Post/Author/DateTime	Post
The Vorpal Tribble 10-11-04, 05:35 PM	Just thought I might share some of my favorite characters, perhaps give ideas for others to use. --- This wass my very first character who I've updated to 3.5 (was originally 2nd ed) Faaza of the Crimson Gaze Class: Rogue Race: Albino half-elf Size: Medium Level: 1 Alignment: Chaotic Good Deity: None Age: 21 Gender: Male Height: 4'11" Weight: 95 lbs. Special Qualities: An albino has all the special qualities of the base creature, and also gains those special qualities listed below. Color Blind (Ex): Albinos are unable to distinguish colors, similar to how creatures with darkvision see the world. Albinos are immune to effects that rely on perception of color (such as color spray, but not prismatic effects). Light Blindness (Ex): 'Abrupt' exposure to bright light (such as sunlight or a daylight spell) blinds an albino for 1 round. In addition, he takes a -1 penalty on all attack rolls, saves, and checks when operating in bright light. Abilities: Adjust from the base character as follows: Con -2, Int +2, Wis +2. Skills: Same as the base creature, except that an albino gains a +4 racial bonus on Spot checks Stats: Strength - 12 (+1) Dexterity - 18 (+4) Constitution - 13 (+1) Intelligence - 19 (+4) Wisdom - 11 (+0) Charisma - 11 (+0) Fort: 0+0+1=1 Ref: 0+2+4=6 Will: 0+0+0=0 HP: 6 AC: 10+0+0+4+0=14 Init: 4 BAB: 0+1+0=1 Melee: 0+1+0=1 Ranged: 0+1+4+0=5 Clothing: Good cloth Cloak - 8 copper Sash - 20 copper Headband ( The headband is made from silk rags and when turned inside out displays many tiny pockets stitched all around it, each just large enough to hold a few coins or perhaps a ring.) - 0 copper Knife sheath - 3 copper Food: Dry rations (per week)- 1000 copper Miscellaneous Equipment: Backpack - 200 copper/2 lbs. Large Belt Pouch - 30 copper/1 lbs. 2 Wineskins - 80 copper/2 lbs. Light Chain - 300 copper/1 lbs. 10 Candles - 10 copper/1 lbs. 3 yards of canvas - 120 copper/3 lbs. 5 chalks - 5 copper/0 lbs. 3 fish hooks - 50 copper/0 lbs. Flint and steel - 50 copper/0 lbs. 2 grappling hooks - 160 copper/8 lbs. Hooded Lantern - 700 copper/2 lbs. 4 Lamp oil flasks - 24 copper/4 lbs. Small metal mirror - 1,000 copper/0 lbs. 50 foot silk rope - 1,000 copper/8 lbs. Thieves' picks - 3,000 copper/1 lbs. Signal whistle - 80 copper/0 lbs. 2 torches - 2 copper/2 lbs. 1 vials of aniseed - 20 copper/0 lbs. 1 arm sling - 3 copper/0 lbs. 1 bag of glass dust - 0 copper/0 lbs. Weapons: 5 darts - 250 copper/2.5 lbs. 2 Slings - 10 copper/0 lbs. 5 sling bullets - 8 copper/2.5 lbs. 2 daggers - 400 copper/2 lbs. Total Price: 9555 copper Total Weight: 43.5 lbs (Light load for my strength stat) Large belt pouch holds: 10 candles - 1 lb 5 pieces of chalk - 0 lbs. 3 fish hooks - 0 lbs. Flint and steel - 0 lbs. Small metal mirror - 0 lbs. Thieves' picks - 1 lb Signal whistle - 0 lbs. 2 slings - 0 lbs. 5 sling bullets - 2.5 lbs. 2 vials of aniseed - 0 lbs. 1 arm sling - 0 lbs. 1 bag of glass dust - 0 lbs. Backpack holds: Everything else Feats: Agile (+2 balance and escape artist) Acrobatic (+2 jump and tumble) Skills: (48) (skill: rank + mod + misc. mod = total) Appraise (Int) - 0+4+0=4 Balance (Dex) - 4+4+4=14 Bluff (Cha) - 2+0+0=2 Climb (Str) - 4+1+0=5 Craft (trapmaking) (Int) - 0+4+0=4 Decipher Script (Int) 0+4+0=4 Diplomacy (Cha) 0+0+2=2 Disable Device (Int) 0+4+0=4 Disguise (Cha) 0+0+0=0 Escape Artist (Dex) - 4+4+2=10 (gain an additional +2 to escape artist when trying to escape being tied up because of my use rope skill) Forgery (Int) - 0+4+0=4 Gather Information (Cha) 0+0+2=2 Hide (Dex) - 4+4+0=8 Intimidate (Cha) 0+0+0=0 Jump (Str) - 4+1+4=9 Knowledge (local) (Int) 4+4=8 Listen (Wis) - 3+0+1=4 Move Silently (Dex) - 4+4+0=8 Open Lock (Dex) - 3+4+0=7 Perform (Cha) - 0+0+0=0 Profession (Wis) - 0+0+0=0 Search (Int) - 2+4+1=7 Sense Motive (Wis) - 2+0+0=2 Sleight of Hand (Dex) - 2+4+0=6 Spot (Wis) - 0+0+5=5 Swim (Str) - 0+1+0=1 Tumble (Dex) - 4+4+4=12 Use Magic Device (Cha) - 0+0+0=0 Use Rope (Dex) - 2+4+0=6 (also gain an additional +2 to use rope when attempting to tie someone up because of my escape artist skill.) Languages known: Common 1st level Special: Sneak attack +1d6 Agility instead of trapfinding Lowlight vision Immunity to sleep spells and similiar magical effects, and a +2 racial bonus on saving throws against enchantment spells or effects. --- Description: Knowing little of his mother, and less about his father, it cannot be said which of his parents Faaza might resemble. It is unknown whether his albinoism was a rare result of a human and elven union, or by a rare deviation that arises among humans. His short stature of a hair under five feet in height and Faaza’s slight build can probably be attributed to his elven parent. A lifetime of meager meals and forced fasting may have exaggerated Faaza’s naturally slender appearance. The half-elf’s complexion, even by elven standards, is extraordinarily fair. This is perhaps aided by the fact that Faaza rarely exposed himself to sunlight. From his human parent Faaza acquired a countenance bolder than that of an elf, though his face is still quite delicate. Faaza’s eyes are completely without pigment, allowing the blood vessels to be visible, which grants an almost red glow to his eyes. The half-elf’s red eye color can be disconcerting to one who has never met his gaze before. His hair is a platinum-blonde hue and is fine like that of an elf but in greater abundance. The albino’s hair is somewhat wavy and adorns Faaza’s head like a mane. Worn down to the middle of his back, it is likely that Faaza’s hair has never been cut. Faaza seems compelled by habit to fluff his mane of hair to better hide his slightly pointed ears. While his slender face lacks of beard or moustache, Faaza has a thick patch of sideburns which he has braided with leather strips. Faaza is very slender, yet he has the hard, lean muscles of a gymnast. Despite this, the half-elf generally stands with a slight hunch conditioned from years of creeping. The young man’s feet, which are usually bare, are tiny but thick with muscle strengthened from gripping walls and ropes with his toes. His hands are thin and long fingered while his nails have been carefully cut for maximum dexterity. --- Background: Faaza's life was a struggle from the beginning and the events of his birth may herald a promise of what his future would hold. A passing guard slowed slightly as the cry of newborn broke the stillness of the night. With a grunt he continued down the road to do his rounds, oblivious to the shadow behind him matching his every step. The nurse delivered a sharp blow to the infants back and it responded with a bellow. The mother covered in sweat, sunk down into the sheets of the bed, weariness forcing her into a restful sleep. The nurse turned the babe over, tucking it into a rough blanket but with a quiet intake of breath she noted the pointed ears that poked above the infant's stark white hair. "So the lass's story was true after all... tis an elf's son." The child was sickly pale and blue veins were visible beneath his thin skin. The infant was without color. The midwife gave the infant a worried glance as she laid it within a crib lined with pelts, and made soft cooing noises. The babe soon calmed and lie quiet. The nurse rubbed a cloth over its face and the infant slowly opened its eyes. The nurse stiffened in horror as a pair of blood-red eyes looked up at her. A scream of terror froze the guard in his tracks. Drawing the sword from its sheath, the soldier ran back towards the sound. The soldier’s stalker was barely able to duck out of sight in time to avoid being caught in the guard’s path. The screaming continued as the soldier burst through the threshold of the house to see an old midwife cowering in a corner, hysterically saying ”Demon! Demon! Demon! Demon!”