Post/Author/DateTime	Post
Drindin 01-10-06, 01:36 AM	You approach the little hut, located somewhere on faerun tucked away in an unnamed forest, near a series of tall unnamed mountains. Drindin is standing at the door, a grave look on his face. He sighs as you approach, a sigh of relief. "Thank the gods you all made it... please, come in... we have bad news." You are led into the small wooden hut by the darkly clad man, who you would place at fourty. He has pallid skin, and a look in his eyes that makes you think of icebergs floating on a dead ocean on a moonless decembers night... You recognize him as Drindin Trunin, the eldest of the three remaining Trunins... Inside, you are met by a single-roomed adobe, with two beds in it. A wood stove is roaring and filling the room with heat, and a series of kettles seem to be kept at an eternal boil, filling the room with humidity. Your lungs take their time to adjust... You look over, and see yet another middleaged man. This one has a grizzled look about him, and a few flecks of gray in his other wise black hair and unshaven beard. He has scars aplenty on his arms, and he is built like a man who is trained to fight. His eyes are a similar blue, though not as cold as the other man's. You recognize him as the younger brother of the other man, Shades Trunin. He is crouched by a bed... holding the hand of a young girl no older than twelve... A brown haired beauty... with frail, gentle features... and pale, soft skin. She is sleeping, but you more than suspect she would have cold blue eyes were she to open them... She is Krissy, the youngest remaining member of the Trunin clan. And she is sick... Shades sobs. "By the gods, Krissy... hold on... please..." Her murmurs to her form, stroking hair from her face. Drindin looks at you. "She hasn't got long..." He states. "And there is only one chance for her. But I must know before I tell you... will you, or will you not, help this young girl? For her... for shades, for me... for the entire future of the Trunin family?"
Elvina 01-10-06, 06:01 PM	She stands with her hands folded in front of her, her head down and lost in the shadows of her cloak. Her eyes are wet as she looks up at Drindin and utters one simple word, simple in saying, yet express mulititudes in sympathy "Yes."
Agudo Archmage 01-10-06, 07:07 PM	The wind was bitterly cold as it blew through the frost covered trees even the sun barley pierced the misty shrouded mountain peaks this day. Treading along the off beaten path of patchy snow a lone figure in thick dark brown britches and a deep copper colored woolen jacket; breathes heavily as he rests a leather gloved hand on the bark of a tree trunk. Looking about eyeing the frosty realm all along praying that his path was straight and true for it had been several days since this lone adventure had seen another soul. Just then a loud squawk could be heard in one of the branches as a large bird took to flight Glancing at the fast disappearing fowl in the sky he shook his head in somnolent laughter. For over the tree tops could be seen the clear sign of civilization that being the slow rising smoke from what he hope was an inviting warm hearth and good food. With a continuing chuckle the heat from this weary traveler breath can be seen floating away caught up in the cold wind “Well...well my journey has a happy ending after all! No sad Bards tale for you ...at least not yet. Talking to no one in particular he continued on with every other step causing the fallen branches from the heavy laden snow covered trees to snap and crack beneath his dark boots. Walking around the bend of an outcropping of large rocks hidden within the forest The exhausted traveler came upon what he had long sought. So.....this is the humble abode of the now declining Trunin family Brushing his salt and pepper hair with his free hand Keldorn Firecam hoisted his military backpack with the other hand causing the emblem of his Order to be clearly seen on it back Out of the small ramshackle shelter came a brooding if familiar figure. Drindin as ever looked at him with cool blue eyes but for once seem truly happy to see him Drindin "Thank the gods you all made it....... Speaking in a deep baritone voice “Hail old comrade.... By all that is Righteous and Good! I was able heed your call of aid all those weeks ago when your letter arrived at your former Headmaster school. trying not to stumble on the slick ground as he came closer I was staying there at the school while on my way to Baldur’s Gate on a diplomatic mission for my Order when we received news from you By the way this is good as time as any to say that Agudo sends word he is truly cheered that you live once more And was most happy to inform your former class of students that you taught not so long ago of your joyess return to the living. Then stopping near the door he smiled “That includes me as well that’s why I came to help my old brooding comrade Drindin I just wish it was under more pleasant times for your letter seem very dire indeed. I spent more than a week trying to track down your ..... Glancing about the humble home as the wind picked up causing Firecam to shake within himself despite his heavy gear on “Your hideout You made sure it wasn’t easy to find you or your family. Drindin seem to frown at those last words of his family Drindin ....please, come in... we have bad news." Not speaking further until inside the much need shelter Firecam the elder statesmen of the Radiant Heart Order slowly put down his backpack clanking as it touched the ground by the wall. For within were his armor and other necessities of travel of any adventure. The only weapon seen on his fit body despite his age is his jeweled two handed sword that hung about the backstrap of his coat. Seeing the poor girl and the obviously distraught brother of Drindin hovering over her not even bothering too see who had come in the Knight tried to keep silent as he gratefully moved closer to the wood burning stove Taking off his leather gloves as the Knight warmed himself over the steaming kettles of water Shades spoke. Shades sobs. "By the gods, Krissy... hold on... please..." Her murmurs to her form, stroking hair from her face. At the sound of the man's pain Keldorn moved closer putting his hand on the shoulder of Shades as Drindin spoke up Only then did the Knight see the lovely assistant and respected student of Agudo off in the darken corner of the room. Drindin But I must know before I tell you... will you, or will you not, help this young girl? Elvina She stands with her hands folded in front of her, her head down and lost in the shadows of her cloak. Her eyes are wet as she looks up at Drindin and utters one simple word, simple in saying, yet express multitudes in sympathy "Yes." Turning Firecam nodded at Elvina and then Drindin waiting for the grim man to bring more clarity to what has taken place.
Khaira 01-10-06, 07:50 PM	Soaring through the air on the great, untiring wings of her faithful companion and mount, Swiftwing, Khaira flew high above within the enveloping obscurity of the drifting motions of the clouds. She had received a call here, to this new destination, to reslove another great conflict. It seemed, to her, that she had been doing a lot of traveling lately ... far too much. Her limbs, these days, felt the ache more and more. Perhaps it was the beginnings of the Call? Or perhaps it was only due to the stress that she had endured these fast few tenday's. It was, after all, not an easy journey that she had endured. No, far from it... She wasn't sure that she had even fully healed from the stresses of that journey. Oh, sure, she had healed physically from it but ... psychologically and mentally ... she would probably never be the same again. It was as her closest friends had always said, though, 'The road leads ever on.' With that last thought in mind, Khaira saw the great mass of a forest. She would probably have to by foot for now ... the trees would undoubtedly be too thick for her to be able to spot a decent clearing in which to land. With a seemingly maddening, suicidal dive, Khaira and Swiftwing plummeted to the ground in a swiftly spiraling motion. At the last moment, Swiftwing leveled his body, and after coming just a few feet from the ground, Khaira leapt from her companion's back, landing with a swift-footed stance on the ground. Nodding to Swiftwing, Khaira began to make her way through the forest, picking out a path to walk. Her bronze, tanned complexion shone with a radiant sheen, and her emerald green eyes gazed to both sides of her and straight ahead, to the path that she had picked for herself. Her auburn colored hair shot wildly in a thousand different directions, bouncing with a wild fervor as her graceful step carried calmly, silently down the path towards her destination. Her clothes, black and tight fitting, clung closely to her sensual, lithe body, seeming to suggest something more... Minutes Later... Khaira was there, then, and having been invited in, she surveyed the dismal scene before her. Krissy was still sick. Shades was grief-stricken. Even Drindin, the normally coldly calm individual, seemed to be grieving and at a loss. Stepping forward, smiling sympathetically and her emerald green eyes shining warmly, Khaira spoke, her musical voice seeming to fill the very room with warmth, compassion, and love. But I must know before I tell you... will you, or will you not, help this young girl? "Drindin ... my love ... I would not be here if my intent was not to complete this task to the end."
ruthia 01-10-06, 10:35 PM	Moving quietly through the forest, a ghost among the animals and the trees, Ruthia approaches her final destination. She could have done this faster, she could have placed herself right in the house had she wanted to. But the events of the past ten days have caused her to be more cautious in her actions, more calculating about how she spends her energy. She walks the winding path and looks up as if sensing something moving above her. She nods to herself slightly and quickens her pace through the woods, the branches scratching at her lightly but leaving few marks. Minutes later: She stands with the others near Krissy's bed, one step behind Khaira, almost her shadow in a sense. She listens to Khaira's words and at first feels no complusion to answer with her own. But with a quick glance downward she looks back up and Drindin and says in a very very quiet voice "With you till the end Drindin."
Taeldrin Laesrash 01-11-06, 10:48 AM	I don't see why in the Hells we have to do this. The letter's recipient is probably dead or something. But we got this letter by mistake. We have to return this letter, it'll make your conscience feel better. And I'm returning the letter, aren't I? Fine. But remember, it was your windwheel device that got us into this, and you'll get us out of this. The sending spell ended inside Cordelia's head. Her master seemed immune to reasoning today. It wasn't her fault that her latest creation had caught a letter flying in the wind. And it was certainly out of the kindness of her heart that she was giving it back to the people who had sent it. Cordelia pulled her cloak around her more tightly. The mountain air was far different from her village back in the Dales, much colder and fiercer. When her apprenticeship ended and she made a living as a smith, the first thing she decided to do was to buy some warmer clothes. As a small house appeared amongst the frostbitten trees, Cordelia started running towards it, eager to find a lit fire. As she reached the door, she took the unopened letter out of her breast pocket, and checked the address. There was none, except noting that it should go to someone called Trunin. Shrugging, she walked inside. Opening the door, a young human female walks in. She brushes the frost off of her amber hair, she looks around the small house and calls, Is this a Mister Trunin's house? I need to return this letter.
Drindin 01-11-06, 05:52 PM	Shades and Drindin both look up to the young woman, and the poor sick Krissy can be seen on the bed quite clearly... They both look at each other for a minute. "Yes... and it would appear fate has brought a stranger to our door..."
Taeldrin Laesrash 01-11-06, 07:23 PM	Have I come at a bad time? Cordelia asks. Seeing the girl lying on the bed, she slowly walks towards the people gathered near the bed. I just need to give this to its sender, and I can be on my way.
Drindin 01-11-06, 08:49 PM	Have I come at a bad time? Cordelia asks. Seeing the girl lying on the bed, she slowly walks towards the people gathered near the bed. I just need to give this to its sender, and I can be on my way. "She is sick." Drindin states. "Dieing. Very little time left for her... three weeks, two months at the most." He sighs. "Hand me the letter..." As Cordelia hands it to him, Shades looks up. "Such a thing would not have fallen into your hands by chance. We took many measures to make certain the letters would reach their recipients. Even magical measures... the fact you have one, means that, even if we did not mean it, the letter was fated for you."
Taeldrin Laesrash 01-12-06, 08:59 AM	Hmmm. I don't think my master will like it if he knows I've been chosen for something by destiny. But really? I hope I can help in some way.
Drindin 01-13-06, 07:14 PM	Drindin forces a small smile. "For tonight, you all shall rest here. Prepare yourselves. In the morrow, we will go out into the mountains to seek an old friend of mine who may know of a way we can help her... I can only hope."
ruthia 01-14-06, 12:06 PM	Once that was all said and done, Ruthia looks around the small room, taken count and measure of those here. She spots a figure to the side and a sly grin crosses her face. o O(hhmmm.......think Drinny will mind If I have a helping of fresh roasted Knight?) With an almost evil grin she moves gracefully to Keldorn's side and looks him over before looking back to where Khaira and Drindin are standing o O(I mean, I'll share him if I have to, but he's probaly a stringy old thing.) With a mischievous grin Ruthia kisses Keldorn's cheek and backs away with a soft "Nice to see your still alive Knight of the Radiant Heart." She makes her way out of the house and back to the woods. o O(Let me know when we leave, I'll stay out here so I behave myself.....)
Agudo Archmage 01-14-06, 12:56 PM	Taeldrin Laesrash Opening the door, a young human female walks in. She brushes the frost off of her amber hair, she looks around the small house and calls, Is this a Mister Trunin's house? I need to return this letter.......... Have I come at a bad time? Cordelia asks. Seeing the girl lying on the bed, she slowly walks towards the people gathered near the bed. I just need to give this to its sender, and I can be on my way............ Hmmm. I don't think my master will like it if he knows I've been chosen for something by destiny. But really? I hope I can help in some way. Turning from Shades and Krissy the elder Knight Gave a polite small bow to the woman ((Cordelia)) You must forgive our host he and his family are under allot of pressure or I am sure they would have asked your lovely name young lady A moment latter the host did speak up but less forth coming than the Knight had hope. For It would seem Drindin was hiding something for almost no tidbits about what has befallen Krissy was given Drindin "For tonight, you all shall rest here. Prepare yourselves. In the morrow, we will go out into the mountains to seek an old friend of mine who may know of a way we can help her... I can only hope." Its clear the you girl is sick and we have all come along way just on your word my friend But what happen Drindin to make her so? Ruthia Once that was all said and done, Ruthia looks around the small room, taken count and measure of those here. She spots a figure to the side and a sly grin crosses her face. o O(hhmmm.......think Drinny will mind If I have a helping of fresh roasted Knight?) With an almost evil grin she moves gracefully to Keldorn's side and looks him over before looking back to where Khaira and Drindin are standing o O(I mean, I'll share him if I have to, but he's probably a stringy old thing.) With a mischievous grin Ruthia kisses Keldorn's cheek and backs away with a soft "Nice to see your still alive Knight of the Radiant Heart." The smell of brimstone was clear as the sly scaly vixen came up to him Raising an eyebrow and crossing his arms the Knight gave a bemused look “Yes alive despite the disappointment in your voice Ruthia Yet I must say your actions remind me of a story about Judas and the Kiss! Then waving his hand as if to change the subject I am here to aid the young lass and will not endanger her life for old scores. Keldorn eyed Khaira more than Ruthia with those last words After the dragoness had step outside Firecam walked over to his backpack and sat down slowly to prepare for the next trek of the journy.
Drindin 01-14-06, 01:06 PM	As the one Knight exits, another enters. At the door now stands, tall and proud as ever, with his wild red hair, the good knight Reginald. He walks in, looking to Drindin. "So, it is true, then? The sickness... it has finally taken hold of her?" He asks Drindin. Drindin nods slowly. "She's always been weak... but in the past months, she's been getting more and more ill. She can hardly speak now. Her words... incoherent, sometimes erratic and meaningless." Reginald shakes his head. "By the gods..." He sees Elvina, and smiles weakly. "Elvina, my dear..."
Elvina 01-14-06, 01:15 PM	Elvina utters no words, since none are need or will help at this point. She seems unsurprised as Drindin tells what is happening with Krissy. She moves to Reginalds side and presses her side against his as she looks at Krissy with sad eyes, o O(i owe krissy so much......I hope she survives this, poor child.)
Taeldrin Laesrash 01-14-06, 01:57 PM	Turning to the man who had asked for her name, Cordelia bows deeply. My name is Cordelia Mistlehands, of Mistledale. What is yours, good sir?
Agudo Archmage 01-17-06, 06:47 PM	Cordelia Turning to the man who had asked for her name, Cordelia bows deeply. My name is Cordelia Mistlehands, of Mistledale. What is yours, good sir? Looking up from his travel pack laying his head against the ramshackle hut wall Firecam gave a weary smile at the young lass. My lady forgive me if I don’t get up and commence with the traditional knightly chivalry by kissing your hand. For I have spent many a day and night coming here and have worn out these old bones of mine Never the less fair maiden it is an honor to make your acquaintance this day. I hope you dont mind if I offer you my title and name as well With a slight bow of his head he spoke with a clear and deep voice for intentional dramatics I am Keldorn Firecam of the Radiant Heart Order from the renowned southern lands of Amn Then closing his eyes Keldorn stiffened a yawn and rub his slat and peper hair Tell me though where is your home? I don’t believe I have heard of Mitledale before.
Khaira 01-17-06, 08:51 PM	o O(hhmmm.......think Drinny will mind If I have a helping of fresh roasted Knight?) With an almost evil grin she moves gracefully to Keldorn's side and looks him over before looking back to where Khaira and Drindin are standing o O(I mean, I'll share him if I have to, but he's probaly a stringy old thing.) With a mischievous grin Ruthia kisses Keldorn's cheek and backs away with a soft "Nice to see your still alive Knight of the Radiant Heart." She makes her way out of the house and back to the woods. o O(Let me know when we leave, I'll stay out here so I behave myself.....) Khaira smirked at that, her eyes twinkling with a certain mischevious merrimenet. o O(Oh, I don't think so, dear. What's one less blind, foolish Knight to the world? Only ... I get to tear a piece out first. Nodding to Ruthia as she passed, Khaira nonchalantly flipped her hair, regarding both her and the knight that had been - or still was? - her enemy. o O (Why naturally, my dear. I, the most troublesome of us all, shall ensure you stay out of trouble. Makes sense, doesn't it?) Then waving his hand as if to change the subject I am here to aid the young lass and will not endanger her life for old scores. Keldorn eyed Khaira more than Ruthia with those last words Flashing a mockingly innocent smile Keldorn's way, Khaira bowed to him, sliding a finger across her throat as she rose back up. Her eyes flashed dangerously - and mischeviously - in Keldorn's direction before she walked forward, her hands now held behind her back. "Well, now, Keldorn the Foolish, that is fortunate. Fortunate for you, I should say. You see, this is such a nice house and ... well..." Shrugging with a smile, she winked at Keldorn as she began to circle around him, like a prowling animal. "...your blood isn't pure enough to paint the walls of this abode, unfortunately, and I'd hate to have tainted blood on Drindin's place. Besides, then there's the body to consider. And Swiftwing simply isn't that hungry, really. Canned lunch just isn't the same, you know." Drindin nods slowly. "She's always been weak... but in the past months, she's been getting more and more ill. She can hardly speak now. Her words... incoherent, sometimes erratic and meaningless." Leaving Keldorn's side, Khaira moved over to Drindin, her eyes holding a sympathetic look. Softly, she touched his shoulder, whispering into his ear. "Love, we will be with you - and Krissy - until the end of all things, if that is what is required to heal Krissy." The soft, brushing of her lips against the skin of his cheek was all the marked her seemingly ghost-like passing as she moved to follow Ruthia outside.
Taeldrin Laesrash 01-20-06, 08:40 PM	Cordelia kneels down in front the knight, showing her respect for the warrior. Mistledale, sir, is a place a few miles south of here. It's a peacful town, despite the madness around it. Maybe you could go there at some time?
Drindin 01-21-06, 12:19 AM	Drindin forced a smile hiding his grim sadness. "I know, my love, I know." He looks at her and Ruthia, as they leave. He follows them shortly after. "You two... you must make a promise too me. I know you have both had a... falling out, of sorts, with the Knightly Firecam... but whatever your quarell, you must leave it behind at the trial." He sighs, looking at the two. "The success of our mission, and Krissy's life, may very well depend on our groups cohesiveness and ability to work together... Maryks is a madman, but he is our only hope. No doubt tracking him will challenge all of our abilities and, knowing him, force us to face our most dire fears... whatever they may be."
ruthia 01-21-06, 12:10 PM	Ruthia sighs and cast Khaira a look before bowing to Drindin slightly. She fixes her pale blue eyes on him and says in a serious tone. "As you wish, eldest of the Turins. For Krissy, and only for Krissy, will I work with the man who almost killed Branth and Khaira." She looks at Drindin a moment more before leaning against a tree with her eyes closed o O(But that doesn't mean I have to stop thinking about roast the tin can man does it?)
Khaira 01-21-06, 08:30 PM	He looks at her and Ruthia, as they leave. He follows them shortly after. "You two... you must make a promise too me. I know you have both had a... falling out, of sorts, with the Knightly Firecam... but whatever your quarell, you must leave it behind at the trial." Khaira turned, regarding Drindin carefully. This was her love asking her of this ... and what's more, this was the mission he was speaking of... With a resigned sigh and more than just a little grumbling, Khaira nodded. "Fine. I won't kill him ... not until Krissy's problem has been dealt with. That is, after, the very reason I am here..." Khaira's eyes glinted dangerously perhaps even with a hint of maliciousness, as she leaned close to Drindin. "...you have no idea just how much of a quarrel I have with that damned knight, love. If it were anyone other than you and Krissy's life at stake, I would tell you to go for a walk in the Abyss. I won't kill him ... but there's not stopping any accidents happening after this is all over ... or even along the way." Khaira smiled and leaned close, her eyes and tone a little softer this time. "I won't kill him during this adventure, love ... even though you request much of me. If you know me as well as you think you do, you'd know that I can't leave the quarrel at the trial ... it was - and still is - much, much more than a quarrel. But for you and Krissy, I will endure his arrogance..." Khaira turned and began walking away again, calling over her shoulder as she walked. "...but you'd best pray to the gods that he doesn't get in my way or attempt to preach justice to me. There are, after all, fates worse than death ... especially for men." Khaira walked through the forest, making her way for a clearing where she could call Swiftwing. O . o (Don't worry, arwenamin ... I'll be thinking about doing much, much more than simply roasting him. Simple roasting is not good enough for Keldorn...)
ruthia 01-21-06, 08:41 PM	Ruthia's eyes snap open and she looks at Drindin, a smirck appearing on her face, though for gods only know what reason. She looks Drindin over once more and says "If the Knight is as smart as he says he is, then he would be best to let sleeping dragons lie durning this trip friend. Khaira's problem with him is nothing compared to mine...he spilt family blood and he will pay with his own. But for this trip...I will let it lie." Ruthia raises her eyes to a distant speck in the sky. She then gives Drinny a look an moves to the far side of the clearing and sits, falling into a trance as she comminicates with home..
Agudo Archmage 01-22-06, 08:18 PM	OOC lol sorry your post was well made and wonderfully done sadly it was so small that it was squished between the other posts...my fault lol leaving a Lady waiting so long ;) Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Taeldrin Laesrash Cordelia kneels down in front the knight, showing her respect for the warrior Mistledale, sir, is a place a few miles south of here. It's a peaceful town, despite the madness around it. Maybe you could go there at some time?. The elder knight puts one hand on his heart as he comes closer My lady of virtue please rise far be it from me to not aid the call of a woman in need Then taking her hand he places a soft kiss upon her delicate wrist. Pray tell what harms your quaint villa Cordelia? In fact as we talk of your land allow me to cook some meat for us ...besides after talking with Ruthia Im in the mood for Lizard Stew care for any? Traveling as I do I have come to be a rather adequate chef. Firecam takes out fresh kill he had wrapped in his travel-pack that was hunted down just hours before coming here Keldorn then places it in one of the already boiling pots and cuts up some onions and mushrooms with verity of peppers. I learned this after slaying my first evil dragon as a young knight The nasty beast was terrifying a small Halfling village As Knights of Righteousness we were obligated to hunt the nasty creature down My band of adventures were famished after days of travel and fighting in the mountains We ended up being trap in an icy cave until the thaw of winter was over...well .... He chuckles Let’s just say the plump horde treasure we donated to our beloved temples was reward for our spirits Yet it was the fat of that beast that kept the body alive. Laughing as he looks down at his boots taping them on the ground I made these from the Dragon as well....I must say their rugged back hides sure can last after all these years
Taeldrin Laesrash 01-27-06, 08:53 PM	Surely a bold traveler like yourself hasn't heard of the vile dorw or the ruthless Zhents? The Dales are going through alot these years. Own town, though, seems to be passed by it all, though. It's a lovely place, you really should visit it sometime. (OOC: Long time in the making, I know. It took a PM from Agudo to finally get me off my rear and type.)
Agudo Archmage 01-28-06, 05:59 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-anim.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley (To Shave Or Not to Shave?) Hovering over the boiling pot like a master chef in some nobles house Firecam took a couple of tastes and smiled with delight. Ahhh yes its ready He put down the spoon as he turned to the brave maiden Cordelia who had traveled here from her far off home land Pouring some into a couple of small bowls he sat down on a stool nearby then offered a steaming portion to the lass with some fresh rye bread to go with it Shades good fellow! I would offer some to Krissy but she seems to be a sleep and from the looks of it she needs her rest. Yet I have made plenty for all here Shade please help yourself Perhaps when your brother comesback in from the cold with the Bardess and her pet Ruthia they will like some as well Hehehe well... He Chuckled Perhaps not Ruthia! Dragons can be so sensitive to Lizard stew Then turning to eye the sweet young lady Cordelia the Knight smiled Your homeland sounds like a most divine a place for an old Knight like me Ahh yes to hang up ones lance and fish and swim the days away. He leaned forward blowing on his own steaming bowl breathing in its spicy smell. Yum...yet perhaps more cilantro to go with it, but under such trying circumstances this will have to do With that he took in several sips each adding to his ruddy cheeks
Drindin 01-29-06, 09:56 PM	Shades merely mumbles, "I'm not hungry..." Reginald releases Elvina, and sits across from his fellow knight Keldorn. "He hasn't eaten for days... Kulideb's been away for some time, and Shades has been forced to try and deal with this by himself. Drindin has been... acting strangely lately. Been spending a long time outside... just sitting and staring off into the sky. I'm not sure what's up with him..." Sighing, Reginald looks at the stew. "Mm... smells like something Bartholemu might eat!"
Elvina 01-29-06, 10:18 PM	He Chuckled Perhaps not Ruthia! Dragons can be so sensitive to Lizard stew The red haired elf frowns at Keldorn as Reginald sits with him. "You know Sir Keldorn, this whole trip might be easier on everyone is you laid off the insults to Ruthia and Khaira a bit." She frowns again and before he has a chance to respond to her she walks out of the small crowded hut. She heads to the woods and sits under a tree, closing her eyes as she enjoys being close to nature.
