Post/Author/DateTime	Post
Drag0nUL 02-28-08, 04:47 PM	Chapter 1-The blacksmith Hurry up lads! master Durik’s voice easily rose above the sound of hammers pounding the iron the seneschal’s men should be here before nightfall and I won’t be explaining them that his order is not ready yet. So ye’d better finish, or I’ll be finding myself a new pair of apprentices. Tengron and Brom looked at each other smiling for a brief moment, before getting back to their anvils. They knew that beneath the grumpy exterior, Durik had a heart of gold. A couple of hours later, a wagon full of crates was disappearing around the corner and Durik was turning toward his apprentices with a satisfied smile Well done.Ye’ll both make fine blacksmiths some day. Now let’s go to The Stout Shield and grab a few pints of ale. I’ll buy ye a round. You’ve earned it Just then, the eastern gate tower collapsed with a thundering noise. They turned around just in time to see a giant black serpentine form with batlike wings passing overhead. A dragon! Durik shouted Into the cellar! Now! Tengron stood motionless in the doorway watching the beast flap it’s wings once more, then turn around for another run with somewhat devilish grace. A firm shake form Durik awoke him from contemplation and they hurried toward the stairs. Suddenly, the room was filled with a green smoke that seemed to burn wood, stone, metal and skin alike. Tengron collapsed on his knees in pain, gasping for a breath of fresh air. Then everything started to spin around him. Then darkness. Chapter 2-The awakening I think I saw something moving. Where? Behind that pile of rubble. Let’s go check it out then. Tengron was awakened by the sound of those two voices; he felt pain coming from every part of his body. He couldn’t remember where he was or how he’d gotten there. All he could see was a big slab of granite that had collapsed, trapping him underneath. Help! he tried to shout, but all that came out was an indistinct mumble. Still, the voices drew closer, and he saw the head of a man above him It’s going to be all right We’ll get you out of here .But first, this shall ease your pain. You look in pretty bad shape. The stranger whispered a few words and then put his hand on his forehead. Tengron could feel his wounds closing and some of the pain disappeared. After more than half an hour of effort, the two men managed to extract the battered dwarf from among the ruins. Welcome back among the living, my friend! I am Templar Karrath, a humble servant of the Flame, and this is Arend, my brother-in-faith and companion. May we know your name in return? Ten-gron Ir…Ironfist. It was clear that even speaking meant a significant effort for the dwarf. Rest now, Tengron. You have suffered many injuries. For now I can do little else than ease your pain, but tomorrow we shall carry you to Helm’s Keep, where you may receive proper healing. Chapter 3-The temple The dragon made yet another pass over the citadel, foul acidic fumes spilling forth from his jaws and burning everything in their wake. The moans of the wounded, the terrified screams of women, children and men alike were filling the streets. Only here and there a few brave warriors tried to make a stand against the beast. But their crossbow bolts bounced harmlessly off the thick armored scales. A knock in the door awoke Tengron from his reverie. In front of him stood templar Karrath, in full battle gear. The search parties have just returned from the city of Dale. We found nobody else. I am sorry. The dwarf fell silent, overwhelmed by the realization that he had lost everything he’d ever known, everything that mattered. I know it is difficult for you, but you must harden yourself and go further. When evil strikes us, we must strike back. This deed will not go unpunished and, Flame-willing, someday it might very well be your hand that pierces the dragon’s foul heart. A sad shade of a smile appeared on Tengron’s face. That might work for you, templar, but I’m no warrior. I am but a humble blacksmith. So what? Being a hero lies not in the strength of your arms or in the power of your spells. Being a hero lies in your heart. Replied Karrath with a smart grin. Chapter 4-The blacksmith, Take 2 For the past 2 years, Tengron had been working as a blacksmith at the Silver Flame temple of Helm’s Keep. These men had saved his life and offered him a new home without asking for anything in return. So he worked as hard as he could to repay them. He rarely thought about the destruction of Dale anymore, although he would still have nightmares about foul marshes and black dragons for time to time. Heed my words, people of The Mighty One! For centuries we have been divided. For centuries we have fought each other. For centuries we have been spat upon. Hobgoblins, they say. Mindless barbarians. Slaughter them all. But now we stand