. As a dark, silent shape slipped past the door unnoticed, the guard went over and shook the midwife saying, "What are you talking about woman?" "The babe, is a demon!" the midwife managed to get out before falling into a swoon. The guard scowled, sighted the crib, went over, and peered within. A newborn lie there, strangely quiet through the nurse's frantic exclamations. Curious, unblinking red eyes peered out at the guard from amidst the pelt blankets. The guard hissed and took a step back saying, "A non-human!" With a quick motion the guard seized the infant bundled within the furs and rushed out of the house. He made his way to the deep refuse pit of the city and without a moment's hesitation tossed the baby in and gave a sigh of relief. Concealed from view, the dark stalker waited until the guard was out of sight before looking down into the pit. Rubbing his thin hands together the legendary Corsair muttered with amusement, "What might this guard have been getting rid of? Worn boots maybe, or a notched blade perhaps...something else surely…" and with the ease of long practice, he wound his way through the junk. In a heap of moldy dung lie the pile of furs. As the man's long fingers touched it, the bundle squirmed. The old man's eyes widened and he quickly unwrapped the bundle. "Why, tis the babe!" he cried in astonishment, "What madness is this?" He stood back up when the child started to cry and slowly looked around with a strange expression on his face. He picked up the newborn, cradled it in his arm, and gazed with wonder into its crimson eyes. "So the guards now think they will take the life of another half-elf... they beat my wife to death for the same crime..." he murmured to the infant. "I'll see that you grow. That I will. My Roscia could not give me a child, but maybe I have been given a gift. I will call you…” The old brigand parted the furs and glanced between the child’s legs. Covering the babe with furs once again, the old man completed his thought “Faaza... mmm, yes, Faaza." The child he hid in secret, within an old warehouse. The improvised home was left alone by the local beggars and hobos out of the respect and awe with which they regarded the kindly old man. In an attempt to keep the child's heritage unknown the old man took a knife and trimmed the babe's ears, though his heart nearly broke to hear the agony he caused. He knew that if the baby were ever found with such pointed ears it would face certain death. When he finally dared go out into the sun with the youngling it started to cry in such obvious pain that the old man was forced to stop daytime walks with Faaza altogether. Milk for the babe was given by a wet nurse who owed much to the man's old past generosity. The old rogue filched enough to sustain the pair as they dwelled secretly in the slums of the city. As the baby grew into childhood, no more pleasurable activity could young Faaza conceive than worrying the old man by wandering far into the tunnels or climbing onto the walls to study the night stars. Guards he loved to torment in the night, slipping quietly into the shadows and taunting them mercilessly. Quick in mind and body he grew to be, and Faaza often came home with a few more coins than could be found lost on the street or morsels of food richer than what a beggar would be given. The old man was not one to complain. Indeed he had taught the lad the basic techniques of thievery himself, though he had long left the pinnacle of his skills behind him. "Sannil, Sannil! Look what I got!" Faaza came running home with a bright grin and a handful of fowl eggs. "I did pretend to weep and this lady came and asked what brought my tears. She could not see my eyes in the dark and I replied that hunger made me cry. She then gave me these eggs and patted me on the head. As she did, I as well took this!" and he showed a bronze ring, polished and shining. Sannil, as the old rogue was named, stood up with such fury in his eye Faaza fairly cringed. "WHAT?" the old man snapped. "I have shown you the ways of quick fingering and how a lock may be undone and this is how you use your knowledge? One showed you kindness and you repaid her by taking that which was probably her most precious? Shame, Faaza, SHAME! From the swaggering, merciless guards I say aye, more than aye! From the money hoarding, rich merchants I say aye, from those who have no lack and have more to spare I say aye. But when one does help you, and give what they have to help you, there I say NAY. Take not from those in need or who give you aid, for that is not worthy. In fact, you will take that ring back to her. Be sure I am aware you know where she lives, for is there a house yet in the city that you have not visited in secret?" The youth, until this point, had looked properly shamed, but at the last he did seem to brighten and the grin returned to his face as he nodded eagerly. "Return what has been taken... why, that would be almost as fun as taking it! I will be back shortly." And with that he turned and grasped the top of a wall and swung himself up and over. Sannil ran a hand over his creased face and groaned. The years passed and Faaza honed the art of separating people from their property. For Faaza, stealing wasn't just a living and it was more than an adventure. It was a business, pleasure, and a way of life all rolled into one. He was as dedicated to it as a monk is to his calling. But he took the advice of his adopted father to heart, and often after the taxes were collected the poor would find their coins returned. Many a beating or mugging was prevented as a rock hurled from an unseen sling would slam into the temple of the offender. Only the flicker of red eyes in the dark marked a presence. Guards went about with increased vigilance and a bounty was promised to the one who could stop this 'red-eyed demon'. Faaza was the first to send in helpful information and sent many a bounty hunter on fruitless expeditions. Sannil cautioned Faaza about this reckless behavior, and Faaza humored him as well as he could. During this time there came one that was to put a damper on his almost gleeful existence. He came in the form of a tall youth just getting his man's build. Faaza and Sannil were coming in from a night's fun when an arm seized Faaza's shoulder, turned him around, and slammed him into the wall while placing a knife to his throat. "Make a move and the freak gets bloody!" the teen hissed to Sannil, sweating nervously. Sannil froze and tensed, waiting for the least opening when he noticed Faaza was grinning and gave him a wink. With a good swift kick to the groin Faaza forced the knife wielder’s eyes to open wide in pain and the assailant fell twitching on the ground. Sannil quickly seized him and bound him to a chair, demanding an explanation. The teen soon broke under the older man's glare and revealed his story. The young teen, by the name of Roursk, was trying to elude capture by the Rogue's Guild of the city. Roursk was an initiate with the guild, but on the run for some grievance against them that he would not tell of. Sannil decided to intervene in what would otherwise be the young man's murder and took him into his care as well. Roursk and Faaza's relationship did not noticeably improve from their first meeting and Sannil was kept busy stepping in between the two boys. Faaza did not care for this new distraction of Sannil's affections and was not quiet about saying so. Roursk was serious, bitter, and not given to nonsense while 'Sannil's little thin-skinned midget' was care free, optimistic, and quite mischievous, frequently tormenting the newcomer with clever practical jokes. As Sannil grew more frail with age, Roursk grew stronger, learning almost as quickly from the old Corsair as did the albino. However, while the younger albino exhibited a good and free spirit under Sannil's mentorship, Roursk was driven by vengeance against the Rogue's Guild. Roursk would often leave, apparently even traveling far from the city itself on more than one occasion. Roursk would then return driven even further to strive against the Rogue's Guild. Occasionally, Roursk returned with another vagabond in tow. In the slums of Marsember, Roursk converted his small family into a fledgling, but tightly knit Thieves' Guild called the Corsairs. Roursk and his followers disregarded Sannil's philosophies about who constituted just marks for robbery, and instead focused all their efforts in growing the small guild in wealth and power, while trying to remain a mystery to the pervading Rogue's Guild. As Sannil grew older, Faaza found that he has been forced to participate in the operations of the Corsairs, just to provide enough for himself and Sannil. Still, he had been able to cling to Sannil's good will and philosophy, but often at the cost of striking a good mark. Though Faaza barely made enough to support their needs, he often left copper pieces outside the door of a small pub run by a kind man who provided food for many who could not afford to pay for their meals. The man’s daughter served the drinks and food herself to spare the cost of hiring additional hands. Several times Faaza thought he caught a shape watching him from a smoky window as he set coins on the tavern’s doorstep, but was never certain. Soon after his eighteenth year Faaza sat upon his perch of rock atop the walls and watched a beautiful girl of almost elven height with long ringlets of brown