Agudo Archmage 01-30-06, 04:26 AM	Reginald Shades merely mumbles, "I'm not hungry..." Reginald releases Elvina, and sits across from his fellow knight Keldorn. "He hasn't eaten for days... Kulideb's been away for some time, and Shades has been forced to try and deal with this by himself. Drindin has been... acting strangely lately. Been spending a long time outside... just sitting and staring off into the sky. I'm not sure what's up with him..." Sighing, Reginald looks at the stew. "Mm... smells like something Bartholemu might eat!" Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Smiling broadly Firecam nods his head and pats the younger Knight on the shoulder as he stood to grab the comrade in Righteousness a bowl of Keldorn's home cooked soup. All the while pondering Reginald words about Drindin Yet before he could offer some wise advice about Drindin it was then that Redoak spoke up sounding slightly sullen Redoak The red haired elf frowns at Keldorn as Reginald sits with him. "You know Sir Keldorn, this whole trip might be easier on everyone is you laid off the insults to Ruthia and Khaira a bit." She frowns again and before he has a chance to respond to her she walks out of the small crowded hut Returning with a steaming bowl of Lizard soup and Rye bread he offered the small feast to the younger Knight Plenty for all Sir Reginald I do apologies for not offering you and the young lass Elvina some earlier But you learn a few things over the years when you reach my age as an Elder Knight. Taking a sip of his own bowl Keldorn winks A Knight learns when to interrupt two people in love and when not to After a moment he continued Drindin is as far I can remember to put it kindly.... a rather unique man Odd by some accounts, but a good enough gentlemen by any standards Im sure this possible pending loss of Krissy is hard on him as well as Shades Looking up into the sky maybe his way of dealing with this situation Besides the hut doesn’t offer allot of room to contemplate the meaning life inside Firecam wasn’t making a joke on the last part just stating the fact and was sure the Knight understood. Never the less Elvina maybe in for a bumpy ride on this adventure Khaira isn’t known for her diplomatic skills as much as her hot temper Alow me to quote from her harpy lips Khaira ....... your blood isn't pure enough to paint the walls of this abode, unfortunately, and I'd hate to have tainted blood on Drindin's place. Besides, then there's the body to consider. And Swiftwing simply isn't that hungry, really. Canned lunch just isn't the same, you know." Snickering Firecam continued And don’t get me started on the short tempers of Dragons like Ruthia Yet I shall do my best to keep things civil as possible even if they cant The very fact that I am ignoring the Bounty on Khaira for her escape from the trial is an example of that. I mostly blame her lawyer Myranthor for it’s outcome do to his trickery and ridicules stunts at the end which caused the whole trial to be derailed. Then as if realizing some other profound question of the Realms in cooking he nodded at the soup Let me guess it needs more cilantro?
Drindin 02-03-06, 02:17 AM	Reginald chuckles. "More chili spice, actually..." Meanwhile, Drindin is doing just as Reginald had said... Sitting outside in the dieing light, staring up into the sky, having taken a sitting position upon a small tree-trunk. Krissy stirs in her restless sleep, startling a napping shades.... The day slowly fades to night...
ruthia 02-07-06, 09:04 PM	Ruthia sighs as she breaks out of the communication trance she was in. She shakes her head with a small smile o O(thats why I love him. He's such a good father) Standing Ruthia streches and looks around. She spots Elvina deep in thought, Drindin also. Sighing cause she really didn't want to deal with Knight either, she turns and sits next to the hut, waiting for the time to move out.
Agudo Archmage 02-12-06, 02:32 PM	Drindin Reginald chuckles. "More chili spice, actually..." Meanwhile, Drindin is doing just as Reginald had said... Sitting outside in the dieing light, staring up into the sky, having taken a sitting position upon a small tree-trunk. Krissy stirs in her restless sleep, startling a napping shades.... The day slowly fades to night... Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Putting down the empty soup bowl next to him the elder Knight grinned at the thought Yes well my friend I know many a recipe for spicy chili foods tthat would make ones eyes water But I must admit this old stomach of mine has grown a wee bit sensitive to such hot things Stretching as Keldorn laid his head on the bed roll he brought all the while trying not to yawn It would seem I will leave that for the young to cook up to warm their appetites (Yawn) Ahh to be young and care free again After a moment the elder Knights eyes were fast asleep when Krissy stirred not knowing if she was well or not
Drindin 02-13-06, 03:25 AM	As the crew settled into sleep... night gave way to day, but the suns bright rays find themselves unable to penetrate the dreary clouds that hang in the air the morning. Drindin had been out all night, but he seemed untired. Shades had kept his vigil through the night, and the weariness showed on his face. Reginald awoke well-slept, and fed, after Keldorn's meal. Drindin went about waking the others. "It is time to go. We shall eat breakfast after a few hours travel. We have a long way through the woods to make it."
Taeldrin Laesrash 02-13-06, 09:19 AM	Cordelia approaches Drindin, wearing an anxious look. Excuse me, sir? I have a question. Where exactly are we going? You haven't given us much detail of the problem. Looking outside at the dreary outdoors, she asks again, Could I step outside for a moment? I need to tell my master I'll be gone for a while.
ruthia 02-13-06, 02:41 PM	Night falls on the Turin house as Ruthia Turan opens her eyes to the dark world. She stands with a small strech and glances around one last time at those outside with her. She smiles to herself briefly and heads into the dark woods, for a small clearing she past ealier. After walking for about twently minutes she reaches the clearing. Moving to the middle of it she pauses, arms outstreched and head up to the sky. Eyes closed she invokes her Will and says the Word. "Change" With that simple word her body begins to glow brightly, lighting the clearing around her as bright as day. It flashes, and Ruthia is gone. In her place stands a a 75 foot white dragon, it's 95 foot wing span wings spread as it rears up on it's hind legs. With a small crooning sound it takes to the skies, reaching a dizzing hieght in less then three heart beats. Surprisingly fast and agile, she dips and dives through the night sky, barrel rolling as she delights in the freedom her true form gives her. Slowly she straightens to a glide, scanning the woods below her, sniffing the air gently. Crooning to herself she spots what she is looking for, a nice fat buck in a clearing. Diving with incrediable speed she snags the stag, neat snapping it's neck with a quick movement. She lands in a clearing further away, immedaitly crunching into her meal. It takes her only a few moments to eat the whole thing. Licking her chops she is air born again, looking for her next victim. She spots a boar in another clearing and neatly scoops him up, killing him with a quick move. She lands in her eating clearing, making short order of this one two. She lets out a satisfied burp, and takes to the air again. She spots a river and lands, sucking up some water and cleaning off her bloody scales. Burping again she takes to the air one more time, finding a clearing to curl up in her dragon form and sleep off the meal..... The next morning As Drindin goes about waking the others, Ruthia wanders out of the woods. She nods to Drindin as she moves to the huts side and sits again, waiting for everyone else. o O(arwenamin, time to head out.)
Agudo Archmage 02-13-06, 10:53 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley An hour after Drindin had waken the group he stood by a bucket of water with a hanging copper framed reflective glass dangling from a tree branch With a dab of water the Radiant Heart Knight smiles as he splashes his clean shaven face Ahh yes that’s better the long trek had allowed me to prance about like some ranger without a care But now its time to server the great Good Putting the reflective glass away the elder Knight dumped the remaining water out and with a huff he picked up the travel pack tossing it over his shoulder Eyeing the others he walked over speaking kindly to Shades Good Sir Shades what of Krissy shall we take her with us? If so how? I could make a stretcher if you wish?
Elvina 02-16-06, 05:05 PM	She opens her eyes and looks about the group gathering for the journey. With a sigh she stands, shouldering her pack, but remaining apart from them as a whole. o O(they won't think I belong. They'll think I'm weak because I work at that school. But I'll show them, I'm as strong as any of them.)
Drindin 02-17-06, 09:00 PM	Shades shakes his head. "No, I shall remain here, with Krissy." Drindin looks about, then turns back to Shades. "Is she coming?" Shades blinks. "Wha...?" "Is she coming?" Shaking his head, Shades replies. "She said she would... but... I don't see her yet."
kulideb 02-18-06, 04:08 AM	The suns rays danced through the canopy of leaves, the songs of birds mixed with the laughter of children and hammer striking stone. Slowly things were getting back to normal, though it would still be many years yet till Evereska regained its former glory. The scene should have warmed the elfs heart but she seemed distracted. Some how she just couldn’t shake off the feeling something was wrong She needed to go home…a sad smile came to her face as she realised that she no longer thought of Evereska as home. The elf entered the grand looking house, a male elf handed her a note. "It came only a short moment a go." He said as he wached her read it. "Is it bad news my Lady?" He asked as he noted the worried look that crossed her face as she read. Shades house... Shadows darkened and swirled slightly; those who were magic sensitive might feel a slight prickling of their skin. Then abruptly a figure clad in a dark cloak stepped out of the shadows. "Well Met." Said a voice without merriment A slim hand pushed back the hood of her cloak to reveal short blond hair and pointed ears.
Drindin 02-18-06, 04:33 PM	Shades stands wearil, blinking back a tear. "Thank the gods you came..." He says to the one he recognizes as Kulideb. Cautiously walking forward, Shades reaches his hands out to her. "Krissy... she's... very, very ill..."
kulideb 02-18-06, 04:48 PM	The elf came forward into Shades arms. She felt afraid, Shades was her rock, the strong one. The one who was always telling her things would be fine, and now it was her turn to be strong for him. "Sssh now, we'll get through this together."she whispered softly, too low for others to hear. Kulideb pulled back slightly from Shades, reaching up to caress his face before turning to look at the others gathered there, some she knew, while others she had not met before. "well you had better fill me in on the details."She said, "And what you have planned."she added as she looked at the group.
Drindin 02-18-06, 05:39 PM	Drindin looks at Kulideb. "We're heading into the mountains. I have a friend who might be able to push the disease from Krissy's form. We're leaving immedeatly, I'll tell you more about him along the way."
Taeldrin Laesrash 02-18-06, 05:57 PM	Cordelia stepped outside by the wall of the house. Pulling out a scroll, she fiddles around with several hand gestures and quietly muttered a phrase of gibbered words. With a flash of light, the scroll activated, and the sending spell was 'cast'. So...So much for returning the letter. Her master's voice echoed in her head. I could be gone for longer than I thought, Arden. It seems that I'll be accompanying some travelers for a while. What! Arden's stinging voice made Cordelia flinch. I've had it with you and your shortcomings! The point of an apprentice is to assist their superior, not to run around doing silly errands! But this family's child is sick...I need to help them. I'm going to tell your parents about this. Goodbye and good riddance. As the spell ended, Cordelia simply stood still for a moment. If her parents learned of this, she would be finished. She'd probably be locked up in her house until they found someone to marry her to... Sighing, Cordelia returned to the spot where Drindin and the rest had gathered, crestfallen. She approached Drindin and asked, Will we being leaving soon?
kulideb 02-18-06, 06:11 PM	Kulideb nodded at Drindin. A young woman aproached them, one the elf hadnt met before. "I'm ready."She said to Shades and Drindin. "You had better call the others together."She added,eager to make a start.
ruthia 02-18-06, 06:32 PM	"I'm here, Khaira's coming." Ruthia speaks up from her spot against the hut. She offers Kulideb a small smile. "Nice to see you again Kuli." She looks around at the rest, and what an odd group it was. Keldorn and Reginald seem to get along ok, though Elvina seems a bit misplaced with this group. Kulideb was a proven adventurer, despite her shy exterior she was a true wolf in hiding and with Shades in her heart and thoughts she would be unstoppable. Drindin had done and seen more things then a lot of people and the new girl Cordelia seemed eager to head out as well. And then the last of this odd assortment of friends, Khaira. That crazy elf had taken more risks and stupidly dangerous turns then the rest of the group combined. She smiles to herself again at those thoughts, her mind reaching out slightly to track Khaira's progress.
Elvina 02-18-06, 06:37 PM	She speaks up in a qeuit voice from near the trees, her pack on her back and ready to go "i'm ready..."
Drindin 02-18-06, 08:43 PM	Reginald stands next to Elvina. "I'm ready as well." Drindin looks to Shades. "Keep well, my brother. And keep our niece safe until our return." He also looks to Cordelia. "It's not to late to turn back, if you want."
Agudo Archmage 02-18-06, 10:32 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Tightening his belt as he stepped around the humble hut Lord Firecam was truly surprised to see the young lass Well well well! If my eyes don’t deceive me...could it be.....Kulideb? One of the most respected economic students to walk the hollowed halls of the Agudo school of Light and Magic Offering a polite bow before the young blond elf known to most here as Kulideb I’m sure even in his famed Blue and White robes of your old Healdmaster Agudo would be tickled pink to know his beloved Kuli has returned to the Sword Coasts Putting his hand on his heart Firecam continued As well as I my dear ....let this old Knight say how pleasing it is to see you Kulideb! He walks closer to Kuli the Knight broadly smiles From what Lady Hoot has told me she often stops by your tavern outside the city Baldur’s Gate Just to check up on that busy establishment and in hopes of hearing of your return The Dwarves and Halflings you employ miss you dearly and have done thier best to keep the Inn running smoothly Then frowning with concern he eyed Drindin Sadly your return could not be under a happier note As you already know time is of the essence! We are all here to aid Krissy and with your help we shall be that much closer to our goal Joining the other still eyeing Kulideb Perhaps you can tell us where you have been and the exciting adventures that go with such treks as we make are way down the mountainside. With that he nodded to Drindin that he was ready
Taeldrin Laesrash 02-18-06, 11:40 PM	Cordelia replies to Drindin, No. I think there's little point to returning home now. Still preoccupied, she approaches the newcomer. Slowly, she extends her hand, and nods.
kulideb 02-19-06, 07:58 AM	"Khaira is here too?"The elf asked after first greeting Ruthia. "I just wish our meeting all together was under better circumstances. Its good to see so many old friends again." She said sounding wishful, "And I'm looking forward to making your acquaintance too." she added with a smile to Cordelia as she shook the young womans hand. "I'm glad to hear that Halfloaf and Hogarth are looking after the Inn for me." Kuli said turning towards Keldorn Firecam. "And I have a full written report for Agudo on my findings in Evereska. There is still a long way to go, for the phaerimms attack caused much destruction and loss of life. The happiness of seeing old friends faded from her eyes as she turned to Shades. "You’re staying behind to look after Krissy?" She asked, giving his hand a squeeze. "Keep her safe till we get back." she added knowing the man before her didnt really need to be told, but she wanted to let him know how much his family ment to her as well.
Khaira 02-19-06, 10:28 PM	Early that morning, Khaira stood in a small, isolated clearing, deep in the woods, nearby to where Drindin's hut was located. Next to her, the giant feathered companion also known as Swiftwing stood nearby, looking to the red-haired elf with what appeared to be a worried, concerned look. Khaira had stood here most of the night, contemplating what the future of this adventure would bring. She would be journeying with Keldorn, one of her most despised rivals and Drindin, the most recent spark of interest in her life. Perhaps this would be a true test of patience ... Finally, as the rays of the sun teased those still waiting for its glory, Khaira turned to face Swiftwing, moving close to her companion and mount. "I must go journey with my companions now, closest friend ... I don't know how long my journey will take .... nor what dangers lie along this present course I am now upon ..." With a sudden movement, Swiftwings head nudged Khaira sharply, eliciting a sudden chuckle from the bardess. "...yes, of course I look forward to the dangers that lie ahead. It only makes the journey more enjoyable, after all." As the sun began to creep over the horizon, shedding golden light over the dark land, Khaira leaned close to Swiftwing. The gigantic roc, in turn, envel0oped the elven bardess with both of its softly feathered wings. While in that embrace, Khaira murmured softly to Swiftwing. "Namarië, elvellon. Kartha’tiri si, mellonamin." Later that morning Khaira's pristine form was soon standing outside the cottage once again, as the sun's soft rays fell gently upon the land's surface. With a smirk, Khaira noted Ruthia's notice. o O(arwenamin, time to head out.) o O(I know, Arwenamin, and I come now...I'll look forward to walking into the face of danger for the millionth time, I must say.) With a cynical smile upon her face, Khaira walked on silent, graceful footsteps into the entrance of the cottage, stepping off to the side shortly after she entered, eyeing Drindin with sharp, emerald green eyes. "I'm here, and ready to move out whenever you are, love."
ruthia 02-20-06, 11:51 AM	She gives a soft smirck as the one being in this world she considers a best friend makes her appearance. Quietly she lets her eyes wander over the now completely gathered group as she patiently waits for the order to move out. Distances herself ever so slightly from the rest, her mood darkens slightly as several dark thoughts pass through her thoughts. She sighs and shakes her head slightly to clear it, trying to keep a calm expression durning this. But....... She looks at the small bodies on cave floor in front of her. The rescue party had searched for a week now, only to find those they were to rescue already dead. She cries in her grief, the others giving her space as she picks up one of the small bodies. It was a child, maybe three winters old. The small gilrl had very delicate feature, a bueaty that was undenable, yet topped with startling red hair. Ruthia weeps as she holds her dead grandchild close. Here, laying in this cave where three of Star and Malendor's children, all dead. Just like Ramoth and Zayle's children. Ruthia looks up at her son, his face is one of deadly fury. Star stands next to him, her small face scared, a recent bruise forming on one cheek. Malendor screams in rage and turns, slamming a fist into both Star and Ruthia before leaving the cave.......... Ruthia sighs, her head finally clearing. Images of dead children where not what she needed on this adventure. She would not let Krissy die...She would not let another child suffer.
kulideb 02-21-06, 02:55 AM	"Well it looks like you have gathered a good group." Kuli said to Shades and Drindin, "We are sure to Succeed." She added, after all they couldnt afford to fail. She wondered if Ruthia was thinking the same as she watched the gracefull lady noting the distracted look on her face. Now that Khaira was here too, the group seemed ready.
Khaira 02-21-06, 02:00 PM	As Ruthia went inside herself and shook her head at the images flowing through her head, Khaira grimaced, lowering her head and closing her eyes for a moment. Such strife and pain and death ... all around them. With iron resolve burning as the very fires of the Abyss, Khaira raised her head, a grim countenance splayed across her face. No, that would not happen...she shook her head sleightly, her hands clenching into fists, whispering to herself as the solitary figure of the red-haired bardess stood off to the side from the rest of the group. "By my life or death, Kelemvor will not claim another soul ... He will not claim this child's soul ... not if I have anything to say for it..."
Drindin 02-21-06, 07:46 PM	Drindin nods. He points to long winding path leading up the mountainside. "Then let us be off, my warriors of the heart!"
Taeldrin Laesrash 02-21-06, 10:19 PM	So we're finally leaving... Cordelia looks out at the snow-covered landscape for a minute, lost it its serene beauty despite the chaos surrounding it. She shakes her head, seeming to have regained some of her energy. Sorry about that. Pleased to meet you. I'm Cordelia Mistlehands, former smith apprentice. she says to Kulideb.
Agudo Archmage 02-21-06, 10:25 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Well said Drindin! It bolds well for a Knight of the Radiant Heart Order..... He winks To here such bold words of the heart! With a gleeful chuckle Firecam heaves his travel pack over his shoulder as he breaths in the crisp morning mountain air heading out with the others
kulideb 02-22-06, 03:04 AM	"I'm Kulideb, shadow dancer and some time student at the School of light." The blond elf said warmly to Cordelia as she picked up her pack. She blew Shades a kiss and mouthed ‘don’t worry’ to him as they set off. The elf as ever was full of optimism. After all without hope they might as well give up now, and looking around her at her fellow companions none looked the sort to give up without a fight.
ruthia 02-22-06, 11:14 AM	She gives Shades and Krissy one last, long look. Then with a sigh she walks out behind Kulideb and Keldorn, following them down the path Drindin has pointed them down. On the outside she seems calm, peaceful almost as she walks. But inside her mood is dark and forebidding. She slams a mental barrier around herself, refusing to let her mood leak out as she walks.
Khaira 02-23-06, 10:22 PM	Bearing the expression of calm, reserved defiance that was Kharia's trademark, she gave Kulideb a nod before she moved outside into the cool air. Cocking her head sleightly to the side, she listened and heard the faint calling of a lare avian creature, somewhere far off. Her friend would be scouting ahead, and watching over her soon. Now, however, it would be time to get moving before any more time ran out for Krissy. Reaching down to her waist, Khaira reached for her belt, inside the folds of her cloak, noting the comforting bulk of her chains. Yes, she was ready. Swiftly, she began walking down the path, a spring in her step, but a darkness in her eyes. "Reaching, cold, clasping, clawing Death ... here I come again..." A smirk lit upon her face and her eyes twinkled with a mischevious trouble as, only a moment later, she murmured softly. "...catch me if you can."
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 02-24-06, 08:39 PM	[Earlier that day] The wood was too thick to ride, and Lord Athakus had to dismount long ago. When not carrying a mortal on his back, Bytopimabasd could travel through almost anything, and therefore, for Athakus, dismounting did not mean leaving his steed and friend behind. It did, however, mean that his pace would be slowed tremendously. Even on foot, the knight's body was malsuited for the thicket, and he could not take full advantage of his natural prowess - indeed, much of his strength was wasted on making a steady progress through the sapplings. More than once, by now, he thought he had seen something else move through the woods around him, very quickly, but unable to imagine anything move with such ease through this maze of growth, he assumed this was merely a toll that his forced march was taking on him. After all, during the week or so since he recieved the letter from Drindin and stroke on his way, he onnly slept twice, and both times he rested down well after dusk and rose well before dawn. Suddenly, something broke against the armor piece proteting the back of his neck, resulting in a loud noice of metal hitting metal - a noise no sprung branch could produce. With a hand on his dire flail, Atlas Athakus turned his horned head around, ready to face whatever vile trixters could be seeking to take him by surprise. He snorted with pain, as the next bolt stroke him right in the mouth, breaking two teeth. He could tell now the direction from which the shots came, and could see the shape of his assumes assailant, although the color of its clothes - or perhaps its flesh - blended well with the forest. "Stand before me if you wish to do battle, coward! Your puny needles are barely felt!", he rorared at the figure, and isntantly felt two bolts strke his banded mail from two other sides. Bending his head foreward and holding his flail at the shoulder with both hands he charged, crushing twigs and branches on his way, yet by the time he reached the first shooter's position - it was empty. Within a few seconds, another three bolts were aimed at him, one getting stuck in the bare hide on his chest, one grazing his neck to draw blood, and one sliding off his armor. "Your cretinous attack is nought but a child's prank to me! Hide on under your scrubs, then - I shall waste my time on you no more!" With that he strode on in the direction of his innitial destination, realizing he has a better chance leaving the threaten area than closing in on the illusive attackers. Normally, would never escape a battle, but what battle is this? A chalanger who would not show its face, one who would aim from hidden places and slither away at the sound of his opponent's voice has no honor, and hardly deserves recognition of his chalange. Throwing his fist upwards, with a roar that few would even recognize as a call of his god's name, the minotaur was surrounded by sweet-smelling, shimmering air, as he continued on his way, the ocasional bolts now seeming to turn slightly in theyr course, instead of striking him or even his armor. Many minutes later, when the holy protection was no longer holding him, Lord Athakus' stride was broken once again, as a large object flew in his face. Making a defencive halfstep backwards, the knight deflected it with his flail, and was about to stride on, impatient to meet the new threat, when the greenish, gnarled and clawed disembodied arm - for that was the thing he had parried with his dire flail - grabbed his ankle, causing the mighty minotaur to fall down. With a growl of disbelief he grabbed the arm, breaking it against the ground, but as he lifted his face he finally saw those who were so reluctant to show themselve so far: Trolls. Dosens of them. On a rock that, even to his eyes, seemed out of place in these woods, he saw a notably larger troll, whose eyes met his with more than just senceless fury. There was sharp, conceous cruelty in these eyes. The troll was quickly regrowing his arm. "Maban! Give this villain in my hands, and let his mindless minions scatter away in fear of your hero!" Though the trollish crowd surrounding him rushed to tear at his flesh, few were the claws that found his flesh, and none could stop him as he rose, and darted zealously to smite the chiefltain. The orderless ranks of trolls parted before him, all failing to wound or hold him down, and even as the chieftain's claws rammed into his chest and his side, Atlas' flail crushed into the enemy from below with such force, that the troll was thrown into the air, three of his fingers still stuck between the bands of metal at the knight's side, now dripping with the blood of both troll and minotaur. Atlas' horns stroke the chieftain with great momentum before he even landed. Disoriented, the troll rolled away to stand up, but was struck down by the black, spiked ball of the flail before he could accomplish that much. None of the other trolls - his subdues - seemed to achieve anything in theyr attempts to strike the steel-clad minotaur from behind: theyr claws slid off his armor, and even off his bare head, not even drawing his attention, much less his blood. The chieftain's own mad swings achieved much more, yet not enough to give much hope for victory. "Yield, monster, or your tale ends here!" If the troll chieftain understood the common tongue, he did not show it, and soon his scull was shattered by the unlikely knight's flail, the next swing of which threw one of the simpler trolls over the heads of its comrades. Staring in the enraged face of this minotaur, who became so unnaturally resilient to theyr attack from the moment he called uppon his deity, and was now ready to charge into them even as theyr leader's body lay limply behind him, the trolls withdrew chaotically, leaping away into the safety of the thicket. Atlas exhaled loudly, and turned to the fallen chieftain. The base of the large troll's head was rebuilding itself before Lord Athakus' eyes, though the body was still motionless. "No. Your scroll is sealed by Maban himself, and there can be no sequel." Breaking off the head of a small bronze container he drew from within his armor, Atlas spilled its black contents on the crushed neck and jaw. The acid bubbled against the persistant flesh, making the troll's death a final one. Atlas Athakus looked around. During the battle and the attacks which predicted it, he didn't even noticed how the trees here have grown notably scarcer than in most areas of this irritating forest. He could see the slopes of some unfamiliar mountains in the distance; if the trunks grew so far apart as to enable such far visibility, he should reach these mountains with ease in less than an hour! Like all members of his race, he had a superior sence of direction, and knew he did not steer far off-course. That meant Drindin's halls stand just at the foot of these mountains. Soon he would be with his icy-eyed friend... good, as he felt all too tired. It is a disgrace for him to even acknowlege fatigue, he knew - a hero of Maban is untiring! Mayhaps... mayhaps it's the loss of blood, he thought. While his zeal left the savage trolls powerless to distract him from the enemy that truely mattered, that one was meant by Maban to test his mettle, and tore a price of pain for his defeat... With these thoughts, the minotaur plucked his foe's dead fingers out of his armor. He will just heal his wounds, he desided, and then finally move on. Sitting down and restoing his back against a tree, he crossed his palms, and moved them from one wound to another, causing some to close into mere scars and others to only narrow somewhat and seize bleeding. There. Now he will rise to his feet, and... [Now, a few hours later] A gust of warm air directed at his face woke Atlas up. Bytopimabasd was breathng at him, nudging the knight's face with his own. The wounds that still remained when he fell asleep inspite of himself were crusted now, and although bloody spots remained on his armor and his exposed chest, making his mane an ugly sight, no other trce of his wounds lingered. Bowing to the celestial steed in greeting, Lord Athakus lept to mount him, and within minutes the former's galop brought him to the Trunins' door. Stepping down from the saddle, he knocked; carefully. Drindin's humble manner was always admirable, and this door in particular didn't look any sturdier than a door has to be.