united. All under same flag. Unstoppable. And the world shall tremble. Kings shall cower in fear at the sight of our hordes. We shall defeat their armies! Burn their cities! Pillage their riches! Enslave their women and children! And come home in honor and glory! Sharpen your swords, my warriors! You shall soon need them, for today we march upon the kingdom of Riedra! Helm’s Keep had been under siege for almost a month, and there was no relief in sight. The army of Riedra, along with most of the Knights of the Flame was fighting in the south, trying to hold of the bulk of the hobgoblin forces. But Bishop-militant Gardon was not too worried. He had solid, dwarven-built 3ft. thick stone walls, more than 100 knights and paladins, twice as many auxiliary troops and enough supplies to last for a year. On the other side stood almost 1000 seasoned hobgoblin warriors, lead by the cunning chieftain Urthok. He knew he couldn’t climb the walls, but he didn’t need too. When Garond found out about the tunnels it was too late. The night was cold, and the rain made them all feel it even more. Tengron, like all the other men able to wield a weapon stood alongside the regular troops, awaiting the unavoidable hobgoblin assault. A 20ft. wide section of the west wall collapsed and hobgoblins began pouring in through the breach. A fierce fighting ensued, but despite taking heavy casualties, none of the paladins in the front rank stepped back. They had held of the first wave. But then the second wave came, led by Urthok himself. The chieftain was a giant, towering a good couple of feet above the rest of the his warriors, and his great strength made men fly left and right with each axe swing. The first line collapsed under the pressure, and the hobgoblins smashed into the ranks of the volunteers, which began to scatter almost immediately. Seeing men running for their lives, Tengron knew it would be wise to follow. But he couldn’t take his eyes off the axe-swinging brute, who drew closer and closer which each hit. Before he knew it they stood face to face. The axe rose once more, ready to fall and end another life. But it never did. Tengron thrust his spear forward, a last futile and defiant gesture. And in Urthok’s eyes, savage fury was replaced by surprise and fear, as he looked down and saw that the tip of the spear had slipped between two armor plates and into his chest. The fall of the giant made the hobgoblin horde waver. This allowed Gardon and the remaining troops to mount a counter-attack and push them out of the city. Tengron Ironfist, your heroic actions were instrumental in saving the fortress of Helm’s Keep from the foul hobgoblins. For that we are grateful. Gardon’s voice echoed in the great temple hall. You are much-favored by the Flame, so I feel it is just to ask you become a knight of our order. In time, Flame-willing, maybe even the gift of divine magic will bestowed upon you. What say you? Milord, your offer is most generous, but I… (Remember, Tengron, being a hero lies in your heart)… I accept. Chapter 5-The dragon Three men, two humans and a dwarf were slowly making their way through the dark, muddy waters of the swamp. It won’t be long now. Judging by the smell and looks of these things, said Tengron looking at a half-eaten carcass that was floating nearby his lair can’t be too far. They walked forward in silence for the next few minutes, when the youngest of his companions slowly tapped the dwarf’s shoulder, pointing toward a rocky hill, half covered in grass and small bushes. I think there might be something over there. Those bushes…too much alike…as if grown on purpose. A closer investigation quickly revealed the mouth of a cave hidden behind a dense curtain of vegetation. This is it, my friends Tengron turned toward his companions. I appreciate your help so far, but from now on I must walk alone. Return to the others. If I am not back by nightfall, you know what to do. May the light of the Flame guide your path. The two men nodded in acknowledgement. Good luck! And do come back in one piece. Tengron walked deeper into the cave, constantly examining his surroundings for any sign of danger. He had used all the defensive magic he could cast, he was ready. Now all I need to do is find the damn beast before most of it wears off. Dragons were cunning adversaries, and the beast was sure to have some surprises for uninvited guests. Still, Flame-willing, I shall prevail. He made his way toward a large hall. Scores of coins, gems, ornate weapons and other valuables were scattered around, but no sign of dragon. As he took the first step into the hall, the entrance collapsed, covering Tengron in a hail of rubble and dust. At the same time, a big, lizardlike form crawled out of a small pond at the side of the hall. What have we here? A little dwarf. A pretty scary looking little dwarf if I might