hair through the open door of the tavern. A cool breeze off the sea blew back his pale hair which he had never bothered to cut. He sighed and relaxed on the wall when a cry for help sounded from the tavern. Faaza narrowed his eyes and scaled halfway down the wall before jumping to the ground without a sound. He passed from shadow to shadow and peeked into the window to see the serving girl kick a laughing guard hard in the stomach. He coughed and took a step back, holding his gut. Then with a mirthless grin he and another nearby guard drew their knives and advanced on the girl despite the cries of the girl's elderly father. "No, no, I'll give you all I have, don't hurt her!" But that just made them laugh all the louder. "We will have it anyway, but this'll teach her proper respect!" Faaza quickly reached into his pouch and pulled out a leather sling and a shard of hard stone. He placed the stone within the sling and with a few quick whirls over his head let go of one strap and the rock flew from the sling, aimed through the window. The guard poised to strike the young woman suddenly collapsed to the floor, a large gash at the base of his skull. The second guard turned his head, looking about in fury and caught a glimpse of Faaza as he ducked beneath the window. The guard crashed through the door and grabbed hold of Faaza's cloak as he turned to flee. Faaza kicked out at the guard, but his foot thudded uselessly against the soldier’s armor. With a victorious glint in his eye the guard raised his knife. Suddenly a form came screaming from the tavern and crashed full on into the guard. The young woman fell groaning on the ground as the guard rose to his feet. "Maggot!" the guard snarled as he drew his sword, and drove it at her side. Faaza gave a great cry of maddened fury and launched himself onto the guard's back. In midleap he pulled a curved dagger from a sheath hidden beneath his cloak and slashed it across the guard's unprotected throat. The soldier gurgled once and fell with a crash into the dusty street. By this time a crowd had gathered around, and the shouts of guards in the distance were rapidly approaching. The crowd gasped and started to murmur fearfully as they pointed at the guard’s corpse. Faaza jumped down, picked up the girl, and motioned to her frantic father to follow. They made their way to the Corsairs’ warehouse and crept through the secret entrance. Only Sannil was there at the time and without a question the old rogue treated and bandaged the girl's head. The girl's father soon feel asleep by her side and finally Sannil walked slowly to Faaza and sighed wearily. "Faaza..." he started, "What is all this?" Faaza told of what he had done and Sannil in a soft, gentle voice filled with worry held up a hand and said, "My boy... how are we to keep them? Roursk has been dipping even into what you bring and I do not know how he'll react to them." The albino youth turned his head and watched the sleeping form of the girl with a look that surprised and heartened the old rogue. In a voice devoid of his usual frivolity Faaza replied, "If we do not hide them they will be found and taken to the arena. I will get enough for us." The girl was unconscious from the concussion for several days, and when not out in the streets of the city, Faaza kept to her side. She finally awoke and gave a cry of fear as she saw the crimson gaze of Faaza looking worriedly into her eyes. The girl's father rushed over and embraced her. She remembered nothing of what had happened, but after the story was told by her father she no longer looked with fear upon Faaza. That night as Faaza lie in his hammock a figure approached him and he swung out warily. He relaxed slightly as he recognized the shape of the girl and in a low voice she said, "You... you're the boy in the shadows aren't you?" Faaza just shrugged but blinked in surprise as she leaned over and kissed him on the cheek. "Thank you" she whispered and returned to her cot to sleep. The Corsairs arrived several days later and though Roursk was surprised he did not seem to have any objection to the new residents of the warehouse. This was short lived however as he found that the girl only gave him the barest of attention. Instead he found she spent most of her time with the 'little freak'. Faaza did seem to be bringing in more marks than usual though, so Roursk tolerated the guests. Every now and then a silver coin would be misplaced here, a few coppers missing there, and though the girl would later be given a new dress by Faaza, Roursk could not catch the half-human at his game, and he resented it. Kirstin and Faaza were sitting on one of the walls of an old stone building holding hands, as was not an unusual sight these days, looking at the stars over the vast expanse of the sea. Faaza was talking softly with her when he heard a rustle of fabric below him and looked down to see Kirstin's father. "Faaza, Kirstin, come on down. Sannil and I would like to have a talk with you two." They exchanged glances and climbed down. Faaza caught a glimpse of someone's form in the shadows to the side and motioned for the others to stay as he skulked ahead. The figure headed down an alley and Faaza turned to follow when Kirstin's scream sounded behind him. He ran for the corner just in time to see a half dozen guards holding the father and daughter. "Yeah, these are the pubbers. Its the arena for them." Faaza growled and reached for his dagger when a strong hand gripped his and Roursk's voice said, "Don't do it Faaza, there are too many." In a voice of panic Faaza snapped, "I will die trying then won't I?" and would have launched himself at them except that the handle of Roursk's dagger caught him in the temple and he crumpled.” “Faaza! FAAZA!" he heard her cry as darkness consumed him. Faaza opened his eyes and leaped from his cot, but a bout of dizziness threw the floor at him. Sannil hurridly stood up from the nearby chair and helped him up. "Its over, Faaza, its over... they took them to the Arena. She did not suffer." he said quickly with tears brimming in his eyes. Faaza did not say a word, did not even blink. From that time forward he brought in much more than was his usual wont, and though precarious before, he became much more reckless and daring in his pilfering, flirting with death at every opportunity. Every now and then Sannil found him standing high on the wall where he had last been with her, staring up into the sky.
The Vorpal Tribble 10-11-04, 05:40 PM	Umbra, the Shadow of the Woods Before mind pictures of darkness. Darkness with moss. Where did I come from? I am deeply at loss. Moss and needles of pine and the leaves of the oak.. I have mind pictures of the sky, of how the wind spoke. Forest... jungle... wood? I learned these mouth noises later when I could. So inadequate these words, of the home of my kin Better knew the robin's call, the song of the wren And even more knowing was the owl and the bat As were the gliding moth and the hungering rat. Who could sense the forest without the great Gleam For my after-dusk brothers were it's after-dusk dream. Born into darkness, life at a nocturnal pace Of this I am, of this star lighted place Their pinpoints shown down through the canopy gloom Under the glow of the great shining white moon The forest, it protected, provided a home It fed us, it sheltered, grown up from the loam. The twisted trunks were the pillars of our living house From the mightiest bear to the lowliest louse. Of this I accepted, knowing nothing else more The trees and the lakes and their lichen green shore This was the center of my universe, the limit of all Little did I know that my knowledge was small One dusk I looked to the bank of an orange glowing lake There I saw something like me, there must be a mistake It raised it's furry maned head and blinked in surprise It rose up, but stopped upon seeing the wary look in my eyes To shorten my story I merely will say That I met my friend and mentor that day I learned much of the world and was never the same But I am still one with the forest, and I'm certainly not tame... --- Class: Druid Race: Half-elf (actually, he is 3/4ths wild/sylvan elf, quarter human) Size: Medium Level: 2 Alignment: True Neutral Deity: None Age: 18 Gender: Male Height: 5'7" Weight: 135 lbs. Druidic Abilities: 1st level - Animal Companion (Sooty Owl) (Special: +2 move silently checks) Nature Sense Wild Empathy 2nd level - Woodland Stride Stats: Strength - 12 (+1) Dexterity - 17 (+3) Constitution - 15 (+2) Intelligence - 14 (+2) Wisdom - 18 (+4) Charisma - 10 (+0) Fort: 0+3+2=4 Ref: 0+0+3=3 Will: 0+3+4=7 HP: 16 AC: 10+0+0+3+0=13 