1996-07-28
Recovered original text · preserved verbatim
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NEVERWINTER NEWS
Issue # 144
Week Ending 7-28-96
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FRONT PAGE
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Congratulations to Metr0n for winning last week's News of the Realm contest
for his story entitled "Labors of Love".
Metr0n 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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POISONED WATER SUPPLY!
Lord Nasher was concerned. He had begun receiving reports of sudden deaths
within the city, initially they seemed to be isolated instances. There was
no sign of violence and the victims ranged in age and profession. The
trickle of messages rapidly became a torrent as the outlying regions began to
notice similar occurrences. As the Mayor poured through the reports and
consulted with his advisors and guard, it quickly became clear that a great
illness was sweeping through the city. Was it plague or some terrible
magical attack inflicted upon the people of the town?
Responding quickly, Lord Nasher sent his guard to interview the families of
those afflicted, searching for a similar factor in each of the cases. To his
dismay, it quickly became apparent that the city's water supply had become
contaminated. It was thought that perhaps the sewer had begun leaking into
the cisterns or mayhaps the bodies which could be spotted floating in the
river from time to time, had carried disease. In any case, it was clear that
there was a serious problem with the water supply.
Acting swiftly, clerics from each of the Temples in the city prayed for
assistance, casting spells of purification upon the water tanks. They worked
tirelessly cleansing batchs of water for use by the city's folk while Vern,
the sewer man, repaired a few damaged valves, and the river was dragged to
remove all the debris. Lord Nasher's finest were called upon to help purify
the water and transport supplies of the valuable fluid to the outlying areas.
It seemed that the city would manage to survive this setback, provided that
the newly cleansed water really was pure.
Realizing the risk to anyone testing the batches and the huge number of
different samples that needed to be checked, Lord Nasher called for
volunteers offering a reward to those who were willing to risk great illness
or even death! (Resist 3 Poisons, win 3 pearls) Lord Nasher's guard
positioned themselves in five locations and called for hardy and brave
volunteers. Over 160 citizens responded!
By the end of the evening, a great many deadly batches of water had been
identified and the clean water had been distributed throughout the city. Not
long after, sewer repairs were completed and the river was cleaned. Once
again, the courageous actions of the citizens of the city had saved the day
and garnered them a reward from Lord Nasher himself!
Thanks to all who participated and ran booths, congratulations to those who
won!
NW Events
Winners
-------------
abk sentry
abklongbow
aurela
backbitr
baneknight
bauvlin
bd celtic
boltthrwr
cervaros
daevion
deemonia
delracnid
drakmore69
duke pug
eliseer12
ers reaper
fyry death
gardian
gary2922
goodygater
hc carak
heligtight
hellsangyl
illmatter
ingenjeger
itb hate
itb onyx
jnar4u
jp cape
kadi0n
kali sedai
keglord
kh0lari
kto alan
kto vecna
ktokheldir
kytis gor
ldy cyber
lev1ath0n
lord chadd
loveunholy
lrd markus
lrd raz0r
marius1350
mat gaidin
mavralyn
mech aielo
mech lotus
mech moses
mech pulse
mech ryman
mech zorro
modalex
moradinson
mordor xax
n0r dravn
niro
olorin val
openw0und
paulw15712
powerdog95
redbear pb
redflow
rhys kom
sara sedai
sarhth0r
sir vermin
sol ent1ty
sol lethal
sorilea
sr shumard
ssc taerl
taim asha
tanandea
tcs elvin
temudjinn
thdrakside
tp havok
tptec
tripwire
undeadmage
v arawn
vet vic
wgw rhuarc
xo2 zeus
xym0x
zacnefear2
zotreth
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WATER SUPPLY UPDATE!!
The sudden and seemingly inexplicable death of many of Neverwinter's
finest citizens gave cause for the Lord Mayor to assign his agents to
immediately find the root of this newest horror. It was not long before it
was ascertained that the only common thread among the deceased was the
Neverwinter water supply.
Lord Nasher promtly assigned five agents to test and treat the water and
put out the call for valiant men and women of Neverwinter to assist in
testing the new water treatment, with the promise of great reward (if they
survived). Twenty-five brave souls came to Donagh's Water Treatment Plant to
see if the new process was safe for humanoid consumption. Sadly, seventeen
did not live to receive the Lord Mayor's reward. However, those surviving
found a new treatment for the water supply and have declared Neverwinter's
water safe for humanoid consumption!
Winners of three (3) pearls were: Sol Lethal, Lrd Markus, ERS Reaper,
GoodyGater, Bauvlin, Lord Chadd, Deemonia, and Backbitr.
Congratulations to the winners and thanks to everyone who came out and
participated!!!!!
NWA Donagh
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Location Hunt Winner!!
The clue tonight was "This store room is full of caravan supplies, along with
harnesses...". A rather tough clue as these things go. Took about 20 minutes
before a winner found it :) Mech Riots was the first to reach the caravan
harnesses in the Nightsedge Caverns :)
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July GoH Booth #2 Winner!!
"To cool the GoHers off, a beverage called the "cooling effect" was
introduced, and a booth was made to see who can withstand its effect. Able
to make anyone cool in any sort of heat, the beverage can also be deadly with
its freezing abilities on one's body: creating damage like an ice storm, and
causing one to save versus a slay living effect, or die.
Congratulations to Thorn Hawk, who was able to not only survive its effects,
but take the lowest amount of damage from it as well, and wins 6 pearls."
-- NW Strahd :)
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New Player Tour 7/25/96 10:00 pm ET
Having been assigned two cases to investigate, I awaited the staunch
volunteers I knew would be arriving soon. It was not long before some rather
hardy adventuring types came to my location at the entrance to the
Neverwinter Gardens and were eager to rid the region of any treachery they
could find. Seeing that these brave souls had some experience, I chose the
tougher of the assignments given me by the Lord Mayor....to investigate the
strange happenings at the ship, the Gallant Prince in Port Llast Harbor.
Renthar, Tirac1, PawMcGloin, Br0ther, Wulfgar352, RandJaegr2, and I left
the Neverwinter Gardens heading north to the warehouse region of the city.
Though we could see all manner of beasts hiding in the shadows of the
warehouses, they cowered away from the heavily armed band. As we passed
through the gates to the wilder lands just south of the town of Windy Cliffs,
we ran into Sshot13, who joined our eager band. After quickly dispatching
several lizardmen and pyro snakes, we reached the Inn at Windy Cliffs.
Unfortunately, Sshot13 left our party there, and though we called for him; we
did not see him again.
We headed north again. Not far from the northern edge of Windy Cliffs
we happened upon Ben120994 as he battled viscious wolves and a great
vilstrak. He thanked us for coming to his aid and we asked him to join us in
our investigation of the Gallant Prince. As we headed north again and the
Neverwinter patrols thinned the danger was apparent. Suddenly a horde of
giant rats and hungry wild (and large) boars were upon us. We all charged
the beats! But somewhere from behind us, as Renthar began to engage, the
Punt Monster stalked Renthar. Sadly, we were unable to help as the brutal
monster laid claim to his only victim of the night. Though it showed its
face, and bared its fangs, poor Renthar was the only one lost to him.
After dealing with the wild animals of the north we headed for The
Griffon Inn at Port Llast. We quickly memorized spells, rested, and left the
inn for the ghost ship in the harbor. As we neared the harbor, grunts were
heard from the shadows ahead of us on the dark path. What looked like a
giant centipede crossed with a giant squid suddenly came at us. The carrion
crawler was spurred on by a band of bugbears behind it. RandJaegr2 bravely
ran forward to meet the ghastly beast. I yelled a warning to "...'ware the
crawlers bite!"...but it was to late...the paralyzing sting of the crawler,
and the deadly aim of the bugbears' bows claimed the life of the brave Rand.
We took a vengeance on the monsters as we pressed on to the harbor.
The guard at the pier warned us not to enter, lest we be fools or
treasure seekers, which he felt were one in the same. Tirac scoffed at the
guard as we pushed past him. We searched the captain's and crew's quarters,
finding nothing more than moth eaten clothes and rat droppings. But as we
moved deeper into the bowels of the ship, the stench of a troll assaulted our
nostrils. As we came through the door to the galley a huge troll and several
bugbear met their fate with just speed as Br0ther cast a deadly accurate
spell on the buggies and the rest of us took on the troll. Stopping only to
gather our wits, Wulfgar shouted, "Tempus!" and rushed for the nearest door.
The blood rushed from our heads as we seemed to be lifted from the deck.
When the rush of blood from our heads abated, we turned to look down the
corridor and saw three hooded women coming at us. As the women began to drop
their hoods and stare at us they soon found themselves looking at their own
reflection in out mirrors and mirror shields. The hideous meduase were no
match for the hardy band of investigators. As we stepped over the falled
stone statues of the now dead medusae, we saw the sparkle of small brass
buttons on the floor just ahead. PawMcGloin recognized the buttons held the
sigil of the the Pirate Captains of Luskan! And we all knew if the Pirates
od Luskan were involved, the Mages of the Hosttower of the Arcane had to be
behind them.
We headed back to Neverwinter to advise Lord Nasher of our evidence.
The question now was, how far would the Pirates of Luskan go....?
Thanks to everyone that came out for the tour. A great time was had by all!
NWA Donagh
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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!
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New Player Tours:
Join the following staff members for a tour of the Realm:
July 29th *Monday 2:00 AM EDT - with NW Vorpal.
July 31st Wednesday 9:00 PM EDT - with NW Vic.
August 3rd Saturday 4:00 PM EDT - with NWA Taltos.
* Technically, this is Tuesday, because it's after midnight but we kept it
this way because it is Monday evening. ;>
Those interested in any of these tours should keep an eye out for the banner
telling where to meet! ;D
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The Mallorn Tree
(submitted by: Luthyen)
Luthyen stood on the balcony by the mighty tree, and watched as Thorn Hawk
swung to the ground. As he loped towards the garden gate, he raised his hand
in farewell to his lady. She returned the wave, sad at his departure, but
understanding of the duty owed to Goddess and guild.
Turning from the Garden, she reentered Castle Stalker and went to her
room. Brushing her long brown hair, her eyes fell upon a Mithril-chased
casket beside the bowl containing the lake lilly. Taking it up, she opened
it to reveal a grey-hued nut nestled in a blue velvet bed. Her finger
stroked it...the seed of a mallorn tree, brought out of Lothlorien, and
handed down through the elven side of her family. Luthyen's thoughts went
back to her family, far from Neverwinter. Her mother it was who had held the
casket before her, and never planted it. Luthyen and her sister Tynuvel had
often speculated on what it held and the history of the case. Tynuvel had
left them, marrying Feldir and finally lost in the service of Mulmar of the
High Dales. Their mother had given Luthyen the precious heirloom, saying
only, "When it is time to plant, ye will know."
Closing the lid, Luthyen replaced the mithril chased case next to Thorn
Hawk's flower. Lightly tracing the lilly's edge, she thought of the ranger
who had stolen her heart. It was difficult for him to be inside Castle
Stalker. The huge ediface of stone, while providing Luthyen with the
workspace she needed for her training, her baking and her studies, was
confining for a Ranger of the woods. Used to the freedom of Meilikki's
forests, Thorn felt confined when sleeping within walls.
Luthyen sighed. Castle Stalker had been Gambit's, magically transferred
from Rhydin to be their home in Neverwinter. Each room held some memory of
the Drow and their life together. Before they had met and married, her home
had been in a small cottage in the woods outside Windycliffes. Set in a
pineforest, with her herb and flower gardens outside the kitchen, the cottage
had satisfied her elven heart. It was good to have a space in Neverwinter, a
private home in the City, for the Guild Hall was very busy..but in truth her
heart missed the forest as well. She thought back to her mother's words, and
thought perhaps she knew.
