Post/Author/DateTime	Post
Pipers Youth 11-16-04, 07:04 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongagudo.gif http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongladyhoot.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley “ME!” He said putting his hands on his hips with a outraged look upon his bearded face. “I am pillar of the community!” A guard walked up behind and gave a small poke to move him along. “Ouch! Hay! I am much beloved by the people just ask my fans of all my books. Just ask the people of Hilslfar!” Agudo shook his head and added. “Well maybe not them…but others…..” The Wizard of Light continued to complain as he was taken away. Lady Hoot sat on his shoulder standing by (Sitting really ;) ) her friend Agudo "Ye durned fool. Ye thinking' to start trouble all across the city!" General Hage had slapped the solider who had previously declared a sentence of death upon Agudo. "I'm the one that's supposed to do that, ye thinking' if just anybody went declar'n sentences of death upon people that the people would be happy?" The solider only stood there and swallowed hard. " Now get back in line or I'll have ye sent to the slave pens!" The soldier scrambled up ahead and General Hage sighed. They had been towing Agudo in chains till almost sunset heading for the middle of the city and it was getting tiring. All the archmage ever did was banter and complain. He then turned to see Piper and Edwin chatting away about something and soon focused his attention on some kind of ruckus that started up. General Hage soon made his way into the line to see Agudo being dragged on the ground by his chains and the soldiers laughing. The burly man grabbed up one of the laughing soldiers by the collar and yelled," What do you think your doin? Your not suppose to drag him by his hands! Drag him by his feet." The soldier nodded and Hage knelt in the dirt where Agudo was laying," You still think your the pillar of the community now?" Meanwhile back at Agudo's school... "Did you hear what happened to Agudo?" "No, what!?" It seems he got himself captured by those damned Thayens!" "Your kidding? What happened?" "Well, seems like one of his old friends led him to Thay to be deceived and captured. The guy's a Red Wizard don't ya know? "A Red Wizard!" The last outburst caught the attention of the nearby crowd, and suddenly the whole bunch was outraged. Word spread through the school like wildfire. Agudo the Headmaster of the school was captured? ooc(Okay you guys can take it from here. I don't care how you start off. Be creative and have fun!)ooc
Drindin 11-16-04, 09:35 PM	Shades had over heard the students rumblings. He knew he must find Kulideb. As much as he was disliking Agudo at the moment, he knew he had the obligation to help him, lest he end up just as bad as Agudo. *** Contrarily, Algared was completely clueless, only just begining to approach the school, his Minotaur-sized great axe resting on his shoulder, looking perfectly normal. "Hmm... the air is tense. What is happening, I wonder?"
Myranthor 11-16-04, 10:30 PM	If a beautiful, majestic bird of prey had soared above a lone, narrow road in a renowned country, his slow wings extended, gliding over hot thermal currents, its acute vision would've perceived, far below him, a solitary figure, walking hurriedly, weakened by a ruthless, boiling sun. In her right hand she held a sturdy, simple walker's stick, and she almost seemed to be a determined pilgrim, focused on crossing an incredible distance for a lost cause, in the inextinguible pursuit of an illusory dream, advancing with the frenetic passion of a madman, despite her tiredness, her limbs' pained pleas for a well deserved respite. From her bluish mass of uncombed, rebellious hair, that fell to her hips, salted rivers of sweat rained down over her fair visage, bordering her sparkling eyes, scintillating saphirres, hiding in their trail the faint flow of tears dripping over her cheeks. A simple, cyan dress and solid boots completed her whole appearance, revealing the practical, down-to-earth, and utopian, hedonist personnalities conflicting within her inner self. "Identify yourself!" shouted a grim, authoritarian voice. Surprised, I promptly raised my gaze, leaving for a brief moments the several thoughts roaming freely through my head, to distinguish two men, clad in ornated armors, each of them holdinga pike in one hand, also wearing an habitted scabbard at their belt. I was surprised to see such an agressive, unpleasant behavior, here, in a school widely known for its hospitality. "My name's Septris. I don't know if I was announced, but I was summoned here by bonze, a friend of this School's Headmaster." Both guards looked at each other, perplex, exchanging worried looks. "We're sorry, milady, but I doubt we can allow anyone in. Not only is the situation within our very walls stirred and completely uncontrolled, we also have received orders not to let anyone in unsupervised, as much for our safety than your own. " Imperceptibly, I smiled, amused. With a slow movement of my hand, I grasped a cascading river of my hair, fidgeting with it with apparently nervous fingers, offering to the bedazzled pair my more stunning smile, my deepest gaze. "Do I have to doubt that any of you would make me the curtesy to protect my frail body within that haven? I'd only like to see a figure of authority. If they ask me to leave, I will, without a complain. " In front of such a pleasing proposition, escorting a seductive elf in a completely secure environnment, most men wouldn't hesitate twice, and neither of those present did. A minor disagreement even exploded between both, until the higher-ranked one decided that his position let him free to decide who would have the delicious pleasure to accompany the fragile fae I was. That eagerly and incredibly helplful man brought me to a little desk, over which a voluminous, impressive tome was placed, resting next to a little pot of ink, in which rested a colorful quill. A magnificent chair, however, was left abandonned, its owner, a tall, red-headed elf, being busy somewhere else in the grandiloquent hall, running foolishly from orc to gnome, calming one, neutralizing another. It seemed that an overwhelming, unbelievable anarchy had exploded all over the school: familiars flying and running freely everywhere, cries and shouts sprouting from nowhere, all of it caused by a recent event. Different factions, which could be regrouped, apparently, as the numerous classes offered to study in at the school, violently debated against each other, sometimes adding to their meaningful arguements childish insults. Aspiring bards spat in the severe figures of rigid soldiers, joyfully singing " The Ballad of old Marshall Lewis 16's head", to which honorable knights answered by conjointly proclaiming their moral codes in a strong, fierce chorus that echoed to the top of the room. That combination resulted in a cacophonic, a catastrophical ruckus unequaled in the story of the school of Light. From behind me, a cold, dry, shrilling voice was heard, adressed to my companion. "What are you doing here?" "Escorting this lady to the Hall, sir!" "Apparently, she reached it safely, soldier. Are you taking some time off duty, now?" "No, sir." "Then, prove it, and get back at your post." "Yes, sir." I turned around, meeting a handsome, dark-haired sun elf, whose likeable features, despite their sophisticated tendancies, had been, probably since a long time, ruined by a demanding intellectual discipline, bringing a disturbing mask of arrogance and suffisance over an otherwise perfectly chiseled visage. "Excuse me, milady, but, given the current situation", he said, pointing the surrounding room, " I'll have to be quite efficient. Who are you?" " My name's Septris. I have been call - " "...by Bonze, I know already. The event he had called you for is already finished, and, right now, we are mortally caught in its aftermath. He left this parchment for you. You can stayhere as long as you want, in a free quarter, and I must go by now. May we meet under brighter stars." he said, finishing his speech with an ancient elvish formula. As he fastly went away I called him one last time, desperate to find a pillar against which I could lean in this complete madness : " What's your name, if I ever..." " MYRANTHOR!" And then alone I was, free to wonder what had happened, where was my precious friend, if the Headmaster, himself, could assist me, give me a faint hint, any kind of hope, him, the last beacon of Light i had in al this never-ending chaos. Discouraged, I slipped on the ground, my back against the wall, hoping to recollect my energy in this prostrated, secure position. "Did you hear what happened to Agudo?" "No, what!?" It seems he got himself captured by those damned Thayens!" "Your kidding? What happened?" "Well, seems like one of his old friends led him to Thay to be deceived and captured. The guy's a Red Wizard don't ya know? "A Red Wizard!" Those words were exchanged, so casually, by two little halflings, hoping, like me, to keep out of the microscopic war by hiding away from the deadly circle's center. After that utterance of such a fatal sentence, I turned around to face them, in awe, my features stilled for quite some time. After a while I managed to recollect enough will to speak, mumbling incoherently : "And what will anybody do about it? Is there a rescue party organized? He's probably the only one who can calm down that terrible, uncontrollable mob!"Septris (http://ew2.lysator.liu.se/pic/art/k/a/kathka/dragonstaff.jpg)
Mazithra-Amakiir 11-17-04, 01:22 AM	From the start of the barking voice, Mazithra has suspected something strange. He thought it even more of an oddity that so many armed and armored soldiers would make such a racket. Through the chaos and the anarchy, that which was such a home to one such as he, Mazithra weaved through the turning heads, jeering looks, to get a glance at who it was would be captured today. That was when he saw it... “Ouch! Hay! I am much beloved by the people just ask my fans of all my books. Just ask the people of Hilslfar!” Agudo shook his head and added. “Well maybe not them…but others…..” The Wizard of Light continued to complain as he was taken away. The Githerzai frowned as he watched the continuing shackling and, eventually, procession of the armed soldiers, Agudo, and Hoot. Indeed, some of the members of that gathering crowd gave Mazithra some un nerved glances. Githerzai generally don't show any emotion, and when one does, particularly when one frowned that frown - that frown of disapproval, dissapointment, disbelief - it generally meant trouble. Who knew what they would do? Softly, the Githerzai Planar Warrior murmured to himself. "What manner of insanity wrought by morbid curiosity has the Red Wizards in its clutch? Why Agudo? He is, too, an arcane delver, is he not? It appears my blade may be called forth before the sun sets upon this ridiculous series of chaotic streams in time." [I]The Githerzai watched, expressionless, as Agudo was led away. And then, soft as a shadow, and just as secretive, he began to follow the procession...[I]
kulideb 11-17-04, 05:30 AM	The elf had almost won! She parried the blow from the sword..only to find her feet knocked from under her. "Thats not fair! your fighting dirty!" She said the the swordmaster. The bearded man just laughed and offered her a hand up. Kulideb waved the hand away and got back on to her feet, she was just dusting her self off when she heard her class mates muttering at first she thought they were laughing at her but then she caught some of the words. The elf paled, she bowed hastily to the swordmaster and set off to see if the rumours were true. She needed to find Shades, the elf made her way to the main entrance to ask Elvina of Shades whereabouts. She passed a couple of halflings and heard them too whisper the words she had heard earlier. She stopped and looked at the lady waiting there. "Hello, I'm sure Elvina is some where near..." she wondered if this lady had something to do with the wild words about Agudo.