Init: 3 BAB: 0+1+0=1 Melee: 0+1+0=1 Ranged: 0+1+3+0=4 Clothing: Loincloth Hooded Cloak Miscellaneous Equipment: 2 Leather leg sheaths Pouch and belt Mistle toe and holly Vial of anti-toxin Weapons: 2 sickles Feats: Self Sufficient Skills: (30) (skill: rank + mod + misc. mod = total) Climb (Str) - 1+1+0=2 Concentration (Con) - 2+2+0=4 Diplomacy (Cha) - 0+0+2=2 Gather Information (Cha) - 0+0+2=2 Handle Animal (Cha) - 2+0+0=2 Heal (Wis) - 0+4+2=6 Hide (Dex) - 2+3+0=5 Jump (Str) - 0+1+0=1 Knowledge (nature) (Int) - 5+2+4=11 Listen (Wis) - 4+4+1=9 Move Silently (Dex) - 1+3+2=6 Profession (hunter) (Wis) - 2+4+0=6 Ride (Dex) - 0+3+0=3 Search (Wis) - 0+4+1=5 Spot (Wis) - 0+4+1=5 Survival (Wis) - 3+4+6=13 Swim (Str) - 4+1+0=5 Languages known: Common Druidic Elven Sylvan Spells: Level 0 - Create Water Detect Poison Purify Food and Drink Virtue Level 1 - Entangle Summon Nature's ally I (dire rat) Special: Lowlight vision Immunity to sleep spells and similiar magical effects, and a +2 racial bonus on saving throws against enchantment spells or effects. --- Taworri the sooty owl (Aboriginal for Evening Breeze) http://www.owlpages.com/species/tyto/tenebricosa/pictures/sooty1.jpg Tiny Animal Hit Dice: 1d8 Initiative: +3 Speed: 10 ft., fly 40 ft. Armor Class: 17, touch 15, flat-footed 14 Base Attack/Grapple: +0/-11 Attack: Talons +5 melee (1d4) Full Attack: Talons +5 melee (1d4) Space/Reach: 2 1/2 ft./0 ft. Special Attacks: - Special Qualities: Low-light vision Saves: Fort +2, Ref +5, Will +2 Abilities: Str 4, Dex 17, Con 10, Int 2, Wis 14, Cha 4 Skills: Listen +14, Move Silently +17, Spot +6 Feats: Weapon Finesse Enviroment: Temperate Forest Organization: Solitary Challenge Rating: 1/4 Advancement: 2 HD (small) Level Adjustment: - --- Description: Umbra is a slightly short, sleekly muscled young man with dark brown complexion with an underlying red skin-tone. His hair is a dark black and hangs in dreadlocks that have been tied together behind his head with leather ties. His face is thin and angular, with a nose that is consistently flaring in and out as he keeps nasal awareness of his surroundings. His slanted black eyes are quite large and nocturnal, larger than one would expect from even a half-elven human, appearing almost as a deformity. The gaze that comes from them are wholey feral, seeming more animal than sentient. His ears are pointed every bit as much as a full blooded elf. Patches of scars all over his body show signs of struggle with beasts of claw, tooth and beak. He wears nothing but a hooded cloak of some dark furred feline and a leather loin cloth. Around his waist is a hemp belt with a couple leather pouches hanging from it. Attached tightly to his upper thighs, but padded with black wool , are two leather sheaths holding two wooden handled sickles, the blades darkened with dye and ungleaming and their wooden grips carved with the detailed image of a wind-blown pillar of fire with a blooming rose vine twining around it. --- Background: From the stories told by the mouth of the Shadow of the Woods: Moss. Moss and the needles of pine and trees. How much bigger they seemed to me then. Thats all I remember. Where did I come from? I don't know. Who were my parents? I don't know. Did I have parents or was I spawned from the forest itself? I don't know. Forest... Woods... Jungle? They seem like such inadequate words for such a profusion of life that has lived so long and grown so tall and so wide. The forest shelters. The forest feeds. The forest protects. Is that not what a parent does? Shelters, feeds, protects? Oh. And hunting. And hiding. These I also remember. I prefered to do this in the night time. When it was cool and the light didn't show your paths so easily. Nocturnal is the word I found describes me. I would climb trees, sneaking eggs out of nests. I would sneak into dens, capturing food. I would silently stalk the young of large beasts and be gone with my meal before the mother found out. This is how I lived. I enjoyed it. I knew nothing else. Then many many many dusks went by, years I suppose. I remember these times easier. They are not so fuzzy in my mind. I began to circle around creatures, use their tracks to find their homes and my meals. I watched many creatures. Why did they not think of this? Also, were their any animals watching me watching others. I looked around but never found any that did this. Why did no others watch? There were creatures who stalked, but only when hungry. I learned much from them. Watching how they leapt upon their food so silently. I watched the weasle and the coyote and the wolverine. Saw how they fought, saw how they escaped. I started to copy them. Why did they not learn from each other? I learned how to get my food more easily and ofton. I liked the wolverine. So quiet, so small, seemingly. But one time I saw it walk over to a bear eating something it had caught. The bear attacked, but never hit the wolverine, the wolverine seemed to grow. Seemed to become more than it was. It fought quickly and furiously. The bear after a time bloodied with many cuts and gashes ran! I learned then size does not matter. But fast moves, ferocity, all these things would scare away large creatures even if the animals doing it were small. And so I learned. Did other creatures learn? No... very strange. Then one day I went to my pond. I drank from it. So it was mine. When there was no wind I would look into it. Seeing another face. I was above it. It was me. But as if I was in water. Thats funny. I know what humor is now. I didn't then. I just saw myself and saw... myself. Sometimes I would make noises at it, just to see if I would do anything. I don't know why I did. The noises sounded familiar. Like a fuzzy picture in my head. Like when I tried to make pictures of what I had seen many dusks ago. I sort of could. but not really. My reflection just opened it's mouth with me. What else would it do? But then one day I saw a deer come up to the water to drink. It reached down it's head... and suddenly breathed deep and sprinted off into the woods. It had seen itself in the water... and was afraid. Why was it afraid? How can one be afraid of one's self? I did not understand this. Why did I see patterns in things, recognize things, remember things... but nothing else did? Then one day as I was going back to my pond I saw something. It seemed to suddenly appear in front of my eyes. It looked like me... like my reflection... but it was not in the water! It moved, and sat down on a log. I went closer, I was so curious. Had my reflection come out and become two of me? Then I saw it was not like me. The same, but not really. It had dark, dark black skin. So black it stood out against the other dark things. And it had strange things on it's back and it's middle. And it was bigger than me. I hissed without meaning to, I was so confused. It suddenly turned to look where I was and it pulled from it's back something... and a light brighter than the big white light giver of after-dusk shone on me. It scared me and I ran into my hometree and lied there, my chest beating hard. "What was it? What was it? What was it?" I mind-voiced to myself. I peered out of my tree and I saw a shape still moving. I pushed leaves against the hole and went to sleep, but still nervous. I woke up as the great day lighter was shining it's last rays into my tree. I pushed away leaves and noticed I was thirsty. Why was I so thirsty... then I remembered the other night. I peered anxiously to the waters. No one was there. Maybe it had just been a not real fuzzy thought. Those that I had when lying in my tree while the sun was up. Then as I walked I stepped on a dry leaf... and a whole pile of leaves rose up. The creature had been sleeping in them! I must have yelled for it's head suddenly went up and I went to my tree. I watched it for several dusks. It would not leave. My thirst and hunger grew greater and greater. Then a little after it grew once again dark I decided I did not care what it was. I was too thirsty and my stomach made angry noises of pain and hunger. I went very quietly, my hands and feet felt the ground for any tremors as if anything coming I felt and heard nothing. Then from behind the log two ears popped up. It was hiding! I crept back a little ways. Suddenly it stood... on only it's back legs. No, definetely not alot like me. With it's hand it grasped something around it's middle and held it up. It put it's arm back... and the object fell near me. I jumped back startled. I started to run. Then I smelled water. In this object there was water. I picked it up and looked at the creature. He did not move, but