Binding the Elfstone to her brow, Luthyen picked up the silver case and
went to the stables to saddle Midnight. Leaving the city, she turned
towards the Dryads' grove.
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Putting down her mug of tea and chasing the last of the brownies they'd
shared, Luthyen finished telling Tarma her dilemma. The Dryad Queen huggled
her friend.
"Why, dear, that's not a problem...I know just the spot..." She led Luthyen
to a secluded part of the Grove, where the trees were of pine, close to a
waterfall and the paths to the wilder woods.
"This clearing held a shrine to Meilikki," Tarma explained. "See, the
stones are there..I've been meaning to rebuild it, but with the recent
troubles, I just haven't gotten to it..but perhaps Thorn could..and anyway, I
think it would be a special place for him."
Luthyen embraced the Dryad. "Thank you so much!" she whispered. "It is
indeed the perfect place..." Taking the mithril case from her pack, she
opened it and took out the mallorn nut. Making a small hole across the
clearing from the shrine, she buried the seed, then stood beside the small
mound. Closing her eyes, she raised her arms and murmured to the Ladies of
the Stars and the Woods, asking their blessing upon the growing of the tree,
and all who would be a part of it. The Elfstone began to glow and shimmer.
Tarma's eyes grew wide as the glow intensified and focused on the mound
holding the new-planted tree. Luthyen begain to sway and move to unheard
music, dancing an Elven form and singing in her high clear voice.
As the Dryad Queen watched, a slender sapling exited the earth and
stretched towards the sky. It grew before her eyes to become a tall mallorn
tree, with a trunk of greyish-silver and leaves of the brightest spring
green. Tarma knew that in the autumn, these would turn a brilliant gold, then
remain until the spring growth came again.
As her song ended and the glow faded from the Elfstone, Luthyen opened her
eyes and looked at her work. The crown of the tree stretched towards the sky,
with branches at an easy height for climbing, and arranged so that a sleeping
platform could be built. She was weary, but pleased.
"It will do..aye, I think it will do fine."Top 10 Things To Do If You
Wanna Show You're a Novice at PVP
(submitted by: GARY ORL2)
10. Hollering "HACKER", anytime your opponent successfully saves several of
your casts.
9. Casting a Stinking Cloud at you foe and have it fall harmlessly short
8. Targeting yourself... with a Hold monster, Fumble, Feeb, etc
7. Sprinting headlong into a cloud, in your hurry to flee from a Bulette,
Griff, etc
6. Casually walking next to a held foe to lay a CAUSE on him, and having
his partner "bonus" you with a Dispel!
5. Lb'ing your foe to test his Globe and in doing so.. catch a rebound
yourself, with no Globe of your own.
4. Guarding, instead of passing, when you moved and couldn't cast.. and end
up killing the last NPC.. and losing.
3. Memming Cure Crits instead of cause Crits,... and casting them on your
opponent.
2. Failing to prep Invis last, so it loses its affect... then you enter the
battle, get pounded by the NPCs, and are half dead and unglobed.. after 1
round
1. Being clever, you wish to "fake" a Globe, and choose to cast Resist Fire
instead of a Protection from Good or Evil.
So.. how many of these.. have you seen or maybe done????
Gary Orl2
Royal Knight of CORAdventurer's Day
(submitted by: Lake Mist)
Among a huddled and murmuring crowd
Inside the Vilnask Inn on an early morn,
Dwelt two humble travelers, earthen clad and proud,
Whose thoughts were on the new day born.
To those who listen, they spoke out with a start,
The two as one,
Be not afraid to trust thy heart,
And with us to find young Willo ye shall come.
None of you be new or old,
And none of you be a knave,
On this morn, the truth be told,
Ye are all much brave.
The thieves amongst thee,
Will now and always make advances,
Borne of your fears that they see,
They will always attempt to steal your chances.
Within all this realm thieves exist,
So come together to travel as one,
And every race shall clench their fist,
And travel together into the new day's sun.
Do not stay hidden behind these walls,
If ye do not travel freely, ye shall despair,
Hide here in fear, ye shall answer the thieves calls,
Outside amongst the living, ye can love and care.
Thieves so full of want and greed,
Should not be given any places,
To plant their distrustful and fearful seed,
Within this realm or it's truly caring races.
Just travel with us and ye shall see,
That freedom and joy is not forbidden,
There are places to explore and places to be,
Your fears and distrust of others keep them hidden.
The fear of thieves has made ye weak,
The only thieves that shall remain,
That slow your arms and not ye speak,
Are those which sneak and hide within your brains.
Worse than any ten demons,
Worse than any ten trolls,
Worse than death and his summons,
Is the thief that steals your souls.
This morning burst upon us with open sight,
As the world sprang to life all aglow,
The faces of the crowd were shiny and bright,
They had suddenly begun to understand and grow.
With a new confidence and a new trust,
Upon the road they set to do this quest,
Their shields were slung and swords were thrust,
As they set out to see themselves and do their best.
Hold each day's joy within your heart,
And the presence of thieves,
When ye take the chance and make a start,
Shall follow the path of winter's leaves.
Ye are free to adventure amongst the realm,
How joyous and bright the realm shall be,
As ye discover yourself and Mielikki's helm,
While the sun travels and nears a peaceful sea.
Travel well, and may good prevail through the path,
As we begin anew on this Adventurer's Day.Adventurers Day
by Lake Mist
Among a huddled and murmuring crowd
Inside the Vilnask Inn on an early morn,
Dwelt two humble travelers, earthen clad and proud,
Whose thoughts were on the new day born.
To those who listen, they spoke out with a start,
The two as one,
Be not afraid to trust thy heart,
And with us to find young Willo ye shall come.
None of you be new or old,
And none of you be a knave,
On this morn, the truth be told,
Ye are all much brave.
The thieves amongst thee,
Will now and always make advances,
Borne of your fears that they see,
They will always attempt to steal your chances.
Within all this realm thieves exist,
So come together to travel as one,
And every race shall clench their fist,
And travel together into the new day's sun.
Do not stay hidden behind these walls,
If ye do not travel freely, ye shall despair,
Hide here in fear, ye shall answer the thieves calls,
Outside amongst the living, ye can love and care.
Thieves so full of want and greed,
Should not be given any places,
To plant their distrustful and fearful seed,
Within this realm or it's truly caring races.
Just travel with us and ye shall see,
That freedom and joy is not forbidden,
There are places to explore and places to be,
Your fears and distrust of others keep them hidden.
The fear of thieves has made ye weak,
The only thieves that shall remain,
That slow your arms and not ye speak,
Are those which sneak and hide within your brains.
Worse than any ten demons,
Worse than any ten trolls,
Worse than death and his summons,
Is the thief that steals your souls.
This morning burst upon us with open sight,
As the world sprang to life all aglow,
The faces of the crowd were shiny and bright,
They had suddenly begun to understand and grow.
With a new confidence and a new trust,
Upon the road they set to do this quest,
Their shields were slung and swords were thrust,
As they set out to see themselves and do their best.
Hold each day's joy within your heart,
And the presence of thieves,
When ye take the chance and make a start,
Shall follow the path of winter's leaves.
Ye are free to adventure amongst the realm,
How joyous and bright the realm shall be,
As ye discover yourself and Mielikki's helm,
While the sun travels and nears a peaceful sea.
Travel well, and may good prevail through the path,
As we begin anew on this Adventurer's Day.
Songs of the Wind - Part 5
The Messenger
(submitted by: Thorn Hawk)
The sun had set long before I entered the inn to be greeted by Lani, the
innkeeper's daughter. Traveling far to reach this inn, I was looking forward
to having owlbear ribs before setting off again in the morning. "It's late
to be traveling, Thorn," said Lani. "I was looking forward to a plate of
thine owlbear ribs that thy mother fixes," I replied, kneeling down and
kissing Lanis' hand, causing her to blush. "I....will check," she mumbled,
as she ran into the kitchen. I messed up her hair as she turned to leave,
while moving to a nearby table. Waving to the bartender, a stout fellow I
didn't know, I ordered an ale and listened to the talk around me. One
conversation, in the corner, caught my attention.
"The whole place was ash," gestured one merchant.
Shocked, "Everything . . . the house, the barn?" replied his companion.
"I said the whole place, nothing was standing."
"Didn't you see if anyone lived?"
"Of course I did. You think I wanted them sneaking up on me after I passed?"
"Well?"
"They were all dead. Everything was killed . . . everything," disbelief
evident in the merchant's voice.
"Orcs?"
"I didn't stay around long enough to . . . "
It was then that my food arrived along with my ale. Setting thoughts of orcs
and burnt farms aside, I began devouring my food. After my meal was
finished, I glanced around noting the merchant and his friend had departed.
Since it was late, I decided to stay the night. Paying for my meal, I headed
for the only room left, a loft above the stables. At least it was dry, I
thought, as I climbed the ladder.
Lighting a candle, I studied a few spells I thought might be useful in
finding those responsible for burning the farm near here. I was raised with
a distrust of magic, but since coming here it has proved useful. Saying a
quick prayer to watch over my old teachers spirit, Kalean, I promptly fell
asleep.
Feeling something hitting my head, I woke to find a seagull regarding me with
what I can only call disappointment. "What the . . . ?" I stammered, moving
abruptly away from the bird. A flapping of wings and a loud squawk answered
my question. The gull began hopping around and making lots of noise while
looking at me. I think it was waiting for a response. Having no idea what
this noisy bird wanted, I casted a spell allowing me to talk with it. With
sad eyes, the gull shook his head.
"I can't believe you don't speak my tongue."
"I...haven't had a call to before, friend."
"I was sent by my friend, Ender Bay, to find his brothers and sisters and ask
them a question."
"Which is . . . ?"
"He sent me to the bunkhouse to see if anyone has seen Cerdith. Have You?"
"I ah . . . no. I haven't seen her. I have never met her to tell the truth.
How did ye find me, since this is not the bunkhouse and I have not been there
in sometime?"
"It was the symbol you wear," tapping my chest with its beak.
"Oh," nodding, "will you carry a message to Ender for me?"
"Yes."
Digging in my pack, I didn't find any scraps of paper. I did manage to find
an old scroll. Casting the spell, one of detection, I began writing.
Dear Ender,
Alas brother for I have not seen Cerdith nor do I know what she looks like
for I have never met our sister. I have been gone from the bunkhouse for
many days and do not plan on being back there for many more. I have business
to take care of at the moment, but will begin searching for our sister once
this minor problem is solved. If I find anything of use, I will leave
messages at any beaver pond I come across. Until then, I remain,
Your brother,
Thorn Hawk.
Strapping the message to the leg of the patiently waiting gull, I stroked its
feathers and bid it fair winds. "Farewell," it cried as it climbed into the
sky and headed eastward. Packing my few belongings, I headed toward the
East, as well, with the rising sun in my face.
Thorn Hawk,
Brotherhood of PathfindersSongs of the Wind - Part 6
(submitted by: Cerdith)
The swelling voice of the chorus burst through her unconscious thoughts
carrying before it any remnant of reason. The flawless melding of the
voices, the harmonies imposed upon the listening mind and soul were
devastating in their perfection. Listening with her all, no longer cognizant
of her material form, Cerdith felt every movement, crescendo, and transition.
Her world had become this alone, her existence intertwined with the songs she
had heard on the wind.
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A fortnight into the mountains Cerdith had discovered the trail. It was old
and any tracks which had once given indication of the creatures that used it
were long since swept away. The joy of discovery and exploration had brought
a smile to her face as she marked the entrance to the ancient track
carefully. The Brotherhood of Pathfinders used a very simple code to
indicate to fellow members the status and condition of trails such as these.
Her message indicated her passage and that the way was presently unknown. Any
of her brethren who came after would recognize the message, though most other
creatures would never even notice the markers.
