the hair back out of Talia's eyes with
a puff of warm air. "Jell-o there," he greeted her. "I heard a commotion
and came to investigate. Mystery solved, Smurf must have been having
breakfast again."
Talia snorted in amusement. "A most logical conclusion, my friend. But
whose blood do you suppose this is?" Talia held out her finger for Lynx.
Lynx put his face right up against here finger and paused. "It is
Neranek's!" he said with some surprise.
"Indeed, I wonder what is afoot between the Smurf and Ner?"
Meanwhile oblivious to Talia and Lynx's discovery, Neranek and Smurf
travelled a short distance away from the Tower.
"Are we there yet?" piped up Smurf.
A sigh escaped Ner. "No" was his only reply as he quickened his pace.
Passing out of Neverwinter, the pair travelled to the south for most of
the morning. By mid-day, Smurf began to notice that Neranek's paced had
slowed considerably. Coming out of a grove of elms, a dark cave lay before
them. Casting a Light spell on Smurf's hat, Neranek thrust him forward using
him as a torch as they entered the cave.
Smurf was puzzled by his friends quiet behavior. Neranek was usually a
bit more talkative than this, he thought. He has barely said two words to me
on the whole trip. Odd.
After travelling about ten minutes into the deep cave, Neranek sat down
upon the hard, stone ground. He released Smurf and sat him down on the
ground in front of him. "Now, I feel that you have progressed far enough in
your studies to learn a powerful form of magic."
Smurf looked at Neranek in surprise. Neranek was so usually
close-mouthed about sharing his secrets that Smurf was taken aback.
"Really?"
Neranek tipped his head towards Smurf and nodded slowly once. "Really.
In this cave lies an ancient and great power, but that can only be freed by
an equally great power." Neranek reached into his cloak and found his bag of
holding. Reaching within, he removed a small apple and began to toss it into
the air and catch it.
"Now Smurf, you seem to have a penchant for calling out the name of the
Dark Lord, why don't you oblige me now? What was his name again? Oldy Moldy
or something wasn't it?"
As Smurf began to speak, Neranek tensed. "Nah, Ner, you know that it
isn't that, it is Cyr..." Smurf choked in surprise as Neranek shoved the
apple he had been tossing into Smurf's mouth, cutting him off in mid-word.
"..trobellus," the cleric-mage finished for the cut-off Smurf. A deep
rumble passed through the ground beneath them.
Smurf looked confused and spit the apple from his mouth. "Hey now, that
wasn't nice and it isn't Cyrtrowhateveryousaid, either, it is Cyric."
Neranek didn't seem to notice his companions indignation. Instead his
attention was focused on the dark passageway that continued down further into
the cave. Just then a shudder ran through the cave.
"Umm, Ner, is this cave safe?" Smurf questioned while slapping his hand
down on the cave floor.
"Of course it is. Why wouldn't it be? All we have done is say a name
right?" was Neranek's reply before another bout of coughing seized him. "Of
course, that one word happened to be a name and an ancient one at that. One
I used long ago in this cave."
"And what does that have to do with the floor shaking?"
"Everything," Neranek replied in his typically cryptic voice.
"Observe," he said as he pointed down into the cave.
Turning to look, Smurf was surprised to see an eerie glow coming down
the darkened cave. The glow was getting brighter in time with the rumbles
that shook the floor of the cave. Smurf began to piece it together.
Something big is coming, he thought.
Smurf shot a look over to Neranek who seemed to be totally unconcerned.
Suddenly, the bony head of a large dragon came into the enlarged area of the
cave. The head was followed by the body and tail of a large dragon or rather
what was once a dragon. The ancient dracoliche turned his bony head to look
at the smurf and the mage. Smurf surmised that it must have been a red one
judging on what few scales remained on it's bony frame.
"Hello Cyrtrobellus, you are looking well," Neranek quipped.
The undead dragon moved his head until it was nearly on top of Neranek.
Smurf skittered back out of the way. No way am I going to sit that close to
something that spits fire, he thought.
Neranek appeared non-plussed and reached out a hand to pet the drach on
the head. "I am sorry to have disturbed you from your slumber, but I have
need of you again. You know when we began this together that I told you I
would only wake you for two reasons. The first, if I found a way to remove
you from the undead state which you despise. The second being I had need of
your powerful services and only when the situation was most dire."
"I fear that I have yet to solve the riddle of your state, so I can not
offer you the complete sleep that you crave. Unfortunately, I have need of
your assistance. A war is coming Cyrtrobellus, and I may not survive what is
to come. If I were to fall while you were still under my spell which allows
you some partial measure of sleep, you might continue in that state forever.
Far too cruel of a fate for you, my old friend.
Smurf was startled to see the drach hang it's head and then shake it in
agreement.
"I have awakened you now, to give you time to gather your strength.
Again, I apologize, noble red, that I have yet to solve the riddle of your
existence. Know that I will search to the ends of Toril to end your
suffering."
With that, Neranek reached into his cloak and flung part of it aside.
For a brief instant, Smurf saw bandages soaked with blood, before Neranek
pulled out a bag and drew his cloak shut. The mage set the bag down in front
of the dracoliche.
"Here are some powerful magical items for you to devour. They should
help with your recovery. You will know when the time is right to come for
me, Cyrtrobellus." Neranek stood for a moment looking longingly at the
ancient dracoliche. He reached out a hand and ran it gently down the side of
the drac's muzzle. "Till then," he said and turned to leave.
Stooping down to pick up the still-gaping smurf, Neranek continued out
of the cave, back into the warm sunlight. Pausing, Neranek gave a meaningful
look to Smurf. "Do you understand now, what power names can hold? The one I
invoked has brought awake an old friend who now must suffer once more until I
am strong enough again to put her back into her fugue state. The one you
bandy about can do so much more. Be careful, Smurf."
As Neranek began to continue on the path back towards the Tower, Smurf
had time to think.
"Ner, ya know what? You keep strange company."
Neranek stumbled at that. A low chuckle escaped him. "Really Smurf,
you don't say."
"Yah, and why didn't you tell me while we were in there that your friend
was a she?"
Sighing, Neranek continued home while ignoring the question.
---------------------------------------------------------------
Meanwhile in Windycliffs, an elderly couple walking along the path
outside of the inn are startled to find a gibbering man dressed in black
Sembian Silk. Stopping to help him, they escort him on to the Healer in
Neverwinter City. Little do they know what evil they are unleashing.
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