his eyes were on me. I looked at this thing. It felt like skin with no fur. I shook it and heard splashing inside. I looked at it and threw it to the ground in anger. A part of it fell off... and water came out. I sprang on it and lapped up the water that came out. I was still thirsty but felt much energy now in me. My hunger suddenly worsened and I sniffed the thing the water was in. It even smelled like an animal. Sort of. I was hungry and did not care so I started to chew upon it. It was hard, but not too hard. Then the creature who I had forgotten gave a cry and in a jump was to me, putting down it's hand to the object. In startlement I reached up and bit him on the hand. He jerked his hand back with the object but made no cry of pain or anger like any other creature would. I scooted slowly back on my stomach, never taking my eyes from it. The strange creature looked at me with eyes I have seen in no other beast. But like my reflection. The same, but different. It then made noises that sounded almost like a beasts but it did not bare it's teeth or show it's claws. The sound was strange, but it had a melody to it. Like a birds. It then reached into it's pocket and pulled out something that made water come from my mouth when I smelt it. And he tossed it to me. In my mouth I caught it and started to chew on it. Always keeping one eye on him though. When I was through he gave me more. Over a period of many dusks he managed to... to... what was that word I learned... ummm... oh. He tamed me. I realized this creature did not mean to harm me. It was a creature that used thought and even looked like me! Not exactly but very close. One day a great bear was sniffing at my home where I had kept some of the meat and I hissed at it. It bellowed at me and started to run at me. Then all of a sudden the other thinking creature pulled something that reflected the red moon and hit the bear with it. The bear bellowed even louder as blood leaked from many holes in it's sides. The thinking creature that looked like me then picked me up and ran with me on it's two hindlegs untill we were far from my home tree. This did not matter, I found another one and stayed by this strange brave creature. It would put it's hand on my head and ruffle my hair and give me meat and fruit it had. Then one day it made a loud noise that it used when it wanted me. I ran to it and it showed it's teeth... but not like the bear or wolf did. Like it was friendly. It started pointing it's front paw toe at things and would make a strange noise. I looked at him in confusion but he continued. Just for fun I tried to copy him. It said it again and I tried harder to repeat him. Then it seemed as if a white light went off in my head. It made these sound noises to tell me things! What wonders this creature could do! For more settings and rising of the moons than I could count he showed me the names of things and taught me to tell what I mind voiced so that he also knew what I thought until I grew taller and stronger. Many hunts we went on and he named things and taught me much as we went on. I soon learned to talk. Then one day he told me that he wished to go far. Farther than we had ever before and go look at new things. I begged to go with him and with a smile that showed me he had already guessed my response he nodded and said I would come and never leave his side. We ventured for many many many dawns and dusks, almost ten years said my mentor. Many things we saw. He didn't go ofton into the wood, but around it. Searching the borders of my great forest. Going far south to were the water was salty and vast. Never had I seen something so big. The forest I had thought was the largest thing that existed. This thing called an ocean.. it was bigger! And many many big creatures swam in it. Creatures like in my pond but nearly as big as me! Rivers and lakes we crossed, many wild creatures attacked us and them we slew and ate. All this time I was being taught, trained, being readied for something I came to think. For hours we would meditate, him saying this would help to calm me. For any sudden movements or noises caused me to be instantly on guard and several times I nearly attacked Batlh as he suddenly appeared beside me in that strange way he had. He taught me something called 'common' and 'elven'. The two languages he said my race used the most ofton. He said I still spoke with a bit of hiss and growling to my words, but that I still spoke fine. He would have me lift large stones and hold them out for as long as I could. He would have me run, jump, and do something he called acrobatics. He said this would train my body and teach me to control it. He would have me count rings around tree stumps blasted by light from the sky. He would put rocks of various colored patterns in strings and have me look at them and close my eyes and tell him what color and texture each was till my memory was sharp and more meditation over and over. He said all this trained my mind as well. After a long while of eating fish and drinking from the lake he announced that he had taught me all he could and that I must go out and experience what I later learned to call laughingly, 'the civilized world'. But first he said he must go back to check on some things before allowing me to come with him. Apprehensive he seemed. So I bid goodbye to him and lived once again off the land and by myself. It felt a little lonely after so many years with Batlh, but I enjoyed myself. Then after a few months I saw Batlh traveling down the length of the lake and I ran towards him. He had a large smile on his face and a sense of peace about him that I had never seen before. He told me of how he had silently visited many cities and met with old aquaintances and read many town boards. He had found out that his enemy Dev had been killed by a cult of evil mages and Rowe had been missing for a long time and Gwenyth, one of their followers, as well. But still, he told me, there were many evil and murderous people still roaming the land. I asked him eagerly of when we could go to visit the cities he talked of so ofton and he smiled broadly and said that he was ready to go now. And with that we set off again. He showed me many many pf the towns and forests and plains where people lived. I saw many great and awe inspiring things. The occasional murders, the bickering of merchants, the studies of wizards, the whittlers and loggers. We walked the length and breadth of many territories until I knew it by heart and could have walked it with my eyes closed. Ofton Batlh would visit long time friends. I knew that they would not harm me but I prefered to stay hidden when we met with people and Batlh encouraged it. I think I was never seen. Even the huge holy warrior Kien Kardagon, Batlh's long time friend and comrade did not see me. I watched from the shadows as he met the beautiful Seamaire, whom had heard stories of him and his deeds. Many times I would remain behind in the shadows as he helped her around and she followed him as if in awe of his company. She as well never saw me. There came to our ears after some time of a warlord called Krull raiding the kingdom with his murderous troops Batlh told me he would help deal with Krull and his companions and that I was to stay here for the next three full moons. If he had not returned by then I could come looking for him. I then finally spoke my mind and asked why he wished me always to stay out of all confrontations. He sighed wearily and sat down heavily beside me. He then told me what I had been wondering for years and why he had chosen me to train. "I want you to take my place if ever I am to be slain and not resuced." he said. "I have been training you to be my heir and succeeder. I want you to be a Shadow of the Wood." I asked him what a Shadow of the Wood was and he told me of how his father had had an idea of bringing peace to the land and yet have more flexibility than the rangers of the Crescent Claw. To bring down those who had evil plans and were gathering supporters and strength. And the Shadows of the Woods would be indpendent. If we angered those who were powerful no blame would be put upon any others. We would learn the ways of survival, to be independent, to survive. We would be as rangers but with a greater purpose. It was a proud thing to be a Shadow of the Woods he told me with passion. I was in awe of his words and invigorated by his speech. "And that is why I have hidden you from even my closest friends." he said. "There are those who would wish me dead for disrupting their plans of conquest and any whom would help me. My friends are tustworthy but