Drindin 02-24-06, 10:29 PM	Shades opens the door. He looks up at the hulking minotaur-knight. "Come in." He murmurs, leading Atkus in. "You need to rest... Drindin has already set off but I will be able to point you in the right direction... but first you must eat something, and recover from your wounds."
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 02-25-06, 12:59 AM	Drindin seldom spoke of his family, but even to Atlas the similarity was obvious: The eyes, the features, even something in the general bearing that is more than an aquired pattern could ever be - this had to be a close relative of his. He bowed "Greetings, messir, and thank you. I am healed by the grace of Maban, and need only wash to undo these stains of gore, but i will gladly dine with you. Meanwhile, tell me of the tragedy we are to rewrite into epos: Sir Drindin's letter spoke of a danger to your family, but wisely lacked detail." His voice is deep and gutteral, and his speach is slow, yet he pronounces the words clearly and correctly: a result of many years during which he honned his ability to speak the common tongue in definace of his maw's anatomical incompatibility with it.
Drindin 02-25-06, 12:19 PM	Shades nods, and leads Atlas in. He motions to Krissy. "She is our niece... disowned by her mother, now... gravely ill." He gives Atlas a bowl of stew he had cooking on his stove top, then fetches one for himself. "She's only 14 summers of age.... and she may already be taken in by the grip of death. She was born half-undead to begin with, thanks to the foolishness of her mother."
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 02-25-06, 03:39 PM	When he came inside after Shades, and saw Krissy, his eyes widened more than they seemed capable of. "Yes, I know her..." he said with a slightly shaken voice, as he kneeled before her bed and touched his lips to the girl's hand. "She was with us, two years ago, when Drindin, myself and others marched against the cult of Nerull." He looked onto the girl's face, still holding her little hand in his huge one, staring as if in hope of finding a definite sign of life in her visage. Memories from that time, and Shades' current words moved together within his head. Half undead... He did not know how such a thing could be possible, but he realized what that meant: she could not be healed by the prayers of a priest. While no priest himself, he knew that when he layed hands on a vampire - the abomination would be ravaged; he understood a priest's prayer would be no different, healing the living but harming the dead, and what would it do to Krissy, who was - in some way that lay beyond his understanding - both living and undead at the same time? "What then needs be done to aid her?", he asked, slowly laying her hand back on the bed, rising, and only after a few uncertain steps backwards managing to turn his gaze away from her. She seemed very sickly even then, when he first met her, and that was in her full health... As the minotaur took his bowl and began eating, he still couldn't fully draw his mind away from the memories. Could this be a late effect of the taint she must have been exposed to in the temple to Nerull before they finally destroied it? While Atlas Athakus was never one to bother with assumptions and speculations - much less breed them himself - now they seemed to swarm his thoughts.
Drindin 02-26-06, 02:23 AM	"My brother and his crew have traveled into the mountains, to find the one known to us Trunin's as 'Mad Maryks'. He's a mage of some sort... crazy, yet... he may know of a way to cure young Krissy of her sickness..." Shades looks at his niece. "My damned sister... I blame her for this..." *** Meanwhile, Drindin and his motley crew are making their way up a mountain side. The trees are hardly scarce, but they are thin and sickly due to the lack of vital nutrients in the soil. As they proceed upwards, a flock of crows scatters with sharp caws from the branches of a tree. Startled, Reginald stops a moment. Drindin merely looks back.
kulideb 02-26-06, 05:31 AM	The climb was steady, though the elf felt a little uneasy in the changing scenery. The thick health oaks gave way to thin weak looking trees. Kuli wondered what had blighted the area. What ever it was it seemed to affect all plant life. She knelt down and ran her fingers over the soil, the once rich loam was dry and brittle "I wonder what caused this?"She asked outloud but her words were drown out by the harsh caw of crows. She wondered if it was their presence or something else that had startled the dark birds.
Taeldrin Laesrash 02-26-06, 09:27 AM	This is creepy, Cordelia mused out loud. Are these trees withering from nature, or something else. It's even colder out here, as well. What do you think, Keldorn? She called out to the knight.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 02-26-06, 11:26 AM	Atlas nodded. If the trunins are relying on a wizard, and a mad one at that, the situation must be utterly dire. He could only pray that his strength will be of use in the magus' abode... tough he could not imagine how. Still, it was all he could do better Krissy's chances of survival. "Then I shall galop to catch with them." Rising as he gulped the rest of the stew, Atlas bowed to his host with a look of conradrie in his eyes. Before heading out to once again mount his black steed, he knelt once again by Krissy's bed. Gently, he closed her fingers around a platinum figurine in the shape of a quill. With no blessing woven into the pin, he knew it could not harm her deathless essence, however he felt that with this object of the deity in her hand, Krissy was somehow watched over by Maban. "I thank you, my friend. May the will of Maban shelter her soul and guide us to her salvation, whether through this madnan's aid or not." And with these hopeful words, he left Shades' side to ride after Drindin and his companions.
ruthia 02-26-06, 11:58 AM	Walking toward the rear of the group, like she had a tendancy of doing on any adventure, Ruthia did not seem shocked or surprised by the condition of the area they where in. She looks up and eyes the crows as they make their noisy retreat from where ever they were. Frowning she kept her eyes toward where the crows had come from, but with a shrug she assumes they were the reason the crows took off. She keeps walking, her expression grim and dark.
Khaira 02-27-06, 10:01 AM	Khaira's expresssion became worried as she walked, with her new companions, into the desolate, barren place of wildlife. With a grim expression, Khaira knelt down, like Kulideb ahead of her, to softly brush the dry, dying dirt. "By the Treelord's Great Oak ... even Rillifane's blessings, I doubt, could free these lands from the clutch of death." Khaira stood up again, shaking her head as she looked about. This place was in such a sad, desperate condition ... much like Krissy. "The wilds themself mourn and die for and with the lady for whom we fight to save... Rillifane, Leaflord, tiramin quella i'taur. We must make haste to this mad wizard." Softly caressing the withering trees with sympathy and pity as she passed by, Khaira kept moving down the path.
Agudo Archmage 02-27-06, 03:44 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley His companions words echoed his own thoughts of this dyer abode of decaying wiled life What could of happen ? Surely not a drought or fire He thought with a frown on his rugged face Glancing about to confirm his own thoughts Hmm a plague or fungus? Cordelia This is creepy, Cordelia mused out loud. Are these trees withering from nature, or something else. It's even colder out here, as well. What do you think, Keldorn? She called out to the knight. My lady what I see is a true puzzle to me Sadly I know not why death over comes life here Firecam prided himself for his education as a Knight of the Order of the Radiant Heart Yet he had to admit he was no Druid or Ranger with more expertise in such matters Seeing his fellow Knight had stopped Firecam whispered to Reginald Come my friend lets us not tarry here........we must be an inspiration to the others Not wishing to bring down the groups spirits further Keldorn walked on without saying another word For they all knew....something was wrong very wrong
kulideb 02-28-06, 03:03 AM	Kuli stood up and brushed the earth from her hands. "Do you think its conected to Krissy?"She asked Khaira softly. "Ive never seen the like of this before."She added out loud as she heard Cordelia's words to Keldorn. As the two knights began to continue on ahead so the elf followed them. Their glum surroundings seemed to have darkened every ones mood a little more, and they still had away to go yet.
Drindin 02-28-06, 07:45 PM	Kuli stood up and brushed the earth from her hands. "Do you think its conected to Krissy?"She asked Khaira softly. "Ive never seen the like of this before."She added out loud as she heard Cordelia's words to Keldorn. Drindin began to proceed as well. He stops only long enough to stoop down and pick up a hand of sandy dirt. Rising, he lets it run through his fingers. "It's not Krissy that's doing this... " He says. "It simply doesn't rain much up here... the soil is thin, dusty. These trees are hundreds of years old, but they have a look about them like saplings." Once again, he sets forward... Meanwhile... Atlas finds travel up the narrow path difficult but thanks to the same thin soil, he doesn't find it hard to track the others up the mountainside. He soon can see them in the distance.
Khaira 02-28-06, 08:18 PM	"Do you think its connected to Krissy?"She asked Khaira softly. Rising, he lets it run through his fingers. "It's not Krissy that's doing this... " As Khaira walked, she couldn't help but smile cynically at the comments of both Drindin and Kulideb. Clearly, they didn't know the manner of the gods of Faerun too well. Turning around to regard the both of them, Khaira spoke softly, in an almost foreboding, prophetic tone of voice. "Some of the gods of Faerun are known as ... meddlesome. I do not doubt that the gods shed tears, in their own unique way, about the dilemma that Krissy - and us - are now in."
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 02-28-06, 10:03 PM	The trail made constant gallop impossible even for Bytopimabasd, yet once he could see the back of Drindin, along with the familiar figures of illusive Kulideb, Atlas tapped his mount's side, sending him into a burst of speed, only slowing down as he approached the group. "If a god weeped at every child's agony, no calm nor striving spot would remain in the lands, seas and heavens;", came the gutteral, ceremonially dramatical voice from behind them, as if in answer to Khaira's recent words. "Greetings, my freinds," he continued, as he dismounted and bowed solemnly both to the two he knew and fondly remembered, and those he has not seen before but knew to be pursuing the same goal as them. "May young Krissy's tale end in triumph and a lesson, through our strength and devotion."
ruthia 03-01-06, 12:45 AM	Ruthia hears the knights horse clattering up long before he catches them. She sighs and rolls her eyes a bit, walking on. She allows erself to fall a bit more behind the group, looking bitterly at the abundance of knights... o O(great....just what a dragon loves. Three knights and no where to run. No wonder my kind stay in caves half the time. This is almost as foolish as that day I ran off the cliff!) She keeps walks, grumbling lightly to herself as she does.
kulideb 03-01-06, 03:08 PM	The elf turned slightly as she felt the ground rubble slightly. A smile lit her face chasing the darkness away from a while at least. "Nae saian luume'!"She called out to the strange knight. Even though the elf was glad to meet up with Atlas once more she did see Ruthia as the lady dragon distanced her self slightly. kuli quickly looked at Khaira to see if the bard had noticed too, then with a slight shrugg to Khaira the elf hugged the minotor. ((Elven phrase - Its been too long))
Agudo Archmage 03-01-06, 10:21 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Keldorn Firecam folded his arms and gave a lopsided grin at Kulideb and Khaira He didn’t say it but the way those two elves were hugging the ground in despair made him think the realm was coming to an end Yet rubbing the back of his kneck as he turned to see what Kuli was eyeing the elder Knight chided himself at the sametime My my this is why I never became a Ranger...soil ha! The minotor approached speaking in away showing of culture that his race was known for Yet what made Keldorn smile from ear to ear was the sour look on Ruthia face at the sight of another Knight I dont know him but I like him alredy He Thought cheerfuly Ruthia Ruthia hears the knights horse clattering up long before he catches them. She sighs and rolls her eyes a bit, walking on. She allows herself to fall a bit more behind the group, looking bitterly at the abundance of knights... o O(great....just what a dragon loves. Three knights and no where to run. No wonder my kind stay in caves half the time. This is almost as foolish as that day I ran off the cliff!) She keeps walks, grumbling lightly to herself as she does. Kuli The elf turned slightly as she felt the ground rubble slightly. A smile lit her face chasing the darkness away from a while at least. "Nae saian luume'!"She called out to the strange knight Even though the elf was glad to meet up with Atlas once more she did see Ruthia as the lady dragon distanced her self slightly. kuli quickly looked at Khaira to see if the bard had noticed too, then with a slight shrug to Khaira the elf hugged the minotor.. 3rd knight If a god weeped at every child's agony, no calm nor striving spot would remain in the lands, seas and heavens;", came the guttural, ceremonially dramatical voice from behind them, as if in answer to Khaira's recent words. "Greetings, my friends," he continued, as he dismounted and bowed solemnly both to the two he knew and fondly remembered, and those he has not seen before but knew to be pursuing the same goal as them. "May young Krissy's tale end in triumph and a lesson, through our strength and devotion." Walking up as well the elder Knight offered a hearty welcome to the new comrade in Knightly arms Hail and well met Good Sir of Righteous Endeavors! May your words ring true about aiding the fair maiden Krissy Putting his hand on his heart he smiled I see you know some here already yet allow me to introduce myself Keldorn offered a small bow and click of his heals as if in a snap salute I am Keldorn Firecam of the Radiant Heart Order from the southern lands of Amn
Khaira 03-01-06, 11:07 PM	"If a god weeped at every child's agony, no calm nor striving spot would remain in the lands, seas and heavens;", came the gutteral, ceremonially dramatical voice from behind them, as if in answer to Khaira's recent words. Without turning around nor slowing her pace as the result of the galloping of the approach of the newest figure, Khaira raised her voice, responding to the conclusion of the minotaur knight that there was no connection to nature, the Faerunian deities, and their mission. "Whether you choose to acknowledge it or not, all things are connected through the soils of Rillifane's blessings. The Treelord's bounties affect us all ... even if your eyes and mind choose not to realize this fact." As the introductions ensued, Khaira rolled her eyes in disgust. Everyone on this road had proclaimed their sense of urgency, haste, and care for healing Krissy once again ... but here they were, exchanging their names and titles as if this were some Waterdhavian revel, and not a not-so-well trodden path in the wilderness, along the route to rescue a dying girl. By the Treelord's Oak and the Moon Mother ... weren't these mortals ever going to awaken? O. o (What can one expect, anyway? They're rigid, closed minded, "defenders of justice", whom usually only care for their own honor, and care nothing for the justice of the laws, save when it serves their own purpose...) Turning around, her expression strained and impatient, Khaira looked to the two knights. "Khaira Amastacia. I don't much give a damn what title you gave me. I, however, am here to save a young girl's life, which is what I'm going to do now, instead of standing on this path, giving my life story. Come along if you want." Turning a cold shoulder, Khaira walked briskly down the path, following Drindin.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-02-06, 01:39 AM	Though he spoke no elven, this phrase was heard often enough for even him to remember. With a warm smile - something truely rare for him - he embraced the Kulideb with affection, careful not to hurt the fragile-looking mistress of shadows. As the human knight and what he assumed to be an elven priestess spoke, Atlas bowed and replied: "Atlas Athakus. The time for aquinting will come. For now, we've a madman to question and a maiden to anchor to life." With that, he followed the rillifanite's example and strode on, the celestial steed in tow. He will introduce himself properly, and hear the names of these three other humans, but not before all that can be done is done.
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-02-06, 09:45 AM	Cordelia notes the growing tension between the newcoming knight and Khaira, she backs away, walking near Ruthia. Do you think they'll stay like this, miss...Not to be rude, but I don't think I caught your name. She says.
ruthia 03-02-06, 11:39 AM	She looks at Cordelia and gives a slight sigh, not really being in the mood to talk. When she mentions the tension between Khaira and the knights, Ruthia just shrugs. "Khaira has no love of knights, particularly Keldorn. Of course, I don't particularly blame her, not liking them myself. Names Ruthia Turan." Turning her attention back to the road she keep following the group in silence, her eyes alert for anything at this point because with three clancking piles of rusty metal in the group now how know WHAT they'll attract with all the noise they make...... ELVINA: This whole time the young elf has been walking in silence, her bow bumping her side slightly as she walks. She shakes her head as she listens to the comments thrown back and forth between those of the group and sighs o O(i hope that our groups ability to work together isn't tested, because we'd fail miserably at this point......)
Agudo Archmage 03-02-06, 03:05 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley With a warm bare hug to Kuli the husky Minotaur Knight turned to respond to Keldorn greeting when the fiery Khaira made her feelings known Hallmark moment with Khaira Turning around, her expression strained and impatient, Khaira looked to the two knights. "Khaira Amastacia. I don't much give a damn what title you gave me. I, however, am here to save a young girl's life, which is what I'm going to do now, instead of standing on this path, giving my life story. Come along if you want." Turning a cold shoulder, Khaira walked briskly down the path, following Drindin. Firecam rolled his eyes at the Bard’s rude behavior yet kept smiling as the Minotaur easily over looked Khaira brash words like a good Knight should Atlas Athakus. As the human knight and what he assumed to be an Elvin priestess spoke, Atlas bowed and replied: "Atlas Athakus. The time for acquainting will come. For now, we've a madman to question and a maiden to anchor to life." With that, he followed the rillifanite's example and strode on, the celestial steed in tow. He will introduce himself properly, and hear the names of these three other humans, but not before all that can be done is done. Readjusting his travel pack Keldorn nodded his head and marched on as he spoke Be welcome then Sir Athakus. ....I’m sure now that were a trio of Knight and ....umm He winked at the Minotaur Well a group of merry band of adventures with the aid of your Righteous dedication amongst us we shall save the young lass Krissy Not saying more but thinking to himself The weather may be cold but at least some of us gave Atlas a warm welcome
Drindin 03-03-06, 02:16 AM	Reginald nods his greeting to Atlas, then falls in step alongside his love, Elvina. " 'Tis sad, that even when united in a single cause, the knights and Khaira refuse to speak on peaceful terms..." He looks at Elvina. "I know what you are thinking... am I not a knight? 'Tis true, we call ourselves the knights of the tiger... but we are not knights as you know them. We are harbingers of good and freedom, yes. We carry a message of benevolence and kindness, yes. But we are bound by no code of honor... nor are we flighty and unpredictable. We simply do what is moraly right." He smiles at elvina. Drindin proceeds onward, leading the group up the steep and wooded mountainside. He looks back to Khaira. "I am truly amazed at your surprise of the number of knights here... mine is a goddess of order. My family has always attracted men at arms."
Khaira 03-03-06, 11:15 AM	Drindin proceeds onward, leading the group up the steep and wooded mountainside. He looks back to Khaira. "I am truly amazed at your surprise of the number of knights here... mine is a goddess of order. My family has always attracted men at arms." Khaira looked, indignantly, over at Drindin. Were they ALL blind and unseeing? Couldn't they open their minds - even a little bit - to see her perspective? With an angry, dark scowl, Khaira turned to regard Drindin as she continued to walk briskly, even quickening her pace to pull ahead of him. "Do not presume to know my feelings nor my very thoughts, love. It is not the knights nor order that repulses me and makes me want to vomit, but the closed-minded, arrogant, ignorant, unseeing perceptions of the knights that all whom deploy different motives need to be striked down ... by their blade, in the name of justice, naturally." Fury danced in Khaira's emerald green eyes, her voice growing low and dangerously intense, until it bore the same tonality as the growl of a cornered animal. "I have never been given a reason to trust any knights, Drindin. If I had my way, all closed minded knights would be no more. Your damned lucky that were on this mission for Krissy ... if it were any other way, I'd make sure every knight journeying with me was dead." Raising a brow at Drindin's families connections with knights, sadness mingled with the fury still dancing among her expression, for but a moment. "...and perhaps, if your family is so connected to their precious knights, their close-minded dogmas, and their limited perceptions of horizons and the diversity of individuals on Faerun, we have made a wrong choice in each other." With a meaningful glare, Khaira doubled her pace, pulling ahead of the majority of the party, a thought of fury lingering in her mind. O. o (Damn them! Damn them all! Damn them to the infinite layers of the Abyss!)
kulideb 03-03-06, 03:53 PM	Kuli felt a little crestfallen as Khaira walked off. Of course her sister elf was right, there would be plenty of time later for catching up with old friends, but even so..something seemed a little off. Looking back at Ruthia, the blond elf thought, its not only Khaira who seems a little distant. She really hoped they would find the mad mage and get what they wanted without too much fuss, as at the moment she wasn’t sure they could pull together as a team to make dinner yet alone save a young girls life! "Excuse me my friend."she said taking her leave of Atlas as up ahead she saw Khaira walk quickly away from Drindin. "Khaira!"she called out as she quickly caught up to her friend. "You are right we are here for a reason, but look at us."She said softly in elven, "I dont known whats going on with you and Drindin, and I sought of understand why the knights anoy you..but we all need to get along if only for Krissys sake." The elf looked a little uncomfortable as she spoke to her friend. "Even Ruthia seems to be keeping her distance."She added with a sigh as she glanced back at the lady dragon. "You are more exprianced than me, what can we do to make this group into a team?"
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-03-06, 10:13 PM	Drindin has not spoken to him, but Atlas took this for granted. They all have wasted time on words, as the rillifanite streightforwardly noted. Though he was eager to hear the tale of how his freind was returned from Death and what deeds he added to the scroll of his life since, he knew this will have to wait for either a time of inevitable pause - such times, he grudgingly admitted, took place in any crussade - or for theyr quest's very epilogue. Thanks to his naturally keen hearing, he overheard the words of the elf, Amastacia, which made his eyes gradually widen. Though he never considered himself a great speaker, he knew Maban's blessing of eloquence can be laid uppon any of His chosen, when its light is truely needed. He was about to walk towards her and speak, but Kuideb - who apprently knew the other elf well - made the same motion, and so he remained in his place within the moving column of knights and adventurers, somewhat relieved that circumstance will not - atleast for now - require him to show feats of something he had never mastered.
Drindin 03-04-06, 02:13 AM	Drindin released a sigh. "Perhaps, Khaira. But perhaps, also, you failed to remove the log from your own eye. You know full well what Krissy is... and that alone should make her a target of knights, not something most would seek to save." With that, he pressed on. Reginald kept a fair distance. "Krissy... the young half-ghost girl. Truly... a creature of elegance that boggles the mind."
ruthia 03-04-06, 02:46 AM	ELVINA SHe nods and keeps pace with Reginald, choosing not to take side in this battle of words.....
Khaira 03-05-06, 02:03 AM	"I dont known whats going on with you and Drindin, and I sort of understand why the knights anoy you.. Sort of? She sort of understood? How did one SORT of understand? You either did ... or you didn't. You didn't walk the accursed line all of your life. With an indignant expression, Khaira stared at Kulideb, as if she had never seen the other elf before. It was in the common tongue that she spoke, fire seeming to softly float from her words. "No, Kulideb ... or whomever you've become ... no, you do not understand. You pretend to, but you do not understand. I doubt any of you can. Don't talk to me of what you understand until you actually do understand and when you've quite pretending, come talk to me then." Khaira was walking away from Kulideb when she heard the elf's next way. "You are more exprianced than me, what can we do to make this group into a team?" Khaira looked to Kulideb with a stern, hard look. Make this group a TEAM? Make this group work together? Was she kidding? In the next instant, Khaira laughed ... but it was no nice laugh. It was a rude, mean-hearted laugh, full of cynicism. "Together, Kulideb? That'll never happen ... NEVER. Not with this group. What can we do? We can hurry up, do whatever in the named of the damned gods we have to do, and save Krissy's life and then ... then we have to hope to every god, goddess, demon, and other powerful entity that is listening that we never meet each other again. Never." With those harsh, cruel words, Khaira moved away from Kulideb, but not before Drindin - once again - caught up with her. "You know full well what Krissy is... and that alone should make her a target of knights, not something most would seek to save." With a snort, Khaira chuckled at Drindin's comments before turning her hard-handed speech to Drindin. "Aye. I know what Krissy is. I also know what knights are. They preach the gracious, all-powerful law and order which, more often than not, fails them. When their law and order fails them, they trust that their hand or their blade or their bloodthirsty army is the hand of the law. Just like at the trial, Drindin. Just like at that gods-be-damned, forsaken, mockery, ****-ant of a trial that was an utter and complete waste of mine and every other person's time! No, Drindin, I do not trust knights. I will never trust knights. And I will never - I repeat, NEVER - trust to the great and powerful protection of law and order. I am here to save Krissy. I am not here to speak easy words, which make everyone happy and content. I walk alone, Drindin - I always walk alone - without the sorry excuse for law and order hindering me. And you better hope that the knights - those most gracious, perfect, always proper and, yes, ALWAYS correct fighters for supposed law and order, which is more often twisted to their own ends - here don't get in my way. I would not like that, Drindin once-my-love." Walking forward again, Khaira turned around to glare at the individuals that she had become stuck with. These ... These were her companions? With a vehement shaking of her head, Khaira's lips curled in an ugly sneer as she spoke those words in Elvish that seemed to not belong in the Elvish language and which matched the ugly sneer. "Amin feuya ten' llie*." With a quickened pace that was more of a jog than simply a fast walk, Khaira raced forward, attempting to pull ahead of her hated companions. O.o (How did I become stuck within this HELL? I'm stuck with these FOOLS?!! What in the name of all the damned gods??!!!!!) *Elvish: "You all disgust me"
Drindin 03-05-06, 03:12 AM	"Khaira! Wait!" He calls out desperatley. Drindin starts forward, but is suddenly stopped with the sky darkens rapidly, and a bolt of lightning flies from the sky. Everything suddenly goes black... Another bolt of lightning illuminates a robed figure standing on the horizon. "Gods damnit, Maryks! Is this necessary!?" You can hear Drindin cry out... Suddenly... a greath lethargy fills your body... "Yes, old friend... old cloned friend. It is." Then, silence.... The first to awaken is Khaira. She finds herself trapped within a cage, and a crazed old wizard stares in through the bars at her, a wicked evil grin upon his face. "Ah, yes. Drindin did well to lure you all here." He slurs his words. "Especially with faking Krissy's illness..."
kulideb 03-05-06, 08:23 AM	The elf felt her self smart as if physically struck by Khairas words. "I didnt mean...I..well."she stuttered not quite sure how to reply to Khairas harsh torrent. The elf was puzzled what had happended to her friend, oh, she knew that the knights would cause her friend upset especially after the trial, but it seemed more than that.. Kuli carried on walking but made no attempt to catch Khaira up, She turned to Drindin as he called out to Khaira. A shiver ran through her as the sky darkened, lighting tore through. Oh just great! the elf thought to herself. Her body felt heavy and tired, Maryks?? were her last thoughts as darkness took her.