ruthia 11-17-04, 09:57 AM	Walking down from the headmasters office, Ruthia quickly gathered as many of the confused students as she could. She had come to the school to collect her sons things when the rumors of Agudo's capture had started. Curious to see if there was any truth to the rumors, Ruthia went to his office. Not seeing either Agudo or Hoot inside when she entered, she proceeded to use Agudo's Glass of Seeing to try and contact him. But amazingly enough, she couldn't get through. But she did get a quick image that proved the rumors true Agudo being dragged on the ground by his chains and the soldiers laughing. Relizing that even though she wasn't particularly happy with Agudo at the moment, his students would still need his direction, she makes her way to the main lobby. As she gets there and see's the choas she relizes some one must speak up, and with a sigh she does just that. Standing on top of Elvina's desk to give herself a better view of the area, Ruthia shouts above the noise. "STUDENTS! MAY I HAVE YOUR ATTENTION PLEASE!" After a few seconds the bulk of the noise dies down as many of the students turn to look at Ruthia. Many of them reconize her as one of Agudo's long time friends and wait to see if she can disspell the rumors. When it gets quiet enough, Ruthia continues. "Students of Agudo's school, the rumors you have been hearing are true. Your beloved Teacher Lady Hoot and Administrator Agudo have been captured by Red Wizards. I have just confermed these rumors myself. We need volenteers to rescue them." A brief outburst insue's with over half the school stepping up to try and rescue them. Ruthia decides she has to put a limit on this, or everyone will want to go. "STUDENTS PLEASE! I can't take everyone. I need people with combat training and Sorceror/Mage training. I also need people who are quick on their feet and can think their way out of a problem. That means NO GNOMES! Also Pixies and other dainty creatures Are out. No Knights, you guys make to much a big deal about your honor and stupid armor, I need people willing to make shady deals. Also Bards are out, you guys bring way to much attention to yourselves and I don't feel we need any pansy singing along the way. I'm really look for Humans or Elves willing to do this quietly, who won't stand out as much. Anyone????" Ruthia looks out at the crowd expectantly as the choas quiets down to a dull roar for a few minutes
Drindin 11-17-04, 06:32 PM	Shades had snuck into the crowd, looking up at Ruthia. "I'll go." He called out. "Perhaps, find the Lady Kulideb as well..." *** *** *** Algared walked through the gates, as the guards were busy trying to keep fights from breaking out amongst some of the more rebellious students. One of the kids running to the assembly ran by Algared, who promptly grabbed him, and held him up by his shirt. "What's going on here? Isn't this a magic school? Shouldn't you be off learning something? And where's Agudo, and the lady from the bar? Shouldn't they be here somewhere?" "I-I-I I'm sorry mister minotaur! No one's seen Agudo for a while! And I don't know where Kulideb is... probably fighting some where!" With that, Algared nodded, and set the child back down. He was fast making his way to the Fighting Class, after getting directions from another student. He stepped in and looked around. "HEY! Which one of you people is Kulideb? I need some answers about what's going on here?" He called in.
Agudo Archmage 11-18-04, 02:22 PM	Piper Youth The soldier nodded and Hage knelt in the dirt where Agudo was laying," You still think your the pillar of the community now?" Agudo spit out a mouth full dirt. He said nothing for the anger in his eyes said it all. His clothing was dirtied and torn, his long blond hair was a mess. Truly the plans of his enemy were going to be mush worse that this he knew.
Mazithra-Amakiir 11-18-04, 04:08 PM	Mazithra crouched in the dirt, in the shadows, effectively watching the whole scene. How he would love to decimate the entire force! Who knew what kind of magics they were employing, though? He needed a distraction...he needed more people! Dammit all! Silently, swiftly, the Githerzai's eyes gleaned, and he closed his eyes for but a moment, his mind reaching out to that of Agudo's...in Agudo's mind he hears a familiar voice(FoD permitting and as long as there is no magical barrier to telepathy...) My dear Lord Agudo, I am here. Do not look for me, you will give us both away. But I am here, my lord, watching you, and watching your captors...I am only one, my Lord. What service would you have me complete? Know that, whatever your decision is, I shall not leave you. I shall follow you until the opportunity arises to strike, like the deadly shadow that is my body. If telepathy/magic are somehow blocked, via a magical barrier or whatever,all Agudo will hear is a soft buzzing sound, something like static, and then silence. Crouching discreetly in the shadows, his hand upon his great sword, Mazithra held a connection open for a short while.
Myranthor 11-18-04, 05:35 PM	Perplex, I looked back at the tall, blonde elf standing proudly in front of me, obviously puzzled, being compeltely ignorant of this impressive palace's inhabitants. "If I knew who that Elvina is, milady" I answered vehemently, smiling, "it would be a warming joy for me to answer your interrogation." Before the beautiful lady ever could answer, however, unfortunately for my ears, already wounded by the cacophonic mood reigning over the terribly savage battlefield the grand hall had became, a strong, deafening thunder clapped, islencing most of the students present, at least for infernal duration of its thunderous roar. "STUDENTS PLEASE! I can't take everyone. I need people with combat training and Sorceror/Mage training. I also need people who are quick on their feet and can think their way out of a problem. That means NO GNOMES! Also Pixies and other dainty creatures Are out. No Knights, you guys make to much a big deal about your honor and stupid armor, I need people willing to make shady deals. Also Bards are out, you guys bring way to much attention to yourselves and I don't feel we need any pansy singing along the way. I'm really look for Humans or Elves willing to do this quietly, who won't stand out as much. Anyone????" "However, if you allow me this little and humble question, milady" I added to the elf's attention, "I'd very much like to know who that woman is, and any teaching you would care to offer me would be welcomed as a generous offering. How such a woman could herself pass unnoticed, as she says, is quite a mystery to me, and I wonder why such an...abrasive character would improvise herself leader of Agudo's rescue party."
ruthia 11-19-04, 08:38 AM	Just then Ruthia looked in thier direction and called out. "Kulideb are you over there? Get up here Shades is looking for you! Bring your new friend there with you." Ruthia then sat down on the desk and looked at Shades. "Glad you stepped up." She said quietly, "Know of anyone else we can trust on this? I know you and Kulideb are great at this kind of stuff, but I have a feeling we need a few more people. Plus we need a leader for this group, I'm only bringing everyone together. I sure as heck don't want to lead!" Ruthia grins and swings her feet back and forth as they wait for Kulideb and the other elf to join them.