talk can spread among even the most close mouthed. I wished to keep you in secret, to train you up and help me bring this peace and harmony to this land and the world. Only the crescent claw know of your existence. They support us but will take no responsibility for us. We will help all we can, but the clan must stay uninvolved if we make a mistake. For this you and I are held in the highest regaurd by the Claw. Others, like the Heraphim of the humans, fear us and what we are capable of." He paused and then said, "But time is critical. Remember all that I have taught you and all that you have taught yourself and recieved from nature. Be wise and be careful. May I be able to come back and see you again, for I reguard you as my son, if not from the flesh, of the mind." We clasped hands and he walked out of the woods for what was to be the last time. For awhile I was sad, but the sheer life that existed within the valley rose my spirits and I was happy for many days. Then as I was eating the last of my meal of rabbit I felt my heart leap within my chest and for the space of a beat it seems to stop. I suddenly knew with certainty my mentor, father, friend had died to the roots of my being. I rushed out of the forest and mountains. I asked around and questioned bards and they told of how a spirit had seemed to descend upon the warriors within their camps and had been hurt, but had been able to fend off the attack of whatever warrior had released his wrath. Then had come Kien Kardigan and had sweeped up Batlh and ran out of the city. I made my way to the battle site and met a cranky old ranger sitting by a pond who said he had seen a big fella carrying a man upon his back and had loaded him in a cart. Eventually I came to the end of the road, to a small town in ruins. Near its mangled gates was the body of Batlh half hidden in the grass and Kien Kardigan and only a few of his others battling valiantly. I gave a cry, but before I could move Batlh's body suddenly seemed to come apart and rise up as if smoke. A chill breeze blew by and his remains were whisked away into the sky. A dark clothed figure behind the army gave a harsh laugh A cold wrath seized me as I drew my hood over my head and I vowed then and there that I would have my revenge on those who had murdered Batlh and I would continue where he had left off. In that moment the second Shadow of the Woods was born. The animal I had once been raged up within me and claimed me, and as the tall grasses took hold of the barbarians, I brought forth the sickles I had taken from Batlh's body and as a beast used claws I used them upon their dark flesh. In my madness I nearly leapt upon Kien Kardigan as he came towards me, but he wrapped his thick arms around me and leapt upon a horse wandering amongst the carnage. We rode for a long while and came to a forest I had not yet seen. There he left me, knowing any persuers would have difficulty finding me. He manages to find me every now and then and we speak for a time, and then he is off. I owe him much, and when he needs favors I aid him, but if only I could be left alone with the uncomplicated ways of the animals...
The Vorpal Tribble 10-11-04, 05:44 PM	Sheaux the Distractress (pronounced Sh-owx) Class: Level 2 Soulknife PrC: 1st level Pyrokineticist Race: Elan Size: Medium Alignment: Chaotic Neutral Deity: None Size: Medium Age: 28 Gender: Female Height: 6'3" Weight: 165 lbs. Skin: Pale Freckled Hair: Strawberry blonde Eyes: Dark brown Soulknife Abilities: Mindblade Throw Mindblade Pyrokineticist: Fire Lash Stats: Strength - 12 (+1) Dexterity - 18 (+4) Constitution - 11 (+0) Intelligence - 17 (+3) Wisdom - 13 (+1) Charisma - 13 (+1) Fort: 2+0=2 Ref: 5+4=9 Will: 3+1=4 HP: 28 AC: 10+0+0+4+0=14 Init: 4 BAB: 0+1+4=5 Melee: 1+1+0=2 Ranged: 1+4+0+0=5 --- Clothing: Entertainer's Outfit Miscellaneous Equipment: Belt Pouch 4 thunderstones 2 flasks of alchemist's fire Armor: Padded Weapons: Fire Lash Mindblade --- Feats: Open Minded Up the Walls Weapon Finesse Weapon Focus (mind blade) Wild Talent Skills (51): Appraise (alchemy) (Int) - 0+3+2=5 Autohypnosis (Wis) - 2+1+0=3 Balance (Dex) - 2+0+2=4 Climb (Str) - 1+1+0=2 Concentration (Con) - 9+0+0=9 Craft (alchemy) (Int) - 8+3+0=11 Hide (Dex) - 4+4+0=8 Jump (Str) - 2+1+2=5 Intimidate (Cha) - 4+1+0=5 Knowledge (psionics) (Int) - 2+3+0=5 Listen (Wis) - 2+1+0=3 Move Silently (Dex) - 1+4+0=5 Perform (dance) (Dex) - 5+4+0=9 Spot (Wis) - 1+1+0=2 Tumble (Dex) - 8+4+2=14 Languages: Abyssal, Common, Draconic, Gnomish --- Sheaux Description Sheaux is an imposing woman of a little under six and a half feet tall, and mostly arms and legs. She is long and lanky and approaches the skinny side of lean with very pale skin speckled with an abundance of freckles. Her thick hair is a light strawberry blonde, though more the former than the latter, and is bound up with many thin braids woven about copper wires that reflect the light at unexpected times, and also allowing the odd positioning and bending to produce outrageous designs. She also sports a fair number of ponytails in between the braids. Her dark brown eyes almost blaze with their intensity to everything she looks upon. Few can place it right off, but an oddity of her face is that she has no eyebrows, with only a light build up of burned tissue in their place. She wears a loose, billowy dress of dark umber, almost black, that reaches down to her ankles with long, ruffled sleeves. An equally long, sleeveless cloak hangs from her shoulders, but contrasts wildly with her outfit, being many shades of bright golds, scarlets and ochres, with fold after folf after fold of additional fabric of more darker indigos and deep blues. If turned inside out it is the darker material that is dominat, with hints of light colors flickering within. She wears white, laced cloth-boots that, though not visible, provides concealment up to her knees. Their leather soles have a slightly raised heal that further enhances her height. Though vibrant and seemingly at the cusp of youth, few would call her beautiful once they saw her close. An alien quality resides within the gaze of those eyes, something unquestionably repulsive but for no seeming reason. Perhap it is because she does not seem to see you as a person... :D --- Background: An arc of light spread across the sky, branching out to feel about the darkness. Illuminated in the brief glow was a couple of figures wrapped up in hooded cloaks, soaked with the pouring rain. One of the figures shouted something unheard as the thunder quickly followed, and slapped his reigns against the clydesdale hitched to the sturdy wagon. The beast snorted mist from its nostrils, but continued at its moderate clip. Another collection of electrical tendrils snaked across the gloom, but this time it sought the ground. A deafening *SNAP* of imploding air followed without noticable pause after the sudden explosion that threw both figures from the wagon. The horse in complete terror launched itself down the muddy stretch of road. A man's voice shouted out, "Karah? KARAH?" but he could not hear the roaring of his own voice. He stood, and slipped, scrambled once more to his feet, and splashed to the dark shape lumped in a deep puddle. The man reached down and pulled away the hood showing the delicate face of a young woman and put a hand to the horrible burn in her dress, showing her burnt, swollen belly. She remained unresponsive as he picked up her limp form. He looked to the sky and shouted a curse at the pouring turmoil, and pulled her to him, the salty tears of his eyes mixing with the fresh of the sky upon her hair. Her entire form suddenly convulsed and she drew in a deep, sobbing breath. "Kara!" he cried and embraced her fiercely. The ringing in his ears had faded so that he heard her cry, "Saul, I can't see, I can't see a thing!" "It was the flash darling. You will..." "OH!" she cried putting her hands to her stomach, "This can't be, its too early, far too early." "I have to find you someplace dry." Saul said frantically, and stomped through the thick grass, heading for the lights of a tiny village at the edge of his limited sight. Weary and heartsick from the agonized tones and trembling of his wife, Saul practically kicked in the door of the first cottage he came to, banging it with his toe. A tall, bristly bearded farmer opened the door with an angry retort on his lips, but his mouth fell open at the sight of the burdened man before him, the pair dressed in well to do garments. "My wife is with child." Saul said, bargin in without consent and layed Kara upon his bed. The farmer swallowed and said, "I don't know nothing about