The passage had not yielded any secrets the first several days, but on the
fourth evening the ranger had discovered a barely noticable trail marker. It
was not a Pathfinder message and Cerdith had been unable to decipher the
meaning -- though she could tell that it was very very old. The next morning
she had found an old shrine built a style unusual for this area. Stepping
from the stand of trees into a small glade, Cerdith saw a circle of stone
pillars. Most stood only man-height, several had toppled over from their
obvious positions and all were covered with a layer of moss. Carefully
walking around the holy place, she noted the smaller flat stone nearly buried
in the turf. After standing silently for a moment in respect, the ranger
stepped forward to clean the table top. Carefully setting her pack aside,
Cerdith rummaged and then lifted a small earthenware bottle. Uncorking it
gently, she began to sprinkle the holy water upon the altar. As the water
trickled from the bottle and then began to run off the stone into the grass,
the ranger bent her head in prayer to Mielikki. Reconsecrating the shrine in
the only manner that she could without being a priestess herself, Cerdith
completed the blessing. Stepping once more outside of the circle, she
continued on this ancient and very cold path.
On the eve of the 9th day, after she had passed the strange markers and spent
the afternoon attempting to decipher their meaning, the terrain had given way
to truely treacherous footing. The trail was all but gone now, but still she
pressed onward. The birds and the small animals of the forest were less
commonly seen now, and the ranger began to wonder finally, where she tread
that the creatures of nature seemed reticent to make their homes here.
She had heard the wind howling its fury as the storm slashed through the
trees, tearing branches from trunks with fury. The leaves which tenaciously
clung to the trees rustled fiercely with every blast, imitating the sounds of
the steadily falling rain. Rushing air twisted and spun taking impossibly
convoluted pathways and chilling the ranger to the bone as it whistled past
the struggling figure. She needed to find shelter soon before the full might
of the weather fell upon her. Pulling her cloak tighter around her, she
pressed forward against the barrier of rain and wind that beat against her.
This weather had come upon her so suddenly and unexpectedly. These mountains
were known for their rapid changes of weather, but this storm felt unnatural
in its fierceness. The more temperate lowlands never yielded this sort of
resistance and Cerdith felt her strength ebbing as she forced her way along
the small track. At last, she had discovered the small clearing and built
her carefully constucted shelter of dead wood and downed branches. And not
soon after that, she had noticed the first notes of the song on the
wind.Songs of the Wind - Part 7
(submitted by: Zeb Canon)
The light in the oil lamp started to dim, giving the small room large
shadows. With sleepy eyes Zeb Cannon scanned another sheet of parchment.
Slowly his head lowered closer to the desk as he read the sheet again.
Dimmer the light faded in the lamp as Zeb jerked his head back up and
sticking a knuckle into his eyes. Stretching in the chair he reached for the
parchment and went back to reading. Eyes closing for a few seconds and then
straining back open was repeated several times, with each time a little
longer staying closed. Finally as the last of the light died so did Zeb's
head hit the desk.
A strange glow began to seep out of Zeb's shirt. Starting to pulse with
his breathing it grew stronger. Then softly hardly heard a whisper called,
"Zeeebbbb Caaannnnoooonnnnn". After a moment it came again but a little
louder, "Zeebb Caannnnoonnn come to me."
Head flat on the desk Zeb did not even move to the sound of the voice.
To make matters worse a slight snore began. With a tone of disgust the voice
shouted, "ZEB CANNON!"
With his name echoing in his head Zeb sprang back from the desk and as
the chair gave way to his momentum Zeb continued to go back. As the chair
fell back to the floor taking Zeb along his feet caught the edge of the desk.
The crash of the chair hitting the floor was just a little quieter than the
crash of the desk going the other way. Papers seeing a chance to mix
themselves up and cause all kinds of mischief for poor Zeb flew up into the
air and began to drift down everywhere. The ink pot not to be left out of
the fun spied Zeb on the floor with his feet in the air and made a desperate
jump for his lap. With the unerring accuracy of the local birds, the ink pot
spun and just before it hit released its canned.
Eyes blinking, Zeb looked around the devastated room and his lap as he
called a small light globe into being. Getting up off the floor he could
hear the shouts out in the sleeping room of the bunkhouse begin. Reaching
for the door knob Zeb started to open the door when it was yanked open by
Thorn Hawk. Still holding the door Zeb was pulled forward but the ink pot
was not done with Zeb for as he went forward he stepped on the pot and went
flying out the door. Crashing into Thorn Hawk, they both went into a roll.
Surprised, Thorn Hawk reflexes took over and going with the roll pulled
Zeb over him and pushing with his legs threw Zeb into several of the bunk
beds. With the added momentum from Thorn Hawk, Zeb hit the beds and knocked
the first one over. Needless to say it crashed into the next one and a chain
reaction was started. Rangers jumping out of the falling bunk beds up set
other beds.
Climbing out of the rubble of the beds, Zeb faced several of his
brothers and sisters standing there looking at him. Before he could say
anything Zeb's foot found some of the jello that was missed in the last jello
fight. Falling forward he stuck out his arms to catch his balance and hit
one of the young rangers in the chest. Turning around to apologize, Zeb saw
a fist heading right at him. Dropping to the floor the fist shot over his
head and connected with one of the other rangers. This lead to another
poorly thrown punch which didn't connect with the intended party. Soon fists
were flying, legs kicking, and heads butting. In general a free for all had
started.
Just as things were getting good the bunkhouse door opened and a
commanding figured watched for a minute before shouting, "Stop fighting right
now!" Like a bucket of water on a small flame the fighting stopped. More
like one massive hold spell was cast, for everyone froze in there spot.
Hands drawn back for a punch, fists with shirts in them, arms around heads,
all action stopped.
Into the still room walked Neerdowell, guild master of the fighting
rangers, looking sternly into the eyes of everyone. With a tinge of anger in
his voice he asks, "Who started this?" All eyes turned to look at Zeb. Then
one by one arms move and fingers pointed to Zeb.
"Zeb, I want this placed cleaned up. NOW! And tomorrow I want to speak
to you." Neerdowell said as he turn to leave.
"Zeb go get cleaned up. I will get things straight in here." said Thorn
Hawk with a smile.
"Thanks Thorn. I'll explain later....I think."
Taking the path down to the creek, Zeb starts to go over what happened
in his mind. As he reaches the creek a sudden tug on his neck makes him
reach into his shirt and pull out the ancient medallion. Seeing a glow about
the medallion, Zeb sees that it glows brighter as he turns it toward the
west. Intrigued he starts to move further into the woods moving the
medallion back and forth. Entering a clearing he sees a woman sitting on a
stump petting a fawn.
Looking up from the fawn the woman says, "Well tis about time thee got
here. What be that on your lap young Zeb?" she says with an impish gleam in
her eyes.
Sliding a hand down to his lap, Zeb starts to turn red in the face as he
answers, "Jus...Just some....Just some ink Mother."
"Aye, Thee must tell me the tale of its appearance," Mielikki says with
a laugh and a grin. "But not right now. Thee and I have much to discuss and
time runs past us. So pay close attention young Zeb for thy life my depend
on it."
"First I be happy with the lesson you gave to the others. Thee has
grown in more than just thy body. Tis good to spread my word to others.
Never forget that you lead others to me by your words and actions. Now where
be thy sister and my daughter?"
"Which daughter are you asking about Mother?"
"Try not to be dense young Zeb. Who is missing from thy brotherhood?
"At last report Mother all are accounted for."
"What about thy sister whose blood boils for trolls. Where be she on
your so called report or thy brother who greets the fish?"
"Trolls? Fish? Mother what are you talking about?"
"Think young Zeb. Think!"
"You mean Cerdith and Ender. Why they were to go out on a little picnic
on the river. I sent a message to Ender by his gull a few days ago saying
she was not here and probably on her way to meet him. Why Mother?"
"Trollsbane never found the river young Zeb. She found something else.
Something old Zeb. Something that should not have awakened. It calls to her
and soon it will call to others as it grows stronger. Even now it lures the
fish speaker also. You must find them young Zeb and help them. I do not
command thee to go but ask. For there is danger along the way as well as the
possible loss of thy life. And that I will not command thee to do. But know
this my help will be small and at times not given when needed most. For I
can not interfere with what will pass but when things are darkest remember
that my love goes with thee and all my children."
"Close thy eyes and listen to the wind young Zeb. Listen past the
sounds of birds. Past the sounds of the crickets. Past the speech of the
trees. Listen to the wind."
One by one the sounds of the forest fades and just as Zeb was about to
fall asleep a faint note is heard like the beginning of a song. Straining to
catch the notes, Zeb tunes out all sound even the sound of his heart beating.
Just when he is about to give up again he hears the sound of music. Faint
and barely heard but it is there and enticing.
"Young Zeb! Come back to me." whispers the Lady of the Forests.
Hearing that voice breaks the hold of the song on Zeb as once again he
starts to blink his eyes. "What was that Mother?" asks Zeb.
"That tis the song that draws the others. Tis the song that you must
find if you are to free the others. Find it Zeb but do not listen to it for
it will ensnare thee as tight as it traps the others. Now you must go for I
have done all that I can."
"Wait Mother where should I start to look?"
With a smile on her lips she says, "Look to thy heart young Zeb and what
thy know of the others. And Young Zeb clean thy self up how can ye represent
me looking like that."
Leaving the clearing, Zeb takes one look back over his shoulder and
finds that the clearing is empty. Running back to the stream and on up to
the bunkhouse Zeb sees that all the lights are out. Quietly he enters and
finds that most of the room has been cleaned up with loud snores coming from
several of the beds. Entering his room, he changes clothes and stuffs more
into a pack. Grabbing his spell book from the floor and taking the flail off
the wall, Zeb goes to the kitchen for some supplies. Scratching a quick note
and putting it on the table he heads to the back door of the bunk house and
into the night.Songs of the Wind - Part 8
The Lady of the Woods
(submitted by: Lake Mist)
The sky above the woods, now full of rain clouds, seemed to swirl
slowly. My body shook and ached, and I thought it would be better to be
dead. If I could have reached my dagger, I might have finished it.
Looking around, I saw a young woman, or what appeared to be a young
woman, staring up at the sky and chanting in a flat, detached voice, "Rain,
rain, rain. Wash away and soothe the pain."
Beside me, I saw my long sword and elfin chain. I didn't remember
taking it off after the battle. The battle. What had happened? I didn't
remember getting hit. Something had come up from behind. Had slithered
through the underbrush. Yes! A punt beast had attacked just as an evil
dagger had slashed toward me.
The second battle. I remembered, I had finished the first battle, and
another had started. But what else had happened. There must have been
poison on the dagger's blade. I felt terrible.
Looking at the woman again, I noticed that she wore an emerald green
robe, trimmed with gold piping. There was a fire blazing nearby in the
clearing. The woman's long auburn hair was loose around her face and hung
down past he shoulders. She was lovely and I thought that I should know her.
Skin raw and muscles brittle, I could do no more than close my eyes and
fall back to sleep. When I awoke again, the woman had moved closer to the
fire and was watching me. "Feeling better?" she asked. I shook my head "No"
with great effort.
"Well, you will soon. Your wounds are clean now. You just need time
now." She sounded confident, but I wasn't sure. Poisoned wounds started at
the point of penetration, and if they didn't kill you immediately, they often
festered slowly, draining all life from you, draining your health,
until....until what?
How do you actually die? I didn't know. Maybe my body would just grow
tired and not go on.
Suddenly, a drop of rain hit me on the temple. My muscles tightened for
the deluge I knew was going to hit. But the rain began slowly with big drops
that splashed into the fire and turned to steam. They began to land on my
face, cold at first, but soothing somehow, as if they were not only cleansing
my body, but my soul as well. I raised my hands and smeared the rain over my
face. The rain tasted wonderful. I was starting to feel refreshed.