say, with all that arms and armor. May I enquire what brings you to my lair? You have slaughtered countless innocents, pillaged cities and brought terror to this world. I am here to put an end to all this in the name of the Silver Flame. And avenge my brethren that you slaughter in the city of Dale. Brave words, my little dwarf, but without equally brave deeds to back them up, they mean nothing. And the beast spat forth a deadly cloud of acid. But this time Tengron was prepared. When the smoke cleared, he stood unscratched among the debris, defiant. The dragon looked puzzled at first, then annoyed. This had never happened before. So it charged forth with deadly teeth and razor-sharp claws, to tear the intruder apart. Tengron drew his axe, decided to stand his ground. Flame, give me strength he whispered, and he felt his strength grow and his hands become one with the axe. Who goes there? the sentinel looked half worried and half scared as he readied his spear. Keeping watch near a dragon’s lair was not part of his usual activities. Easy, lad. You won’t be needing that. said a battered Tengron as he emerged from the swamp. The dragon is no more, praised be the Flame was his response to the dozen of curious eyes that surrounded him as soon as he reached the camp. Now bring forth that ale, for it is time to celebrate It took more than 3 days for the dragon’s entire hoard to be taken out of the cave and loaded onto the horses. Tengron donated most of it to the church of the Flame keeping only the hide of the beast for himself, from which he had a skilled armorsrmith craft a full plate in remembrance of his victory. Chapter 6-The necromancers You wanted to see me, Keeper Karrath? Yes, Tengron. Do have a seat. and the Keeper of the Flame gestured toward a chair across the table. It’s been a long time since we had the chance to talk, my friend, too long… …so, these necromantic cults have existed among the people of the North for many hundreds of years, bound together more by sharing the same rites and beliefs regarding the Divinity Within than by any form of coherent organization. However, their recent attempts to extend into the northern portion of Riedra have shown an unprecedented level of organization. I fear that somebody, or something, has finally managed to unite these Children of Blood, as they call themselves, and steer them toward a common goal, which can only be evil and destructive. And we, as defenders of the Light in this world, cannot allow that to happen. I want you to go to the North, Tengron, find what’s really going on there and put an end to it. To accomplish this you may make full use of all our resources in the area, which, sadly, are quite few. Very well, Keeper, I will do as you command and, Flame-willing, I’ll come back victorious. Good luck, my friend, and may the Flame light your path! Chapter 7-The lich queen Spirit of the Flame, hear my prayer Sharpen my sword, Harden my armor, And strengthen my soul against temptations of Evil. For you are the light that guides us all, And the fire… A knock in the door interrupted Tengron’s prayer. Pardon me, Sir, but you requested to be announced when we have the island in sight. Tengron opened the door and stepped onto the deck of the Asmerald. The rocky coast of Skarrok island could be clearly seen on the horizon. Three months of investigation, 60 of the Flame’s finest soldiers and the monthly supply ship. All of this to kill or capture the unseen leader of the Children of Blood. It was a bold plan but Tengron had faith that the element of surprise and the sheer quality of his men would bring him victory. He’d better go below. Soon the Asmerald would become clearly visible from the island, and the presence of a dwarf armed to the teeth on the deck might arise a few suspicions. Faster, you lazy bastards! I ain’t got all day. Open the cargo doors and start unloading. Or else there’s 30 lashes for each of you. The large hatch that covered the main cargo bay of the Asmerald was slowly being lifted. Onward! For the Silver Flame! Purge this city! The soldiers of the Flame charged forth, then swept across the settlement like a tidal wave, heading for a nearby hill, from which a pretty imposing manor overlooked the harbor. Most of the defenders were too surprised to react, and the few who did were quickly put to the sword. Tengron and 4 of his companions stopped before a large, reinforced wooden door. This has to be it. The Throne Room. Harod, if you please…A man dressed in white robes stepped forth and made a few cryptic gestures. The door burst open, revealing a large, circular hall, with a throne made of what appeared to be human bones at the far end. On the throne stood a humanoid figure, but it’s dried out skin was covered with black scales, and a pair of bat-like wings extended form her back. A lich, without doubt, one with