Drindin 11-19-04, 09:50 AM	Shades looked at her. "If none others shall... I will lead."
Good Knight 11-19-04, 04:14 PM	Keldorn Firecam had been busy packing, for the long trip back to his home country of Amn Yet when the word came that those evil treacherous red wizards, had taken hostage his closest friend Agudo. The brave knight immediately ordered the guards of the school of light, to secure the grounds. If for no other reason than to make sure no surprises came about, from the sudden loss of the leadership at the school. Walking into the lobby just as the ever loud dragon let off her mighty roar. RUTHIA "STUDENTS PLEASE! I can't take everyone. I need people with combat training and Sorceror/Mage training. I also need people who are quick on their feet and can think their way out of a problem. That means NO GNOMES! Also Pixies and other dainty creatures Are out. No Knights, you guys make to much a big deal about your honor and stupid armor, I need people willing to make shady deals. Also Bards are out, you guys bring way to much attention to yourselves and I don't feel we need any pansy singing along the way. I'm really look for Humans or Elves willing to do this quietly, who won't stand out as much. Anyone????" Firecam crossed his arms and smirked as he stood next the school’s class of knights. He waited a liitle longer as Myranthor and Kulideb spoke with others in the room. But then not wishing to see his sister and brother knights ignored, he spoke up. “Don’t worry honorable ladies and valiant men of the knighthood. The day we take orders from a dragon! Is the day dragons learn to talk quietly, and of course, if a miracle permits, to be humble” Many of the student knights of the light laughed. Then holding up his hand he added. “Never the less good people of Agudo school. Mistress Ruthia is right about one thing. We must travel in small numbers. This a rescue mission, not a war! I shall accompany the other adventures, by offering my many years of wisdom in battling evil wizards “ Taking a small bow as several knights applauded. Fircam then turned to Shades. “Let it not be said that I could not be humble. I hear by second the nomination of Shades!
Pipers Youth 11-19-04, 11:20 PM	"As I was saying Edwin, before I was so rudely interrupted.... Piper shot Marshal Hage a glare who had excitedly stirred the troops by something The Medallion of Thoughts appears to be a normal pendent disk hung from a neck chain. Usually fashioned from bronze, copper, or nickel silver, the medallion allows the wearer to read the thoughts of others, as with the spell detect thoughts. I came upon this item while having brunch with Rupert, the sniveling weasel had it tied around his neck. The only way I guessed he could accumulate such and item was to steal it. No doubt from his Excellency's private collection. Oh, looks like weve reached our destination." Back at the School... "What do ye mean no other dainty creatures are out?!" "What ye be say'n lady, that halfings arnt good enough for ye?" "Now don't ya get all upset now Rumblebelly." "Let me go now Thimble, so I can give their Ms. loud mouth a real whooping!" "Rumblebelly......" "What ye fool, can't ye say I'm busy." "I'd be quiet if I was being in yer shoes right now." "What ye be say'n lad that I ain't .......Hay! Let go of me, what do ye think your doin? I'm tell'n ye that I'm a wor'n ya now." The two halfings that had started the whole ruckus where yelling at Ruthia, who had apparently tried to get things under control, but ended up making things worse. While the other hafling tried to get his friend to calm down, two guards of the school had attempted to calm the situation. Now the apprehended halfling was dragged away in a flailing, screaming frenzy, with his friend right on their heels. Before they were out of sight though, a fight broke out in the crowd between the students causing innocent people to be caught in the frenzy.
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 11-20-04, 02:34 AM	“Leave the gully dwarfs gaurds alone Piper! If they want to have fun with that snail of mage Agudo, then so be it!” With a wicked laugh, Edwin walked along the side of the upstart Piper. “So your telling me that you killed the sniveling rat Rupert!” Rubbing his hands at the thought. “Is that how you got the medallion?
kulideb 11-20-04, 06:55 AM	There was so much noise! the elf thought as all the students seemed to speak at once as Ruthia confirmed the rumours as truth. Kulideb looked over at the dark haired lady. "Thats Ruthia.." she started to say, only to have the lady in question call out to her. She held her hand out to the rebellious haired lady as she made her way to the front. She smiled as Shades offered to lead the group, he was a calm figure and would make an excellent leader. "We will have chance to talk later..its getting a little chaotic in here!" she tried to say over the din to Septris. She watched the knights, and one in particular. Keldorn Firecam had been a pain in the butt! but he could fight she thought.
Myranthor 11-20-04, 07:50 AM	Silently the I followed my new companion, Kulideb, and reached the improvised group of old acquaintances and friends, a bit shy, intimidated to be left as a single individual in this obviously tightly knit and brotherly association. Would anyone ask me what I think of Shades' nomination as a leader, either through word or a mere interrogative gaze, I'll answer that his candidature probably is the best we could've found. However, the vision of the two men, each carrying a massive sword at their belt, casted a sorrowful shadow over my heart, when I understood this rescuing mission could also turn, in the wrong hands, in a bloody raiding party, like so much noble crusades already did before this cursed day.
Drindin 11-20-04, 01:25 PM	Algared waded into the fight, giving a firey glance at a kid who looked like he was ready to try and take Algared, causing the poor child to run away. He made his way over to Ruthia, moving as near as possible. "What is going on here?" He said to her, making himself heard with his booming voice. Shades looked up at him. "Your guess is as good as mine!" Shades finally saw Kulideb, stuck in the crowd. "Kulideb! There you are!" He hollered to her, though he doubted he was heard. Shades turned to Firecam. "HEY! KNIGHT! Get your students to help stop this riot, this is insane!" He then turned to Algared. "You there, minotaur! Try and get Kulideb and her companion out! Once they're out, try and see if you can get any non-combatants out, and break up as many fights as you can, this is turning into a down right RIOT!" Shades suddenly had an idea. "Ruthia, do you emit Dragon fear in your true form?"
Agudo Archmage 11-20-04, 03:10 PM	Mazithra-Amakiir My dear Lord Agudo, I am here. Do not look for me, you will give us both away. But I am here, my lord, watching you, and watching your captors...I am only one, my Lord. What service would you have me complete? Know that, whatever your decision is, I shall not leave you. I shall follow you until the opportunity arises to strike, like the deadly shadow that is my body. Agudo was getting skinned alive as they dragged him about. First by the arms then the legs. Edwin and Piper could be heard laughing at his expense Through it all he heard a voice in his head, someone perhaps at Kulideb Tavern. In any case the voice offered hope. ….Oo….Do what you can! …Find help….there is to many of them….But don’t in danger yourself….if I must…. I shall sacrifice myself if need be…..0o…
Mazithra-Amakiir 11-20-04, 08:47 PM	Suddenly, Mazithra was ... not there. Or so it seemed. From the shadows, his voice rang out, seeming to echo off of everywhere, a resonating and chilling voice, full of promises of pain and death, a luxury after much torture. "Hm...you must all feel very proud. Beating on a defenseless man. Cowards, weaklings, the lot of you! I wonder...how many Red Wizards does it take to kill a man? Why, the whole nation, apparently!" Mocking, riddiculing laughter rang out as the Githerzai quitely, skillfully, moved to a different position, only a couple of feet where he had been. Then, there, his voice rang out again. This time, it was deep, foreboding, and mysterious, full of intrigue and power. "I warn you now, Red Wizards of Thay, the Gods are not pleased. We watch from the shadows your every move. We are not pleased." There were simply too many to even think of striking out, but at least, he could make threats, and inspire fear into the hearts of the cowards. Once again, his voice sounded in Agudo's head. My Lord Agudo, it is I, Mazithra Amakiir, the Githerzai Planar Warrior. There are too many for me to strike at; surely, even I would become massacred. Quickly, I shall take the path only known to my race, and proceed with all haste to your humble abode, the School, and gain more forces. Fear not, my Lord Agudo, I shall return. Do not give up hope! This day, you shall not die; the shadows are on your side![/B] For but an instant, the shadows almost seemed to darken and before even he now, Mazithra was flying down a multi-colored path. Yet...something was wrong. Flames leapt at him, biting, singing burning, sapping his strength. And then, all of a sudden, Mazithra hit the ground with thunderous speed...he saw the school in the distance, still some miles away. As if to emphasize the severity of the matter, a thunder clap rolled in the distance, much too close for comfort. "Clearly, I have underestimated the power of the path; quickly, now, I must make haste!" With that, a much burnt and singed Mazithra began running at top speeds towards the School.
kulideb 11-21-04, 06:24 AM	Kulideb waved over to Shades, then pointed to the door. She was too small to be much help here except with a sword and as most of the students were her friends she had no wish to harm them. She would leave it to the bigger folk to pull the fighting groups apart. She lightly touched Septris's arm and pointed to the door once more. She hoped the lady would understand and follow her outside away from the growing chaos.