As I looked down at the wound on my left arm, I noticed that all that
was left was a black scar. This rain was somehow washing the poison from
body. I looked over at the woman once again. This time she had a stern look
about her.
She pointed her hand at me and said "The most serious of crimes has
happened to these woods. Tolls to travel freely have been demanded by those
who have no right. An evil is at hand, and the future is not clear. I fear
for the forest and the creatures that dwell there in. And your brother
Calinor is on a quest to seek answers about your missing sister, Cerdith."
"Before you make a stand, seek the counsel of your leaders and brothers,
and follow the path that best serves all free people. Remember that you are
a Pathfinder."
With that, she rose and moved to the far side of the fire. "Remember
this, you cannot fight alone. Seek counsel."
By the time I had gotten to my feet, she was no where to be seen. Just
vanished, as if swallowed by the forest. I laid back down near the fire, and
was almost instantly asleep.
When I awoke the next morning, the skies were clear, and I felt as if I
had never been injured. I fixed a quick meal and ate. Then, remembering
what the woman had said about Calinor, I donned my armor and strapped my long
sword to my back. I would travel through Nightsedge to reach the Rankled
Boar. My step was unusually brisk this bright spring morning, and as I
walked, I passed some wild lilac and immediately thought of Primrose. Maybe
she would be near Floodblest.The Hunter - Part 3
(submitted by: Thorn Hawk)
Evening was fast approaching as the figure moved silently through the woods
following the trail of his prey. Stopping, looking for a place to camp, the
figure moved onwards deeper into the woods. A large tree stood surrounded by
smaller trees, maybe its offspring, providing the perfect place to camp.
Shadows had lengthened until the woods where covered in near gloom. A figure
huddled among the fallen branches under the great tree. Not willing to risk
lighting a fire for fear of alerting his quarry, the cloaked hunter ate a
cold meal and fell asleep listening to a night bird's call.
Cool mist shrouded the woods early the following morning as a group of men
broke camp and prepared to move. A day's journey to the West, a man moved
through the woods in silent pursuit of this group. He ran effortlessly and
the great cloak he wore blended with the foliage giving him a ghostly
appearance.
A small hawk or falcon hunted overhead as the figure stopped by a diminutive
brook to take a drink. Peering into the water, he saw a face that needed a
shave and white hair now darkening to blonde, a testament to his time spent
under a clouded sky. Unaware of the small fish that had suddenly poked its
head out of the water to regard him with searching eyes, the man began his
hunt in earnest. He could feel the presence of his prey. Overhead, the hawk
dove . . .
~~~
Callus ran westward across the shifting sands and rocky outcropping of the
sword. As he neared an oasis, his heart heavy with guilt and shame, he was
unaware of the great cat that hunted near the pool this day. Rounding a
rocky spur, he ran into the crouching form of a sand lion. The lion didn't
move, just staring with large golden eyes, as Callus slowly moved to the
side. Sniffing the ground where Callus had stood, the great cat, roaring a
challenge, prepared to leap. Callus slowly let fall the desert hen he had
killed earlier in the day and backed up. The cat, sensing an easy meal,
moved toward the bird and began to eat, while Callus left the beast to its
meal.
Arriving at the oasis, Callus hid behind a large bush some distance from the
pool. An oasis, such as this one, was rarely without a guardian. They were
rare in the Sword and much prized when found by a tribe. This one didn't
have any goats around it though, which was a good sign. Waiting to see if
any would show, Callus thought back on recent events in his life.
Just under two weeks ago, he had killed a wyvern, one that had destroyed many
goats, while returning from a patrol. This beast had plagued his clan for
many months before it could be tracked to its lair. He, alone, had seen it
descend into a fissure among the rocks and went to investigate. The smart
beast had sensed him and attacked Callus from the rear. Luck and not skill
had saved Callus in that fight. He gained much honor among his clan with the
killing of the wyvern. Callus gave a gift, an ivory bracelet, to a young
woman named Vayess. He didn't know that his own brother also sought the
attention of the same lady. One thing led to another and Callus had fled his
clan. He would not fight his brother for the love of a woman, nor would
Callus die in a fight which would bring shame on his clan and family, so he
had fled only dishonoring himself. Not knowing where to travel, Callus fled
to the West. The wells and springs were known to him in that direction, and
in the desert water was life.
A strange high-pitched call brought Callus out of his reverie. Looking,
Callus found a bird sitting in a thorn bush only a few feet from the pool.
Fearing the call to be the warning cry of a tribe of bedine, his distress was
alleviated. Taking a closer look, he noticed the bird was a type of hawk.
It was only slightly bigger than a sand thrush. With a light gray underbelly
and tan body, the bird was hard to see. There was a bit of brown around its
neck and throat, but the most striking feature was the black mask it wore
about its eyes. Lowering the black mask that covered his mouth from the
frequent sand storms, Callus smiled. With a sudden blur of motion, the hawk
was in motion lifting high into the air only to dive abruptly from sight.
Waiting, Callus watched as the hawk reappeared from around a dune carrying a
small bird with its beak. Landing, once again in the thorn bush, it
persisted in an attempt to impale the bird on a large thorn. Succeeding, the
hawk began to eat its midmorning meal.
Later, Callus felt reasonably secure in taking water from the pool. He
rested under the same thorn bush the hawk used earlier until late in the day.
As the sun dropped into the West, Callus began his long run westward. He was
starting a new life and needed a new name. Callus was a name of the Alaie'
and he was no longer one of them. With a light step in his stride, he moved
swiftly away from the oasis. He had found a name along with a kindred
spirit. The setting sun found Thorn Hawk many miles distant from a small
bird with the same name . . .
Thorn Hawk,
Brotherhood of PathfindersMemoirs of a Paladin - Part 1
(submitted by: TP Havok)
There was, Havok decided, something unpleasant about the tavern he sat
in. The Copper Cow was not the cleanest tavern Havok had ever had the
pleasure to drink in. Maybe it was the stale vomit oder that permiated to
establishment. The Copper Cow named after the life sized cow made from copper
that sat in the center of the main room, belonged to a halfling named Fester.
Fester was short for a halfling, he had dark brown hair and wore a green
doublet, trimed with black. Fester made frequent rounds throughout the
tavern, visiting with patrons and keeping their mugs full.
During one of Festers rounds Havok stopped the little man as he waldled
by. "Pardon me small one, I am looking for a certain priest of Tymora.",
Havok pronounced.
"Hmmm... fat guy, balding, really dirty, with a red beard?", the hobbit
responded.
"Yes, thats the one, have you seen him?"
"Never heard of him. Would you like some more ale?", the halfling said,
changing the subject.
Havok nodded, reached into his pouch and pulled out a small gem. "Maybe
this will help ye remember friend.", Havok handed the gem to Fester.
The halfling peered through the gem at a nearby lamp. "Oh, you mean
Ramalamar.", he put the gem in the pouch at his belt. "He'll be in an hour or
so."
"Why thank ye small one, thy cooperation is most appreciated."
Havok had been waiting for nearly two hours for Ramalamar. He was to
meet the priest here to purchase a map to a hidden Zentrium base. Ramalamar
was a local spy, keeping tabs on all the Zentrium activity in the area.
Sometime later, a bald, obeese, dirty man dressed in the robes of a Tymorean
Priest entered the tavern and took an empty table on the far side of the
room, furthest from the door. Fester immediatly had food and drink taken to
the large, smelly fellow. Havok finished his ale and walked over towrd him.
As he approached the large man Havok noticed chunks of food stuck in the
man's beard and food stains on the front of his robes. The stench of this
large man was repulsive.
"Milord, art thou Ramalamar?", Havok said as he pushed back the urge
to gag.
"That depends on whos asking.", the large man responded.
Havok thought for a moment. " I am Havok, paladin of the Protectorate,
squire to Phantra, who is of the Elite Guard and also Warlord of the
Protectorate.", Havok stated proudly. " I was sent here by the elf, Rhiannon
Strongbow."
"You keep powerful company Havok of the Protectorate. I am who you are
seeking.", the large man said, motioning for Havok to sit at his table. "How
may I be of service to you milord?"
" I require a map to the location of the Zentrium hidout in Berun.",
Havok whispered, sitting down at the table.
"That my friend is an expensive service.", Ramalamar said as he shoved
food in his mouth. " I have that what you are asking. My prices are
non-negotiable and final.", he spat chunks of food as he spoke.
"How much does thou ask for such a service?", Havok asked, scanning the
room.
"Ten thousand gold and a minor magic item.", he said bluntly, shoving
more food in his face.
"Ten thousand gold?", Havok asked, looking suprised. "Doest thou take
jewels?"
"Jewels are fine Milord."
Havok pulled from his pouch a small bag. He reached in the bag and
pulled out a small coffer. The paladin gently pushed the coffer toward the
priest. "There art more than enough jewels to meet Milords price.", Havok
whispered. Havok reached in the bag again and pulled out a silver ring. "This
is a minor Ring of Protection.", he handed the ring to Ramalamar.
"I see you travel prepared Milord.", the priest said opening the
coffer. Ramalamar made an attempt at wipping his hands off on his clothing,
then pulled a scroll tube from within his robes. He tossed the tube to Havok
and started to shovel more food.
"I thank ye Milord. Ye have done a good thing this day."
"Will you not join me for some supper Havok of the Protectorate?", the
Priest asked with food and drink running down his beard.
"I am sorry Milord, but I cannot. I must leave at once.", Havok
proclaimed with a sense of relief.
"Then I bid you farewell Havok of the Protectorate."
Havok rose, gracefully bowed toward the large priest and disappeared
into the night.Top 10 New Names for the Happy Halfling Inn
(submitted by: Wgbt)
It's the LateShow with Wagebolt, bringing you t'day straight from the home
office, in the Triboar Arena, tonight's Top Ten list!
Well, Mother Lifegiver, needless to say is fed up with her lack of customers
at the "Happy Halfling Inn," Not surprising. I mean, what kind of name is
the, "Happy Halfling" eh?
Well, she's planning to change all that, she's thinking of names to make it's
title a little more notable and something that will make her inn stand out.
So Tonight we have:
<Here we go!>
TOP TEN NEW NAMES FOR THE HAPPY HALFLING INN AT WESTBRIDGE
10)The Delirious Drow
9)The Crazy CLAM
8)The Bouncing Bacteria
7)The Perculiar Paladin
6)The Klunkity KAAOSer
5)The Dumpy Dwarf
4)The Skitty Itty Bitty
3)The Munching MECH
2)The Pugnant Pirate
<drumroll>"And now the #1 new name for the Happy Halfling inn at WestBridge!"
1)Hooters!!!
::Wagebolt turns and throws the card out the window::
<CRASH!>
(WorldWide Plate)
"This metal really gleams!"