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-05-06, 09:42 AM	Cordelia walks towards Ruthia again. Even if she has hd some falling out with knights, Ruthia, I think she's acting a bit selfishly. Keldorn, Drindin, and Atlas cannot have done her so great a wrong that she generalizes all of their kind as fools. As the sky above darkened, Cordelia pulled her cloak closer around her, expecting night to sink in quickly. As the lightning flashed, Cordelia managed to shout out a What in the h- Before she blacked out.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-05-06, 01:42 PM	As the reply to Kulideb's words was spoken in common, Atlas saw new deapths of alienation in the other elf's voice. When the wizard appeared so dramatically, Atlas was relieved, thinking they will soon know what needs to be done for Krissy, and with Maban's help, that will be an endeavor in which his strength will come in handy. Suddenly, however, he began to feel that very strength siphoned out of him, as Maryks spoke his words of madness. Atlas had no intention to actually harm the insane human, but he knew: push a magician hard enough, and his arcanities will fail. He charged forth, without drawing his wepon, meaning only to neutralize the danger, but Maryks' foul magic was powerful, and Atlas' action came too late. Though he wa still moving when everyone else were already lying on the ground, not even Lord Athakus of Sawhorne could resist the enchantment - his face was the last to hit the dirt, and even so, when he fell, his horns were many santimeters away from Maryks' feet.
Khaira 03-05-06, 02:20 PM	Khaira was walking - jogging, really - as the skies suddenly darkened. Good! The atmosphere matched, at last, her attitude. It was only a moment later that she heard cries of shock behind her. These shouts seemed to penetrate the very barrier of cynicism and fury that she now had up. By the blessings of Sehanine ... what had she done? She'd forsaken everyone ... because of foolish emotions. Khaira began to run towards where she heard the yells and the screams, just as that first bolt of lightning struck. She was sinking ... sinking ... sinking into darkness, with nothing to help for it... Later... Khaira growled in agony as she got to her feet. What in the name of the mad gods had happened? She remembered anger ... yes, much anger and fury ... she had been walking away from everyone, denouncing them as her much hated .... O.o (Dear Gods ... where have my emotions taken me now?) It was then, as her vision and her mind cleared, that she saw the madman ... the evil mad wizard, staring in at her. With a growl and a glare that seemed to transcend the pain of death itself, Khaira rose from the cage. "I will not submit to your lies or deceit now, old man. If you've harmed even a hair upon the others, I swear by all the divine and all the damned that yours will be a slow, pain-induced life, that you may welcome death when it at last comes to you. You would do well not to cross me, dark one." Khaira crossed her arms as she spoke, a fiery vengeance creeping into her eyes. There would be no forgiveness for him.
Drindin 03-05-06, 03:03 PM	((To the others: This is just a test, and you will all soon get your turns! It is the point at which your characters need face their greatest fears, and try to overcome your greatest weakness)) The wizards starts by giggling, then chuckling, then all out laughing! "Don't worry! I haven't harmed the others... oh no, by no means. Time itself caught up with them. They're long dead now." With a waving off his hand, Khaira will probably begin to feel emotionally weak... as her body grows lethargic. "I put you into stasis for the past few hundred years. Your friends could have saved you... but they turned their backs on you, and ran. The spell I used severed your tie to your dragon friend... even she doesn't care as much about you as you'd like." He opens the cage, and two heavily armored gaurds come and take Khaira by the arms. "Now, I have something I want to show you."
ruthia 03-05-06, 05:08 PM	Ruthia had stopped walking a while ago, listening to both Kulideb and Drindin confront Khaira. Her fist clenched, shaking in a rage that wasn't all her own, she felt a deep resentment and an ever deeper hate growing towards those she was forced to travel with. A dragon of her word, she would not back out of this. She had vowed to save Krissy and that she was determined to do no matter how many fools she was forced to deal with. As she stood there, a low growl escapes her, her body finding little vent for the rage inside.....But suddenly the rage found it's vent Khaira "No, Kulideb ... or whomever you've become ... no, you do not understand. You pretend to, but you do not understand. I doubt any of you can. Don't talk to me of what you understand until you actually do understand and when you've quite pretending, come talk to me then." Ruthia smircked, watching Khaira and Kulideb no, only one understands what Khaira is feeling...what she has accomplished...her failures....her hates...none of them can come close to understanding herthe way i do now.... Khaira "Together, Kulideb? That'll never happen ... NEVER. Not with this group. What can we do? We can hurry up, do whatever in the named of the damned gods we have to do, and save Krissy's life and then ... then we have to hope to every god, goddess, demon, and other powerful entity that is listening that we never meet each other again. Never." Ruthia's smirck and chuckle echo'd the darkness...the sarcasim in Khaira's laugh. Khaira No, Drindin, I do not trust knights. I will never trust knights. And I will never - I repeat, NEVER - trust to the great and powerful protection of law and order..............I walk alone, Drindin - I always walk alone -........ not alone.....never alone in the dark cold world....not anymore......she has me and i have her....even if we're only together in spirit....but they don't know that.... About to start walking again she is brought to a stop by Cordelia's words Cordelia Even if she has hd some falling out with knights, Ruthia, I think she's acting a bit selfishly. Keldorn, Drindin, and Atlas cannot have done her so great a wrong that she generalizes all of their kind as fools. Ruthia turns and snarls at her, her lip curled in a sneer "Do not talk of what you have no clue about! If you knew HALF of what has gone on between certain members of this party you would relize your better off keeping your mouth shut!" Just then the sky darkens. Sensing danger she starts running toward the front of the group....only to fall to the ground as she weakens and falls asleep.
Khaira 03-06-06, 12:48 AM	Time itself caught up with them. They're long dead now. Your friends could have saved you... but they turned their backs on you, and ran. The spell I used severed your tie to your dragon friend... even she doesn't care as much about you as you'd like." Khaira felt the strength begin to drain away from her body, her veins, and her spirit, seeming to fade away all at once. Everyone was ... gone? Was it really so? She ... couldn't even feel Ruthia any longer. The strongest connection she'd ever had seemed to be gone. Never again would she have an opportunity to bridge the chasms of differences that separated those she traveled with. Never again would she be able to enjoy a long drink with Kulideb or Ruthia. Never again would she have a heated argument with any of the foolhardy knights. Right now ... right now, she even wanted to hear Keldorn's arrogant, condescending comments about her. Behind all that, she realized that she still survived ... in spite of this, she yet survived. She still had her other friends, those of whom had not joined in on this adventure. But were they, too, now dead? It was only a couple hundred years ... would she be remembered? Or had she been forgotten entirely, by all of Faerun? The comely bardess’ voice was cold, dark, and bitter when it next spoke. “All that might’ve fought for or, for that matter, fought against has been taken away from me. If I’ve been magically held here for 300 years or so – only a handful of time in the eyes of one of the Fair Folk – then I do not doubt that Krissy, too, has passed on into death, or whatever fate awaited her. And yet, I have not aged a day, despite 300 years having have passed. Miraculously, my clothes are still in perfect condition … and, surely, my other elven companions who joined me not on this journey still breathe and remember me.” Khaira sneered at Maryks, her defiance like knives coming from her eyes to stab at Maryks confidence. “You may be great and powerful in this place, little man, but you are not powerful enough to remove the memory of one red-headed elven bardess and a Harper from the minds of every individual of Faerun. And there is one thing from me which you will never take from me, Ascarer*.” After rationalizing out loud, Khaira felt the harsh realities pressing down on her soul and her body, like an oppression that threatened to suffocate and maim her for the rest of her long years. At this same moment, however, she began to realize one thing – there was nothing left to lose. She had been forsaken by nearly everyone. Now … now it was her life, and her life alone, that mattered. It was all up to her. With a harsh glare at the armed guards, as they approached, a barbaric fire lit in her eyes, her voice matching that fire. “In your master plan, you morbid man, you have neglected to consider one variable. An elf never forgets one’s friends – or, for that matter, one’s enemies. Even in death and forsaken connections. Never. You have given me nothing left to lose, save my life, which I have never held that dear to me in any case. I have lived and breathed for my friends, for my companions. And you ... you have cornered me where there is only one choice that I can make and still remain true to myself…” Khaira summoned forth all of her fury, all of her anger, into her body, focusing her energies to push back and halt, at least for the moment, the despairing feelings that surrounded her. With a feral yell that seemed more animalistic instinct than anything, Khaira ran at the armed guards. “I’ll kill you, you morbid, depraved man, and exact retribution for the depravity which you have committed, in the names of melloneamin, my friends! Utinu en lokirim, amin feuya ten' lle**!” As she was speaking those words, Khaira was within a few inches of the armed guards. Feinting and dodging their grasping arms, weighed down by their bulky armor and weapons, of which she could not yet see, Khaira kicked out with most savage fury and, attempting to roll between them, attempted to charge for the solitary figure that was Maryks, death in her eyes. *(Elvish - negative endearment)Impetuous One **Son of Snakes, you disgust me!
Drindin 03-06-06, 12:38 PM	Maryks laugh as Khaira throws herself into a wall of force. "Oh, but I have, young Khaira! I have! Take a look outside, and see what is, undoubtably, your hell!" He walks to the main chamber, and pulls aside a curtain. Dispelling the force wall, he leads her to the window. Beneath him, in what were once calm mountains, a large magnificent city looms under a setting, red sun. The people walk in orderly movements, each seeming to have a set destination, the guards watching over them like soildering ants. "A world of perfect order. Everyone knows their place, listens only to what I tell them... none try to break free. It's works smoothly, effeciently." In a nearby cage, a young blonde man looks at Maryks. "Your mad! You know that! There is no justice in this world! You opress the people, they have no voice!" Maryks chuckles. "Your knighthood is long collapsed. You have no need to try and uphold your morals and ethics any longer!" The young man spits in Maryks direction. "You know nothing!"
Khaira 03-06-06, 03:54 PM	AS Khaira leaped at Maryks, with pure intents of death, she was surprised as she hit the wall of force and bounced off of Maryk's barrier. Damn! It was then that Maryk had opened the curtain of the window and shown her what he called a "perfect world". This "perfect world of logic and order" ... she couldn't believe it! This was no perfect world! This was... "...opression and tyranny at its finest. This is no perfect world! You've taken individual's free will and freedom to make their own decisions about their out lives. You are living a lie and forcing others to live the same lie!" Khaira's fury rose to a peak as she looked upon the view that was in front of her. This was why she was a Harper ... this was why she never relented in the face of hardship and impossibilities ... this was the very thing that she had formed her life fighting against tyrants and opressive rulers! It felt like she would explode, with epic force, from the fury that now made her body and her limbs shake. "You have no need to try and uphold your morals and ethics any longer!" Khaira glared at Maryk with defiance and deadly anger. "Your perfect world will never last. As long as there are individuals whom yet refuse to give in to such tyrannical slavery of the mind, this slavery will never last. I will never be a part of your perfect world! I have fought against many "perfect" instances of your kind many a time before and I say to you now, I will live to see it fall as many before it have fallen!" With those words, Khaira again threw her full body at Maryk with a fury that seemed to arise from the primal rage of primordial instints. She did not care if that wall was still operational; she would kill him if she had to scar her body for the rest of eternity in getting to him.
Drindin 03-06-06, 07:21 PM	Maryks simply laughs, and draws the curtains closed. "There's no use, Khaira. My eyes are everywhere... so many like yourself have tried through the ages to fight. It's useless." Maryks wanders out, bathing the room in darkness, closing her cage. After a few minutes, the young man's voice pipes up. "It's true... you know. It's useless to waste your energy like that. I was like you once. Blinded by my knightly code, unable to see what was right before my eyes... just how powerful Maryks was. He's practicaly a lesser-god... some say he already is."
Agudo Archmage 03-06-06, 11:24 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Firecam had taken up the rear guard as the high strung group of adventurers made there way down the mountainside The elder Knight couldn’t help but over hear the melodramatics of the redheaded Bardes even this far from her Stopping to adjust his gear shaking his head as he did, Keldorn commented to himself out loud I have always heard the tales of adventuring groups tying up and leaving one of their own behind Yet until now never truly sympathized with such tales He eyed Khaira backside as she ran farther from the group sighing If only Khaira knew why I ..... Then suddenly the magical energies came around them darkening the skis with its deceptive effects Keldorn Firecam reached for his weapon seeing Agudo beloved ward Kulideb fall to the ground Atlas and Ruthia were already charging at some unseen enemy The Knight through off his backpack as he charged forth with Righteous fervor Concern was growing within him as his comrades one by one fell to ground NO! It was then he could hear Drindin confronting a mage It was clear then wizards work was afoot Calling forth his Knightly powers as an Inquisitor strengthening his resistance to magic Firecam ran faster aiming his weapon at the one Drindin called Maryks! By all that is Righteous you shall fall dark Wizard! With great power the wizard’s magic washed over the elder Knight causing his strength to slowly fade Yet thanks to his training as an Inquisitor of his Order Keldorn had spent years preparing against wizardly magic and it would all come down to this I call forth (Inner Righteous Strength) Like a lion reinvigorated Keldorn felt his bones become that of a young man In that time the Knight had made it to within twenty feet of the Wizard dodging side to side as he was well trained to do This was done in hopes of avoiding any ranged magic and deadly tangling magic Now you shall pay for your cruelty against my friends blasted Mage! Never the less part of him knew something was wrong it was all to easy he thought Why isn’t this Maryks using more magic? They always shoot forth some diabolical magic of Lightening or some such spell that does more damage to others near by than its attended target.....yet why hasn’t he? Firecam leaped over a log and now was only ten feet away A gleam of triumph was in his eye despite his concern of the lack of magical attack With a splash the Knight hit a sandy body of water easily hidden behind the log covered weeds Shock was clearly seen on the Keldorn face as he splashed about like some helpless nave The thrity pounds of armor was now pulling him down there was no magic to resist he knew For all his years of training to fight off spells it could not help Firecam now It was simple gravity working against the Inquisitor now In a desperate attempt Keldorn throws his sword at the Wizard yet he could not even see if it had goten close for sandy water had splashed him in the eyes blinding him Reaching quickly for an item hooked to his belt even as the quicksand now made it way up to his chin Keldorn grasped hold of this last hope like a drowning man seeing his life flash before him It was a very small figurine carved in the form of a bird Sadly at the same time the magical enchantment took effect releasing the large eagle Maryks let lose with the most simple of spells never the less at that moment the most effective (Dispel Magic) was used by the Wizard in vanishing the one aid Keldorn could count on to pull him out. Choking as he went down in the quicksand the magical darkness was able to overcome Keldorn resistance with ease All that could be seen was Firecam hand sticking out of the water as the darkness reached out like deaths hand
Drindin 03-07-06, 12:30 AM	Keldorn is the second too awaken in his own, terrible fantasy world... He wakes up in... a bed, in a barracks. A messenger is standing at the door. "Lord Keldorn, you've been summoned by the Grand Knight Inquisitor. He seems... ireful, you best hurry."
Khaira 03-07-06, 01:07 AM	"It's true... you know. It's useless to waste your energy like that. I was like you once. Blinded by my knightly code, unable to see what was right before my eyes... just how powerful Maryks was. He's practicaly a lesser-god... some say he already is." In the darkness, Khaira settled into the darkness of the cage, gathering her will power and strength to her. She'd not let this happen. She would NOT let this happen. Looking to where she thought the voice of the young man was, her tone was that of steel when she next spoke. "I care not if he is Lord Ao himself, come to opress the land of mortals and steal everyone's soul. I will fight no matter what the cost. My life ... has never been important. It is for others, and for the good of Faerun, that I fight. To surrender in the face of this evil would be to allow myself to forget just who I am and why I fight. I cannot do that ... I will not do that." Khaira's voice sank to a low whisper as she looked at the impenetrable darkness surrounding her. "...not again." The elven bardess sank into a light trance, her physical body remaining in the cage, but her soul floating inches from her body, visions of elves and moons and deities filling her vision.
Drindin 03-07-06, 01:12 AM	(Khaira's vision) The man merely sighs. "It's... Believe me, I've tried. I've got scars enough to prove it. I was a knight of unshakable morale standards... two hundred years ago. But he kept me from aging, and now he's trapped me in this five-foot square hell. He'll do the same to you too, y'know." His cage rattles as he groans and repositions himself. "There... might be a way out. Might be. But I've tried... it's... virtually impossible."
Agudo Archmage 03-07-06, 03:09 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Shaking off his very damp salt and pepper hair with his hand that was caused by the fearful dream Keldorn slowly rises still stiff and disoriented from the blurry memories Wizard....Kulideb falling.... A cadet passing by spoke up GM Keldorn is the second too awaken in his own, terrible fantasy world... He wakes up in... a bed, in a barracks. A messenger is standing at the door. "Lord Keldorn, you've been summoned by the Grand Knight Inquisitor. He seems... ireful, you best hurry." The Cadet seem to become annoyed he spoke once more Sir Firecam! Your late as it is! Please hurry! Standing with care the elder Knight rose noticing himself in the mirror It was his reflection alright yet some how even more gray had taken over his hairline The rugged tanned face of his seem more aged yet Keldorn couldn’t remember how Where am I? He said aloud The Cadet gave a perplex look at such a question Why ...Sir Firecam..... the Barracks of course Keldorn nodded curtly not wanting to continue the conversation Walking off through the door to the outside he hurried down the hall as his memories started to comeback Where are the others? Was he rescued from the battle? It was then he realized that his clothing seem fine yet his armor was gone and so was his weapon Never the less he kept walking down a long corridor Until finally the elder Knight stopped in front of a large door He wasn’t sure how he knew this was where to go yet here he was Swallowing and fidgeting for a moment Keldorn finally opened the ornate wooden door it creaked as it open Stepping through Firecam called out Keldorn Firecam of the Radiant Heart Order present as commanded
Drindin 03-07-06, 11:40 PM	(Firecam's Vision) "Step foreward, firecam!" Came the grizzled voice... oddly familiar, yet unrecognized voice. As Firecam walks in, he can see a man dressed in ornate golden armour with a long, silvery beard and wrinkled features, with shocking blue eyes that seem to know too much. "I assume you know why you are here... but incase you do not..." The man clears his throat and unrolls a small scroll. "For your failiure to complete your follow through on your knightly duties by knowledgably working with a known dark-cleric, and for attempting to rescue such an abomination as the known half-undead Krissy Trunin and Drindin Trunin." Coughing slightly, the man proceeds. "Also by failing to save the maiden Kulideb from the dark ranger Shades Trunin, you are here by stripped of your title as Knight Inquisitor."
Agudo Archmage 03-08-06, 12:29 AM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley The words caught the elder Knight off gaurd GM "For your failure to complete your follow through on your knightly duties by knowledgably working with a known dark-cleric, Keldorn stammered Dark Cleric? GM .....and for attempting to rescue such an abomination as the one known half-undead Krissy Trunin and Drindin Trunin.". But....I was attempting a quest to free her of the state of half undeath GM Coughing slightly, the man proceeds "Also by failing to save the maiden Kulideb from the dark ranger Shades Trunin, you are here by stripped of your title as Knight Inquisitor." What? Kulideb fallen.... He shook his head at the thought of how Agudo his dearest and closest friend doted over his prized pupil How could he have failed to protect her...Kuli dead!....Agudo ....would be devastated His body spun with the words of .....failure ...striped of his titles Looking up at the Grand Knight with blurry tear stained eyes Firecam spoke in a soft voice Shades......killed Kuli ....why?...How? What of the others ....the human girl....and the other knights...or even.....Ruthia and .....Elvina? Then as if remembering something Khaira?....I was on a secret Quest for the Order Nodding his head as it all came clear to him slamming his hand against the railing To deal with Khaira long lost past and to confront....the one.....the one.....blast! What of the Bardes?
Khaira 03-08-06, 08:28 PM	(Khaira's vision) His cage rattles as he groans and repositions himself. "There... might be a way out. Might be. But I've tried... it's... virtually impossible." Khaira heard the knight's words as if through a heavy fog. In the darkness, while she closed her eyes and entered the elven trance common to her race, she only saw darkness at first. Then ... then, floating in the darkness, she saw a full moon and, in front of that full moon, the beautiful, unmarred body of a pale, but shining, elf step forward. With a smile that was of the stars and of the most graceful and elegant mind, she pointed with a jewelled finger. As the scene switched, she saw whips, cracking, cracking, always cracking ... people crying bitter tears for their hopeless situation of imprisonment ... individuals starving, dying, everywhere ... evil, cruel men, powerful men, flaunting their power. Out of the darkness and the brutal scenery, Khaira heard a heavenly voice, that of Sehanine Moonbow, shine out. "Remember, my child ... remember ......" It was with those words that Khaira came, quite suddenly, awake. She realized, after a brief moment, that she was still in complete darkness, still in a cage. Rising to her knees, a grim expression of determination upon her face in the darkness, she looked to the other man. "I will not sit here until the Calling comes to claim me and the Father of the Fair People comes to take me to the lands Evergreen. I will not sit here and let Maryks have his way. I will not submit to cruelty and brutality ... even if he is a god, I cannot do that. And, if you are a true knight, neither should you. Remember what you are, man. Remember what you lived for ... remember who you lived for. We must fight, for the people, for the good of Faerun. Even when death is most certain, still I must fight ... and so should you. Remember, and listen to your heart. I have not forgotten what or who I am, and neither should you. Now tell me ... what is the way out?"
Drindin 03-08-06, 09:18 PM	"i've learned to keep out of kerrigan's business... Hey Kerrigan!" "Keep walkin'." "Oookay."
Drindin 03-08-06, 09:19 PM	(Khaira's vision) "W... I mean..." There's silence for a few minutes. "Once a day, the guards come to feed us. There is a moment there when the force shield is brought down to put the food into the cage... if one of us could distract the guard so the field stays down, the other could make it out long enough to dispatch the guard and free the other... then, we could make it out down the stairs... the same way I came in initially." (Firecam's Vision) "What of the bardess? She escaped, of course, thanks to your foolhardy behavior!" The elder knight glares down at firecam. "And now, thanks to you, we'll never be able to catch her. What have you to say for yourself?"
Khaira 03-08-06, 11:47 PM	There is a moment there when the force shield is brought down to put the food into the cage... if one of us could distract the guard so the field stays down, the other could make it out long enough to dispatch the guard and free the other... In the darkness, Khaira inclined her head towards where she had last known the knight was. His plan was a good one ... except for the fact that neither of them had their weapons. Then again, what did she need weapons for? Speaking with a voice akin to steel and iron, Khaira nodded in the darkness. "Yes, it could work, provided the guards fall for the ruse. What manner of distraction did you have in mind ... or did you have in mind? And which one of us will take the role of the distractor?" Khaira paused and mused silently for a moment. Yes, it could work very well ... but if any part of their plan fell to the wayside, all could be lost, and they would both be stuck here for a very, very long time.... "Our plan must be flawless, and the deceit perfect. This may very well be our only opportunity to escape. If you have the heart to provide a distraction, I will take out the guards..." Khaira's emerald green eyes burned with anticipation in the darkness. No man, creature, nor cage of any kind would confine her so, nor for very long. There was yet work to do.
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-09-06, 09:35 AM	(Er, Drindin, why are you quoting Legendary Frog flashes here?)
Drindin 03-09-06, 10:19 AM	(Er, Drindin, why are you quoting Legendary Frog flashes here?) ((It's a long and complicated story...)) (Cordelia's Vision) Cordelia wakes up in rather comfortable surroundings. Her own bed... her own house... Her parents looming over her. "I told you becoming a grubby little metal-banger would only bring trouble down on you."
Agudo Archmage 03-09-06, 12:59 PM	GM "What of the bardess? She escaped, of course, thanks to your foolhardy behavior!" The elder knight glares down at firecam. "And now, thanks to you, we'll never be able to catch her. What have you to say for yourself?" Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Holding on to the railing for support still feeling some how overwhelmed by it all Keldorn eyed the Grand Knight as best as he could not sure how this all happened I have served my Order with all my heart and being Yet those I have adventured with shall not go un punished If Shades has done this then I shall find out why and bring justice to the fallen Tell me then where is Shades?
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-09-06, 08:47 PM	(I'd say I have time, but this is the IC thread) Cordelia's first thought was to just pull the covers back over her. The strange dream hadn't given her much rest. But her parents sounded mad, and their choice of topic wasn't one she'd ignore. She slowly sat up, rubbing her eyes. At least the metal workers don't have to work in their own homes. They actually get to go places. Cordelia softened her tone. After all, this was her mother and father. Is something wrong?
Drindin 03-11-06, 02:00 AM	(I'd say I have time, but this is the IC thread) Cordelia's first thought was to just pull the covers back over her. The strange dream hadn't given her much rest. But her parents sounded mad, and their choice of topic wasn't one she'd ignore. She slowly sat up, rubbing her eyes. At least the metal workers don't have to work in their own homes. They actually get to go places. Cordelia softened her tone. After all, this was her mother and father. Is something wrong? (Cordelia) The father scoffs loudly. "Go places? Down the road, yes!" He shakes his head. "Our own daughter hasn't even researched her own job." The mother looks at her. "Cordelia... you are to leave here. We are no longer your parents. We're disowning you."