Drindin 11-21-04, 12:57 PM	Algared nodded in compliance to Shades, and began pushing students apart, making his way to Kulideb. Once there, he nodded to her, and began to clear path for her and Septris to the door way. Shades waited for Ruthia's reply.
Myranthor 11-21-04, 02:18 PM	Esgerl;y, Sptris followed her new companions to the doorway.
ruthia 11-21-04, 04:35 PM	Ruthia grimaced when she heard that dunder head Kheldorn speak out against her. Once again wondering why she hadn't eaten him durning the trail she was about to say something when a full out riot burst out in the school. Shades yelled out to her about dragon fear. Ruthia quickly got off the table and leaned closer to him to answer. "Yes, I can emit dragon fear in my true form. Think it would help in this case? We need this under control before we can gather the right group to go get Agudo."
Drindin 11-21-04, 07:06 PM	"Yes! I think if we can get the students listening to you, that should help our case! You start now, I'm going to go and follow the Minotaur and Kulideb. Try and keep Kheldorn under control... do your best!"
ruthia 11-21-04, 07:41 PM	Ruthia nods and watches as Shades starts forcing his way out the door. She sends out a telepathic message to that EVER so loveable knight, Kheldorn. o O(Kheldorn, stop instagating and help out for a change! You know as well as I do that a bigger party would be seen quicker. Shades wants me to use dragon fear to scare some of the students quiet, when I change get your knights ready to pull people out of here. Get as many of them seprated as possible. Ok?)
kulideb 11-22-04, 03:41 AM	The small elf was glad of the large Minotaur, as soon as folks saw him they moved. She looked behind her to make sure that her new friend was following. It didnt take them long to reach the door and step outside away from the pandemonium of the students and teachers. "Oh! thats much better, thank you sir." she said to the Minotaur. "I'm kulideb..sorry about that, the school is normally a lot better behaved." she said to Septris. ((OOC, Drindin, Kuli has already met the Minotaur back at the inn, if thats alright with you.))
Pipers Youth 11-22-04, 08:32 PM	Piper was casually bumping a sac against his leg, whistling an ole folk lore, when a large booming voice was overheard, seemingly coming from in every direction. The soldiers came to a halt, and Piper continued to whistle joyfully. "Hm...you must all feel very proud. Beating on a defenseless man. Cowards, weaklings, the lot of you! I wonder...how many Red Wizards does it take to kill a man? Why, the whole nation, apparently!" "No, only two and a small army," Piper beamed, flipping back a strand of Hazel hair, nonchalantly. Hage sneered, clearly upset. The soldiers peering into alleys and looking around to find the voice. "I warn you now, Red Wizards of Thay, the Gods are not pleased. We watch from the shadows your every move. We are not pleased." "Oh rubbish, don't listen to him. Oh, the gods aren't pleased, are they? Well, I guess that's to bad. Pity were already here, Marshall Hage, Edwin, please accompany me with the prisoner alone. I thinks it's time for Agudo to meet his real captor." The troops dispersed and Hage pulled a rather messy Wizard of Light to his feet. They soon came under an archway and ended up at a large wooden door. Piper rapped on the door lightly and it creaked open, a musty odor filled the room. It smelled of old leather, dust, and newly made potions. The wizard opened the door and gave a sweeping hand motion," After you sirs, plea...se." The last word was disturbed by a angry shuffling in the sack he still carried.
Good Knight 11-22-04, 10:50 PM	Shades Shades turned to Firecam. "HEY! KNIGHT! Get your students to help stop this riot, this is insane!" Fircam noded and waved them over to start moving the crowed outside When the all to well known voice of Ruthia, spoke not to his ears but his head. Ruthia o O(Kheldorn, stop instagating and help out for a change! You know as well as I do that a bigger party would be seen quicker. Shades wants me to use dragon fear to scare some of the students quiet, when I change get your knights ready to pull people out of here. Get as many of them seprated as possible. Ok?) This time Firecam smiled and gave a polite wink her way. "Alright Knights of the Light prepare for what we trained for. Brave Heart Maneuver! Women and Men of the Order were surprised by such thing. But knew to obey orders for they had trained to work together. Knights chanted and the fear that most people would feel. Was replaced by Heroic Emotion. Firecam belowed. "All right stop this fighting or you shall know the power of the Protecters of this school of Goodness!"
Drindin 11-23-04, 12:44 AM	The small elf was glad of the large Minotaur, as soon as folks saw him they moved. She looked behind her to make sure that her new friend was following. It didnt take them long to reach the door and step outside away from the pandemonium of the students and teachers. "Oh! thats much better, thank you sir." she said to the Minotaur. "I'm kulideb..sorry about that, the school is normally a lot better behaved." she said to Septris. ((OOC, Drindin, Kuli has already met the Minotaur back at the inn, if thats alright with you.)) Algared was happy to see the walls of the familiar pub he had once visited rise up before him. "Finally... some where I can find my way around! Now, what's going on at that school anyways!" He said, upon making his way in. Meanwhile... Shades managed to squeeze his way out of the room, and followed Kulideb and the minotaur easily. Finding the Flute and Boot, he mades his silent way in, taking his place up beside Kulideb, being glad to see her. "Are you all alright? No body was hurt?"
ruthia 11-23-04, 09:24 PM	Ruthia closes her eyes apon hearing Kheldorn's response. Briefly concidering changing form while between she decides against it, the sight of her changing forms might scare just as many as the dragon fear itself would. To Make it even more gruesome she decides to do it slowly. Standing on top of the desk once again she begins emitting a white light which draws the attention of the students closest to her, they stop fighting to watch. Some of the closest ones begin to note the odd changing in the glow, first small things like just her fingure nails getting longer and her clothing seeming to dissappear yet not show any nakedness. Then a few of them gasp in shock as her face and body seem to elongate and misform in shape. Her back arches up and her legs thicken to five times their origanal size. Her arms length and thicken untill they match her back legs, putting her on all fours. Students closest to her are now backing up in horror as they get a up front view to a powerful transformation in slow motion. Some of the students further back also now begin to notice, though most still seem to be fighting. Ruthia's face enlarges to twice the size of a full grown man, her mouth/nose elongates to match her new size. Sharp teeth and oval eyes complete her face as the tranformation seems to move to the rest of her body, which had been slowly growing to match the other changes till this point. Now three times the size of a horse her back begins to form spikes as a tail forms from her behind, also with spikes on it. Then with a violent flash of light the transformation completes, leaving a Medium size White dragon in the place of the meak lady with white hair. With a roar she flaps her mighty wings and takes into the air above everyone's heads. She lets lose a small trickl of flames just over top of the most active of the combatants, being carefull not to singe any of Kheldorn's knights in the process. Though Kheldorn may have felt a little more of the heat then most of them. Once some of the students where running in fear instead of fighting, Ruthia sends to Kheldorn. o O(The others went to The Flute and Boot. Meet you there.) With that she dissappears, reappearing Just outside the school where she quickly changes and makes her way down to the tavern.