Battle of Berun's Hill
(submitted by: Sol Arthur)
(Sung to Led Zepplin's, Battle of Evermore)
o/~ The Soldier of Light took his bow..... and then he turned to go... o/~
o/~ The God of War embraced the gloom and walked the night alone... o/~
o/~ Ahhhhh..... dancing the dark of night.... sing to the Soldiers of
Light..... o/~
o/~ House ITB rides in force tonight.. and time will tell us all... all.. o/~
o/~ Oh... oh... throw down your plow and ooooh..... o/~
o/~ Side by side we await the night.... of the darkest of them all.... o/~
o/~ I hear the soldiers thunder.... down in the valley below... o/~
o/~ I'm waiting for the cry of Tempus... waiting for the eastern blow... o/~
o/~ The apples of the valley hoe.... oh.. the seeds of happiness... o/~
o/~ The ground is rich from tender care... repay do not forget... o/~
o/~ No... no..... dancing the dark of night.... sing to the Soldiers of
Light..... o/~
o/~ The battle turns to brown and black... the tyrants face is red... o/~
o/~ War is...... don't cry.... prep your spells and fight... o/~
o/~Berun's Hill, is filled with good and bad... and mortals never know... o/~
o/~ Hold on the night is long.... the beads of time pass slow... o/~
o/~ Tired eyes on the sunrise... waiting for the eastern blow... o/~
o/~ The pain of war cannot exceed... the woe about the man... o/~
o/~ The armies will shake Berun's walls... House ITB rides in black... o/~
o/~ Ride on....... ride on..... shoot straighter than before... o/~
o/~ No comfort here the final night.... the lights that face the cold... o/~
o/~ Dancing the dark of night.... sing to the Soldiers of Light... o/~
o/~ Magic moves a million fold... to bring the balance back... o/~
o/~ Bring it back...... o/~
o/~ Bring it back...... o/~
o/~ Bring it back...... o/~
o/~ Bring it, bring it, bring it, bring it, bring it...... bring it
back...... o/~
o/~ Alas the sun is shining.... the clouds of blue are white... o/~
o/~ With flames from the dragon of darkness..... o/~
o/~ The Soldiers of Light win the night!.... o/~
Elven Saga - Chapter 5
(submitted by: Nilgeit)
In the bedroom across the hall, Nilgeit found sheets and a blanket, and used
them to stuff into the seams around the door to the behiir, hopefully
blocking it's escape. He moved quickly down the hallway, away from the room,
checking rooms quickly. The rooms were mostly the same, general living
quarters. After he discovered a large, communal privy of sorts, the elf
realized the function for such a place. It was a retreat, a shelter for the
townspeople when things became too dangerous to live on the surface.
Apparently, the Times of Troubles had caused even farmers and merchants to
think ahead a little.
Finally he turned a corner at the end, and was confronted with a hastily
constructed brick wall which blocked the passage. On brief inspection he
found one loose brick, suspiciously about head level in the middle of the
wall. After a brief struggle, it crashed to the ground, and the elf peered
through. On the other side was a small room, about thirty foot square.
Nilgeit counted four children in the room, one sleeping, two fighting in the
corner over some small object, and one looking his way. The boy, about 5
years old with cornsilk blond hair and light complexion, moved towards him,
but struck an unseen barrier, and in frustration beat his head against it.
The elf gestured commandingly to stop, but the boy ignored him.
He stood back, and considered his options. After a second, he stepped
back up to the wall, and began chanting. A shimmering gateway appeared
before him, and he stepped into it, appearing from a matching doorway on the
far side of the room. Immediately the children flocked around him, making
strange crying sounds and scratching at him with their small hands. He
wished for a moment he'd brought more food with him. He stepped up to the
barrier, and mime-like, the elf discovered a wall of force across the
passage, blocking any exit. The children clustered around him, obviously
wanting out. He stepped back, and began chanting again. He cast the spell
right at the wall, attempting to negate the magics which held it together.
It did more.
As the spell triggered, the children wavered for a moment, then grew at an
amazing rate. In seconds the elf realized his error...these weren't children
at all, but four very adult wyverns polymorphed into "hostages". Freed of
their useless child-forms, they turned on him. His sword deflected the first
poisoned stinger that arced towards him, but the block was slow and graceless
without the blade's usual enchantment. In horror, the elf realized any
offensive spells like lightning bolts or fireballs, would do as much damage
to him as it would to his attackers. The four monsters attacked
viciously.The Vampire's Land
(submitted by: Shenazia)
The time speeds by,
Blurred before our eyes,
The faces of loved ones wither and die.
Mortals in awe,
My face that they saw.
But none truly know me because of our Law.
Why must this be?
My form they can see,
But those that I love wont know the true me.
What sould I choose?
My blood to infuse?!
The beauty of innocence forever they lose.
Choices to make.
Their lives to forsake,
Or my eternal loneliness never will break.
What do I do?
I leave it to you.
The choice that very few of us knew.
Join me in hell...
Your soul you will sell...
The horrors you'll know I can't begin to tell.
But wonders that be...
Throughout time will you see.
Be with me for all of eternity.
Now take my hand,
And give your command.
Join the darkness; The Vampire's Land.
The Beginnings of a Hero - Part 5
(submitted by: TrueShield)
Once in a realm far far away from the mainlands of Faerun, there was a group
of islands. They were unknown to all, but the few peoples who lived there.
This is the story of one Darrian Trueshield, and his quest to find his place
in the world, and the long forgotten Isles of Windermere.
Last time we left Darrian, and his companions Kanusy had sent twelve shadow
assassins to slow Sarwin, Griffin, and Valik. They survived, but can they
pass the ambush before Kanusy's remorhaz catches them? Will Darrian reach
them in time before they close the pass with an avalanche? What will Kanusy
do if his army can't get past the Yinred Pass? This time we find out.
Chapter Sixteen
"Well they took this pass alright, Hunin." Darrian said to his horse that he
named after the halfling priest that gave him the horse. He had been
tracking Griffin, and Valik for the last day. he could tell that they had
another traveler with them, and they were being followed by a group of twelve
people.
"Well Hunin, what should we do? Follow them, or take the faster route, and
meet them." Darrian asked his horse while feeding him.
Darrian noticed that Hunin was scratching the group near a patch of clay. he
walked over, and found a mysterious set of tracks. It was the tracks of a
eight segmented creature that used its tentecals as a way to find its food's
scent. He knew it couldn't be a carrion crawler because they never go into
light, and this creature was much to big.
He began to walk down the trail, taking Hunin by the reins. He looked for
any sother sign of what it ate, how much it weighed, and how it affected
animals. He took some of the clay, and put it too Hunin's nose. Hunin
reared, and almost escaped his grasp.
"Well it certainly is a predetor." he said to himself. "Since Hunin, a full
bred war horse was afraid of it, it had to be something unusual to him."
Then, he saw the last clue he needed. Apparantly, it had battled with a
mountain lion on its way. The front half of its body had been incinerated by
something that was extremely hot.He examined the area, and he found the perch
where the lion had leapt from. The lion had leapt from a perch, and bit the
thing's back.
It was a remorhaz. They live in cold climates, and their body heat was far
hottter than even a red dragon's breath. Their blood was hotter than molten
stone, and they had a huge artery that ran the length of their backs. They
were richly valued among frost giants for their hunting prowess. Not to
mention, they are practically magic immune.
With that he mounted Hunin, and followed the trail at full speed with only
two thoughts in his head. First, the twelve men following them were to slow
them down so the remorhaz could catch up. Second, he had to get there before
the remorhaz did.
As he rode down the trail he found another battlesite. He could see the
light footprints of elves in the mud, and from what he could tell, he found
that the group of elves were ambushed by the remorhaz. He saw the bodies of
twelve elves around the site, but he saw thirteen sets of feet.
He could hear light steps from behind him. He faked a sneeze, and grabbed
his sword hoping the person would not see the gesture. He could see the
figure of the stranger from his shadow. It was thin, and tall. Its ears
were pointed so it had to be elven, and the elf was holding a sabre.
The elf raised his sword for a killing stroke, but Darrian whirled around
with his sword, and knocked the sabre out of the elf's hand, but the elf was
no stranger to combat Darrian soon learned. The elf push Darrian over, and
the elf did a flip over Darrian, and pulled out a rapier.
Darrian flipped up onto his feet, and the elf threw a dagger from his sleeve.
Darrian stepped slightly to the side letting the dagger fly past him. The
elf acted upon Darrian's surprise, and rush forward. Darrian parried the
elf's rapier, and kicked the elf squarly in the center of the rib cage. The
blow could have killed even an ogre, but the elf didn't fall back.
Instead he absorbed the energy behind the blow by letting himself fall
backwards, and he slid under Darrian. He stood up, and thrusted the rapier
at Darrian's neck as he turned around. Darrian ducked backwards, and slung
out a leather loop. It caught the blade, and pulled it out of the elf's
hand.
The elf then drew out two long, wickedly curved daggers that gleamed with
newly applied poison. Knowing that he couldn't approch the elf for the elf
was far better at fighting than he. Darrian threw his long sword, and threw
it in the air. The elf's eyes followed it for only a moment, but that was
all Darrian needed. He charged forward, and he kicked the elf squarely in
the chest angling upward so the elf couldn't absorb the blow, and sent him
flying.
The elf's head landed on a rock, and he was knocked unconscious. He then
backed away from the elf. He knew that he couldn't move the elf with a
concussion, and he couldn't leave the elf here.
He turned, and found the decision was made for him. The elf had drugged
Hunin, so he could do nothing but wait. He could only hope that Griffin, and
Valik would be alright.
* * * * * * *
"I think Griffin should use a fireball sweep pattern to flush them out.
Then, Sarwin, you could use those crossbow bolts to shoot them down, and I
can conjure magic hammers to throw at them." Valik suggested.
"I disagree," Sarwin said to Valik, "It would drain Griffin too much, and it
might block the pass so we can't get out. Besides, I believe he sent those
things to slow us down so something more powerful could catch us."
"He's right. We have to find another around these things, but if that
something catches up, we will need everything we have. Otherwise, I would
agree with you Valik." Griffin said.
"Sarwin, how old are you?" Valik asked.
"What?" Sarwin said in surprise.
"What he means is how are you so experienced in this sort of thing," Griffin
said, "You know far more than we do. Valik has served in one war, and I have
served in three. I have seen field generals with less knowledge."
"It's a long story. You wouldn't want to know," Sarwin said looking away
shamefully as if he was seeing some old memory, "Besides, we have a more
important task at hand."
The shadows had taken a small terrice that stood over the only navigable path
to thew other side of the two mountains that surrounded them. They had short
bows with poisoned arrows aimed at strategic locations. There were no paths
to get above them, or ridges to keep from being seen. The only thing that
was around the area was thick shrubbery.
"Valik, do you have any more of those flaming oil flasks, and holy water
vials?" Sarwin asked.
"Plenty of them." Valik answered.
"I want you to give me you staff sling, five oil flasks, and seven holy water
vials." Sarwin instructed.
"I see what you going to do" Griffin said, "Let me help here." Griffin
pulled out a black rock, and a slip of leather. The rapped the leather
around the rock, and carved runes of magic on it.
"Put it in a flask, and it will produce a huge flame in a fraction of the
time it normally would." Griffin instructed.
Sarwin put the leather covered rock into the flask, and put it into the
sling. He lifted the staff up, and twirled it around he twisted his wrist to
gain speed. He let the flask fly across the canyon into bushes around the
shadows positions. The flask burst into a flame, and Griffin's haste spell
caused the flame to surge at a remarkable rate.
He placed a holy water vial into the sling, and flung it toward a shadow that
ran out from its cover. It hit the thing's shadow armor, and melted through
with a hiss. The shadow fell over, and soon faded away leaving no trace of
its existance.
Valik conjured a spiritual hammer, and aimed it at another shadow. It
tumbled once, and struck the shadow it the chest. Both the hammer, and shadow
disappeared in a flash.
Sarwin loaded another holy water vial when Griffin pulled out a ball of clay,
and a vial of water. he poured the water onto the clay, and spoke an
incantation.. The ground under the shadow's feet turned into mud, and their
feet sank into the ground.
Sarwin, and Valik took advantage of their delay. Sarwin sent another vial
flying through the air in a high arc before it landed sqaurely on one's head,
and the shadow disappeared. Valik's hammer struck two shadows who were lined
up in a row, and they disappeared in a flash too.
Griffin cast a second spell before they could escape the mud. He turned the
mud back into rock, and the shadowssassins' feet were trapped in stone
prisons.
"Well what do we do with them?" Valik asked.
"We should kill them before they dig themselves out of that rock." Sarwin
said.
"But how do we do that without waisting spells, or water vials?" Valik asked.
"I have an idea of how to kill them without getting hurt, or using supplies."