Drindin 03-11-06, 02:02 AM	In the darkness, Khaira inclined her head towards where she had last known the knight was. His plan was a good one ... except for the fact that neither of them had their weapons. Then again, what did she need weapons for? Speaking with a voice akin to steel and iron, Khaira nodded in the darkness. "Yes, it could work, provided the guards fall for the ruse. What manner of distraction did you have in mind ... or did you have in mind? And which one of us will take the role of the distractor?" Khaira paused and mused silently for a moment. Yes, it could work very well ... but if any part of their plan fell to the wayside, all could be lost, and they would both be stuck here for a very, very long time.... "Our plan must be flawless, and the deceit perfect. This may very well be our only opportunity to escape. If you have the heart to provide a distraction, I will take out the guards..." Khaira's emerald green eyes burned with anticipation in the darkness. No man, creature, nor cage of any kind would confine her so, nor for very long. There was yet work to do. The man nodded. "Perhaps a certain measure of surprise and wildness could serve as a distraction. I will put on an antic disposition... and while I do so, you can remove the guards." As though on que, a pair of brawny guards makes their way up the stairs, the scent of the food they carry quite clear in the darkness.
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-11-06, 09:20 AM	At the mention of the last statement, Cordelia shoots up, disbelieving what she has heard. Disowning me?! What have I done to shame the family this much?
Khaira 03-13-06, 03:10 PM	The man nodded. "Perhaps a certain measure of surprise and wildness could serve as a distraction. I will put on an antic disposition... and while I do so, you can remove the guards." As though on que, a pair of brawny guards makes their way up the stairs, the scent of the food they carry quite clear in the darkness. Khaira crept up close to the door of the cage, crouching as she readied herself for the first stage of the great rescue attempt. She could smell the food already, wafting up to her nostrils, its tantalizing contents appealing to her hungered mind. She looked over to the other man in the cage, murmuring softly, her tone hardened and cold. "Get your ready distraction ready ... here they come, for their deaths
Drindin 03-19-06, 12:30 AM	(Khaira's Vision) The guards open up Khaira's cage, and release the field. As they set her food down, the man starts going into a maddened riot. "HEYA BIG LUGS! COME'N TAKE ME ON, WHY DONTCHA!?" (Cordelia's vision) "I simply can't have a metal-banging good-for-nothing as a daughter. It shames my family name to have such a commoner as a daughter. You could have been a great merchant, or even a fine Courtesan! But no, you had to be a blacksmith!" The father drones.
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-19-06, 07:41 PM	A merchant...A courtesan? Cordelia scoffs. Surely you don't want your only child riding on the ale-stained coattails of some noble. If I am a smith, I can take my own matters into my own hands, instead of the wealthy elite's. Cordelia noticed that her tone was becoming more and more harsh and pronounced. She seemed like she could talk...and argue with them more freely. Besides, would a weaver ever learn how to work with wands and magical swords? My master is a fine crafter, better than either of you are as weavers.
Drindin 03-20-06, 12:23 AM	A merchant...A courtesan? Cordelia scoffs. Surely you don't want your only child riding on the ale-stained coattails of some noble. If I am a smith, I can take my own matters into my own hands, instead of the wealthy elite's. Cordelia noticed that her tone was becoming more and more harsh and pronounced. She seemed like she could talk...and argue with them more freely. Besides, would a weaver ever learn how to work with wands and magical swords? My master is a fine crafter, better than either of you are as weavers. The father's voice drops to a cool whisper, and the mother, obviously quite shocked and ashamed leaves the room nearly in tears. Pointing at the door, the father simply murmurs 'Get out."
Drindin 03-20-06, 12:29 AM	GM Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Holding on to the railing for support still feeling some how overwhelmed by it all Keldorn eyed the Grand Knight as best as he could not sure how this all happened I have served my Order with all my heart and being Yet those I have adventured with shall not go un punished If Shades has done this then I shall find out why and bring justice to the fallen Tell me then where is Shades? "Fallen already, Firecam. But you have one chance to regain your honor. Krissy has been captured, and as she is less than living, you can be the one to kill her. Her very existence is an act of evil." The knightly man claps his hands, and young, frail Krissy is seen wearing naught but rags, being dragged out in chains. She is tossed to the floor, and she immediatley falls into a fit of coughing. Folding her hands, she looks up to the lord night, her pale features twisting into a look of terror and self-pity. "Please!" She begs. "Let me live!"
Agudo Archmage 03-20-06, 06:43 PM	Game Master Fallen already, Firecam. But you have one chance to regain your honor. Krissy has been captured, and as she is less than living, you can be the one to kill her. Her very existence is an act of evil." The knightly man claps his hands, and young, frail Krissy is seen wearing naught but rags, being dragged out in chains. Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Keldorn raised his eyebrows slowly as he watched the young lass brought clasped in chains like some common dog Game Master She is tossed to the floor, and she immediately falls into a fit of coughing. Folding her hands, she looks up to the lord night, her pale features twisting into a look of terror and self-pity. "Please!" She begs. "Let me live!" Firecam hand brushed his empty sheath frowning at the pitiful sight of Krissy The Knight thought for a moment as he pondered what was being asked of him Then remembering thankfully he thought as he spoke quickly Agudo the follower of Light... is .... Grimacing as he looked from the girl to the other Knight Agudo is working on a cure for the girl He seems very confidant that her body can be cured of its infliction Then nervously he added with a shrug hoping to buy time Besides I ...must of missed placed my weapon in the battle
Drindin 03-20-06, 08:42 PM	(Keldorn's vision) The Knight on the chair smiled... and everything seemed to melt away... Keldorn wakes up, quite muddy and cold on the ground, looking up. A scraggly old man with a long white beard hovers over him and seems to be chuckling happily. "Well, this one's passed quite well." The man chuckles again, his colorful robes hanging limply on his body, Drindin crouched nearby. Around him are the others, still unconcious.
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-20-06, 09:11 PM	Cordelia gasps, and covers her mouth. The realization of her word's effect slowly rooted themself into her brain, and her face reflected her horror. Her voice dropped to a faint whisper as she left the room, leaving her father with a simple "Very well." As she left, Cordelia noticed her mother walking away. Sullenly, she approached her, and tapped her on the shoulder. I...I apologize for what I said. But Mother, must a simple choice such as mine sunder this family? Don't we have stronger bonds than this? Please, do not force me out of your life. It will just be for the worse.
Agudo Archmage 03-21-06, 10:29 PM	Game Master (Keldorn's vision) The Knight on the chair smiled... and everything seemed to melt away... Keldorn wakes up, quite muddy and cold on the ground, looking up. A scraggly old man with a long white beard hovers over him and seems to be chuckling happily. "Well, this one's passed quite well." The man chuckles again, his colorful robes hanging limply on his body, Drindin crouched nearby. Around him are the others, still unconscious Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Firecam eyes blinked open feeling the cold wet chill of the air run through his aging body Covered in mud Keldorn absently rub at his armor then seeing the old man in lose fitting robes hovering over him Firecam frowns as he coughs out a question Who...who are you....and what have you done to the others Drindin was crouched nearby Keldorn looked to him as well for answers not clearly undertsanding what befail them
Drindin 03-23-06, 06:42 PM	Cordelia gasps, and covers her mouth. The realization of her word's effect slowly rooted themself into her brain, and her face reflected her horror. Her voice dropped to a faint whisper as she left the room, leaving her father with a simple "Very well." As she left, Cordelia noticed her mother walking away. Sullenly, she approached her, and tapped her on the shoulder. I...I apologize for what I said. But Mother, must a simple choice such as mine sunder this family? Don't we have stronger bonds than this? Please, do not force me out of your life. It will just be for the worse. The mother looks at her daughter with anger in her eyes. "Generations of tradition will be going to waste if you do this, Cordelia! Our family is reknown for it's ability to deal in silk, and you want to give that up to make baubles for high-and-mighty wizards and dirty adventurers! Perhaps, if we had another daughter, or even a son, this would not be important... but you are our only, and so it is better to be childless than have a child whose giving up traditions for a whim!" The mother turns away and runs off to her bedchambers, sobbing.
Drindin 03-23-06, 06:45 PM	Game Master Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Firecam eyes blinked open feeling the cold wet chill of the air run through his aging body Covered in mud Keldorn absently rub at his armor then seeing the old man in lose fitting robes hovering over him Firecam frowns as he coughs out a question Who...who are you....and what have you done to the others Drindin was crouched nearby Keldorn looked to him as well for answers not clearly undertsanding what befail them The ragged old man chuckles, and Drindin merely replies. "He's Maryks. And they're being tested, much like you were. You passed, by the way. Congratulations."
Khaira 03-23-06, 09:44 PM	(Khaira's Vision) The guards open up Khaira's cage, and release the field. As they set her food down, the man starts going into a maddened riot. "HEYA BIG LUGS! COME'N TAKE ME ON, WHY DONTCHA!?" Khaira leaned against the side of the cage, feigning weakness and weariness as the guards opened the cage. As the man started his ranting and raving, Khaira's head shot up. Now was her chance... With grim determination set into her expression and pure, utter defiance written in her eyes, the bardess with the wild, chaotically flowing red hair flying ferally around her, Khaira attempted to grab hold of one of the guards arms and pull his arm taut, towards her while, simultaneously, leaping up and over the guard, using the top of his head as a springboard for her feet. Still holding the arm forcefully, Khaira attempted to yank the arm at an impossible angle, in hopes of breaking that arm. If only the man could distract the other guard...
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-24-06, 08:56 AM	Cordelia began to talk, but words failed to come out of her mouth. She realized that in light of her mother's words, her own reasons began to melt. Sure she wanted to help the more common and down-to-earth folks, but not many people could or wanted to buy the things she made, even less so for the magical items. She thought of her master's lazyness and how he had madeher do every bit of strenuous work. He promised that it was going to help her in the long run, but it had just given her burns and blisters. Maybe her parents were right. Maybe she was being a bit selfish in defying generations of tradition. But they've disowned me!Cordelia said to herself. What good is it continuing the family buiness when I'm not in the family any more? She thought for a moment, and a wonderful idea formed in her head. Cordelia silently passed through the halls, searching for a certain room. After what seemed like an eternity, she opened a rather ornate door into a large room. Shelves of yarn and silk adorn the walls, and a quarter dozen weaving looms. Cordelia sighed, remembering how much of her life had taken place here. She walked towards one of the looms. Bringing forth one of the magical effects she had been taught while a smith, she touched the loom and concentrated. Suddenly, the loom began to shake and hum slightly. She had given it limited animation, and it would weave with far greater precision now. Finding a piece of paper and an ink pen in the corner of the room, Cordelia began to shakily write. Tears began to fall from her cheeks and stained the letter. As she finished the letter, she threw the letternear the loom and ran out of the house, crying. Dear parents, By enchanting the loom I used to work with, I hope to leave something to remember you by. I know I've never really liked weaving, but it has much value to you. I'm sory that I can't be the heir to the family buisness that you wanted. But I've realized that I'm not a smith either. I'll probably used my time, now that I'm disowned and possessionless, to think about what I want to do. But I promise that I'll make ou proud, for you will always be my mother and father. Cordelia
Drindin 03-25-06, 02:51 PM	Khaira leaned against the side of the cage, feigning weakness and weariness as the guards opened the cage. As the man started his ranting and raving, Khaira's head shot up. Now was her chance... With grim determination set into her expression and pure, utter defiance written in her eyes, the bardess with the wild, chaotically flowing red hair flying ferally around her, Khaira attempted to grab hold of one of the guards arms and pull his arm taut, towards her while, simultaneously, leaping up and over the guard, using the top of his head as a springboard for her feet. Still holding the arm forcefully, Khaira attempted to yank the arm at an impossible angle, in hopes of breaking that arm. If only the man could distract the other guard... The guard is caught and Khaira successfuly leaps off of him, and his arm snaps quite easily. The other guard hears this, and draws his sword, running at Khaira.
Drindin 03-25-06, 02:57 PM	As she finished the letter, she threw the letternear the loom and ran out of the house, crying. Cordelia leaves the house, and wakes up, lying on the ground as well, the knight already awake. Maryks chuckles. "Ooh, another one has passed her test. This is very good... And it seems as though your bardess friend is passing soon as well..." (Ruthia's vision) Ruthia awakes, in her draconic form, with something like a giant collar about her neck. The room is dark, yet... strangely familiar. In walks someone familiar... yet, not quite. He seems... different. An old man of somesort. "Ah, Ruthia... Ruthia, Ruthia, Ruthia. How are you today?" He asks as he walks in, something like a spiked horsewhip in his hand as he walks with his hands folded behind his back.
ruthia 03-25-06, 03:22 PM	(Ruthia's vision) Ruthia awakes, in her draconic form, with something like a giant collar about her neck. The room is dark, yet... strangely familiar. In walks someone familiar... yet, not quite. He seems... different. An old man of somesort. "Ah, Ruthia... Ruthia, Ruthia, Ruthia. How are you today?" He asks as he walks in, something like a spiked horsewhip in his hand as he walks with his hands folded behind his back. As she woke up, Ruthia shakes her gaint head in confusion. The last thing she could remeber was sensing danger...running toward Khaira...and nothing.... She stands herself up, her tail whiping around herself in frusteration because she does not remember coming here....leaving her companions...or changing forms! She bigins to pace a bit when the man walks in, carrying a whip. She tilts her head slightly to look at him, giving a low grumble as she then looks at the door behind the man. Rather then answering him, something made her desperatly want to get out of here. She ignores the man and starts walking toward the door....
Khaira 03-25-06, 04:28 PM	The other guard hears this, and draws his sword, running at Khaira. As the guards arm snapped with bone-crunching ferocity, Khaira looked up at the running guard. She was without weapons, without any of her items, and deprived of all of the magical energies that she had formulated into useful support for herself. In this situation, she was helpless against the running guard ... helpless except for one thing. Holding her position, emerald green eyes intensely focused on the rapidly approaching guard, the elven bardess began to sing in elvish, her melodic voice filling the room, the very air around her seeming to hum with energy as she sang*. **"Uumma n'alaquel Mello’amin kalpanmegil Ndu mori malle Nuquerna nequelamin Uumma nallallie, uumma gorgallie Soorallie naalalluvie’gurtha Corm a’edain kirma meun A lle coia galle’faia" Khaira's flowing, mesmerizing voice reached a crescendo, the very air seeming to threaten to be burst with the power that now surged through it. "Ascallie ar’falma magil agarwaen Ndu le’mein ar’salken nnar’ Authar yamen’wethrina Lye hortalye arrt’ereb" Her voice softened once again, her bright emerald green eyes still on the guard, a motherly voice of understanding affecting the decrescendo as her soothing, relaxed voice neared a murmuring end. "Ar’rato, salkaen ndu naan mein Elecorm yassen valinor Elle corm il’ba Lle’amin coia yassen Lindir Nandaro" * This is her bardic music ability, Fascinate and it is *not* language dependent **Translation of the elvish song is as follows, should anyone be interested: "Don’t look back Just draw your blade Down dark track The defeat will come Don’t cry, don’t be afraid Just follow the cries of dying As the hearts of men part ways From the liberty of the soul Run and wave blade blood-wet Down the trail of dancing bone To the place where deceit is met We all rush-and come there alone. And soon, dancing down the path You will see with renewed spirit The heart has not been destroyed, But been guided to life by the Singing Harper."
Drindin 03-26-06, 01:25 AM	As she woke up, Ruthia shakes her gaint head in confusion. The last thing she could remeber was sensing danger...running toward Khaira...and nothing.... She stands herself up, her tail whiping around herself in frusteration because she does not remember coming here....leaving her companions...or changing forms! She bigins to pace a bit when the man walks in, carrying a whip. She tilts her head slightly to look at him, giving a low grumble as she then looks at the door behind the man. Rather then answering him, something made her desperatly want to get out of here. She ignores the man and starts walking toward the door.... And she promptly runs into a forcewall, the collar on her neck seeming to tighten the harder she pushes against it. The man chuckles. "Come now, you didn't think I'd make it that easy?"
ruthia 03-26-06, 01:41 AM	Hissing a bit in distress at the tightening of the collar, she swings her head toward the man, her eyes whirling with anger as she looks at him. She hisses and snaps at him, completely feral at the moment as she see's this man as the one holding ehr where she doesn't wish to be held. She takes a deep breath as if to breath fire on him......
Drindin 03-26-06, 11:28 AM	((Khaira's vision)) The guard hesitates a moment, more confused as to what she's trying to do, but once again swings at her anyways.* ((Ruthia's vision)) The fire swirls about the man, but as soon as it clears, he holds up his hand, revealing a golden ring. "Sorry, madame dragon. I'm no idiot. You honestly think I'd walk into a cave with a captive dragon unprotected?" *The distraction of a nearby combat or other dangers prevents the ability from working
ruthia 03-26-06, 02:37 PM	((Ruthia's vision)) The fire swirls about the man, but as soon as it clears, he holds up his hand, revealing a golden ring. "Sorry, madame dragon. I'm no idiot. You honestly think I'd walk into a cave with a captive dragon unprotected?" Backing off with a low growl she Lowers her body and fixes her eye, swirling red/orange, on the man. She snorts slightly, trying to work out how to get loose. o O(tp man if allowed> WHy am I here? WHat do you want with me?)
Drindin 03-26-06, 09:31 PM	((Ruthi's vision)) The man chuckles. "Why wouldn't I want a pet dragon? The money I could make, the fun I could have when I finally break you. Why! It's a man's dream come true!" Walking towards ruthia, the man spins the whip in his hand. "Most exciting. Very enjoyable thoughts. Don't try to hurt me, unless you're extremely masochistic. That collar your wearing prevents you from being able to touch me unless I deem it allowed."
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-26-06, 09:36 PM	What? A test? Cordelia saw the unconcious forms of the group (Save for Keldorn and Drindin, who were awake). She shakily stood up, and shouted, What was that for? And who are you?
ruthia 03-26-06, 10:23 PM	((Ruthi's vision)) The man chuckles. "Why wouldn't I want a pet dragon? The money I could make, the fun I could have when I finally break you. Why! It's a man's dream come true!" Walking towards ruthia, the man spins the whip in his hand. "Most exciting. Very enjoyable thoughts. Don't try to hurt me, unless you're extremely masochistic. That collar your wearing prevents you from being able to touch me unless I deem it allowed." Looking at him with pure hate she hisses again o O(TP> You will never break me!) She lunges at him with a roar, her mouth wide as she tries to bite the man
Drindin 03-27-06, 03:42 AM	Looking at him with pure hate she hisses again o O(TP> You will never break me!) She lunges at him with a roar, her mouth wide as she tries to bite the man The man merely laughs as the collar simulataneously tightens, and seems to keep her from being able to approach the man. "Don't take me for a fool, dragon." He raises the whip up, and swings to strike her with it. Amazingly enough, the whip seems enchanted, and seems to be able to deliver far more shock than one would assume of something it's size. *note: Ruthia is still connected to a 'shadow' khaira. If khaira wishes to play the hallucinatory khaira, that would be acceptable (just PM me to find out what she is capable of)
Agudo Archmage 03-27-06, 05:23 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Cordelia What? A test? Cordelia saw the unconscious forms of the group (Save for Keldorn and Drindin, who were awake). She shakily stood up, and shouted, What was that for? And who are you? Save your breath lass! If there one thing I know about Wizards..... is that Mages know only how to use others for whatever twisted act they wish Standing slowly leaning on a tree trunk the elder knight shook his head rubbing the mud from his salt and pepper hair Give someone superior intelligent and the power to back it up! Firecam eyed the new Wizard with distaste And you will see the likes of people like him manipulate you to do some fiendish adventure Sending poor wide eyed lads and lasses off on some fools job not knowing that death lays ahead Making you think they have your best interest at heart but really its all for them and there own secret arcane plans Turning to Drindin the Knight put his hands on his hips frowning I take it the test was for more than his amusement but to see if we were trustful of his tasks
Drindin 03-27-06, 06:41 PM	Maryks chuckles. "There's nothing amusing about watching people sleep. Besides which, it wasn't my idea." Drindin sighs. "This was Shades' idea. To make sure that you had the strength to overcome your weaknesses and fears, whatever they were."
Khaira 03-27-06, 10:56 PM	((Khaira's vision)) The guard hesitates a moment, more confused as to what she's trying to do, but once again swings at her anyways.* Khaira's countenance sunk as her normally mystifying music had not the effect which she had desired on the charging guard. Music may calm the savage beast but some were just too deaf to hear that. With a smirk, Khaira pondered ... if he was deaf, that meant he was proverbially blind. Why not make that a reality for him, then? Though the man had hesitated, her own lack of movement meant that he was continuing to close on her. Murmuring softly, Khaira beckoned to the man, her voice stretching out in his genreal direction, reaching out to captivate his senses -- or, at least, one of them*. "Wandering aimlessly through the light-filled world Eyes closed to the wonders by Gods unfurled. Never again will you use your eyes, To spread violence and the wizard's lies!" Khaira rolled to the side of the charging guard, beginning to make her way towards the cage where the other knight was. * Blindness/Deafness, a 2nd level Bardic Spell. Obviously, she's chosen Blindness
ruthia 03-28-06, 01:09 AM	The man merely laughs as the collar simulataneously tightens, and seems to keep her from being able to approach the man. "Don't take me for a fool, dragon." He raises the whip up, and swings to strike her with it. Amazingly enough, the whip seems enchanted, and seems to be able to deliver far more shock than one would assume of something it's size. *note: Ruthia is still connected to a 'shadow' khaira. If khaira wishes to play the hallucinatory khaira, that would be acceptable (just PM me to find out what she is capable of) Ruthia fights the collar a bit longer, trying to ignore the pain....untill the comes down. She yelps in pain and backs herself as far away from the man and the painful whip as possible. SHaking her head trying to get the pain to stop.... o O(tp Khaira only> Khaira! Can you hear me? What happened, why am I chained up alone in a dungoen!)
Faeryl 03-28-06, 01:18 AM	((Ooopsy))
Khaira 03-28-06, 01:23 AM	o O(tp Khaira only> Khaira! Can you hear me? What happened, why am I chained up alone in a dungoen!) From an undeterminable distance away, Khaira heard the cries of Ruthia as she frantically reached out for the last thing that could have any chance of being her salvation: their connection. o O (Chained up, you say? I'm afraid that just won't do ... no, that won't do at all. Come on, Ruthia ... your stronger than that. We're stronger than that. Do you need me?)
ruthia 03-28-06, 01:33 AM	o O (Chained up, you say? I'm afraid that just won't do ... no, that won't do at all. Come on, Ruthia ... your stronger than that. We're stronger than that. Do you need me?) Still eyeing the man wearily as the pain fades and the panic fades also a bit. Still cowering away from him though, not wanting to get hit again. o O(I don't know......there's some kind of collar around my neck that causes pain...he has a whip that hurts a lot. ANd he's cornered me somehow......) Keeps shaking her head and cowering away from the man, confused and slihtly paniced.
Drindin 03-28-06, 12:14 PM	Khaira's countenance sunk as her normally mystifying music had not the effect which she had desired on the charging guard. Music may calm the savage beast but some were just too deaf to hear that. With a smirk, Khaira pondered ... if he was deaf, that meant he was proverbially blind. Why not make that a reality for him, then? Though the man had hesitated, her own lack of movement meant that he was continuing to close on her. Murmuring softly, Khaira beckoned to the man, her voice stretching out in his genreal direction, reaching out to captivate his senses -- or, at least, one of them*. "Wandering aimlessly through the light-filled world Eyes closed to the wonders by Gods unfurled. Never again will you use your eyes, To spread violence and the wizard's lies!" Khaira rolled to the side of the charging guard, beginning to make her way towards the cage where the other knight was. * Blindness/Deafness, a 2nd level Bardic Spell. Obviously, she's chosen Blindness ((Khaira's vision)) The guard crashes headlong into a wall, and falls to the ground, screaming in shock as he paws at his eyes. The other knight looks up at Khaira. "You should be able to open it from out there..." ((Ruthia's vision)) "That's more like it, dragon-pet." He says. Walking away, he stands just outside the gave enterance, and lights up a cigarette. "Don't worry, your new owners will be here soon." He chuckles to himself, and takes a drag on his lucifer.
Khaira 03-28-06, 11:19 PM	Walking over to the guard, seeming to ignore - or selectively not hear - the other knight, she bent low down to him, whispering softly and seductively to him. "The people will be free ... whether the wizard fool wishes so or not." She stood up once again and raising her foot up, she stomped down on the guard's neck, glaring down at his body. Turning and striding with a purpose, Khaira reached the other knight's cage. With rageful force, she grabbed the door of the cage and ripped it open, grimacing as she looked to the knight and to the stairs, quietly speaking with grim determination. "Come on. We've got work to do..."
Khaira 03-28-06, 11:29 PM	o O(I don't know......there's some kind of collar around my neck that causes pain...he has a whip that hurts a lot. ANd he's cornered me somehow......) Keeps shaking her head and cowering away from the man, confused and slihtly paniced She felt eager to go to Ruthia's aid now, to squash this little bug, and rend his limbs from his puny body, to show him that he wasn't the only force of power, to remind him that sometimes even a dragon had friends... ...but she couldn't. Not yet. The rules had been very clear. They had been set in stone. She couldn't initiate this ... o. O. (Well, you know what to do when you come to your decision.)