Mazithra-Amakiir 11-23-04, 10:21 PM	As Mazithra began to run, he wondered how far of a distance it was to the school. He hoped he wasn't too late, and that it wouldn't take too long to get together a measurable-sized force to rescue the Lord Agudo. The Githerzai began to sweat steadily as he ran the miles down, finally nearing the gates of the school...the gates that were closed. Damn! This just wasn't his day. Gasping for breath and pained by the burns that permeated his charred body, the Githerzai summoned forth a hoarse, yet strong and deep, voice. "Open the gates! Through fire and pain have I travelled to summon assistance for the founder of this school, the founder of whom is under attack by red-robed abominations...open the gates, I say!!!" The last of Mazithra's words seem to echo with a loud, booming sound, a sound ringed by fury, haste, and impatience. Impatiently, he waited for the gates to be opened, that a rescue force could be put together.
kulideb 11-24-04, 07:35 AM	Kulideb led her new friend to the inn, taking the quick path through the woods. She hoped that Septris wouldnt think her rude as she stayed quiet on their short walk. "The others will find us here soon enough." she said pushing the door open. They had only just stepped in when Algared entered. "I'm not sure..hopefully Ruthia will be able to tell us a little more." Kulideb looked round the Inn was empty of other customers at the moment she thought gladly. Her hand rested on a book at the bar. "Oh! its one of Agudo's on magic." she said sadly, she was so lost in thought she didnt see Shades till he spoke. ""I'm fine..its just a bit of a shock, I know he could be a pain, but I really dont like the thought of any thing happening to him or Lady Hoot." She rested her hand on his. "Oh! I'm so sorry!...This is Septris, Septris, this is Shades and Algared." She said making the introductions.
ruthia 11-24-04, 10:32 AM	Ruthia was begining to walk to the tavern when another person ran past her in the direction of the school. At first she was going to just keep going, but something told her to go back to that guy. Turning with a sigh she runs back to the school in time to her the strangers speech as he knocked on the gates. "Open the gates! Through fire and pain have I travelled to summon assistance for the founder of this school, the founder of whom is under attack by red-robed abominations...open the gates, I say!!!" "HEy You! If what you say is true follow me to Kulideb's Tavern. A group of us were just meeting there to figure out the best way to rescue Agudo and any information you have would help alot. But what ever you do don't go inside that school, things are pure choas right now!" Ruthia flipped a stray piece of her white hair out of her face as she waits to see if this stranger was going to take her advice.
Good Knight 11-24-04, 02:10 PM	The anger turned to screams as Halflings, Dwarfs and others enchanted races ran about in fear. Firecam had to duck low, as the sly Dragon Lady; nearly singed his handsome thick Salt and Pepper hair. “Grab hold of the furry Halflings shirts and lift them up out the door.”It was now a concern to keep people from trampling each other than fighting. The Knights followed Keldorn lead and pushed and thrust them out the main doors. Then he heard the words of Ruthia into his head once more. Ruthia O(The others went to The Flute and Boot. Meet you there.) Firecam noded his head as she vanish leaving him the dirty job of cleaning things up.
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 11-24-04, 02:20 PM	Edwin gave a kick to Agudo as they entered the new room. “Bah! That flying monkey Mazithra was from Agudo school. I recognize its shrieking voice monkey voice. I am sure it and the other blind followers of Agudo will return to save this blond haired hippy.”The Red Wizard gladly gave another kick to Agudo, just for fun. “Now Piper introduce me the Great Edwin Odesseiron of thay to your master, like a good servant”
Mazithra-Amakiir 11-24-04, 05:57 PM	Mazithra was getting somewhat aggravated. He'd travelled all this distance, and they wouldn't even open up the gates?! With a hand upon his great sword, he prepared to break down the gates of the school if he had to. "HEy You! If what you say is true follow me to Kulideb's Tavern. A group of us were just meeting there to figure out the best way to rescue Agudo and any information you have would help alot. But what ever you do don't go inside that school, things are pure choas right now!" Ruthia flipped a stray piece of her white hair out of her face as she waits to see if this stranger was going to take her advice. Pure chaos? Why, that was what he was used to, after all! He nodded to the white-haired woman in front of him. "Aye, my lady, I have returned from a trip through a painstaking road, from teh location of the Lord Agudo. He is in dire straits...I would have freed him if there were but a few less soldiers. As for chaos...chaos, my lady, is my life, my breath, my strength! I am sure the school is nothing compared to Limbo. Let us make haste to the tavern...the longer we banter here, the longer he is tortured." The Githerzai bowed, and walked over to the white-haired woman, ready to leave whenever she was.
ruthia 11-25-04, 09:20 AM	Ruthia grins and says "Well I'm sure the school is nothing compared to that, but when I was in there a few minutes everyone was either fighting each other or fleeing in fear of the white dragon that some how appeared inside the school." Looking at the stranger she says "Well come on, this way." And with that leads him down the path to the inn. Once there she opens the door and enters, pausing only to hold the door open for Mazithra. She looks at Shades and the others and says "Ok Keldorn will join us soon. He was just begining to get things under control when I left. Oh and this badly burnt gentleman has some information that might be helpful." She looks at Mazithra and waits for him to tell the others his name and the information he has.
Drindin 11-25-04, 10:04 AM	Shades smiled. "I'm just glad you're okay..." He quietly whispered to her. Shades took Kulideb's hand and nodded to Septris and the others, as did Algared. Upon Ruthia coming in, he was quick to look at the door, and then proceed to nod at both her and the Gith____.
Mazithra-Amakiir 11-25-04, 12:10 PM	Mazithra followed Ruthia on silent footsteps, no sound nor evidence that he was even there presented itself. When he got into the tavern, he looked to the other members of this potential rescue group with some scrutiny. Was this it? He bowed, then, a flourishing bow, as the white-haired lady presented him to the others. "Oh and this badly burnt gentleman has some information that might be helpful." She looks at Mazithra and waits for him to tell the others his name and the information he has. In a voice seemingly devoid of emotion and, perhaps, caring, a hardened voice, a voice derived from only the sense to do one's duty, and not involve emotions along with that duty, he spoke. "Greetings, friends of the Lord Agudo. Truly 'tis a pity that we cannot meet under calmer circumstances, for these are dire times indeed. I am Mazithra Amakiir, Githerzai Planar Warrior, and friend of Agudo. I was near the place where he was captured not too long ago. Red Wizards, a militia of soldiers...all in all, a quite large group. I perceived this and, were it not such a large company of captors, I would have rescued our friend, the good Lord Agudo. Unfortunately, circumstances being what they may be, the forces holding Agudo were simply too large for me to consider rescuing Agudo and surviving. Thus I have travelled here, through a path intercepted by the power of the Red Wizards, travelled through fire and magic to collaborate with the likes of you in the hope that, together, we can once again reinstate our friend and Lord Agudo to the life that he once knew. My sword, friends, is at your service."
kulideb 11-27-04, 06:39 AM	At last they had real news and not just half whispered rumours, but it was sad news indeed the elf thought as Mazithra told his tale. "Thank you for alerting us to this grave situation." Kulideb said to Mazithra, "We should wait till the knight gets here then work out what our next steps should be." She said addressing the group.
Myranthor 11-27-04, 08:03 AM	I had sat on a chair, looking at the little crew, silently, evaluating their terrible strengths, inspecting their moral compasses, wondering who they were. Politely I greeted every one of them who was introduced to me with a shy, faint smile, but quickly retreated within my inner self, deeply lost in my toughts. After Mazithra's arrival, his words knowcking down the swirling questions running through my mind, I awoke to reality. "That's very beautiful to say, but has anyone an idea of how we will manage to penetrate, alive even, in the paranoid and oppressive land of the Red wizards?"
Myranthor 11-27-04, 08:51 AM	At the school, however, like the knights, the bards also gathered their strengths, and valiantly fought the terror the draconic monster had left to crawl in their impressed imaginations. Severeal of them strucktheir harps, improvising a melodic chorus, acting, reciting and playing Gavroche's Last Breath,celebrating the courage, the perfectly irrationnal folly a young kender demonstrated when, alone, he braved a whole army of brutal hobgoblins, for a long time taunting them, finding in his own death not a reason to cry, but a reason to laugh and celebrate. Many bards and bystanders were bolstered by such a theatrical performance, helping in calming down the other panicked witnesses of Ruthia's bizarre transformation. Another few, however, also chose to mimic Gavroche's behavior, mocking the armored knights, continuing to recitate the ballad of Marshall Lewis XVI's roling head. Eventually the hall became even more chaotic than it was before, dividing the factions between knights and minstrels, rescuers and fighters. The whole noise made during all this time had drawn ther groups in the impromptu battlefield : A cabal of wizard had entered, charming the most aggressive opponents, trying to minimize the damage, while cleric of Tempus and Milil allied themselves with their usual companions. A few sneaky men were hiding, their bows readied, ready to strike a lethal blow on anyone who would dare to kill an esteemed friend. None of them, however, seemed filled with enough bloodlust to kill its opponent, and this encounter was merely fought with parades and superficial touches, or with bare fiststhat wouldn't leave permanent scars.