Griffin said. Then he turned, and pulled out a small wooden shield, and cast
a spell. A sphere surrounded Valik, and then disappeared.
"What did you do?" Sarwin asked.
"I cast a spell of protection from missle weapons so Valik can get close
enough to turn them without being turned into a pin cushion by their arrows."
Griffin said.
"Alright. I'll do it, but in exchange, someone besides me cooks tonight."
Valik replied.
They all laughed, and atfer Valik finished, they all walked through the
canyon, oblivious to the danger that was following them.
* * * * * * *
Kanusy was at his desk reviewing maps when his two generals walked in the
room.
"Sir, we have come to report that the shadowssassins have succeeded in
slowing the trouble makers enough for the remorhaz to catch them" Freewind
declared.
"The remorhaz may not be enough to stop them," Kanusy responded, "We didn't
count on how dangerous the paladin is to us. He's no ordinary paladin. I
looked in my library, and I found that Sarwin's name is mentioned in one of
my tomes."
"Read this." Kanusy said as he pointed to a paragraph in a book.
"Impossible," Horusk said, "There were no survivors in that battle."
"Now I see what you mean." Freewind whispered.
"Do you have any suggestions as to what we can do if they do succeed in
blocking most of the Pass?" Kanusy asked.
"Yes, we did consider the possiblity that this might happen. Are you
familiar with the castle known as Mountrock?" Freewind asked.
"Yes. Of course I am.," Kanusy answered, "When Gertynackius tried to get
though a pass he was trapped, but instead of turning back, he built a huge
fortress in the pass, and raided other cities with his dragons."
"That is what we intend to do. Mercanaries will come from all corners of
Faerun to join us, and then we can raid Neverwinter after we weaken its
defenses. As long as we have the shadowlords, and the pit fiends we have
nothing to worry about." Horusk explained.
"Good. Do exactly that. You are exused." Kanusy said, and the generals then
left the room.
Chapter Seventeen
Darrian had waited five hours for the elf to regain consiousness. He was
brewing some tea when he was looking over the elf. He was wearing a green,
and brown leather tunic over an elfin chain mail. The elf had dozens of
weapons on his person including five daggers, two short swords, twenty odd
looking star shaped weapons that he knew to be throwing stars, and an
assortment of lock picks, to name a few. He also had several leaves that
could be used to make poison.
Darrian finished making his sun tea, and Hunin had been awake for half an
hour when the elf began to wake up. Darrian reached over, and grabbed his
bow. He nocked an arrow, and aimed for the elf's throat. The elf began to
rise quickly, but then he saw Darrian's bow aimed at his throat.
"What's your name, and clan?" Darrian asked.
"I am Chinkos Kain of the Daggers Clan." the elf said seeing that his only
chance was to win the human's favor. Darrian almost choked at the name of
the legendary clan. The Daggers Clan was the deadliest group of assassins
that ever walked upon the soils of Faerun. They were supposed to be legends,
but he could plainly see that the elf before him was one of them.
"I am Darrian," Darrian said, "Why did you attack me?"
"Because you are cowards hiding behind your pet demons." the elf hissed, and
spat.
"I am not a member of Kanusy's army, Chinkos." Darrian said.
"How do I know you aren't," the elf asked, "And call me Kain."
"You're alive aren't you," Darrian answered, "I have to go now. I have some
friends that need help, and I have wasted too much time here."
"Hold on, Darrian. I have the blood oath of my Clan to kill Kanusy, but I
also owe you a debt that cannot be repayed." Kain explained to Darrian as he
fetched up his weapons.
"What debt, your life?" Darrian asked.
"No. Not my life, but mercy. Still, you need ..."
"Are you saying that you want to accompany me?" Darrian asked.
"Yes. I can serve both my oath, and debt if I help you. You have my
loyalty, and you can trust me in all circumstances." Kain pledged as he
mounted up on Hunin.
"Well, we had best be going." Darrian whispered to himself as they rode off
to find Valik, and Griffin.
* * * * * * *
Sarwin heard rocks tumbling over his head as Valik climbed up above them.
They were killing a cliff that stood over the intersection. It was a wall of
sheer granite that, acoording to Griffin had a fault crack in it.
"Ouch. Valik, watch where you step before you stone me to death." Sarwin
yelled.
"I'm trying, but as I said, I've never climbed before." Valik answered
looking down at the five hundred foot drop below, and quickly looked away.
"You're afraid of heights aren't you?" Sarwin asked.
"No, I'm not, I'm just nervous." Valik said as he stopped climbing.
"It's nothing to be ashamed of Valik. I was afraid of heights once." Sarwin
said.
"Ooh, sure, or are you just trying to make me feel better?" Valik asked.
Then, Griffin whizzed up using a levation spell, and grabbed both Valik, and
Sarwin. He took them to the top,and then smoothed out the wrinkles in his
robes.
"What was that for?" Sarwin asked.
"If I didn't do something, Kanusy would have dominated the whole world by the
time you time got up here. Ferthermore, we don't need to be dealing with
private problems right now. We have a more important task right now."
Griffin answered.
Valik beag to talk when suddenly he stopped. He moved his eyes to tell him
that Griffin had spotted something. Griffin was pointing toward a group of
bushes at the back end of the cliff with one hand, and pulling out a wand
with the other.
He didn't see anything, but he did hear something hissing like it was burning
a plant with a hot poker. He reached for his sword when it came out. It had
an eight segmented body, with centepede like legs, and it had a huge jaw with
long tenticals on its face. He had never seen anything like it, but by
seeing Griffin's face, he knew he did. Griffin, but up his hammer, and began
to pull out an eyebrow, and wax.
Before he could finish, the thing charged Griffin. Griffin was knocked back
to the edge of the cliff. Sarwin could see some blood leaking from behind his
head, and he prayed that Griffin wasn't dead.
"Get to Griffin, Valik. I'll cover you so you can heal him." Sarwin yelled
as he moved away from Valik, and Griffin. He pulled out his crossbow, and
aimed at the beast's jaw. He fired, and just before the bolt hit, a tentecal
reached out, and grabbed it. It threw it back at Sarwin, and his elfin chain
armor was the only thing that kept it from going into his intestines.
He changed approach, and pulled out his sword. He took two steps left, and
then three right. The beast lunged at him as he turned. He thought the
thing would fly by him, but it didn't. It managed to turn its great bulk
like a snake, and smashed into Sarwin's rib cage.
He hurtled back, and he hit a large slab of granite. He felt something was
knocked out of place, and he was losing part of his sight. He knew that
meant he had a concusion, and he wouldn't last long. The creature was far
too agile for him to fight up close without being smashed, or stabbed by its
legs, or tenticles.
An idea came to him. He pulled out a hand axe, and used a piece of leather
to bind it to his hand. He threw his sword, and its runes flared as it
prepared to pierce the thing's steel hard skin. It reached up with three
tentecals, and they were seared off by the blades magic, and the blade struck
the second to last section of its segmented body.
It buried itself too the hilt, and the creature screamed in pain. He then
put his plan into work. He ran under its head, and swung the hand axe at the
base of a leg, and it flew off it a spray of molten hot blood. He repeated
until the thing relized what he was doing. With its remaining legs, the
thing leaped up in the air, and pointed its remaining legs at Sarwin.
Sarwin tried to jump away, but it was too late. Then he heard he heard a
squelch as his sword, still buried into the thing's back, sliced into the
thing's back artery. It's back exploded with such force that it hurled the
creature to the side. It landed on one side next to the edge of the cliff.
It laid there yelping in pain, and tried to stand when Vailk appeared from
nowhere. He raised his hammer, and brought it down on the ground. The earth
shook, and the creature fell back to the ground. Sarwin also saw a crack
appear in the cliff. Valik brought his hammer down again, and the crack
widened. Valik brought his hammer down one last time, and the cliff fell
away with the creature on it.
"Is Griffin ok?" Sarwin asked running over to the unconsious mage's form.
"He'll be aright. It's only a small fracture, but we shouldn't move his head
until it heals." Valik said.
"Too bad I lost my sword though." Sarwin said as he looked over what was left
of the cliff.
"What do you mean," Valik asked, "Its in its sheath."
"By Torm's armor, it is!" Sarwin exclaimed.
"Griffin knows what's he doing when it comes to magic, Sarwin. It may
surprise you, but he was once the main aide for Elminster." Valik said.
"Really, well its agood thing he's on our side then." Sarwin said as he layed
down.
"I'll make camp. You just tend to that concusion, and don't go to sleep."
Valik said while making camp.
"Who shot that arrow?" Sarwin asked.
"What arrow?" Valik asked.
"Must of been my imagination," Sarwin said, "I wonder how we are going to
find out what city Kanusy plans to attack, and what he's going to do now that
the Pass the closed."
"Maybe Griffin will have an idea." Valik suggested.
"I hope so. I hope so." Sarwin mumbled.
___________________________________________________________
Will Sarwin, Griffin, and Valik find a way to learn what city Kanusy plans to
attack? Will Kanusy's army stay behind the Yinred Pass, and follow Horusk's
plan? Find out next time.The Making of a Knight
(submitted by: DocRidge)
As the sun began to fade into the night and the moon began to cast a glow
upon the square of Neverwinter, my good friend Bauvlin and I chose to stop
into Strider's for an ale and a grifffon steak. We were welcomed by Strider
himself who exclaimed, "Well met strangers, make yourself at home for some
rest and relaxation." Bauvlin and I looked at each other and exchanged
glances. I said to my friend, "We have been coming here for so long, does
Strider still considers us strangers?" We both grinned at one another and
chose a quiet table where the breeze from the summer day offered a hint of
refreshing air.
As we sat down and sipped our ale, the conversation turned to that of our
guilds. Bauvlin, a true warrior from the Jedi Praxium Guild eventually asked
me how I came to the Crusaders of the Realms Guild. I began to tell my
history from my earliest recollections as a child. A long time ago, my
family took a seven day ride north of Waterdeep. My parents, along with
several others, were pioneers in their days. Finally, they settled upon a
beautiful ridge which was once crowned a landmark because of the brilliant
red stand of larches. With their new beginning they took a new name and in
honor of the surrounding area they took the family name Ridge. Today, we
know this town to be Red Larch.
My parents were simple folks, considered by most to be commoners. They were
both clerics with very little magic abilities and as a young boy they shared
with me their limited talents. As I grew, I was able to lay my hands and
cure the simplest of wounds upon the others of our village and those who were
journeying through Red Larch. At one time, there was a band of adventurers
who were in search of a powerful orb that was rumored to be in Red Larch.
Weary from there unsuccessful quest for this orb, they returned to our
village wounded looking for a priest who could tend to their ailments.
Noticing their condition and wanting to help I was certain I could assist
them. With a twinge of anxiety I declared, "I can help." With a wry smile,
their leader stated, "sure kid, do what you can." When I placed my hands on
their wounds, they immediately began to feel their pains subside. In a
matter of hours, their wounds had completely healed. They were amazed that
such a young boy could perform such tasks. In jest, one of the adventurers
said, "he's a real life little doctor." My parents were proud and to the
townspeople I became Doc Ridge of Red Larch.
Although my father was an honest man who worked hard making fine weapons, I
was always taught that brawn and muscle were not the greatest of powers.
Growing up I was often an apprentice to my father in his trading post and it
was here, that I first learned how to manipulate a flail. However, it was my
mother's deep religious belief and her praise of Mystra, The Goddess of
Magic, that eventually led me to the study of magic. Recognizing my gift, my
parents encouraged me to satisfy my hunger for more knowledge of mystical
powers. Through study and meditation, I prayed often to the Goddess of
Mystra and I dedicated the next few years to pursuing this innate quest.