draconic blood. A truly fearsome foe. Around her stood in a protective circle 8 figures covered in black chain robes, each holding a flail. The lich rose from throne and spoke Looks like I have underestimated the cunning of you, Flame-lovers. You came sooner than I expected. Never mind. For this is as far as you get. You will endure tortures beyond imagination, and when you are finally slain, I shall rise you to serve as my faithful Death Knights. This remains to be seen, who slays who in the end whispered Tengron. For the Flame my friends! Show no mercy to this vile undead. Weapons clashed and magical energies filled the air as the battle was joined. Tengron buried his blade deep into the side of the last remaining death knight, which stumbled to the ground. He stepped over the body toward the wounded lich, who had retreated to the far end of the room. You might have won this battle, Flame-lover, but the war has just begun. You haven’t seen the last of me yet. And then she rose her hands in the air invoking the magic of Plane Shift. Like hell you are! Tengron hurled himself forward, blade first. The axe struck the lich in the chest, just as she was finishing her spell. The now out of control arcane energies engulfed both of them, and they disappeared. ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ This is the story of a 9th level (Cleric 8/Dragonslayer 1) character I have only recently started playing in a homebrew world. What do you think? Any comments or suggestions would greatly be appreciated. And thank you for having the patience to read thus far.
Staver 03-04-08, 12:58 PM	Wow, this forum is busy! This post slid way down the page since I last looked at it. Let me give you a :bump: and a compliment. While the whole "everyone I know has been killed, and now I'm an adventurer" thing has been done to death, I think you've done a much better job than most at writing it. There are a few minor grammar errors, but I know that's not what you're looking for here. Anyhow, my primary concern deals with the Dragon. What Dragonslayer PrC are you using? I'm guessing one of the prereqs is to have killed a Dragon single-handedly? Dragons are very hard to kill, even with a prepared party, if run well by the DM, so the fact that your char was able to kill one so easily in its lair leads me to believe that it was a fairly young, weak Dragon. I'm curious as to how much of this is backstory, and how much actual game play. If I had to guess, I'd say at least the Dragon was just backstory and not played through. Not sure about the Lich Queen though. It would be a heck of place to start a campaign, "okay, you're on another plane of existence, with no way back, and your axe stuck in a Lich. What do you do?" -Staver :D
Drag0nUL 03-05-08, 11:15 AM	Wow, this forum is busy! This post slid way down the page since I last looked at it. Let me give you a :bump: and a compliment. While the whole "everyone I know has been killed, and now I'm an adventurer" thing has been done to death, I think you've done a much better job than most at writing it. There are a few minor grammar errors, but I know that's not what you're looking for here. Thank you. Anyhow, my primary concern deals with the Dragon. What Dragonslayer PrC are you using? I'm guessing one of the prereqs is to have killed a Dragon single-handedly? Dragons are very hard to kill, even with a prepared party, if run well by the DM, so the fact that your char was able to kill one so easily in its lair leads me to believe that it was a fairly young, weak Dragon. I am using Dragonslayer for Draconomicon. I first wrote the dragon part of the story without thinking too much about the mechanical aspect of it. However, later I decided to run a mock-up battle between this cleric(at level 7 since he took the dragonslayer level as his 8th character level) and a Young Adult Black Dragon(CR 9) to see just how plausible was this story. Out of 6-7 times I've run the battle, the cleric won twice. So, while unlikely, it was by no means impossible. I'm curious as to how much of this is backstory, and how much actual game play. If I had to guess, I'd say at least the Dragon was just backstory and not played through. Not sure about the Lich Queen though. It would be a heck of place to start a campaign, "okay, you're on another plane of existence, with no way back, and your axe stuck in a Lich. What do you do?" Actually it is all backstory. The campaign started with all the PC's being thrown onto this plane from various locations and from various reasons. However, the Lich Queen is somewhere around here as well, and will probably seek revenge.
Staver 03-05-08, 03:28 PM	Very cool! Well, I hope it works out for you. Looks good to me. I hope others are inspired to comment... -Staver :D
Drackthor 03-05-08, 05:17 PM	I can't wait for the next chapter! Keep up the good work!