Good Knight 11-28-04, 12:00 AM	Coming up by horse, to the normally festive establishment that now seem more grim than jovial. For even outside the Knight could tell, just by glancing through the window that few were smiling, The ride to Kulideb's tavern had taken the better part of the day and a half, to reach it from Agudo School. For the Tavern was located across the river of Chionthar, on the opposite side of the expansive CloakWood Forest. A few short hours from the rambunctious former pirate city, Baldur’s Gate The School of Light on the other hand, was on the southern most region of the forest. On a rocky bluff, over looking the majestic view of the Sea of Swords. A hard days journey, sometimes more, weather permitting either way Taking off his helmet Firecam entered the warm Tavern. He scanned the room and politely smiled at the patrons he knew. Most likely he thought, those who could, flew like the Dragoness Ruthia. Or used magical means, as with the Myranthor the talented Arcane user. Never the less he relished the ride by horseback. Like his good friend Agudo always said.... Half the adventure was just getting there For he had the honor of saving two helpless maidens in distress Their caravan had been waylaid by a pack of Kobolds. Yapping little dog like creatures that for some cursed reason. Were given enough intelligent thought, to hold a bow and knife. Most likely a Wizardry experiment gone awry. “Wizards”Firecam mumbled out loud, shaking his head at the thought Keldorn had been trained as a Inquisitor Knight. Whose sole purpose was to hunt down evil wizards and any other dark magic’s As an Inquisitor, he was given the power to resist many diabolical magic’s. Such as Charm Spells and Hold Spells. Many a Wizard were caught off guard, when their mind spells failed them. Smiling as he thought Justice was always best served, when the long arm of the law, caught the most evil and dastardly off guard. Closing the tavern door the Radiant Heart Knight continue to muse How the elder Knight, would love to hunt down that dark Enchanter, who made those barking Kobold’s Who knows maybe on this trip he would! For the Red Wizards were famous for such debauchery.. That thought brought Keldorn to the situation at hand. Those blood robe fools kidnapped his brother in Righteousness, Agudo. Walking up the others, Firecam spoke with his baritone voice in a very respectful manner, to his fellow group of would be rescuers. “Hail! It would seem we have all made it safely, and from what I can see, a few new faces have joined us.” Keldorn nodded to Mazithra then returned his attention to the others. “By the time that I left, the school of Light it was in a semi peace. Most were shaken by Ruthia’s shape changing surprise. It wasn’t too difficult to motivate them to disband. The Chefs of the school help out though, by using magical cooking smells, to seduce many to come eat and drink instead of fighting. With a laugh Firecam added. In truth the Hobbits, Dwarves and Halflings, would have stop whatever they were doing. For just about any excuse, to feast and gluten themselves.” Chuckling Keldorn continued The Bards were the hardest to deal with.” He winked “Drama Queens you know! Just had to keep things up for an hour longer But after a few words of musical mockery by them…..” The Knight rolls his eyes. Even they settled back down to their poetic writings. He then turned to Shades. “But we are not here for an after school fight. As leader of the group Sir Shades, I was wonder of what plan you have so far? The Thayen Realm, is at least six months of dangerous travel by foot or horseback. Then eyeing the group concerned. “I doubt with this group that will be an option. Please don’t tell me we will use some fearful Gnomish Flying device. Not sure he really wanted to know, he quickly changed the subject. “I recommend that we supply ourselves here at the tavern. Then leave as soon as we are able….For I for one am anxious do be off and save a dear friend like Agudo.”
Drindin 11-28-04, 01:25 AM	"That is a good idea, sir Knight. But I suggest we sleep. We will travel by night, for we would run risk of being spotted during the day. We cannot ride be horseback, but we shall not fly either." Shades said, fast, and to the point, not wasting a word. "We will travel fast. We will stab in the back and make shady deals. We have no time for honor. Any one we meet must be considered a spy, and not trusted with any word of our mission. We must lie, cheat, and if necessary, steal, and murder. We will do what is necessary to reach Agudo, and secure him. We're going into the land of betrayers, of the most unholy of peoples. We must thus, in a sense, become like them, and ready to do unto them, what they are ready to do to us. The only people we can trust are each other. If you cannot stand any of these notions, I would suggest you ready yourself to leave then." Algared nodded, grimly. "Though I may strongly disagree with many of your means... I'm honorbound to do what is neccessary..."
Myranthor 11-28-04, 08:18 AM	"That is a good idea, sir Knight. But I suggest we sleep. We will travel by night, for we would run risk of being spotted during the day. We cannot ride be horseback, but we shall not fly either." Shades said, fast, and to the point, not wasting a word. "We will travel fast. We will stab in the back and make shady deals. We have no time for honor. Any one we meet must be considered a spy, and not trusted with any word of our mission. We must lie, cheat, and if necessary, steal, and murder... A hurt, painful whimper slipped form my lips when our chosen, elected leader lett fall this dire news, showed, so soon, the extent of his morals, said even, himself, that we had to sink to the vile level of our enemies. I let him finish his long and horrible soliloquy, my eyes expressing my surprised bewilderment" It was with a shaking, uncontrolled tone that I answered his unholy words, hoping many in the crowded room would seek to join my merrier vision of things, rather than his authoritarian, despicable philosophy. "What? This...this is nonsense! Of which right would we first condemn strangers' behavior, and then strike them back using their own ways? Shouldn't we simply suicide, if what motivates our attack against them is what we choose to mimic from their cursed and poisonous teachings? Anyway, traveling by night, lying, stealing, murdering always bring attention to those perpetrators of Evil : everybody wonders why an anonymous traveler sleeps by day and walks by night, no one feels safe when they found a naked, assassinated guard on the forest's edge and that a party of 6 adventurers left suddenlya fterwards. Groups will be gathered only to hunt us down, to smother the eventual threat of that little warband, killing chaotically, without an apparent goal. People will react agaisnt us if we cheat, if we steal, if we kill, if we make everything possible to pass unnoticed. On the contrary, I suggest that we create a story that will explain why all of us are traveling together. Maybe we are researchers hoping to pour over old tomes in the great libraries of Aglarond, maybe we want to see the first aparition of Lathander from the sunrise mountains. From there, we could get Aglarond's support and assistance, and then do the rest of the trip, as we wil be crossing the border, under other guises. However, I disagree with your methods,both morally and logistically. " I took a brief pause, letting my surroundings ponder during a few moments on mylast words, and then I added : "Do you think Agudo would be pleased if the only helpful hands reaching for him were coated in blood?"
ruthia 11-28-04, 10:33 AM	Ruthia had just about nodded off in the chair she had sat in when Keldorn burst into the tavern. Snapping awake she listens to what He, Shades, and Septris say then decides to enter an oppinion of her own. "May I make a suggestion? I believe what Spetris has said has a little merit, having a cover story will help out in case we meet any trouble on the way. And we'd only have to carry a few small items to justify the story, we'd just have to pick things that didn't take up much room. And Shades, your way has merit to. Traveling at night, though dangerous, gives us less chance of discovery. But six months is a long time to travel, those red wizards may have killed Agudo by then. What we really need is a way to cut off some of that time." Ruthia seems to ponder for a moment then smiles. "Kulideb, I remeber Branth telling me that you had also studied under Gene for some time. Would you be able to tak the whole group through like Gene did back in Hillsfar? Even if it was only for a short time, to say cut the distance as close to in half as we could? If we did it right it would only take us a month or two to get there, prehaps even less."