Drindin 03-29-06, 12:59 AM	Walking over to the guard, seeming to ignore - or selectively not hear - the other knight, she bent low down to him, whispering softly and seductively to him. "The people will be free ... whether the wizard fool wishes so or not." She stood up once again and raising her foot up, she stomped down on the guard's neck, glaring down at his body. Turning and striding with a purpose, Khaira reached the other knight's cage. With rageful force, she grabbed the door of the cage and ripped it open, grimacing as she looked to the knight and to the stairs, quietly speaking with grim determination. "Come on. We've got work to do..." The knight looks up, gets a daring grin and rises. "Justice will prevail. Your right, we have a great journey ahead of us... let's go!" The Knight dashes to the door, and stands next to it. "This way!"
ruthia 03-29-06, 01:04 AM	((Ruthia's vision)) "That's more like it, dragon-pet." He says. Walking away, he stands just outside the gave enterance, and lights up a cigarette. "Don't worry, your new owners will be here soon." He chuckles to himself, and takes a drag on his lucifer. Owners? I.....owners.......no....... Ruthia lays her head down almost dejectedly on the floor, still trying to think of a way out of this mess. She can't have an owner, she just can't. That thoght was clear in her mind. She was a free creature, not some toy to be passed along, a pet for the highest bidder. Shaking slightly she watches the man and the door, wishing she could just charge out. But she was trapped, chained. The last time she had been chaind to anything was............No, don't go back down that path Ruthia..... Trying to keep he mind from panicking completely she reaches out for Khaira's calming presence. o O(Khaira, he says I'm going to be a pet. That I will have owners.......I......) She falls silent again, not wanting to voice her fear
Drindin 03-29-06, 01:09 AM	Owners? I.....owners.......no....... Ruthia lays her head down almost dejectedly on the floor, still trying to think of a way out of this mess. She can't have an owner, she just can't. That thoght was clear in her mind. She was a free creature, not some toy to be passed along, a pet for the highest bidder. Shaking slightly she watches the man and the door, wishing she could just charge out. But she was trapped, chained. The last time she had been chaind to anything was............No, don't go back down that path Ruthia..... Trying to keep he mind from panicking completely she reaches out for Khaira's calming presence. o O(Khaira, he says I'm going to be a pet. That I will have owners.......I......) She falls silent again, not wanting to voice her fear "You're gonna make a noble very happy, dragon girl! You'll be in your very own room... course, you'll be chained up in there. Can't have ya flyin' around, pillagin' crops. Yup, just chained right up, trapped in your own room..." The man chuckles, and makes another drag on his fire-stick (no pun intended).
Khaira 03-29-06, 03:41 PM	Khaira and the Knight With a solemn nod, Khaira ran to the door, nodding to the knight. "Aye, then, let us begone from this hellhole of bad memories. There's a wizard that needs punishing." With those words, Khaira ran out the door, hoping the knight would follow "Shadow" Khaira and Ruthia Though contradictory to what she felt inside, Khaira filled her mind with calming thoughts of love and peace, letting them swell up inside of her, before passing them through the connection shared by Ruthia. O. o (You know what to do ... just give me the word.)
Drindin 03-30-06, 03:23 AM	(Khaira) The night does follow, and... Khaira wakes up. The old man is chuckling again. "And I had my doubts about this one... your bard's a tough one, Drindin." Drindin smirks. "She's not mine. No one can be in possession of her."
ruthia 03-30-06, 03:40 AM	chained right up, trapped in your own room..." At those words Ruthia cowers away from the man even more as old memories threaten to surface on her. She shudders and shakes, her mind trying to fight the memories. So close...so close to breaking point.....trapped...trapped again....in the dark...in the room........She watches the man but seems to look straight through him as the memories start hitting her hard... It was pitch black, she sat with her back against the wall and stared out into the dark. The room had no windows, one door, no funiture. She was chained by a fairly short chain around each of her wrist to the wall of this room. It was for her own safety, she was told. Everyone thought she was going crazy, that she was hurting herself at night. But how could she tell them, the truth was far more frightening then they imagined. Out of the corner of her eye she caught movement. He was back....She coward against the wall as he walked closer, chuckling darkly.. "I so love seeing you all prepared for me dear sister. Tell me, what shall I do to you tonight? Pain, torture, or just get straight to my favorite part?" He moves menacingly closer as she tries to cower away, his laughter filling her ears...... She shakes her head suddenly as something manages to break the memory "Shadow" Khaira and Ruthia Though contradictory to what she felt inside, Khaira filled her mind with calming thoughts of love and peace, letting them swell up inside of her, before passing them through the connection shared by Ruthia. O. o (You know what to do ... just give me the word.) The feeling swells through her, breaking the hold the memories had on her. Khaira's right! She's not alone this time. FOr there is one person in this world always willing to face the shadows, one connection, one friend that could never be taken from her......Khaira! She calms herself a bit more, letting Khaira's more powerful, more dominating mind sooth her confused and paniced one. She closes her eyes, suddenly no longer caring what the man was doing. If he hit her again so be it..... o O(Ru? I can not get out of this. I do not have the strenght. Can you help me? Else I am afraid it is off to some noble man to be his pet for me....)
Khaira 03-30-06, 03:06 PM	Khaira Awakened She was running full speed down the stairs, poetic justice in her eyes, and ready to deal death to whomever got in her way. She heard the knight behind her, trying to keep up with her pace. They were down the stairs and she was running .... ... she was on the ground. Somewhere. She heard the voice of an old man somewhere close to her proximity and she heard Drindin, shortly thereafter. The old man is chuckling again. "And I had my doubts about this one... your bard's a tough one, Drindin." Drindin smirks. "She's not mine. No one can be in possession of her." Doubts? Doubts about what? Doubts about her survival? Her capability to deal with whatever obstacles were placed in front of her? Were they all just TOYING with her?! With rageful vengeance in her emerald green eyes, Khaira nimbly leaped up, turning to face the chuckling old man and Drindin. "What in name of the damned gods?! What is this, some mind-twisted game of yours?! What do you mean, doubts? Doubts about playing with my mind!? Doubts about leaving me to rot in some extra-dimensional test for your own sadistic pleasure? Speak, damn you! No one owns me, and damned be those who think or have thought that they did or do. I am not some slave nor puppet to be toyed with for the pleasure of all!" Khaira and Ruthia She was quiet for a moment before her next message, transmitted via their conneciton, came through. Her words were quiet and soft, but the emotion behind those words - retribution, justice, vengeance - spoke much louder than the words themselves. o O (You've no idea how elated I am to hear you finally speak those words. I'm coming. I shall enjoy ripping his arms from their sockets.) The wild take off of a large avian creature could be heard faintly close to Khaira...
Drindin 03-30-06, 03:38 PM	Khaira Awakened She was running full speed down the stairs, poetic justice in her eyes, and ready to deal death to whomever got in her way. She heard the knight behind her, trying to keep up with her pace. They were down the stairs and she was running .... ... she was on the ground. Somewhere. She heard the voice of an old man somewhere close to her proximity and she heard Drindin, shortly thereafter. Doubts? Doubts about what? Doubts about her survival? Her capability to deal with whatever obstacles were placed in front of her? Were they all just TOYING with her?! With rageful vengeance in her emerald green eyes, Khaira nimbly leaped up, turning to face the chuckling old man and Drindin. "What in name of the damned gods?! What is this, some mind-twisted game of yours?! What do you mean, doubts? Doubts about playing with my mind!? Doubts about leaving me to rot in some extra-dimensional test for your own sadistic pleasure? Speak, damn you! No one owns me, and damned be those who think or have thought that they did or do. I am not some slave nor puppet to be toyed with for the pleasure of all!" "Good." Drindin says. "I don't need a slave, I need a warrior." Maryks chuckled. "It was a test put in place by Drindin's brother. He wanted to make sure only the party would be able to overcome it's weaknesses to save their niece." He chuckles again. "And they calle me mad! He he he!"
ruthia 03-30-06, 04:16 PM	[ Khaira and Ruthia She was quiet for a moment before her next message, transmitted via their conneciton, came through. Her words were quiet and soft, but the emotion behind those words - retribution, justice, vengeance - spoke much louder than the words themselves. o O (You've no idea how elated I am to hear you finally speak those words. I'm coming. I shall enjoy ripping his arms from their sockets.) The wild take off of a large avian creature could be heard faintly close to Khaira... Ruthia gives a small sigh in relief and keeps her eyes closed. The sound of Khaira's voice is all that she needs to calm her somedays, to makethe world seem safer and make sense to this poor dragon. Calmly she curls herself nose to tail, still not looking at the man and faking sleep.
Drindin 03-31-06, 01:52 PM	(Atlas) Atlas wakes up, finding himself totally immobile, as he is buried neck deep in the sand. A deep, bellowing laugh emanates from the darkness that surrounds him. (Kulideb) Kulideb awakes as though from a period of confusion, to find herself sitting, dressed all in black. Next to her is a very distraught Shades, and before her is Drindin giving some sort of Litigy, as a group of undertakers hold child-sized coffin. "Why? Why did she have to die...?" Shades murmurs.
Khaira 03-31-06, 02:16 PM	Khaira She rolled her eyes and muttered something under her breath as she turned away, checking to make sure she had her weapons and all of the items she'd had when she'd been whisked away to the so-called "test "You'd think I'd had enough tests with Those Who Harp in the past half a century ..." With a more pronounced voice, Khaira turned to face Maryks. "Thank you for telling me it was Shades. Now I know who to properly berate when we get back." Shadow Khaira It was only a matter of minutes later that she was flying upon the broad back of Swiftwing, her vibrant, red hair flying in the wind behind her, moving towards the location of Ruthia. She was close ... so close. She was so close that she could taste the sweetness of revenge ... one would think that they'd learn not to mess with her by now. Oh well, some people just never learned their lesson. Only a matter of minutes later, Khaira's landed upon the ground with a soft landing. Not even a few feet above her, Swiftwing was still in the process of landing. Looking around for only a moment, Khaira closed her eyes, her visage intent on something ... or someone. Moments later, she was off and running on swift, silent feet, her wrists snapping and causing twin chains, with miniature blades on their ends to snap forth.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-31-06, 02:54 PM	First, the minotaur smells the air, seeking a smell or scent he could recognize, trying not to make any sound while doing so, so that the fact of his awakening would not become obvious. With the same action, he wanted to see whether his breathing was still unburdened. Then, he attempts to open his eyes. As he sees only darkness, he tries to concentrate on the sensation in his skin: Cold? Heat? A surface or texture of any sort? Or none at all, like the time when a shaman of the Rocksmaw tribe sprinkled him in battle with ichor drawn from the head of a carrion crawler? Finally, he tried opening his mouth and moving his tongue, to see whether he'll be able to speak, once he is prepared to. Then, realizing something, he tried moving his eyes, simply to feel whether they are even still there. Earlier, he assumed the darkness was either unholy or simply magical, since he felt no pain in his eyes, and normal darkness was nothing a minotaur like himself would even notice... but then he remembered: pain can be numbed, and thus it was too early to presume he has not been phisically blinded - hence his last action. Only now did he become aware of the surrounding loughter. He tried turning his head left and right, moving each ear, to try and spot a direction from which the loughter would be louder, possibly revealing it as a location of the lougher. Other than that, however, he remained motionless and totally silent for now.
Drindin 03-31-06, 09:45 PM	(Atlas) "Don't bother trying to see, minotaur-knight. The deep darkness of the abyss is impenetrable." The voice cackles again. "I finally have you immobilized in that sand. I am Prince Maryks, undoubtably you have never heard of me, but I am one of the lesser demon princes... however more cunning I am." The sent of rot and sulphur fills Atlas nostrils... as well as the unmistakable stink of a demon. (Ruthia) The man at the entrance looks toward the sound of the chains. "What the?"
Khaira 03-31-06, 10:09 PM	Khaira came to a pause just outside the door, regarding the man standing outside of the door with eyes full of death and revenge. The very emotions flashing through her eyes seemed to make her smile seem all the more darker when she flashed it to him. Slowly, meaningfully, she began to walk towards the man, the chains dragging idly on the ground behind her, the curved, serrated blades attached to the chains making cruel lines in the sand. Her voice, oddly enough when she spoke, was uncharacteristically cheerful. "Evening, chum. I've come tonight with a message for you. 'Tis a very important message, you see, and one that I could not risk anyone else delivering, for its sheer importance ..." Khaira paused, her eyes gaining a dark and deadly light to them as she considered the man. When she next spoke, her voice had an ominous, lethal quality to it. "A fool's the fool who messes with an elf's friends. Moon elves are even worse. And female moon elves with a purpose? That's just a death wish, fool. You've had your time to play ... now it's time to have mine." Khaira snapped her wrists to and fro, the chains begin to swirl lazily in the air. As the chains continued to move through the air, her arms followed her wrists, creating a fluid, singular motion. In only moments, as Khaira took steps towards the man, the chains were circling with blinding, mesmerizing, blurring speed, the blades at the end of the chains humming with speed and power. She took a slow step towards the man, watching her with eyes devoid of mercy, sympathy, or kindness. She leaped at him, the chains whirring with deadly accuracy.
ruthia 03-31-06, 10:18 PM	Ruthia opens her massive eyes and streches slightly, turning now to watch the door with intrest. She gives a draconic chuckle, listening to Khaira talk to the man and know whats going to happen. Khaira is not nice when her friends are in trouble...and this man was about to find out first hand exactly how not nice she could be...
kulideb 04-02-06, 03:14 PM	The elf maiden opened her eyes; a look of puzzlement crossed her face as she looked at her lap. It wasn’t the colour of her clothing that puzzled her but the material, gone was her worn leather and in its place was soft black velvet, clothes of mourning. Kuli lifted her head, her brow creased as she took in the sight of the small coffin. "No.." She said her voice sounding shocked. "It wasn’t suppose to end like this."She whispered. She felt confused, the last thing she remembered was going to find a cure.. how had she ended up here? Was this a nightmare, or was she so grief stricken the days had blurred. Her gaze left that of the coffin, Drindin was talking, turning her head she saw Shades. She had failed once again, letting down her friends but worse still a child was dead. The words spoken by Shades cut through her, the elf reached over and clasped his hand tightly "I dont know why my love, some things are just beyond us." She said softly, her hand tightening on his as she spoke, his hand felt so real, its not a dream but a nightmare come true.. she thought to herself.
Drindin 04-02-06, 05:23 PM	((Ruthia)) Khaira snapped her wrists to and fro, the chains begin to swirl lazily in the air. As the chains continued to move through the air, her arms followed her wrists, creating a fluid, singular motion. In only moments, as Khaira took steps towards the man, the chains were circling with blinding, mesmerizing, blurring speed, the blades at the end of the chains humming with speed and power. She took a slow step towards the man, watching her with eyes devoid of mercy, sympathy, or kindness. She leaped at him, the chains whirring with deadly accuracy. In a flash the shadow-captor was slain, and from his shirt tumbled the key to Ruthia's collar. ((Kulideb)) "Maybe we could have found the cure sooner, had you not run off after saving the people of Hillsfar." Shades murmurs. "Maybe we could have gone off together, earlier, rather than so late..."
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-02-06, 06:23 PM	"Don't bother trying to see, minotaur-knight. The deep darkness of the abyss is impenetrable." The voice cackles again. "I finally have you immobilized in that sand. I am Prince Maryks, undoubtably you have never heard of me, but I am one of the lesser demon princes... however more cunning I am." The scent of rot and sulphur fills Atlas' nostrils... as well as the unmistakable stink of a demon. The first thought brought to Atlas' mind by the demon's stench was like a hatchet between the horns: Ghertrude! The demon's words made his innitialy guess, of what was about to happen, more likely. Normally, no sane, godfearing person would see finding oneself in the Abyss as a good thing. In Atlas' case, however, the realization brought him a grim saticefection: like a bard's ballad, his own story was now reaching its conclusion. Finding solace in his understanding of Maban's Great Tale and his own place in it, the minotaur spoke: "CUNNING?!", he snorted definatly, "You are a FOOL to have brought me to your domain, Tanar'ri. Here, your destruction will be FINAL!" Now, thought Atlas with morbid determination, he will lay Ghertrude's soul as a... "bargaining chip".
Khaira 04-02-06, 09:53 PM	Khaira came to her feet, the chains slowing and eventually coming to rest at her feet. With a scowl of discouragement, she shook her head as she whipped the chains several times, causing them to ravel back up into a tight string, which she again attached at her belt. Bending down to pick up the key, she scowled more furiously "You shouldn't have gone to sleep yet ... I'd much more fun in mind." Spitting on the corpse, and kicking it, she strolled over to where Ruthia still lay chained. Quickly, she bent, unlocking the chains that constrained her. "Come on ... there's work yet to be done."
ruthia 04-02-06, 10:07 PM	Khaira came to her feet, the chains slowing and eventually coming to rest at her feet. With a scowl of discouragement, she shook her head as she whipped the chains several times, causing them to ravel back up into a tight string, which she again attached at her belt. Bending down to pick up the key, she scowled more furiously "You shouldn't have gone to sleep yet ... I'd much more fun in mind." Spitting on the corpse, and kicking it, she strolled over to where Ruthia still lay chained. Quickly, she bent, unlocking the chains that constrained her. "Come on ... there's work yet to be done." Shaking gratefully in dragon form, then sliding quickly into Human form, Ruthia fixes her icey blue eyes on Khaira and places a greatful hand on her shoulder. No words of thanks pass, none are needed between good friends such as these two. Ruthia follows Khaira out of this prison...out of this nigtmare. She will follow Khaira anywhere, even if it means death....for her trust in Khaira is absolute
Drindin 04-03-06, 12:53 AM	Now, thought Atlas with morbid determination, he will lay Ghertrude's soul as a... "bargaining chip". "I'll make a bargain with you, Sir Knight." The Demon prince walks into sight. He looks for all rights and purposes to be a simple, eccentric mage. "I'll let you out of here... Perhaps even within arms reach of myself... on one condition. You bring me Drindin's young niece, Krissy."
kulideb 04-03-06, 03:08 AM	Shades words stabbed into the little elfs heart, She had run away. "I had too, I needed time to think...things have been so busy..I just needed some quite time..." She said trying to justify her actions. Kuli reached up and gently cupped Shades chin. "Please Shades, dont turn your back on me, not now, we need to be there for each other at a time like this.." Even to her the words had a ring of desperation to them, the time away had made her realise just how much she loved this man, the thought of losing him…
Drindin 04-03-06, 04:16 AM	Shaking gratefully in dragon form, then sliding quickly into Human form, Ruthia fixes her icey blue eyes on Khaira and places a greatful hand on her shoulder. No words of thanks pass, none are needed between good friends such as these two. Ruthia follows Khaira out of this prison...out of this nigtmare. She will follow Khaira anywhere, even if it means death....for her trust in Khaira is absolute Ruthia awakens just where she had fallen. ((Kulideb)) "You love me, then?" Shades asks. "And you loved my niece?" He takes a slight breath and adds. "And you loved your family?"
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-03-06, 04:30 AM	"I'll make a bargain with you, Sir Knight." The Demon prince walks into sight. He looks for all rights and purposes to be a simple, eccentric mage. "I'll let you out of here... Perhaps even within arms reach of myself... on one condition. You bring me Drindin's young niece, Krissy." At first, Atlas grimaced in disbelief. A demon prince would not be as stupid as this one... pretends to be? So this must be a game of some sort, then. However, he was not here to play a tanar'ri's mind games - he had neither the sofistication nor the inclination to do so; thus, he desided to simply play his part: "Has the chaos of your kind driven you MAD, fiend? A knight of MABAN shows WEAKNESS enough to hear you, and THAT is what you offer?!" Then, the realization dawns on him, through hearing his own words: what was he doing? This is weakness, indeed... The demon was not waving him his wife's soul before his face, but only because that would be too easy. Of course, this creature of the Abyss sought his corruption, and what better way to attain it than make him, a paladine, initiate the deal, asking the fiend for a boon? And has he not done it already, by implying there actually is something he would take from the demon in exchange for mercy? If he did, he will attone for this sin of intent. He should not have spoken to this living blasphemy in the first place, as its corruption can filter through undetectably. there is only one way to deal with a fiend, and he should not have forgotten this! "Bytopimabasd!", he called, and though he himself could not see the perfectly black celestial horse in this abyssal darkness, he could already hear his beloved mount's angered snore, as he presumably appeared somewhere nearby on the sand's surface. Still, the notion of letting this living gift, which Maban has entrusted with him, fight alone while he himself is burried here in this dreadful trap, both helpless and useless, was unthinkable to him. "Maban!", he roared, "If another must have MY battle, let none but ME have MY pain!!"
Drindin 04-03-06, 04:54 AM	((atlas)) The prince looks to the horse now beside him, almost as an after thought. "How lovely! A toy pony!" He chuckles, and waves his hand, laughing as the mount freezes in place. He looks back to Atlas. "Now, I'll make you another bargain. Bring me Krissy's soul... and Ghertrude goes free."
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-03-06, 06:29 AM	Unable to see, the minotaur wasn't quite sure what happened to his mount, and could only guess wildly, from hearing his neighing stop abruptly and realizing no battle is going on. He knew the horse was still here, however, as theyr sacred bond was still felt. The foul demon spoke again, taunting him in insolence of Maban's child. Now, he was offering him the deliverance of the woman he loved, wedded and swore to avenge, in exchange for betraying the maiden he swore to protect, and... ? But no! He will not be bought! Even if he belived the tanar'ri, still he would not betray the child with whim his alegiance lies, no matter how much he longed for what is offered. He was about to roar his stalwartness in Maryks' face, but then stopped himself: No; speaking to him, even in mockery and definace, is what brought me to the verge of temptation moments ago. I will not be exposed to his lies again. Speaking with a fiend is consorting with it. There is only one way to deal with a demon. ... but what could he do? Entombed in these abyssal sands, he could not charge into the blasphemous creature, laying his life in Maban's hands. True, he has been shackled before, but then he could always chalange his captors, assault them with words that are just, untill they would find the bravery to fight him, the hinir to release him, or the cowardice to try slaying him then and there. Here - he could not do that. This prince of the findish chasm had indeed the cunning of the World Serpant himself - in this hateful creature's claws, every word the knight spoke could be turned into a dart filtering poison into his soul, pulling pebbles from the bastion of his will. He felt weak, almost fatally so. How long would he be able to remain silent? He will spend the rest of his life praying for Maban to strengthen his heart against temptation, if need be, but without his muscle to back up his faith - how long will it be before even his will to beg for reinforcing his will is broken? No! Encarcerated hermits, spending theyr life in parayer, have theyr own place in Maban's Great Tale, but this is NOT the way of a Holy Fist of Raziel! If prayer is my only weapon - so be it; but let his prayer be a lance, and not a shield! Evil must be crushed, not merely withstood! With these thoughts, he closed his eyes. It made no difference on a plane of existance where there is no such thing as light or eysight, but that way, he could concentrate better. He knew: faith is not a flail to be swinged wildly. One must deside wisely, what to ask of Maban. Soon, his strategy was ready, and his voice resonated clearly, as he rythmically recited the ceremonial words in Celestial: "Let this Blood i spill scorch the Wickid!" The fur on his head parted, and under it, a wound tore as if by itself. Blood began flowing in drops towards his eyebrows and muzzle. "Let Thy Child awaken to the fight!" The celestial' skin shivered, as he is given another chance to break away from Maryks' power. Should Bytopimabasd's will prove strong enough this time, he shall be free to strike at his tormentor yet. "Fill my eyes with the Purity of Infants, the Ire of Raziel, the Truth of Thy own Quill! " A ray as bright as this realm is dark, shot from the minotaur's eyes, further empowered by the Sacrifice of his own blood. As the ray struck in Maryks' direction, which Atlas has locked on by listening to the demon's voice for all this time, his eyes retained its blinding glow, though it did not help him see. The mabanite hoped, that the reinforced blast of holy power would be enough to atleast throw his enemy out of balance, giving Bytopimabasd his chance to take advantage of the moment and attack.
kulideb 04-04-06, 03:26 AM	Kuli’s fingers lightly caressed Shades cheeks as she listened to him speak. She knew she loved him, but she hadn’t realised just how much till she had been parted from him by her trip to Eveska. Before she could answer Shades continued, she felt her stomach tighten with apprehension. "I love you with all my heart." She said softly, "And even if we werent lovers, Krissy has always had a place in my heart. I looked after her for a while before I ever met you..and you know how much I loved my family and how hurt I was by their .. death." The elf bought her other hand up to Shades face. "At a time like this we need each other more than ever..please dont push me away." She pleaded.
Drindin 04-09-06, 02:10 AM	Kuli’s fingers lightly caressed Shades cheeks as she listened to him speak. She knew she loved him, but she hadn’t realised just how much till she had been parted from him by her trip to Eveska. Before she could answer Shades continued, she felt her stomach tighten with apprehension. "I love you with all my heart." She said softly, "And even if we werent lovers, Krissy has always had a place in my heart. I looked after her for a while before I ever met you..and you know how much I loved my family and how hurt I was by their .. death." The elf bought her other hand up to Shades face. "At a time like this we need each other more than ever..please dont push me away." She pleaded. "Then why do you keep running from everything you love? You bury yourself in work and you run away to other countries when you fall in love. What is it you are so afraid of?" Shadow Shades asks. ((Atlas)) The horse remains motionless. The minotaur fires off his attack... however, it seems so drastically weakened by the clouds of negative energy that fill the plane of the Abyss, it doesn't even phase the great demon. "Come, Atlas, you can do better."
ruthia 04-09-06, 02:27 AM	Ruthia wakes up with a small gasps, Her normal blue eyes a swirl of colors for several moments as she tries to reconect herself with the hear and now. She shudders slightly as the dream...was it just d ream?......replays for her mind. Unlike the others, who seemed to be demanding explianations or even slightly upset, she pulls her knees to her chest and stares at the mud....quietly reflecting on what this dream has shown her.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-13-06, 05:35 AM	Straining not to listen to the vaunt demon, trying to ignore the fact that his attempt failed, the minotaur beams another ray of light from his eyes. No matter how forsaken the fiend wants him to feel, he knew, he must prsist; he must fight on, and not listen. The danger, of falling from grace by even considering to strike a deal with the blasphemous entity that man the darkness before him, is too great. This, he knew, is the ultimate test of his faith. Most likely, this shall also be the point of his death... but such earthly matters are secondary. Filling his lungs with the foul-smelling air, and emitting another ray of holy light, he taxed every muscle in his powerful body to the fulles, seeking to squirm out of his sandy prison, or atleast loosen its hold on him.