birthing." he stammered. "And the wifes been dead these last three years..." "Do you have a midwife?" Saul demanded. "Theres the Grandnanny Chuckdown bu..." "Fetch her, QUICKLY!" and finding himself darting out of his own home by the sheer command in the words of the youth, he ran for the edge of the nearby wood. An elderly, but still dark haired woman quickly walked in, dripping from the rain, the farmer, far more drenched right behind her. She walked quickly over to Kara and drew in an angry breath at the burns upon the young woman and the enlarged pupils of her unseeing eyes. . "For the sake of the lands, what caused this?" she breathed in astonishment as Kara gasped in pain at the light touch.. "Lightening struck us on the road." Saul responded anxiously. "Well what do you expect you fools?" the elderly woman snapped. "Both of you, out. Get off to my cabin, Bilsten. And you," she turns to Saul, "See to your horse." Kara stiffened and a pained cry escaped her clenched lips. "Now see here, I am Squire..." Saul started in disbelief. "You are nothing but a meddlesome man at this moment, now GET! Don't let me see hide nor hair of either of you before sunbreak." --- Grandnanny Chuckdown watched the mother trying to suckle the scrawny babe with a heavy heart, for it was far too tiny. The father stood beside her, his features drawn and haggard with worry. Suddenly Kara burst out in frantic sobbing, "She can't, she's just can't..." and held the newborn close. Her knowledge had had her run out of the last village she visited, the ungreatful louts blaming her for everything from sunburn to slugs in the cabbage, but if it meant the babe's life, so be it. "Don't worry lass." she assured the new mother, "I will see to it that she grows." and standing up straight, she went out the door. --- "Here now..." Grandnanny said gently, squeezing a rag soaked from the kettle on the hearth, a tiny stream of dark liquid dribbling into the child's mouth, too weak yet to even cry. After several hours of this she noticed hot its stick thin limbs had already filled out and by now it was letting our hearty, gladdening squeals. "You hurry and get to wherever your going and sleep." she instructed Kara. "But four times a day for the next week you be sure to feed that babe this, uh, broth of mine." "We cannot express our gratitude." Paul said, lyng Kara in the back of the wagon. "I will be sure to send a..." "None of that." Grandnanny informed the squire. "You'll forget that I even was found here, and that'll be thanks enough. Off, go..." she urged. With a final call of thanks the young pair continued down the road as they had before traveled. --- The babe grew... and grew... and one came to think when she was at least head taller than anyone her age at eight that perhaps she overgrew. Her father spoiled her shamelessly, and her mother, blind since the day of her birth, would sit doing small crafts by touch, listening to her daughter's laughter. Though Kara fought such feelings in the beginning, she soon gave herself up to the jealousy and self pity that built within. Despite her mother's developing coldness and lack of affection she led a happy childhood, if not a slightly odd one. Being the wealthiest family in the area, many tried to push their children to visit with Sheaux, but the insincerity of it was noticed by even her child's mind. She instead amused herself, dancing and singing songs she made up herself with her dolls. Her father worried at times, for he would find her staring enthralled at the fire in the hearth, tossing in bits of hay just to see it burn, while at others watching the rainbow glint of sunlight off the windows. Lightening storms in particular were her glory, applauding the brightest, most dazzling displays. The bright, the dazzling, the eye catching enthralled her, and beauty in all its forms. At times when her mother wished to be left alone she would go with her father to the king's training grounds, and watch from nearby their mock battles. Many times she could be seen dancing in the distance, mimicking martial poise and incorporating the moves into her own private routine that she did for the guards, relishing their praise and attention. At these fields she made several friends of the children of the servants, and as they played, they would sometimes have mock battles with imaginary swords. It was during on such play that she let out a laugh and a cry of 'Ha!' as one of her friends tripped, and to her horror, a red gash actually ripped itself across his arm. His immediate scream was as much surprise as pain, for she had come nowhere near him, and didn't REALLY have a sword besides! Or wait... yes she did, but she hadn't had it a moment ago! Several soldiers quickly ran over and demanded what had happened, but the obvious sword wound was without a sword as Sheaux released her hands and backed away in shock. The odd wound was finally blamed on a possible scrape on a rock, but she knew better. Her sword was real if she wanted it to be! Her father only smiled and laughed when she told him what happened, which faded quickly as she grew angry at the disbelief and pretended it was real. An odd, swordt-shaped disturbance quickly glowed before her. She was taken to the king's wizards but they had no explanation. The child had not even the most basic magical inclination to her, yet what she did was obviously not a common day occurance. The children from that point left her be, and several times she woke up at night crying. Her mother, upon learning this grew even more silent and hostile to her daughter. It was with indifference she granted Sheaux the permission to visit with Grandnanny who supposedly could do magics. This lasted for only a few days before Sheaux left in digust at all she meddled with was stinking plants and animals. It was around this time that a war had started somewhere, Sheaux never thinking to ask where, that nevertheless affected her deeply. Her beloved father was being called away. For the first time in years Sheaux actually saw the hints of emotion in her mother as her father gathered his gear and reported to the King. Ten months later a messanger came to their door. Saul had been killed. Kara took the news with so little reaction that she might have been wood. Sheaux on the otherhand was consumed with rage that was only fueled by the gaping hole now left within her. And these feelings were not directed at the enemy, but at the King who had ordered him there. Ordered him to DIE! Her curses and rantings were suddenly cut off as a blow to her face half threw her to the floor. "QUIET YOU LITTLE CUR." Karen said, standing over her, her face flush with fury and loss now being directed at Sheaux. "He was dead to me years ago because of you! Doted upon you he did, and you took him from me as surely did the warrior who slew him!" and with that marched to her chambers and slammed the door. Sheaux remained on the floor, shaken and feeling the full intensity of her loss. She had suspected her mother didn't like her much, but never had she suspected the raging hatred her mother had built up, slowy stoking it to a blue-whize blaze. The next six years of Sheaux's life was utter misery as her mother heaped abuse and accusations upon her, and would beat her mercilessly with her cane. Only in her dance could her mind be free. It was sometime around her seventeenth year that a bard came to visit her town. Not like the other bards was he. He did not tell funny stories, but with music, song and dance his movements was his story. Flips, and leaps and sommersaults, his very movements beautiful. Sheaux stayed to watch him most of the day and she noticed that her mother would keep her window open and listen from above to his music and song. Soon the bard came to notice her attentions and returned them, for Sheaux, though younger than him by some ten years, was quite comely. He became an extended guest of the household, and in return he taught Sheaux acrobatics and sang and played his lute for her mother. Sheaux came to join with him in his acts and reveled in the attention given her by the admiring crowd, but most importantly by Lan himself. It was several months later that he proposed to her when he mother came storming out of her room and started to land blind, powerful blows upon them both with her cane. "You take yet another from me!" Kara's voice cracking with hatred. "You, always you, never ME!" she wailed. "OUT! The both of you, and may I never hear the voices of either of you again!" Lan fled before her wrath but Sheaux without a word walked out of the door. Upon the step all that had been bottled up