Bauvlin asked me, "Is the reason for your blue and white attire a result of
your devotion to Mystra?" "Exactly my friend," I declared. "Priests of
Mystra often wear blue garb sometimes trimmed with white in honor of the
Goddess," I explained. I noticed that Bauvlin was staring at my hand so I
showed him my ring. "Notice the circle of stars with a red mist flowing from
the center this is in honor of Mystra, it was a gift from an elder" I stated.
As the years passed my abilities enhanced to the level that I was able to
cure the most critical of wounds. However, my abilities were not limited to
simply the healing of others. Instead, I also gained the ability to destroy
evildoers and those whose actions were not becoming to the good of the
surrounding areas of Neverwinter. Knowing that there was strength in numbers
I sought the company of fellow individuals who shared these capabilities.
Feeling somewhat limited in being one, I explained to my parents my plan to
leave home and seek others who were similarly blessed. Assured that my
intentions were both noble and wise, they wished me well.
As I made my way to the city of Neverwinter in search of others who shared my
common goal, I met a gentleman who goes by the name Tianlus. As we spoke, he
explained to me the purpose of the Crusaders of the Realm Guild and its
members. "COR is a rallying place for the forces of good. It is our duty
to stop the spread of evil in a manner that is comparable with our own
ethics." The thought of a guild that had the same beliefs as I, grabbed my
attention. Soon I sought out other members of the COR guild such as
PanzerMagi, Jackwar, Volant and Lilithemm who happens to be Tianlus' wife.
Eventually, I petitioned for membership of this great guild and shortly
thereafter their leader LightsEdge, informed me that I was now a member of
the Crusaders of the Realms. The aforementioned, who I once met as friends,
I now called my brothers and sisters at arms.
As time passed by in the guild Volant, the Justiciar of COR and the person in
charge of the Royal Knights, recognized my efforts and abilities in teaching
younger members and he asked me if I had an interest in becoming one of the
four Royal Knights. Without hesitation I expressed that I most certainly
did. Soon thereafter, I pledged to COR to uphold the code of honor which
Royal Knights live by. To this day, I consider this the proudest moment in
my life.
"Well Bauvlin, I guess you could say that this is how I became what I am
today." Bauvlin took the last sip of his ale and said to me, "Well friend
'tis an honor to travel with you and an even greater honor to know you." I
raised my glass to Bauvlin and declared, "and you as well my friend...and you
as well."
Doc Ridge
Royal Knight of CORGift to Lloth - Part 2
(submitted by: Mavralyn)
<<<<<The early evening turned into late night before she finally found the
one she wanted. The aura of goodness emanating from the tall human male
almost caused her to choke on the small glass of wine she drank. *Ah, a
paladin. Perhaps this is the one,* her mind turned over the
possibilities.>>>>>
Mavralyn watched the large paladin without his notice of her. When he
finished his meal and left the inn, she also rose and signaled to the
sargtlin to remain behind. She ignored his look of protest and silently left
the inn shadowing the unaware human as he made his way deep beneath Triboar's
small town.
Mav's attack came swiftly and the unsuspecting knight had only a moment to
realize he had company. As if sensing her presence at last, he turned
abruptly with sword drawn and ready. His startled look at finding a
priestess to Lolth stalking him evident on his handsome features. As he
prepared to defend himself and readied a spell to slow her down she greeted
him with an assured air of one who knows her own power.
"Hmmm," she chuckled thoughtfully in a low husky voice. "Vendui' inlul
Palamu. Dos are just what I need, a slave." Slightly angered at her manner
he growled, "I will be no one's slave. Especially not a drow elf's slave!"
As he raised his hand to release the spell he had prepared she too summoned
magic and a nauseous cloud of stinking fumes enveloped him. Gasping and
choking, blinded by the acrid fumes, he stumbled slightly and tried to search
for the dark figure.
He could hear her chanting slightly to his left and moved towards the low
sound. As he cleared the vapors still coughing from the fumes, a binding
magic surrounded him. His body froze where it stood and he glared in anger
at the laughing vision before him. The knight's anger changed to a feeling
of unease as she walked up to his immobile body.
"Now dos will be ussta inlul rothe. A fine inlul SARGTLIN rothe." Her words
and the smile that played about her lips sent another shiver of unease
through him as she led his stumbling frozen form back to the inn he had just
left.
When they entered the inn, the crowds had dispersed to a low number of the
more seedy type. Hoping to find one to help him, his heart sank when he saw
no help there. Mavralyn led him to a back room of the large inn where
another drow waited. The look of relief on the male's face at the sight of
his Ilharess returned safe brought a gleam of amusement to her eyes.
Turning to the knight, the priestess pulled forth a shining silver collar
studded with several gems. This time she stepped close to fix the item about
his neck and a heady scent of jasmine filled his nostrils with a pleasant
aroma. Then moving back a bit, she released the spell that bound him.
Since his sword remained clenched in his fist, he leapt forward intending to
kill the male first then the evil priestess who thought to enslave him.
Before the thought could move his body to action, searing pain fired every
nerve in his body. So sudden and intense was the fire that flashed through
his body he dropped to his knees with a scream of anguish.
The two drow just smiled down at the writhing form upon the floor before
them.
To be continued....
Mavralyn Elythanar
Ilharess d'ElythanarDark's Story
(submitted by: DarkScar X)
Sk Farah stood before Dark, confident that she would win the battle. He
searched her soul, he read her thoughts... in an instant she sprang forward,
casting an array of spells. Dark did the same, the battle went on for some
time. Farah was well trained in PVP, she claimed to be in the top four of
her guild. But even that could not save her, Dark was fierce and
unforgiving. She was quickly brought to her knees. He walked behind her,
and began to speak.
"Well well, what should I do with you...?" he grins "How do you feel
about crucifiction madam?" the was no answer "When someone asks you a
question, you answer back... now would you prefer to be alive or dead?" again
no answer... "Tsk tsk tsk, I am going to have to teach you some manners" Dark
grabs Farah, lifts off the floor and throws her against the wall. She made
quite an impact... but she arose and began to flee. Dark was quick to catch
up and trip her.
"My my, you are a fiesty one..." he grabs her by the next and twists it.
"That should keep you still" he drags her body to the courtyard where 2
crosses await. He quickly pins her to the cross, and wipes his hands... then
he rips open her shirt and places his pentagram upon her chest. He chants
the runes and her soul is sucked into his pentagram. He then punches through
her chest and rips out her heart.
"Better cover that up, donna want to give the other devils a peep show"
he takes some cloth and places it upon Farah. As he turns around he sees Sk
Hawkeye before him.
"You s.o.b..." he says in a low, unforgiving voice.
"Oh hello, how are you this fine eve?" Dark grins.
"Shut up!! Prepare to die mage!!" Hawkeye lunges forward but Dark
catches him and tosses Hawk to the ground.
"Oh dear... another one is gonna bite the dust..." Dark grabs Hawk
throwing him against the empty cross. In a flash he pulls out some rope,
lined with razor sharp thorns. He loops Hawk's wrist against the wood, pulls
and tightens.
"AHHHHHHHH!" hawk attempts to punch Dark, but instead his punch is caught
and his hand is slammed against the wood.
"Hehehe... I believe I broke it..." He loops Hawks other wrist, and
tightens.
"AHHHHHHHHHH!" the thorns dig deep into Hawk's wrist... blood spills
everywhere.
Dark then loops the ankles of this foolish Sk, and tightens.... Hawk
groans in pain, but refrains from screaming.
"Good boy, take your punishment like a man" Dark walks behind the cross
and pulls out some nine inch nails. "Now this is where your elbow would be,
right?" he punches the nail in from the back, Hawk writhes in pain. "Yep,
that was it..."
Dark continues to punch nails in from the back, then a little while later
he walks around to survey the damage.
"Your a bloody mess!!! Naughty naughty boy... lemme clean those wounds"
dark pulls out a bottle of vinegar, and pours it all over Hawk. Hawk
clentches his jaw, and shuts his eyes in agony. "I'm getting board with you"
Dark rips Hawks heart out, places it in a bag. He then pulls out the all
mighty pentagram and sucks Hawk's soul out.
"Having fun again Dark?" Primedev1l booms.
In an instant Dark swings around facing his lord. He grins with delight.
"Help yourself M'lord" he hands the pentagram to Dev1l, who sucks out
both souls...
"Now lets see here... thats five, isn't it?" Dev1l grins, Dark hands him
Farah's heart. "Oh, thank you Darkmage66(6)... you will be hearing from me
shortly.... you are dismissed"
Dark bows to Dev1l, and walks away.................ElvinPride's Quest -
Part 6
(submitted by: ElvinPride)
Thoughts of a Half-Elf
ElvinPride awoke this cloudy morning, feeling very well rested. The sweet
talk with the Half-elf maiden, and the mugs of ale had insured this.
Stretching his arms, then rubbing his eyes; he lumbered out of bed.
ElvinPride thought again of the maiden, KateGary; as he splashed water on his
face from the washbasin. Her words of the night before worried him.
"ElvinPride..as your beloved friend; I here and now, swear an oath on all
that I hold dear; to assist you to the far ends of your world. To find the
fate of Krysthiial and pay the dragon Musre'Loki his just reward!", she had
told him.
The wood-elf was very reluctant to begin a quest back to his homeland. He
truly believed that Krysthiial had met her fate in the clutches of the foul
beast; as did the Elders. Had any doubt about her fate existed, he would not
have been sent here to NeverWinter. "How will I go about telling her?
Hmm...maybe she will forget!", he thought to himself; fully knowing that one
as brave and sincere such as she; would not forget so easily.
"It is decided! We will not return to BrassCrown. I will tell her
tonight!". ElvinPride slipped on his battlegear, also thinking, "Today would
be a good day to travel to Vilnask." Double checking his weapons and
equipment, he struts out of the inn.
Those of the Camarilla
Another routine day of battle was now behind ElvinPride, as he slowly trudged
towards the gate from Vilnask. A thick, chilling fog had set in this night;
obscuring any light from the moon. Weary from battle, and shivering from the
unseasonal cold; the young elf made his way to the inn.
A dimly lit window greeted the wood-elf as he neared the inn. The sign above
was swaying back and forth in the breeze as ElvinPride pulls open the thick
door. "Welcome traveler!", says the barkeep; looking up as he clears empty
mugs from the small wooden tables. "Vedui', barkeep", chatters the elf,
shaking from the cold that has settled in his bones. "A mug of your finest
please, sir".
The barkeep nods and walks to the bar. ElvinPride looks casually around the
inn. It was empty, save for one warrior sitting at a table near the fire.
Elvin grabs his mug, flipping the barkeep a platinum. "Thank you, barkeep.
Quite slow tonight, eh?" The innkeeper nods. "Think the weather is keepin'
ev'ybody at home. Warm y'self by the fire if'n ya wish". The wood-elf
smiles and heads for some warmth. The lone warrior turns his gaze from the
dancing flames as ElvinPride nears. "Hello, Elf. Join me. I could use some
company", smiles the warrior. "Best Aim be the name! And yours?"
ElvinPride studies the worn face of this warrior. His piercing, yet friendly
eyes; the broad smile; the stubble on his chin. "ElvinPride, friend. Well
met!". Best Aim chuckles. "Well met Indeed, ElvinPride!". The two toast
each other and begin to tell the other of thier adventures. "I was given
this name, elf; because of my ability with bow and arrow. Believe it or not,
I have put many an elf to shame with my expertise!". Elvin smiles, partly
out of courtesy, and partly out of respect.
The fire's flame flickers momentarily as the inn door creaks open. A tall,
cloaked, elegant woman enters. ElvinPride and Best Aim turn thier heads at
her. Her lithe, elegant form seems to float towards the bar. "Innkeeper, a
glass of red wine for the lady?", she croons; charming the bartender. The
wood-elf watches suspiciously as the barkeep; who seems to be entranced by
this woman; pours the wine. This seemed very odd to the elf. "She seems to
hold control over him!", he thought.