Drindin 04-13-06, 07:01 PM	Straining not to listen to the vaunt demon, trying to ignore the fact that his attempt failed, the minotaur beams another ray of light from his eyes. No matter how forsaken the fiend wants him to feel, he knew, he must prsist; he must fight on, and not listen. The danger, of falling from grace by even considering to strike a deal with the blasphemous entity that man the darkness before him, is too great. This, he knew, is the ultimate test of his faith. Most likely, this shall also be the point of his death... but such earthly matters are secondary. Filling his lungs with the foul-smelling air, and emitting another ray of holy light, he taxed every muscle in his powerful body to the fulles, seeking to squirm out of his sandy prison, or atleast loosen its hold on him. As he takes another gasp, he finds the air is far sweeter, and his arms and legs are freed. he opens his eyes to see the true maryks, the meditating Ruthia, as well as the others.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-14-06, 11:29 PM	Atlas blinks, with no idea of what the HELL {literally} has just happened. He rose to his feet, first to regain dignity, but then his eyes fell on Maryks. Grabbing the handle of his flail with both hand, in a ready position at the right shoulder, he glared at the mage - who was identical to the demon that stepped into the light in his vision - and with an undisguised and barely contained rage asked: "What game is this, Tanar'ri? Know i want none of your boons and will cede nothing to you!"
kulideb 04-15-06, 04:40 AM	What am I afraid of? Kuli thought as Shades words hit her, so lost was she in his words and the sadness of losing Krissy that she no longer thought to wonder how she had ended up here, all that mattered to her was trying to convince this man of just how much he meant to her. "Shades..please ...I..I love you."She whispred softly to him. "It was only by going away that I learnt just how much you mean to me." Her hand moved to his. "But you are right I am afraid..afraid of letting you down, afraid of you not wanting me.." The elf paused, waiting for a response from him.
Agudo Archmage 04-15-06, 01:28 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley With some aces and pain to his old bones Keldorn Firecam stood putting on his breastplate once more The elder Knight had been cleaning it from all the sandy mud do to the Wizards trap Atlas ......he glared at the mage - who was identical to the demon that stepped into the light in his vision - and with an undisguised and barely contained rage asked: "What game is this, Tanar'ri? Know I want none of your boons and will cede nothing to you!" As a member of the Radiant Heart Order and dedicated Inquisitor trained to fight evil wizards Firecam could easily sympathies with Atlas Being made a plaything for the shady plans of a prideful Arcane user was enough to make anyone mad Fastening his broad sword behind him Keldorn walked over standing next to the heated Atlas Atlas speaks the truth! Enough of this mockery of are minds free the others and be done with your madness!
Drindin 04-16-06, 11:48 AM	The old man weezed out a chuckle. "Oh, settle down. I can't free your friends until they pass their tests. Just like you two passed your tests." (Kulideb) Shadow Shades smiles, and a fog surrounds Kulideb, blocking out all light... suddenly, she awakens, laying on the ground, everyone seemingly up in arms about what just happened.
Drindin 04-16-06, 11:54 AM	(Elvina) Elvina awake, to find herself in a cave filled with bones. She finds herself strapped to a standing slab of some sort. The cave is humid, and its walls are covered in a musky blue moss of some sort. Looking around, reveals that the chains holding her down are attatched to some sort of a lever hanging from the roof.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-16-06, 06:57 PM	Confusion was growing and expanding in his head to such an extent, that it began pushing everything else - righteous anger inclueded - out. "Tests? What?!" he turned his head left and right, rapidly, as if to shake water off his mane. A fellow knight was by his side; human, but still. It is realtively safe to let his guard down just a bit now, he desided, and allow Maryks some benefit of doubt. He didn't even smell like a demon, after all! Now calm, he looks to Drindin: "What has just happened, my friend? Is Maryks fiend or man? An aid to our cause or an obstacle in our path?" He lowers his flail, but remains keenly aware of the mage, still ready for a treacherous move in a game he does not understand.
Drindin 04-16-06, 08:45 PM	"Maryks, was requested to test each of us to make sure we could overcome our weaknesses for the tasks ahead... he may know of a cure, but apparently, he does not have everything necessary to perform the needed ritual to expunge Krissy's body of the vile toxins infecting her." Drindin explains.
ruthia 04-17-06, 12:21 PM	Ruthia breifly looks up at those yelling around her, not seeing why their being so uppity about all this. As their arguing gets louder and louder, she's had enough. She lets out one hell of a roar! "STOP IT!" Not moving from her spot on the muddy ground she looks at them all... her eyes a bit distant as she does. "This agrueing and threaten helps no one...we have to wait and pray our friends are strong enough to over come whatever is thrown at them." She points at Reginald and Elvina, the two still asleep. "Now why don't we relaxe while we have the chance to...who knows what waits around the next turn in this road." She sighs and pulls her knees to her chest, resting her head on her knees....she says nothing further as she stares at the muddy ground she sits in.
Elvina 04-17-06, 12:51 PM	(Elvina) Elvina awake, to find herself in a cave filled with bones. She finds herself strapped to a standing slab of some sort. The cave is humid, and its walls are covered in a musky blue moss of some sort. Looking around, reveals that the chains holding her down are attatched to some sort of a lever hanging from the roof. Elvina looks around, dazed and confused for several moments. She feels the chains..the stone..and panics! Where were the others! Reginald....Drindin....Ruthia, khaira, Keldorn, Kulideb...all of them gone? Was she the only one left? What had happened? She pulls on the chains, panicing and trying to get free.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-17-06, 03:02 PM	"Maryks, was requested to test each of us to make sure we could overcome our weaknesses for the tasks ahead... he may know of a cure, but apparently, he does not have everything necessary to perform the needed ritual to expunge Krissy's body of the vile toxins infecting her." Drindin explains. The minotaur forrowed his brow in thought, and after a short, consideration, nodded. Although Drindin's god was one of death, Atlas trusted the priest's wisdom and love to his kin, enough to belive he will know what is best. "Fair enough, though i do not understand what marked my success." "STOP IT!" "This agrueing and threaten helps no one...we have to wait and pray our friends are strong enough to over come whatever is thrown at them." "Now why don't we relaxe while we have the chance to...who knows what waits around the next turn in this road." She sighs and pulls her knees to her chest, resting her head on her knees....she says nothing further as she stares at the muddy ground she sits in.Looking at the woman with little in the way of expression, he snored: "Indeed, we have no part in theyr tales for now." He was about to suggest that now would be the time for introduction that would promote trust within theyr small mission force, but desided against it: doing so while two of theyr allies could neither hear nor speak would be disrespectful to a knight and a lady.
Drindin 04-17-06, 04:23 PM	Elvina looks around, dazed and confused for several moments. She feels the chains..the stone..and panics! Where were the others! Reginald....Drindin....Ruthia, khaira, Keldorn, Kulideb...all of them gone? Was she the only one left? What had happened? She pulls on the chains, panicing and trying to get free. A young man walks in, looking like a very young Maryks. "Ah... now I have you where I want you. Soon, my mistress shall come here and have her revenge."
Agudo Archmage 04-19-06, 02:11 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Seeing that Atlas was willing to wait this out mostly do to Ruthia Distressed words Firecam sighed and went back to the impromptu campfire he was tending Come and warm yourself while we.....wait Keldorn said the last words with distaste as he eyed the new Wizard and friend of Drindin It seems we have little choice in the matter Perhaps we can talk of your long journey to join us and how you heard Drindin family trouble Kneeling down the elder Knight grab hold of a small twig and started to jab at the fire logs causing it to flare up
Khaira 04-19-06, 09:10 PM	Throughout this whole argumentative ordeal, Khaira had been separated from the group, staring off into the wilderness of the forests - the very barren forests - that they were now in, as is her mind were not with the rest of her comrades. In her hands, she held a pin which she, every now and then, twirled in her hands, round and round, as if contemplating the mysteries that were now held within its silvery substance. What purpose has being a servant and master of this pin served me in this incarnation? I wonder, perhaps, what purpose it has served me - or I have served it - throughout this life... A vague memory of an encounter with one particular silver-haired woman of Shadowdale resurfaced in her seemingly dormant memory then. Her arms hung, suddenly, limp at her sides as she murmured softly to herself. "'Tis only what one makes of it, in halting the efforts of the corrupt, the depraved, and the power-hungry. In serving the Harp, we serve those weaker than ourselves and help the weaker peoples of Faerun - of which ye were at one point and time - thrive and live." It was at that point that she heard the enraged minotaur's voice proclaim a more sensible statement. "Fair enough, though i do not understand what marked my success." Looking at the woman with little in the way of expression, he snored: "Indeed, we have no part in theyr tales for now." He was about to suggest that now would be the time for introduction that would promote trust within theyr small mission force, but desided against it: doing so while two of theyr allies could neither hear nor speak would be disrespectful to a knight and a lady. Turning about to, for the first time in a while, face her group, Khaira's voice bore neither resentment nor cynicism in her voice as she spoke. "If, in all things that you encounter and pass or fail, you seek understanding, then you are, in all things, doomed to failure, especially of things of the arcane nature. To try and do one's best is all that one can, at any point and in any life, do. If such actions are favorable to one's actions, then one should rejoice that your actions made an impact on the future of another's life. To make an impact on another's life - particularly of the favorable kind - is the greatest blessing that one can give to another." Khaira turned back around, then, her hands moving up to the inside of her collar, and re-pinning something there once again. Incling her head to the two knights, not turning her body around this time, Khaira addressed Keldorn and Atlas, with same sense of emotional detachment as she had spoke of before. "My judgements may have been unfair of the pair of thee in regards to your chosen paths as honorable one's. With Sehanine's smile and favorable gaze, I hope that we may complete this journey as, if nothing better, companions under favorable terms." She moved further away from the group, easing herself upon the ground as her eyes half closed and her awareness sinking into the earth and, simultaneously, into the sky, as she sank into thought.
kulideb 04-21-06, 05:38 AM	Kuli's head felt as if it was spinning not helped at all by all the noise that seemed to suround the little elf. Slowly she opened her eyes, her brow knit in confusion. It had been a test! No wonder every one seemed to be so upset, her first reaction was also one of anger. She might not be happy about what had happened but she could understand why, plus it had helped to see were her future lay, or at least with whom. The elf got to her feet and brushed the dirt from her leathers, Two of their group still seemed to be under the strange spell, they wouldnt be going any were just yet.
Elvina 04-21-06, 10:43 AM	A young man walks in, looking like a very young Maryks. "Ah... now I have you where I want you. Soon, my mistress shall come here and have her revenge." Pulling against the chains slightly she looks at the man wide eyed. Quietly, fearing the answer, she asks the young man "w...who is your mistress?"
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-21-06, 12:08 PM	"If, in all things that you encounter and pass or fail, you seek understanding, then you are, in all things, doomed to failure, especially of things of the arcane nature. To try and do one's best is all that one can, at any point and in any life, do. If such actions are favorable to one's actions, then one should rejoice that your actions made an impact on the future of another's life. To make an impact on another's life - particularly of the favorable kind - is the greatest blessing that one can give to another." The minotaur nodded slowly, thoughtfully. "You speak truth. Many things are beyond me. But success, whose lesson is not learnt, breeds hubrys, instead of pride. And failure, whose lesson is not learnt, weakens the sould instead of strengthening it. A fate of failure excuses none from fighting to prevail." "My judgements may have been unfair of the pair of thee in regards to your chosen paths as honorable one's. With Sehanine's smile and favorable gaze, I hope that we may complete this journey as, if nothing better, companions under favorable terms." The elf's words seem to confuse him, which is apparent on his face; he slowly blinks, once, trying to make sence of her admission. "We... have not met before." He knew people who were able to grasp one's nature with a single glance, but this elf did not have the bearing of one such. Furhter more, such sages seldom admitted a mistake on theyr own innitiative. He was still uncertain, but if he understood correctly, he thought, this one posessed noble honesty, compensating by far her possible quickness to judge. Come and warm yourself while we.....wait It seems we have little choice in the matter Perhaps we can talk of your long journey to join us and how you heard Drindin family trouble Nodding to the noble human, Atlas rather gently moved the still unconceous bodies of Elvina and Reginald closer to the fire, where the floor would not be as cold. He is about to move Kulideb too, but sees her awaken. He smiles to her, in a silent congratulation of her success in the mad wizard's test. Sitting down by the fire as well, he finally speaks to Keldorn, who seemed curious about his origin and his connection to the Trunins. "My homeland lies far behind. A cliff of righteouness rising from mires of mindless savagery. Maban's balad for me is different: my quest brought me to these lands. Eight seasons ago my saga crossed Drindin's. He is a worthy comrade. I am since sworn to yong Lady Trunin. A great evil sought to consume her. It dissolved in the face of her purity. A week ago, a letter came. I have followed its word hence."
Agudo Archmage 04-23-06, 10:16 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Khaira addressed Keldorn and Atlas, with same sense of emotional detachment as she had spoke of before. Khaira "My judgment may have been unfair of the pair of thee in regards to your chosen paths as honorable one's. With Sehanine's smile and favorable gaze, I hope that we may complete this journey as, if nothing better, companions under favorable terms Firecam blinked in mild surprise A kinder gentler Khaira? It was truly a surprising day indeed when the hot tempered Bardes shows sympathy to any Knight let alone a group of them He thought some more Perhaps this foul wizard had cast a spell on her? Yet knew it was more than that He did not give a reply to the Bardes words Firecam just watched Khaira walk farther away to meditate on past events Understanding this adventure may effect them all more and more by the time it was over. Atlas The elf's words seem to confuse him, which is apparent on his face; he slowly blinks, once, trying to make since of her admission We... have not met before.... The elder Knight stood up from the small campfire speaking quietly to Atlas Worry not my new goodly friend I believe those last words were more for my ears than yours Not to say that Khaira love for you or any other Knight burns brightly, let alone a group of us by her side. Shrugging But.... As he spoke Firecam began Aiding Atlas in moving the sleeping bodies of the others who still lay in their magical dream state But the Bard and I have a history ....... and not the romantic kind if you understand my meaning. Frowning Whatever she went through with the Wizard has effected her No less than the rest of us of course Seeing Kulideb moving he offered her a warm blanket from his backpack and a cup of cool water from his cantina to aid her transition into reality Seeing that Agudo charge was at best like the rest of the group Disoriented but over all physically well Keldorn returned his attention to Atlas as they set down to hear his tale Atlas My homeland lies far behind. A cliff of righteouness rising from mires of mindless savagery. Maban's balad for me is different: my quest brought me to these lands. Eight seasons ago my saga crossed Drindin's. He is a worthy comrade. I am since sworn to young Lady Trunin. A great evil sought to consume her. It dissolved in the face of her purity. A week ago, a letter came. I have followed its word hence An admirable tale if I ever heard one Holding up his water cantina Keldorn offered a salute May your acts of Righteousness converge with are own into a force of unstoppable Good In this quest to aid the young lass we now seek to save Taking a long drink he then wip his face and winked at Atlas That is if we survive this Wizard who has joined us
Drindin 04-24-06, 01:53 AM	Pulling against the chains slightly she looks at the man wide eyed. Quietly, fearing the answer, she asks the young man "w...who is your mistress?" "I know her by no other name, other than the One Eyed Queen." The man grins evily, and walks off into the darkness. ((Awakefulness)) Maryks crossed his arms, seemingly proud of something, and Drindin looked at him quirking a stoic brow. "You certainly know people quite well, for a hermit."
Taeldrin Laesrash 04-24-06, 07:20 PM	Cordelia, having been silent for a while now, begins to mutter under her breath, This is sick. This is sick, sick, sick. Her dream was still swmming through her mind, and painfully boarding new trains of thought. Why? She asks Keldorn. I thought I would return a letter when I came here. Now I find myself stricken with revelation, and sitting in the mud among a vile liar. Who is the bigger monster now? Drindin or this Maryks?
Agudo Archmage 04-26-06, 11:57 PM	Cordelia, Why? She asks Keldorn. I thought I would return a letter when I came here. Now I find myself stricken with revelation, and sitting in the mud among a vile liar. Who is the bigger monster now? Drindin or this Maryks? Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn-clean.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Calm yourself young lass come closer to the fire We all have a grudge with this Arcanist Yet it seems Drindin was unaware of his friend sly actions until it came upon us Firecam said as he nodded to the Wizard
Drindin 04-28-06, 02:59 AM	Reginald stirs in his sleep... Maryks gets a worried look on his face for a moment. He moves over to Reginald's side. Drindin: What is it? Maryks: Something is wrong... Drindin: What do you mean? Maryks: I'm... losing contact with this one... I'm slipping... oh gods... not them... Drindin *darkly*: Not who? Maryks: The Chorus.
ruthia 04-28-06, 01:56 PM	Elvina blinks a moment, then gasp in fear. ONe eye could only be one person....That Blue dragon that had been injured when she was rescued all those years before. But she was dead...how could she? Evlina shivers against the stone. NO! She refuses to be the hapless sacrfice this time. Struggling now she starts thinking of what training she has, what will work on this chains. She racks her brain, muttering first a spell that is suppose to weaken chain, then one she heard that was supposedly for picking locks.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-28-06, 04:10 PM	Atlas smiled and joined Keldorn's toast, when he spoke of surviving the wizard and his untimely tests. When Cordelia spoke, he held his peace: he hated the obsession of humans with seeking monsters and scapegoats among theyr number, but remembering his own test... be he not blessesed with Maban's resolve and Raziel's strength of spirit, he might have said worse things uppon his own awakening. Weakness, aspecially from a woman, can be excused at such times. When Maryks spoke his words of alarm, the minotaur only raised his head and glared at him, laying one hand on the hadnle of his flail, and another on his quill-shaped holy symbol.
Drindin 04-29-06, 04:01 AM	Elvina blinks a moment, then gasp in fear. ONe eye could only be one person....That Blue dragon that had been injured when she was rescued all those years before. But she was dead...how could she? Evlina shivers against the stone. NO! She refuses to be the hapless sacrfice this time. Struggling now she starts thinking of what training she has, what will work on this chains. She racks her brain, muttering first a spell that is suppose to weaken chain, then one she heard that was supposedly for picking locks. The lock on one of her hands comes off, but she is otherwise strapped down. There is a bone nearby that's within arms reach. The lever, on the other hand, is just out of reach.
Drindin 04-29-06, 04:04 AM	Atlas smiled and joined Keldorn's toast, when he spoke of surviving the wizard and his untimely tests. When Cordelia spoke, he held his peace: he hated the obsession of humans with seeking monsters and scapegoats among theyr number, but remembering his own test... be he not blessesed with Maban's resolve and Raziel's strength of spirit, he might have said worse things uppon his own awakening. Weakness, aspecially from a woman, can be excused at such times. When Maryks spoke his words of alarm, the minotaur only raised his head and glared at him, laying one hand on the hadnle of his flail, and another on his quill-shaped holy symbol. Maryks *to atlas*: Relax minotaur, I'm just going to have to awaken him early, I was just rather hoping the chorus wouldn't show up today... Drindin: Who is the Chorus anyways? Maryks *now rifling through his ingredients pouch*: Banshees, mostly. A few like your niece and yourself as well, mostly bards if they are, some sorcerers, one cleric who calls himself 'The Maestro'. Drindin: I... don't quite follow. Maryks *now crushing the herbs*: I'll explain later, just as well, I need a banshee's scream for the spell anyways...
ruthia 04-29-06, 10:10 AM	Elvina streches and reaches for the bone, her slender fingers grasping at it as her heart races and her blood pounds in her ears. She finally gets ahold of it and looks around. SHe can't use the bone to pick the lock, but what if... Reaching as best that she can, panting with fear andadrenilian, she tries to use the bone to hit the lever and make it move. Her acts are of pure desperation.....she has no clue what the lever will do.
Taeldrin Laesrash 04-29-06, 10:17 AM	A banshee's scream? Cordelia shudders as she hears Maryks and Drindin. You're going to kill us?!
kulideb 04-30-06, 05:48 AM	The little elf smiled back at Lord Atlas, her mind still a little 'foggy' from the strange mind games of the wizard. "Thank you."she said softly as Keldorn gave her a blanket. The wizard had given her much to think about but there was nothing she could do about it till she met up with Shades. Kuli moved closer to the fire. Wizards! she thought to herself, a law unto themselves! "If we carnt hear the scream it should have no effect on us...right?"She asked out loud.
Drindin 04-30-06, 04:11 PM	"Well..."Maryks mumbles, watching as reginald began to stir from his dream. "That's one way to avoid it... the other way, is catching it in this... specially prepared jar I made." He Tosses a jar towards Kulideb. "I need you to catch it for me." *ELVINA* She hits the lever with a stone. The chains slacken, and she falls about ten feet to the ground below her.
kulideb 04-30-06, 05:06 PM	"ME!"The elf exclaimed as she quickly let go of the blanket and reached out to catch the jar before it hit the ground. Kuli stood up and looked at the jar before looking back at Maryks. "Emm..were on the planes do I find a Banshee?"
ruthia 04-30-06, 08:14 PM	Elvina falls to the ground with a crunch of her leg as she cracks a bone in the ackward fall. Grimacing in pain she forces herself to get up and head to the door.... If she could just make it out before one eye came... She makes it to the netrance and looks around, before making her way out.
Drindin 04-30-06, 11:27 PM	Maryks:Relax! All of you, not *just* you! As to where to find one, well... Not far from here, actually. Drindin: Not far from here? Maryks *shaking his head: No. Not far. The Maestro and his Chorus take shelter in an ancient cathedral nestled in an isolated valley a few kilometers from here. Drindin: Kilometers...? Maryks *resignedly, pointing north*: Half-a-league that way. Drindin: Oh...
kulideb 05-01-06, 07:11 AM	"But we carnt all go.." The elf stated and then nodded to the sleeping pair. "Someone will have to stay with them." Though she guessed at Maryks would stay she also thought someone else should too, if only to keep watch on Maryks!
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 05-01-06, 09:13 AM	Atlas snorts with the irritation that stems from confusion: "First you are alerted at its coming. Then you deside its coming is welcome. Now you say WE should go after IT instead?! This makes no sence. Explain yourself, mage!" He then turns to drindin, asking in a much friendlier tone: "Are you certain in this man's loyalty and motives?"
Taeldrin Laesrash 05-01-06, 12:56 PM	I-I'll stay and watch the pair, Cordelia murmurs. I've heard strange and terrible things about banshees, and I-Well, I'm scared. Not that these two will make me feel any better.
Agudo Archmage 05-01-06, 08:21 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Slowly rising stretching his weary bones Keldorn Firecam seem less pleased by this Wizard Ever since his untimely arrival the group has suffered setbacks and now it seem the group was endanger Banshee? The group’s response was equal in dismay at the thought Rubbing his eyes then his face feeling the stubble growing once more about his chin They had only been out a short time, yet it now felt like months with this Wizard trickery Kuli "But we carnt all go.." The elf stated and then nodded to the sleeping pair. "Someone will have to stay with them." Though she guessed at Maryks would stay she also thought someone else should too, if only to keep watch on Maryks! Kuli was right of course but as to who should stay wasnt clear Atlas snorts with the irritation that stems from confusion: "First you are alerted at its coming. Then you deside its coming is welcome. Now you say WE should go after IT instead?! This makes no sence. Explain yourself, mage!" He then turns to drindin, asking in a much friendlier tone: "Are you certain in this man's loyalty and motives?" I must agree with Atlas......How will this help your charge Krissy? Cordelia I-I'll stay and watch the pair, Cordelia murmurs. I've heard strange and terrible things about banshees, and I-Well, I'm scared. Not that these two will make me feel any better Nodding at Cordelia the elder Knight then waited for direction from Drindin
Drindin 05-01-06, 09:32 PM	Atlas snorts with the irritation that stems from confusion: "First you are alerted at its coming. Then you deside its coming is welcome. Now you say WE should go after IT instead?! This makes no sence. Explain yourself, mage!" He then turns to drindin, asking in a much friendlier tone: "Are you certain in this man's loyalty and motives?" Maryks: You misunderstand me... I'm not welcoming their presence. There is simply nothing I can do about the fact that they just so happen to take roost half a league away from my house. Yes, I'm asking you to go after them, simply because I don't have the time to go and gather the ingredients I -don't- have, because undoubtable Krissy does not have the time. Drindin: His methods are unorthodox, Atlas, but he brought me back once. Were it not for him I suppose I'd be dead. *reginald stirs awake* Reginald: Wh... what's going on?
kulideb 05-07-06, 03:27 PM	It didnt look like they had much choice but follow the mad mages orders, and Drindin was right. Maryks had bought him back, it seemed he was Krissy's only hope. kuli turned to Cordelia. "We shouldnt be too long, the fire should keep most creatures from you...just keep it well fed." Movment caught her attention. "Hello sleepy head."She said as Reginald roused from his dreams. "Its a bit of a long story, how are you feeling..can you travel, if not dont worry you can stay in camp and Cordelia can fill you in." The blond elf looked at the others, then at the jar in her hand. "Who else is coming hunting with me?"
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 05-08-06, 08:59 AM	With a short growl of discontentment, Atlas nontheless rises, and silently comes to stand by Kulideb's side.
Khaira 05-08-06, 10:12 AM	From her position away from the group, Khaira finally rose and moved silently, wraith-like, over to where Kulideb and, now Atlas, stood. Softly, she murmured in Elvish before waiting to move out, her emerald green eyes shining with an odd light. "*Gurth goth'rim Tel'Quessir. Let us go hunting, Arwenamin." *Death to the foes of the Elves
Seran 05-08-06, 02:36 PM	**sorry, wrong thread**
ruthia 05-08-06, 03:44 PM	Ruthia doesn't move or speak as others discuss wither to go or stay. Indeed she just sits quietly in the mud where she woke up, almost stone like in her lack of movement. When Khaira speaks then and only then does she react. She blinks, just once. But she makes no move to stand and join the group... o O(Ru, I'll stay here, keep an eye on the Mage. Hollar if you end up needing me...) Meanwhile: Elvina makes it out???