within her. All the rage and sadness at the unfairness and selfishness of her mother, and at the world she focused into her blade and she struck at the door that had just been slammed into her face with all that was in her. To her astonishment her mindblade did not thud into the door, but an explosive gout of intense flame flew from her hand and the door was throw forward, its hinges melted into sludge. She could feel the heat, but it was comforting. She suddenly found the secret within the flames that she had unwittingly searched for for so long! Her mother spun about and her eyes widened in speechless astonishment. Sheaux let out yet another cry and spun her flame to the roof and soon the entire house was ablaze. Such was the murderous rage within her that she did not even turn around to see if her mother escaped before running from the carnage. Lan and her fled the town, and were married a week later. Together they performed, Sheaux using her mindblade and flaming whip in her dances that left crowds speechless. There was a lull in her performances however as they joyously found she was carrying, but they had earned well and were not in need. Months later she gave birth to Lex, a beautiful baby boy with the same straight black hair as the father. Their savings were running low by this time, so once she recovered she was back on stage, dazzling the masses. It was with great surprise that they were found by a messanger, asking them to perform before the King himself. Rage kindled in Sheaux at the thought of entertaining the man who had sentenced her father to death, but Lan with his silver tongue persuaded her to attend, just this once. They left Lex with 'Uncle Bilsten', who Sheaux had visited off and on since she was born. The kind man had married once more, and his wife addored the little lad. Reminescent of a scene seen some eighteen years ago, Lan and Sheaux proceeded down the dirt road within their horse-drawn cart, towards the castle. They were led into the grand hall by several unusually hostile guards, and thats when Sheaux put a finger on the uneasieness she'd been feeling. There was no festive atmosphere, no sounds of revelers. She leaned over to Lan and said, "We're in for something, love." Before them sat the aging but quite venerable king, and beside him... "Mother!" Sheaux gasped. "Seize the rogues!" the King commanded. The soliders escorting them leaned forward to grab at them, but Lan was already twisting around, grabbing a sword from the knight's own sheath but suddenly fell as a crossbow shaft plunged between his shoulder blades. Sheaux let out a horrified scream of rage and she seemed to grow as within one hand her mindblade sprung, and the other a fifteen foot lash of fire. Her teeth gritting she snarled, "I believe you owe me a dance." and hurled herself upon the guards, her blade striking literally with the speed of thought, her whip of flame setting her opponent's hair and beards afire. Several arrows whizzed past her, but the practised swirl of her dress and the movements of her fire made it nigh impossible to aim accurately. The King called out an echoing roar for his men at arms. Sheaux, though in the heat of fury, realized that none but a wizened sorcerer could hold up against so many men. She released the grip on her weapons, and they winked out of existence as she ran for the wall of the chambers. She concentrated mightily as she ran, thinking, "Wall is floor and floor begone!" and suddenly perceptions changed. She was now sliding to the floor, men at arms and tables bolted to the wall above. She ran for the hole in the floor that had earlier been a high window. and took a step within it, flipping around and her world turned once more, and she was standing within the sill. "You had my father killed and have taken my father and my love!" she screeched. "But me you will NEVER have. I swear upon the powers that be that your kingdom shall scorch and turn to glowing embers before I am through!" and with that she leaned outside and raced down the sheer wall. --- Sheaux visited mages of all sorts in the succeeding years, but she grew more and more furious as learned men after learned men told her in bewilderment she was not doing magic, and could not teach her. Fury built within her at these 'lies'. For they feared her, she realized. A woman with magic they should well fear! And with each visitation she left their keeps ash. It then came to the ears of a certain sorcerer that a woman was seeking the ways of magic, and destroying those who did not give her what she wanted. He sent word to her that he would, in some way, aid her. Sheaux came with distrust, for one never knew whats sorcerers had in store for lesser folks. She told him of her plight, for her wish to become one with the magics she brought forth, and use them upon the King and his ilk, and bring them to ruin. He spent many days searching the air and being of this woman, but to his complete astonishment, even he could find nothing of the arcane within her. Something else, something elusive and alien to his mind brought forth her abilities. However, there was another way... He made a bargain with her. He would bring her strength and power if she would aid his Lord Hextor against the reign of his opponent, the very King Sheaux had pledged to destroy, to her dying days. This was not a difficult choice, and she entered within the the small tent of black velvet that had been erected. The ancient ritual to imbue a being with evil magics was started but quickly the situation went out of his control as the spirit within her rose and battled the magics. Brought forth that other power that he knew nothing of, and this, to his shame, filled him with fear. Fire burst from every pore of her body, and the tent blazed. Walking from its remains she came, her eyes alight with dancing, flickering energy. --- Sheaux let out a peal of loud, delighted laughter as the disgusting, oily feel of the sorcerer's magics were burned away. She felt strong and bursting with energy. Oh yes... she would not be so easily run off now. This was not magic... it was BETTER! --- For the next few years she would draw the focus of the King's men, putting their bridges and crops afire, appearing amidst them and keeping them at bay as Hextor's armies would slip in and take them from behind. It did not take long for the King and the surrounding kingdoms to take notice of the raised level of violence that was sweeping from Hextor. During this time however Sheaux was brought before Hextor and given the unusual title of 'Distractress' and given leeway to use the troops he assigned her in any way she chose fit to aid in her unusual method of fighting. Many also came to call her the Bright Assassin, as she brought others to ruin not by her remaining unseen, but by blinding them to the knife in the back. Years later, and not one moment older in appearance than when she had entered the past ritual, she took to hiding. The empire of Hextor had been crushed and nearly all his followers but her slaughtered. --- "FIND THE CURSED DISTRACTRESS!" the king raged during a council. "She is but one woman!" A gaunt, unimposing figure rose from his seat, "Yes your majesty, but one of such cunning that we are unable to keep her. She mocks our attempts, and plays with our forces like a hound worries the rabbit in his barrow. Unconventional are her tatics and surprising are her ways." The King sighed with a trembling of his anger in its tone. In a softer tone he continued, "Hound... yes. A female dog she is in all ways. We caught that other one... what was his name... doesn't matter, for the fact is we caught him! His parent's allowed us to find a blood-link to him! Can this not be done?" "The mother was found in the ruins after the assault of Timmal, my Liege, and her father as you know was killed during a raid many years hence." "Well has she no relatives, no kin?" "None that we no of, Sire." "That you know of... scry, precognitize! Bring forth our soothsayers!" --- Several days later the King was interupted by an excited apprentice chosen to give the news. "Your majesty, a child has been found, one that can be no other but her son, so close is the match! He is cared for by a simple farmer, one loyal to you my lord!" "Wonderful!" the King exclaimed, "Have the child brought here, and reward this farmer well. Your teachers will take a sample of his blood, and she shall be caught and tried without fail!" --- Eventually Sheaux was indeed found, and cornered. Though several died, she was brought down, her will scratching and clawing, by a league of wizards, for one cannot outdance a spell...