Drindin 11-28-04, 12:06 PM	Shades nods. "I'm open to suggestions. The only reason I offer this course of action, is not because I'm immoral. I find these things as terrible as you, but you all must know what this very mission could come too. If you're not ready to do those things... then this is a bad place to be. "Robbery and Murder, are only our last resorts. Deals will have to be made with people we'd like not to. We will have to be suspicious of every one we come across. They could be spies sent to seek people such as ourselves out. A cover story is a great idea, and it sounds like it'll work. "I trust the only time it will come to actually having to kill somebody will be when we find Agudo." Shades sighed. "It sounds bad, but if we do this right, it will be over alot quicker, and hardly any body should need to be hurt. Any ways, Kulideb, will are you able to take us across?"
Good Knight 11-29-04, 11:49 PM	The Radiant Heart Knight was flabbergasted. Not by the disturbing murderous rampage, offered by Shades. But by the solid rock of Moral-Standing demanded by the other person in the group. Even after Shades semi back tailing, in the overwhelming verbal assault by the Patron Keldorn was truly pleasantly surprised and his smile showed it. Firecam put his hands on his hips and nudged Shades with his elbow. “And I thought I was the Righteous Knight around here!” He laughed and complimented (the other person). “ Well said! Well said indeed! For all that is Good and Righteousness in the Realm can be proud of your words.” Then patting Shades on the shoulder, he nodded towards Ruthia. “Yet Mistress Ruthia has rightly complimented you as well. For as surprisingly as it may sound. I can see your side of things as well Shades. Many a time I had to travel with Rogues…whom… shall we say….. were less than the Goodly kind Spy-Rogues that Agudo trained at his school of Light. Theses were no spies for good, sneaking into evil lairs, to free a poor peasant. These Rogues were greedier at heart, and it showed in their style of doing things. With a uncomfortable grimace he continued. “Lets just say several times it came to near blows, at how angry I got over the deeds of such adventuring companions. Never the less, I kept my eye on are greater goal at that time and now. In this case it is saving Agudo. Basically I will NOT stand by and let the non-combatants get hurt if I can help it. Yet if an evil red wizard must be relived of his robes, to sneak in to a chamber or two. Then I am willing to let the those in this group, do what they must, to help make that happen.” He then walked up to Kulideb as he spoke to the others. “It ironic that we are rescuing Agudo. For if he was here he would offer the use of his magic carpet, to help us along are way. But as I remember he lent that to the Priest Bonze for travel Even a few of the school of Light’s famous winged flying horses, would still take us at least three months of hard travel. Giving the lovely Elf a respectful grin Lady Kulideb, the Good Wizard Agudo, has kept me appraised of your learning and growth at his school. He has written to me at my Order several letters, expounding on your many talents of Spying under Sir Gene tutelage. Never the less, as much as you’re Headmaster adored your skills in such matters. I am sure Kulideb that you will be the first to admit that such magical jumps would surely deplete your power quickly…..alone that is!” With a sly look on his face he continued. “But if her Dragoness Ruthia, and the magical skills of (others) in this group, were combined with Kulideb’s “ Then with some fear he added. “When I and a few others here in this room, went to aid Agudo on his honorable Crusade against the fanatical Messianica. We had the ….well pleasure, to put it kindly. To go by a Gnomish contraption that shot us through the aire like a slingshot. Lets just say that stomach rinching flight, sent us over land, mountains and lakes in hours. What would have been a three months of travel to the Northern Lands.” Keldorn wasn’t sure he wanted to continue with this idea. “Now don’t get me wrong, by my sword! I shall not get into that metal hellish Gnome ball again.” The Knight started to sweat. “Yet my plan is this… Ruthia shall change into her dragon form and be shot into the air by that same slingthingy.” Holding up his hands in case of rational complaints that he himself felt. Think about it! Ruthia is for a lack of a better word, made for flying. And is used to the ordeal of such high altitudes. The giant sling will give her the speed she normally needs for a much fast flight. Now here is the harder part…. “ He prayed that no one would laugh him out of the Tavern. “With us firmly and most likely magically tied to her. Perhaps in a magically reinforced canopy, for comforts sake.” Seeing that most did not bum-rushing him out the door. Keldorn went for the more sane part of his idea. Looking at Kulideb, he offered his most sincere smile. “Now even with all that! Ruthia will not be able to sustain permanent flight. That’s where you come in gifted Kulideb, as well as (Other Arcane users if we have any). All of you could somehow, work your magic together as we are in flight. Best used when Ruthia is loosing altitude and needing a rest.” Eyeing them both, seeing if he still has there attention, then nodding he finishes. The shadow jump, must be able to take all of us through it on Ruthia back. She basically will be flying in the Shadow Realm, on the second part of the flight. ” Keldorn seem to pause as if he wasn’t sure how to continue. “Magic is not my specialty, so I am open for great improvement on my idea. " Leting the others think about it he gave the good news “Once the spell wears off, I am pretty sure we will be a few weeks from Thay. Somewhere around the Yuirwood Wood and Dragon Jaw Mountains. With shrug Firecam looked to Kulideb almost pleadingly And with some rest, and a couple of more slower, normal flights on Ruthia. Combined with more magical jumps..... The group should be able to walk the lands of Thay…..lets say a week from now? With luck!” After that Firecam waited for the possible verbal jabs from the others at his insane idea that even he wasn’t sure on. (OK FIXED THE POST)
kulideb 11-30-04, 03:15 AM	The elf didnt flinch at Shades words, they were harsh but she had known him long enough now to know that he was just spelling out the worse. She smiled at Spetris words knowing that they had chosen well in bringing her along, they would travel with a very balanced group..as long as it didnt take forever to debate every step they took. Kulideb nodded at Ruthia, "Yes my lady, I did study with Gene. I should be able to lead us all in to the shadow plane, but I'm still not as powerful as he is..yet." She listened quietly to Firecam, maybe the knight wasnt as bad as she had first thought when she had meet him at the trail. "A mix of all the diffrent ways of travelling, that will cut our time down." she nodded in agrement with Firecams words.
ruthia 11-30-04, 09:12 AM	Ruthia thought a moment then said "Well yes I can make short flights, but I refuse to be loaded into a caterpualt and flung. Besides how would the rest of you hang on if they did that to me. Also how do we know flinging me through the air like that won't rip my wings off? No, I can fly for about a day at a time, traveling roughly fours times what a horse can in a day depending on the wind. The better the wind, the better distance I can make. But after a straight fast flight like that I'll have to eat and rest a day. But resting a day doesn't mean sleeping or not moving, I just can't change forms and fly again for a day." Ruthia smiles at Kulideb's addmission of not being as powerful as Gene, "You'll get there eventually Kulideb. Branth says your very good at it." Kulideb suddenly gets a little message from a voice she's use to hearing, o O(Good Luck Kuli, bring Agudo back safe!)
Mazithra-Amakiir 12-01-04, 01:06 AM	Mazithra lessoned to the exchange of words and discussions on how best to get to the land of Thay - or close to it - as well as the morality of the issue of what they had to do in order to rescue Agudo. Finally, after things had died down somewhat, the Githerzai Warrior, too, spoke. "Indeed...while some of things that we may be forced to do may not be entirely honorable, I do believe it is what we have to do. I do not believe that we cannot throw out a means of action simply because it may not be honorable. There comes a time when one has to look beyond all that...we must do all that we can to save our dear friend, Agudo. Unfortunately, that may mean doing some unpleasurable things. As for our means of travel...I, too, am somewhat skilled in the art of traversing via the Arcana Path. Unfortunately, however, and with regret, I must conclude that I have only ever transported myself, and not groups of people of the size that we have gathered here today. Besides that, when I transported myself here, from Thay, I suffered some form of backlash from the Cosmos. Whether this was because of the magical energies that were running rampant because of the Red Wizards' presence, or some other paranormal phenomena, I know not. However, it may be somewhat risky to attempt this kind of travel, in case this kind of backlash should happen again. And yet...speed is of the essence here. We may be forced to take some kind of risk...indeed many risks...if we want to save Agudo before it is too late. Mistress Ruthia...this is your namesake?...though you may be able to fly for a day, would you really be able to carry all of us at once for one whole day?"