"M'Lady!", boasts Best Aim. "Care to join us by the fire for a drink? You
can warm yourself". She swirls her body around to face the two travelers,
then pulls back the hood of her cloak. "No thank you. I would much rather
prefer to stay cool over here", she says seductively. "That is odd",
ElvinPride whispers to Best Aim. "Why would someone want to stay cool on a
night like this?".
Best Aim again speaks out. "I insist M'Lady. Come join us". She glares at
the warrior, a hint of evil in her eyes. "Very well, brave one. But you
shall be needing to buy me another drink". Best Aim smiles. "All right.
Barkeep! Another ale for the lady!!". "NO!! I only drink red wine!", she
voices menacingly. "With my special additive, I might add!". She laughs a
sinister laugh.
"This is really, really odd!", thinks the elf again; now fidgeting
uncomfortably in his chair. Her female form floats effortlessly over to
their table and sits. "ACK!!! Her legs didn't move AT ALL!!!!!", ElvinPride
thinks to himself; uneasiness now showing on his face, his eyes as wide as a
Beholders.
Elvin nudges Best Aim in the ribs, and whispers into his ear. "My friend!!
I think she is not human!! Did you see her legs move as she walked? They
DIDN'T!!". Best Aim casts a stern look at the wood-elf. "Excuse me M'Lady.
I am Best Aim, and this is my friend ElvinPride. He is wary of
strangers....being an elf and all. And what may I ask is your name?".
"V Mynuette, my friends." Her gaze shifts to the wood-elf. "Why would you
be suspicious of me, dear elf?". ElvinPride watches as she pulls a vial of
red liquid from her pocket; opening it and pouring it into her wine glass.
She lifts the glass to her mouth; slowly sipping the liquid contained
therein. ElvinPride could have SWORN he had seen fangs in her mouth as she
drank.
"No..No worry V Mynuette", he replies nervously. "Good, elf. I would like
us all to get along. Come...come sit next to me, Elvin!", her soft
whispering voice sung out, soothing the young wood-elf. ElvinPride studied
her face as she spoke. Sunken eyes that sparkled, "oh so bright!", he
thought,
::A whispering in his mind::......"Join me ElvinPride".......... ruby red
lips, as red as royal tapestry................."We can live
forever"................. pale white ashen
skin..........................."Just you and I,
elf.........forever".............. dead skin, like a corpse, "ACKKK!!!!!!"
ElvinPride snapped out of the trance she was putting him into. He quickly
jumped up from his chair. V Mynuette's facial features turned instantly
evil; eyes glowing red, a fiendish grin exposing the two sharp fangs in her
mouth. "YOU WILL REGRET THIS, ELVINPRIDE!!!!!", she screeched.
"BEST AIM!!! Flee! She is a vampire!!", yelled Elvin. Both travelers had
already reached the door before ElvinPride had completed his warning; the
Vampire's hollow, sinister, chuckling; echoing out into the street.
ElvinPride ran, and ran, and ran some more until he safely made the nearest
temple. He sat and prayed to the Gods, never sleeping a wink that night.
Of Temples and Safety
<Reprinted with kind permission of V Shara and V Targoth>
Targoth sat in comfort as he watched the elf flee from the inn. Normally this
would not have caused any concern, but the sensitive ears of the Methuselah
also detected the word "vampire". This DID cause some concern as Targoth had
seen Mynuette enter the inn. He knew she sometimes travelled there, the
innkeeper and his family having long since been in the employ of Targoth.
Only noting one figure fleeing the inn, Targoth knew that were any others
present, Mynuette was even now dealing with them. The elf would be Targoth's.
As he watched the elven warrior, Targoth admired the grace with which he
fled, a grace outmatched by only a few. But Targoth also knew the realms
better than most and was as fast as a bat; literally. Stepping off the
balcony of his second haven, Targoth transformed into a bat, winging his way
behind the fleeing elf, the shrouds of fog concealing his form as he sped
along.
As the elf neared the temple that was his destination, Targoth flew to the
ground, transforming in the blink of an eye into the form of a huge black
wolf with gleaming red eyes. Loping along the path, Targoth could easily
follow the elf without drawing too much attention. Dark, foggy nights
commonly saw the wolves of Neverwinter about. The fact that this wolf also
drank the blood of the living would certainly have turned heads, but only as
long as they lived.
The elf stopped short of the temple, his eyes darting this way and that in
order to spot those that might have followed. However, a dark figure, dressed
in dark reds and blacks slipped silently into the temple, the whisps of fog
rolling around his cloak as he used the shadows to conceal his now human
form. He watched the elf enter the temple, obvious relief washing over him as
he thought he reached sanctuary. Targoth looked about him further, grinning
as he saw the trappings of the church; the holy symbols and alter, the
candles, and the reliefs of the gods worshipped here. Targoth thought to
himself, "How the mortals cling to their gods when they face their
nightmares. How fitting that this one will be visited in this place."
The elf sat quietly, his breathing calming as the perceived safety of the
temple relaxed him. It seemed that he would sleep here and that pleased
Targoth to no end. As he drifted off to sleep, Targoth moved silently around
the temple, admiring some of the paintings and artwork present. Finally he
went to the elf and, using those powers common to the Ventrue clan, entered
his mind, rousing the elf from his slumber.
Taking the drowsy elf from the temple, Targoth made haste for the inn in
Vilnask, his charge casually thrown over his shoulder. Walking in, Targoth
nodded knowingly to the innkeeper and walked upstairs, the lateness of the
hour ensuring none but the foolish or hardy were about. Laying the elf on a
bed, Targoth sat next to him, carefully unravelling his memories and
replacing them with but one..the memory of having taken too much of the
spirits offered by the inn. Splashing a small amount of the liquid on the
elf's tunic, Targoth went downstairs to issue his final commands before
departing again.
Speaking with the innkeeper, Targoth ensured that the elf, ElvenPride, would
be told of his intake of spirits, of having purchased a room, and of having
been aided upstairs by the innkeeper. ElvenPride would remember nothing of
the evening but his dreams..the dreams of a huge black wolf staring at him
through the fog.
<to be continued>The Shrine of Meilikki
(submitted by: Luthyen)
Luthyen looked over the edge of the platform high in the mallorn tree.
Down below, she could see Thorn Hawk laboring in the clearing, rebuilding
the shrine of Meilikki. As he worked, he sang a hymn of praise to the Lady of
the Woods. Luthyen sang the descant above, as she arranged her belongings on
the platform. The sun was hot on the summer's day, and Thorn had removed his
shirt and wore just short breeches. A cool breeze stirred the leaves and
cooled him as he worked, seeming to bring Meilikki's blessing on the project.
Looking up, Luthy could see the blue sky thru a gap in the branches. In
the evening, moon and starlight flowed softly down upon the sleeping
platform, illuminating it with silvery light. Below, across from the Shrine,
was an outdoor oven where she could do her baking. It was a perfect spot to
meet both the needs of the Pathfinder and the BrownieBaker.
"Helloooo, Luthy!" she heard a voice call. Looking down, she spied Tarma
at the foot of the ladder to the platform.
"Tarma! Come up for some brownies!" Luthyen invited. A voice from the
other side of the tree hailed her as well. Marla had brought a thermos of
chilled cocoa.
"Hello, sister! Welcome to your home in the Grove!" said the Dryad
Queen on reaching the platform. Cocking her head, she continued, "Thorn at
work?"
"Aye," smiled Luthyen. "See?"
"I thought you'd never ask!" came Marla's voice as her head popped up
thru the opening around the bole of the tree. "Cocoa, sisters?"
"Oh, thanks!" Luthyen exclaimed warmly. "Please, sit down and be welcome
here," she continued. The Dryad Queen sat on the edge of the platform and
swung her legs.
"I'll just sit over here and enjoy the view," she said. Marla sat beside
her, and gave Tarma a grin that Luthy did not see.
"Got any more brownies?" piped up a voice. FaerieKitn appeared at the
platform center and soon joined her sister Dryads along the edge. Luthyen
passed a plate of Brownies of Welcome (Frosted) around and all shared some
of Marla's cocoa from the Everfull thermos.
The afternoon wore on, and more and more Dryads found there way to the
mallorn tree and mounted the platform. Trippye, Ariel, Zarsheiy, Astarte, and
Gynafay all joined the original group. Luthyen noticed that all seemed
clustered on the northeast corner of the platform. From that angle, a
commanding view of the clearing showed both the nearly finished Shrine to the
Goddess and the flowing waterfall which fed a series of bathing pools
beneath.
Thorn Hawk's strong baritone had progressed from hyms through sea
chanties he'd learned from Ender Bay to drinking songs well known by all
rangers. He was currently belting out a drinking song detailing the delights
of frenzy, the Ranger beverage of choice. Luthy descended the tree and
brought Thorn a pitcher of clear cool water from the stream and some spice
cupcakes with pomegranite frosting.
"Thanks, dearheart," he smiled as he drank. "Did I hear voices in the
tree?"
"Aye, " she replied, " The Dryads have come to call, isnt it nice? Ye
can see them on the platform edge. "
The Ranger, quick on the uptake, noticed the angles of vision from the
platform where the Dryads were seated to the Shrine, and to the waterfall. He
thoughtfully munched on a cupcake. Then he smiled at Luthyen and took her in
his arms and kissed her thoroughly. Her eyes opened wide as she heard the
Dryads giggling in the tree.
"Ah, love.." she stammered when she could speak again. "It um..seems
that there is an audience..."
"Aye," he grinned, "It seems there is..and I bet they've been enjoying
the show all afternoon, too.." As he spoke he stretched his sore muscles,
and they could hear appreciative murmers from the platform above.
"Now, milady, if ye will,...ask your Dryad friends to move to the other
side of the platform..the breeze is better there, ye know..and I think ye
might let down the sunshade that faces the waterfall to further make our
guests comfortable."
Luthyen laughed. "I will do that, milord..tho I bet that they would
prefer a little discomfort to have such a nice view as the waterfall, " she
grinned mischeviously, "..and anyone who might be within."
~Luthyen
The Protectorate Academy Leader
~Thorn Hawk's Lady(submitted by: ABK Nemsis)
I would like to post the wedding between ABK Nemsis and Alesha on Aug 7th at
1:00 am est. The wedding will take place in Port Llast (14,9). All friends
are invited to come.(submitted by: ITB Teddi)
The Mighty ITB War Machine(tm) rolled into Triboar and the troops dispatched
themselves immediatly. ITB War Parties quickly took positions, both the
positions that ITB choose as its strongholds and the TP trenches were
instantly filled with blood thirsty ITB warriors. Before the TP even arrived
at their own chosen places, the ITB's entrenched and the blood lust was
intense.
By the time The protectorate troops arrived, the ITB killing frenzy was at
a incredible level. Instantly the first two Protectorate units took the brunt
of the wrath, hearing "Feel the Power![R]" as they fell quickly beneath ITB
boots.
The battle reports came in quickly. For every ITB casualty, 2 TP lives were
taken. For every small victory that The Protectorate managed, ITB won 3. As
Tyst himself fell at the feet of Lilyth and her team, Skorp ran around asking
for the TP's surrender. Finally, as Beast dispatched 3 TP's and the ITB team
known simply as "The Grinder" dispatch 3 more, the few remaining TP's
surrendered. Xavier happily counted the bodies, calculating in his head the
amount of sausage and jerky the kills would yeild. Skorp took Tyst's lifeless
form back to the House ITB Dungeon to be reanimated and displayed in shame to
the general public. Skorp would be sure to have Tyst nursed fully back to
health, before dragging him in chains in front of all of Neverwinter, and
allowing the general population to cast upon him.
Look for the booth August 7th!! Sponsored by your friends at House ITB. ;>
Skorp
Grandmaster of Bondage<><><><><>
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