Drindin 05-08-06, 08:21 PM	Elvina falls to the ground with a crunch of her leg as she cracks a bone in the ackward fall. Grimacing in pain she forces herself to get up and head to the door.... If she could just make it out before one eye came... She makes it to the netrance and looks around, before making her way out. Elvina escapes the cage... and wakes up facing the sky. Maryks says to Kulideb. "You pick a party to go with you, and the others shall remain. I would prefer Drindin stay, he can help me. Not to mention... I have something I need him for." He looks about. "Those who are staying... follow me back to my shack." he points to a break in the path up ahead. "To reach the Chorus, follow that path, and when you reach the ravine, go into it. There is a cave in there, it is their hall."
Taeldrin Laesrash 05-09-06, 09:45 AM	What a relief, Cordelia says as she sighs upon seeing Elvina wake up. I was going to stay and watch you, but I guess we'll all be going banshee-hunting then.
kulideb 05-10-06, 05:14 PM	The elf was glad to see Atlas and Khaira come to her side, just as she was equally glad to see those that stayed, she just didnt trust Maryks! "It is up to everyone here to decide for themselves if they stay or come with me, but we will be setting off soon."She said to the mage, with that Kuli tucked the jar into her pack and checked the edge on her sword while she waited to hear who else would be coming with her.
Agudo Archmage 05-10-06, 06:42 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley As Elvina awaoke from her magical slumber the Radiant Heart Knight came closer to her making sure she was well Offering any aid that Agudo traveling student may need. After explaining to her what had taken place he saw the others were getting ready to take off Lady Elvina do you wish to come with Kulideb and the others? It may be dangerous yet staying behind.... Glancing at the wizard Maybe less hazarders than what lays ahead.
kulideb 05-20-06, 05:41 AM	The elf stood up straight and slung her backpack over her shoulder. She kept her sword in her hand, ready for use. "Well lets be off then, the quicker we go the quicker we will be back." With that the elf strode away from the warm, safe glow of the fire to follow the path to the ravine and the cave. Though she moved quickly, Kuli was always scanning the area and keeping an ear on the sounds around them. She knew she wasnt the greates of trackers or scouts, but it never hurt to be wary even if every member of her group was doing the same.
ruthia 05-20-06, 03:22 PM	Ruthia sighs a bit, standing on Shaky feet as she says "I'll stay behind." Elvina looks at Ruthia and mummers quietly "I'll stay with Lady Ruthia."
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 05-21-06, 02:06 AM	Atlas begins to raise his hand, to call forth Bytopimabasd... but then uncomfortably lowers it back to his side, desiding not to. He is yet to understand the Dream, which may well have been prophetic. He shivers slightly, remembering his helplessness during the "test". He will not subject Maban's child to such a fate if he can avoid it. They should reach the banshees' den in no time anyway, even by foot. With that thought, he strides forth by Kulideb's side.
Khaira 05-24-06, 10:47 PM	Khaira followed Kulideb with a quick pace, humming softly to herself as she walked. With a flick of her wrists, she released the chains that hung from her belt, six miniature blades falling from each of the chains. "If what I have heard of banshees, you may need to heed my voice whence we enter their lair, in order to repel their madness-inducing screams."
ruthia 05-27-06, 11:07 AM	Elvina and Ruthia both quietly move to follow Drindin and Maryks to his home, Ruthia looking downward and Elvina quiet but determined
Taeldrin Laesrash 05-27-06, 02:55 PM	Cordelia slowly takes a torch from the folds of her dress, and lit in in the fire before quickly joining Khaira and Kulideb. She sullenly walks alongside the two, holding the torch in front of her. Light keeps evil spirits away, right? That's what I've been told, she says.
Drindin 05-28-06, 05:04 PM	Drindin also follows Maryks. Reginald, determined to stay near Elivna, follows as well. The path down to the cave is very steep as they start off, and begins heading into an over-grown part of the mountain side.... (Sorry for the lack of detail, but I'm a little swamped right now... I'll have some better posts later this week...)
Drindin 06-03-06, 10:36 PM	Drindin also follows Maryks. Reginald, determined to stay near Elivna, follows as well. The path down to the cave is very steep as they start off, and begins heading into an over-grown part of the mountain side.... (Sorry for the lack of detail, but I'm a little swamped right now... I'll have some better posts later this week...) (The hut) Approach Markys' house is rather... disappointing, at least from what can be seen. It's simply a small shack with some pine branches to make up a 'roof' for the dilapitated hut. The path is well-worn and barren, with only a few sad little trees, if even that, lining the side of the path. Maryks walks up to the house, and pushes the door open with such force, it's amazing that the house didn't collapse. Maryks ducks in, then looks out to everyone else. "Come in! There's room for all of us in here, don't worry!" Drindin follows him in, and looks back to the others. "Coming?"
Drindin 06-03-06, 10:37 PM	(The Cave) The over grown path is far different than the path they just came off of. The further into the valley, and closer to the river in the center, that they get, the more healthy and robust the trees. Soon, they become so tall that they obscure the sunlight. The walls of the valley also serve to hide them from the setting sun. As they walk down, there is a loud roar a small ways off the path next to them...
Khaira 06-04-06, 08:22 PM	As they continued to traverse this current path, Khaira's seemed lighter, and her mood seemed more like it had before, more jovial and carefree. As she continued to look off the path for any immediate, pending signs of danger, she nodded to herself at the thickening wilderness. "The Leaflord's blessings are bountiful within this part of the land. The sacred touch of Rillifane of the Seldarine appears to yet prevail. If only all of Faerun were as beautiful and promising as this..." In the next moment, as the loud roar echoed throughout the wilds around them, Khaira came to a sudden halt, looking about for the source of the roar. Her entire body, and many portions of her limbs, tensed, waiting for the time when they would need to act quickly. Murmuring softly, her emerald green eyes scanned, unblinking, the area all around - and above - them "Pen sen pad anglaenna*... ... or in the words of Aragniel Cuniel, Instructor of the Art of Queramquar ... Lle desiel le salk .... are you ready to dance?" *Something this way comes
ruthia 06-05-06, 09:13 AM	At the same moment Khaira was tensing ready to spring into danger, Ruthia was getting her first glimpse of Marky's hut from the outside. She sighs a bit, looking it over as she mutters to herself. "Batobot ui vi zhin persvek ixen itriyo sjek Si rinov saw ir.....*" She shakes her head as Marky and Drindin encourage them to enter. She rolls her eyes and mutters "Gods dormagyn ve de ruliyna**" Meanwhile just behind her, walking quietly hand and hand with Reginald, Elvina is still trying to shake off her ordeal in the dream. When Ruthia starts muttering Elvina seems to cringe momentarily, moving closer to Reginald in the process. "Jhys, vaeri koli ti si mael sai mi sor syl...***" Eventually Ruthia walks into the hut. Elvina looks at Reginald then walks inside as well. * That is a walk in fire trap if I ever saw one..... ((Draconic)) ** Gods save me from humans ((Draconic)) *** Lords, please give me the strength to see this through...((Elven))
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 06-05-06, 11:05 AM	Trusting his nose, the minotaur sniffs the air, trying to identify any large anymals nearby, whose presence could explain the roar.
kulideb 06-06-06, 03:22 AM	Kuli smiled at Cordelia, as the young woman lit the torch. “Yepp, it can keep the bad things away….of course it will also show the really bad things exactly were we are!” Her voice held a light note of teasing. “But then again it will save us time if they come to us!” The elf gave a mischievous wink, before turning her attention back to the path. It was dangerous, and yet some how the danger made her feel more alive. Soon the light changed as the trees formed a tightly woven canopy over their heads, the elf watched the shadows dance and flicker as the group moved. Khairas words bought a smile of agreement to Kuli’s lips. Though any other acknowledgement was lost as a roar split though the air. Kuli took a tighter grip on her sword, already she had called the shadows around her to act as a cloak.
Drindin 06-08-06, 01:44 AM	The thing that the minotaur smells is like a human, yet at the same time, very much like a very very large wolf... Inside the hut, is like standing within a nobles Mansion. The roof is very very high, the walls are lined with gold and red wallpapering, and the floor is a checkered style of tiling. Drindin stands with his arms crossed, and maryks is grinning.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 06-08-06, 07:02 AM	"Werewolves are uppon us. Draw silver!", roars Atlas. As he presses his left fist to his chest and then raises it skywards, his flail's texture and color begin crawling as they change, and instead of the black steel, emerges a flailhead of polished silver. Flail in hands and head lowered for a charge, he steps in the direction from whence the roar came, to put himself between the others and any impending attack.
kulideb 06-17-06, 05:36 AM	At her friends warning, Kuli hid Completely in the shadows, though it wasn’t a selfish act of self-preservation. Hiding would allow their enemy to underestimate their strength and add a bite of surprise to her attack. Her slim silver sword was gripped ready in her hand, a grim smile on her face as she held her breath and awaited the creatures arrival.
Khaira 06-17-06, 06:42 PM	"Werewolves are uppon us. Draw silver!", roars Atlas. As he presses his left fist to his chest and then raises it skywards, his flail's texture and color begin crawling as they change, and instead of the black steel, emerges a flailhead of polished silver. Flail in hands and head lowered for a charge, he steps in the direction from whence the roar came, to put himself between the others and any impending attack. No sooner had those words escaped the minotaur's mouth, Khaira underwent a drastic change. She'd been looking around, scouting about, attentive, and taking in everything. Now her gaze was locked onto the approaching fiends, and she saw nothing else. Perhaps, even, she didn't even say that. Slowly, Khaira was murmuring. While from a distance, it sounded only like incoherent rambling, those close to her could hear more clearly words being spoken. The streets of Zakhara ... a beautiful, handsome elf lying on the ground before a lone woman ... pools of blood amassing around the both of them ... The lone Sun Elf, dressed in only a simple skirt of a myriad of purples, blues, and greens, sat close to him, with a tear-stained face. Her stomach was full, and she was obviously with child, in the latter stages. He was changing now, before her eyes, changing into something horrid. A sinewy tail would begin to form and dissapears ... claws, ears, and snarled teeth began to form, and then fade away. She looked down to the many bites that marred his neck, his face, even his legs. A thousand tiny cuts from multiple blades arose from his abdomen. He was changing into something horrid ... something absolutely horrid... "My love ... my husband ... do not slip away ... do not join them ..." He shook his head feverishly, deathly. "THere is no hope ... no hope, Khaira. My love. Melleamin..." "Our love can get you through ... for me ... for our child ..." Tears flowed freely down a pregnant Khaira's face, even as she knew the truth. Even as she shook his head. "Virgil ... control me ... control me, subvert me ... kill you ... and ... our child ... you know... you know what has ... you know what has to be done..." Even now, she saw, he was losing control. He couldn't hold it, couldn't control it. Soon, she knew what would happen ... she knew... She threw her head upon his chest, his chest that she had laid her head upon so many times before and she held the hands, now bearing claws, that had smoothed her wild hair, that hands that had held her in comfort, the hands that had held her own...and she weeped. "Khaira .. mellethril ... do it ... now ... keep our child ... safe ... tell her of me ... Khaira..." The claws dissapeared as his hand ran - weakly - down her face. "Be ... happy and ... strong ... Khaira ... you're the ... one..." Her eyes blurred by tears, she could only hear him snarl, hear him lose control. Her hands wrapped around his neck and, then, with a sudden movement, there was a crunching of bone. Her husband, her love, the father of her child ... lay in death throes now, in the last breaths of life... "My love..." With a sudden cry that could be, simultaneously, rage, sadness, guilt, and rage, Khaira screamed out. The sound itself was a horrible thing to behold; it was the epitome of pain and loss, sadness and despair. It was the cry of a mother and a widow. That was all that preceded the sudden charging - and leaping over Atlas - as she charged forth, skirtblades swinging wildly, charging forth with a rage that was beyond feral, in a desperate run at the werewolves. There were only two words - a scream, really - that split the air in two, and stopped the horrible cry preceding it. "Nooooo! Reyvin!"
Taeldrin Laesrash 06-17-06, 07:16 PM	Cordelia quickly stepped back, her hands fumbling on a belt wrapped tightly around her. She pulled out a thin silver wand, with a dull ruby on the top. She pointed it at the werewolves, and muttered a short command word under her heavy breath. A glowing bolt of force shot out of the wand, aiming itself at the beasts. Gods preserve us, she mutters. I hope we survive this.
ruthia 06-17-06, 07:26 PM	Inside the hut as Elvina and Ruthia walk into it, Ruthia suddenly stiffens, her eyes going distant. She stays that way for many long moments before finally mummering softly in a voice full of sorrow and pain "khaira....." She looks in the direction the party headed in, her icey blue eyes over toned with a sorrow-filled grey. She mutters softly to herself, then sighs, her eyes closing as she let's Khaira's emotions run over her for several moments. She then mutters to those who are here with her "they have encountered werewolves..." She says nothing further, but returns to listening and seeing through Khaira
Agudo Archmage 06-17-06, 09:03 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Enjoying some small talk with the others in the hut while braking bread and sipping hot tea Keldorn stopped in mid chew as Ruthia spoke those unsettling words Ruthia Inside the hut as Elvina and Ruthia walk into it, Ruthia suddenly stiffens, her eyes going distant. She stays that way for many long moments before finally mummering softly in a voice full of sorrow and pain "khaira....." She looks in the direction the party headed in, her icey blue eyes over toned with a sorrow-filled grey. She mutters softly to herself, then sighs, her eyes closing as she let's Khaira's emotions run over her for several moments. She then mutters to those who are here with her "they have encountered werewolves..." She says nothing further, but returns to listening and seeing through Khaira A grim expression came over his rugged face as he glanced at the others Then with distaste Firecam eyed Marky's his voice rising What happen to the banshees...Wizard!?! The Inquisitor Knight of the Radiant Heart Order put his hand on the hilt of his long sword All along standing slowly not losing sight of the sly mageling Did not your Far-Sight and grand plans not see this? Well crafty one!
Drindin 06-19-06, 03:48 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley Enjoying some small talk with the others in the hut while braking bread and sipping hot tea Keldorn stopped in mid chew as Ruthia spoke those unsettling words Ruthia A grim expression came over his rugged face as he glanced at the others Then with distaste Firecam eyed Marky's his voice rising What happen to the banshees...Wizard!?! The Inquisitor Knight of the Radiant Heart Order put his hand on the hilt of his long sword All along standing slowly not losing sight of the sly mageling Did not your Far-Sight and grand plans not see this? Well crafty one! "I'm a wizard, not a seer!" He looks somewhat apalled. "I can't see the future...besides which, they seem like a hearty bunch, I'm sure a itty bitty little werewolf is not a far cry for them." Meanwhile... The magic missile strikes the werewolf in the chest, causing him to let out a sharp 'yelp'. Angered, it charges for cordelia, fangs bared.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 06-20-06, 06:28 PM	When the werewold came into sight, Atlas charged, but as Khaira lept over his head, blocking his line to the enemy, he had to break his charge to avoid striking her. Stepping sidewards to flank the beast - but moreso to remain out of the elfheld chains' way - he swinged his now-silvered flail at their assailant.
kulideb 06-23-06, 03:17 AM	Kuli stayed her hand as Khaira charged at the beast, mostly to give Atlas and the lady space to move but also so that she could keep watch in case the beast travelled in a pack. And so she was able to observe the werewolf’s change of direction as it made for the most vulnerable looking of their party. Even as Lord Atlas moved to flank the wild creature, so Kuli moved to step in front of Cordelia. Her silver sword held ready in one hand while with the other she sought too cast a shadow shield. An oval appeared in front of her about four feet in height, gray and purple shadows swirled over its surface, the elf held it as one would any common place sheild.
ruthia 06-23-06, 07:21 AM	Back in Maryks' home Ruthia stands dead still for a few more moments, watching the fight through her friends eyes before turning and finding a spot to sit where she can keep an eye on the rest of their party. Meanwhile Elvina had wandered in a bit further, taking in the masions splenders with a small, sad shake of her hear. She stands away from the rest of the group, feeling a bit forlone and lonely suddenly. o o(what use am i here...really...) She sighs and half closes her eyes in thought
Drindin 06-24-06, 04:08 PM	Khaira's chains rip into the side of the werewolf just as he starts his charge at Cordelia, but he is undaunted none the less... Atlas' flail smashes into his backside, but blinded with rage and unwilling to stop, the werewolf continues foreward... An oval appeared in front of her about four feet in height, gray and purple shadows swirled over its surface, the elf held it as one would any common place sheild. The creature, shocked by the sudden opening of a rip in space-time infront of him, and overcome by his own momentum along with the additional momentum given him by Atlas' flail, flys through the opening and out of sight.
Taeldrin Laesrash 06-24-06, 09:24 PM	Cordelia let out a sigh of relief, and lowered the trembling hand that held the wand. She nodded her thnks to Kulideb, and began to slowly step back in her attempt to a better vantage point to attack.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 06-25-06, 07:11 AM	"A magnificent move, my lady.", says Atlas in a sincere, yet well-restrained tone, smiling impressed at Kulideb's perfect timing. "The wailing spirit awaits.", he adds firmly, in what he considers an inspiring manner, and strides on. The bardess may not have much battle disciplin, he thought to himself, but with determination such as hers, she would hardly need it. If the females of his tribe were as brave and efficient in battle as these two elves, he mused, his wife would have still be well and with him now.
Khaira 06-26-06, 01:20 AM	As her chains took a solid bite out of the werewolf, Khaira first let out a roar of utter feral power. However, as it leaped and soared beyond her reach, she let out a cry - more like a howl, really - which, oddly enough, didn't sound so different than the savage howl of the werewolf. She was snarling and howling, in apparent agony, as the werewolf was swallowed by Kulideb's shield. In apparent defeat, Khaira slumped down to the ground, her arms hanging limp by her side. While her rageful venting was now coming to an end, the emotions still lingered, as did the image of her long-lost beloved. "The wailing spirit awaits.", he adds firmly, in what he considers an inspiring manner, and strides on. Even as their minotaur companion spoke those words and strode on, Khaira did not move nor speak nor even, did it apear, breath. For all appearances, it appeared as though she were dead, or simply frozen by magical methods. Finally, after a minute or so of lack of movement, she let out a shuddering breath, whispering to the empty air in front of her. "Sehanine, mother, why must these memories persist? Corellon, father, why must I endure such agonies? Labelas, why do the sands of my hourglass cease to diminish whilst all others fall about me?" She sighed despairingly to herself before she moved, quite half-heartedly it seemed, to follow Atlas. "There yet exists breath in my body, and so I must yet go on, to salvage the lives of others. There is no hope for my own. ...amin wanwa e'huine ... I'm lost in the darkness..."
kulideb 06-26-06, 11:15 AM	Kul saw the beast rush towards her, the elf braced her feet and held on tight to the shield. In truth she had never cast such a large shield before. Closer and closer it came, Kuli closed her eyes tight and waited to be knocked backwards …. But all that happened was a slight rush of hair and the creature had gone, quickly the elf dismissed the shield, trapping the werewolf into the shadowplane for all time. She smiled at Cordelia, "Your welcome."she said in a voice that held a slight tremble. Lord Atlas's words bought a sharp reminder that they were far from safe yet. "On wards then,"she said with a weak smile. If only she was as brave as Khaira.. kuli looked at the lady elf. From were she was she could see khairas lips move but not hear the whispered words, though she bet it was a prayer of thanks, yepp, she wished she was as brave..and as gracefull as Lady Khaira. Qickly Kuli said her own word of thanks to mask, well it never hurt to stay in the gods good books.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 06-26-06, 07:14 PM	Atlas turns, as he notices something amiss. "Is my lady wounded?", he asks, looking at the elf with slight concern. He was certain the werewolf failed to even scratch the fierce elf, and he sees neither blood on her clothes nor limp in her step, yet something about her bearing has become like that of a grievously wounded warior. It was nothing like the exhaustion of a berserker after his battle frenzy; he knew the difference: this was pain... Mortal pain.
Khaira 06-27-06, 01:51 AM	Atlas turns, as he notices something amiss. "Is my lady wounded?", he asks, looking at the elf with slight concern. Her eyes, when Khaira met Atlas' own, were shockingly different. They no longer contained their shining defiance nor their jovial luster. They seemed empty, wearied, the result of desperation. For that moment, as moisture made there entrance into her eyes, all was laid bare; desperation, hopelessness, guilt, and powerlessness all shone in the changed bardess' eyes. Khaira closed her eyes for a moment, before opening them again and blinking a couple of times. When she next spoke, the negative emotions were gone - or, at least, concealed - and replaced only by a deep weariness, leaving Atlas to, perhaps, think that it was merely a trick of the light in her eyes. "...not important ... it's not important whatsoever. ...merely the games and toys of gods... We've a task to complete and cannot delay in such a state of vulnerability to discuss ... shortcomings." Though she tried to speak with confidence and the resilience she was known for her words seemed to be weak and flat. Resting a hand on Atlas' shoulder, she attempted a smile, though it was one that lacked any luster or, even, hope. "We came here to save one life ... and that life was not mine. Let us go and complete that which we've come to accomplish." With what appeared to be renewed speed, Khaira hurried past Atlas. She hurried past him so that he could not see the unbidden emotion and tears burning her eyes once again.
ruthia 06-27-06, 02:42 AM	In the hut Ruthia stands on her own, her head hung as she looses herself into the thoughts and feelings she feels coming from Khaira. She does breifly mummer that the werewolf lost and everyone was fine....but she can feel Khaira's saddness, lack of hope and it hurt baddly. Tears in her eyes she keeps her back to the group, letting Khaira's emotions run her over for right now, leaving her mind vunerable to Khaira.
Agudo Archmage 06-28-06, 07:11 PM	Keldorn Firecam http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongkheldorn.gif Artwork copyright © 2006, Gordon R. Quigley With Ruthia words, the danger had past for their distant comrades; though she looked less than reassured by her vision than before it began. Yet that green cold blooded Wizard, made his own statement of not knowing everything about what danger lays ahead. It was just one more reason not to trust wizards The elder Knight shruged it off, walking over to the wash basin and stared at his reflection for awhile. Hmm.... it’s an honor to be in the rear guard. He thought to himself rubbing his salt and pepper beard No shame in it ...someone has to protect the women and children Blinking at his reflection in the water, seeing long lost adventures and friends. Besides gallivanting about into the unknown is for the young and foolish! After a moment Keldorn began rummaging through his pack taking out a field kit Within the military styled kit was a small mirror and grooming supplies The Knight cracked a weary smile as he mumbled allowed Not as old as some I suppose ... yet....alas.... feeling it all the more though Ahh to be young and foolish once more With a quick splash of soapy water about his face, he flipped open the travel razor and began to shave his scraggily whiskers
Drindin 07-06-06, 03:25 AM	Maryks looks Drindin up and down, eyes narrowed slightly. "You're... different, since last I saw you, Lord Drindin. Paler... a little more gaunt... Why, if I weren't privy to knowledge of the wiser, I'd say.... a little more dead even!" Drindin looks at him, narrowing his eyes more noticeably. "Well... that's one way of putting it."
Drindin 07-06-06, 03:27 AM	The path onwards towards the cave seems more lush, most certainly... but soon the branches reach out into the path, grabbing at the adventurers clothes, armor, and gear. So dense is the woods, it leaves a feeling of tightness, enough to bring out closterphobia even in a dwarf.
kulideb 07-10-06, 03:05 AM	It didnt seem to matter how carefully she went, somehow or other the branches snagged at her cloak or grabbed at her hair. "Looks quite over grown, must be a while since any one has passed this way."Kuli said in a hushed tone, as if the very trees would listern in to their group and send warrning of their passage.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 07-10-06, 08:11 AM	"I see why my ancestors forsook the warrens.", grunts lord Athakus, feeling somehow uneasy, though his aura should drive any true fear from his heart, as well as from the hearts of those around him.
Khaira 07-14-06, 02:59 AM	As Khaira entered the thicker forests, she had to struggle to make any progress in any form. Her hair was getting tangled in the thick branches and it seem like the trees were alive reaching and grasping for her hair and equipment. With a glance around to her comradres, Khaira noted they were having similar difficulties. With a glance at the trees - consequently tangling her long, now-matted red hair, and nearly poking her own eye - Khaira shook her head. "The trees are angry. They have been ignored, neglected, reduced to the most feral of nature. They exist in the most primitive state, untouched by the ravages of man or dwarf. Such is what Rillifane, the Leaflord, strives for. There is beauty to be found in the state which they now exist. Still, Solonor himself would strive for a better balance! Surely there is another route we can take..."
Taeldrin Laesrash 07-15-06, 01:14 AM	Ohh... Cordelia moans. What are the odds that this forest is haunted? Angry spirits are never good, and if they spurn your Leaflord, (She says to Khaira) there's no telling what could happen to us.
Khaira 07-19-06, 08:54 PM	Khaira would've nodded with Cordelia's words at the time, if not for the trees and branches that would have her spread eagled. Instead, she sighed and, for probably the hundredth time that day, fought to release herself from the branches. "Well, we'll have to deal with THAT obstacle when it comes. Let's just hope we're no spread-eagled, prone, and defenseless for any spirits to toy with our bodies as they will when that time comes!"
ruthia 08-30-06, 01:43 PM	Eventually Ruthia lifts her head, silently turning her head to look over the quite group. Drindin and the Mage were bantering back and forth like old friends tend to do. The knight Keldorn was apparently shaving that gods aweful beard of his. The other knight, Reginald, seemed to be off who knows where...and then theres little Elvina. Ruthia's eyes lingered on her the longest. Did she, a meer dragon, have the right to add another burden on one who already seemed so sad and forelorn? Ruthia sighed and shook her head. No, she didn't really....but Elvina deserved to know. Pushing off the wall she moves to the small elfs side and starts talking to her in low, hushed tones, her face sad but serious. When she is done she bows her head in respect and backs away to leave Elvina to her thoughts.