Myranthor 12-01-04, 07:23 AM	My last intervention seemed to stir some mixed feelings within our group, provoking all kind of more or less balanced, compromised point of views, blatant corruptions of what are true convictions, unconvincing shades offering pale siblings to more fithful testimonies. The most pleasurable answer I received, however, came from the humble knight who altruistically let his place as commander of our little group, who generously praised my intervention, yet in the same breath encouraged our leader, his many words each soothing our little assembly in a refreshing pool of positivity and well-being. If that was not enough, he provided different alternatives, various plans to reach the wizards' damned land faster, clearly showing how legitimate and natural it would've been for him to direct us through the different challenges we'd meet along the way. To the many options offered I decided to add my own : "If we choose to take some rest before leaving, I could probably request from my Goddess a powerful traveling enchantment, that would transform some of us in vaporous, miniature versions of ourselves, allowing to travel approximately 700 miles in a twelve hours span. Each of us would be completely independant from the others, and could choose the direction they want to take : in this way, travel isn't as hindered as it is when we are all carried in the same structure. We'd be very difficult to see, although the colors of our clothes wouldn't change. I could change four persons other than myself, which leaves only one person who'd have to journey with other means. However, I can't invoke that spell immediately, I repeat that I'll have to offer the proper blessings to She Who Weeps before she agrees to greets me with the magnificence of her generosity."
ruthia 12-01-04, 08:59 AM	Mistress Ruthia...this is your namesake?...though you may be able to fly for a day, would you really be able to carry all of us at once for one whole day?" Ruthia looked at Mazithra and smiled. "That is an advantage I have because I'm a dragon from a planet named Pern, I can carry as much weight as I believe I can. Adn I believe I could carry all of you and then some. But if you doubt my abilities ask Kulideb here, she has on occasion been subjected to several dragon back rides. And to tell you the truth if I had a better discription of where we are going I could get us there in a few minutes, but that method of travel is dangerous because if your discription is off by even a little I could take us to the wrong place in time and we'd be lost." Ruthia then turned to Septris with a smile "How long would you require to prepare for your goddess? And if your way is choosen as a way there I volenteer to be the one left out, I have ways to keep up without being seen." Ruthia then quiets down and looks at Shades, awaiting his thoughts.
kulideb 12-02-04, 04:22 AM	kulideb smiled at the vice in her head. ~We will try my friend~ she sent back. "And a very comfortable ride it was!" she said to Ruthia, before addressing the rest, "I remember the gnomish thing too..very scary and a bit of a rough landing, not an experience I would care to repeat." She found both Spetris's and Mazithra's methods of travel intriguing. "A mix of all methods...except maybe the gnomish thing! should work over the next few days." She glanced round the group, her hand reached for Shades. "The idea of rest is a good one for all of us, Spetris could take the opportunity to ask for her goddess favour, then in the morrning we could finalise our travel arrangements."
Drindin 12-02-04, 09:44 AM	Shades accepted Kulideb's hand quietly. Algared shifted in his seat. "Is the Dragon certain she'll be able to carry me?" He says, gruffly. His massive 11 foot three inch body loomed over the rest, as he looked down at everyone from his seat.
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 12-05-04, 05:14 PM	With a huff, Edwin Odesseiron shook his head. "Who is the host of this place? Why do we wait like slaves in the pig pin?"
kulideb 12-06-04, 07:29 AM	The elf tried not to yawn, but after a day spent at sword practice and a walk with the ranger on what to eat and what not to eat when out in the wilds, plus spending last night reading, then all excitment caused by the Archmages capture she was ready to rest, as much as she wanted to rush off and rescue Agudo now she knew that it would be better in the morring with a clear head and her energy levels restored. she looked at Algared, he was big...
Drindin 12-06-04, 07:55 PM	Algared shifted in his seat. Yes, Algared was big, but it's clear he prided himself on that. Shades softly squeezed Kuli's hand. "Stay awake... your not in bed yet."
Agudo Archmage 12-07-04, 12:34 AM	Agudo groaned as heard the voices of Edwin and Piper. Yet he was still trying to come too after the beating and kicking the guards. Who were they talking to he thought? Wizard of Light kept his eyes closed, hoping they wouldn’t know he was listening
ruthia 12-07-04, 08:23 AM	Ruthia looked at Algared. With a tired sigh she says to him. "I can fly with as much wieght as I believe I can take. As long as I believe I can do it, then I can. Don't ask me to explaine it better then that. It's one of the few abilities us Pern Dragons have that we still haven't completely figured out, we just know it works the way." Ruthia looked around the group "well, so how we doing this? I don't know about anyone else, but I need some sleep."
Khaira 12-07-04, 09:43 AM	Mazithra listened to the various discussions pertaining to their mode of travel. It seemed like they may have a lengthy trip ahead of them. Looking to Ruthia, the Githerzai nodded solemnly "Perhaps we shall all take a break to rejuvenate our bodies and minds. First, though, perhaps we ought to re-establish our travel plans. We are being flown by the lady dragon...I'm afraid I am a little obscure past our plans of fleight...how are we going to go about the actual rescue? Are we going to rest for a whole day after the dragon is wearied from fleight? Or are we prepared to risk another means of travel?"
Pipers Youth 12-07-04, 07:55 PM	Piper entered the erie room briskly and nudged the self conscious body of Agudo to lay in front of a long table. Then took his place beside Agudo. At the table were seated six people, the most powerful Red wizards of Thay. One of the people at the table sat the emissary herself, Shoudra Balen. Her beautiful figure sat comfortably in an appolstered chair while her delicate fingers twirled a lock of her long dark hair. The most appealing thing about Shoudra were the Emissary's piercing green eyes. As the group had entered the room she through a slew grin at Piper. The two were off going lovers, secretive of the council. On her right seated Steward Rannek, a small feeble man for any human standards, his face had wrinkled from years, and his brow was always forrowed. He had a shock a white hair that was always unkempt, but most noticeable about the man is that he carried a gold walking stick, with several gems embedded within. It was rumor that the walking cane held tremendous magical ability, but noneone dare test it. He kept his hands folded in his crimson robes. In the middle of the two sat a lean figure. His face was masked in his red hood, so that none could see his identity. He tapped his quill anxiously on a piece of parchment, making a constant "tick...tickkkk..tick...." sound. As they has entered the room, instead of looking up, he continued staring down at his parchment. Just as Piper started to clear his throat to speak, Shoudra interrupted, "Where is the cleric Piper? Clearly you could have not been so stupid as to miss his counterpart." She motioned to Agudo's still form on the ground with a sneer. " I have her.............." Shoudra interrupted again," I was not finished, clearly you have saw this error. Lady Hoot is very essential to our means." "You mean to your means Emissary, now let the boy finish." The Steward put in before Shoudra could continue. "Yes,as I was saying I have her right here," Piper produced a sac, and tossed it on the table in front of Shoudra. "Well done Mr. Youth, I have to congratulate you on your assignment. You single handly managed to fool Agudo and led him here to Thay on his own will. I knew you were the best person for the job, since Agudo was your previous employer, and he befriended you. I knew you wouldn't disappoint me. Your talent and skill in wizardry will not go unnoticed." The cloaked slender form at the end of the table said in a hushed tone so manavelently, that it sent shivers up everyone's spine. If Agudo was conscious he would recognize the voice from somewhere..so familiar. Piper motioned to Edwin who was apparently upset about something." I had help my Lord. May I introduce you to Edwin Odesseiron. With his assistance we managed to secure The Wizard of Light. Agudo is very dangerous, and it very much helped to have another wizard at the scene." Piper nervously clutched the Medallion of Thoughts in his pocket.
Agudo Archmage 12-09-04, 12:24 AM	Piper If Agudo was conscious he would recognize the voice from some where…..so familiar. http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongagudo.gif http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongladyhoot.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley And so there they were, Lady Hoot and Agudo. It would seem that great evil had conspired against them. The wise Cleric glared at the former aid to her close friend. "Piper you have shrunk to a new low! Do you think that any of these Red Wizards care about you? Agudo would have done anything to help you! Yet this room of vipers care only for there greedy hearts!" All the while Agudo lay there quietly, his eyes closed. Wondering who that familiar voice was?
Good Knight 12-09-04, 01:02 AM	The elder Knight stretched his arms as he tried to stifle a yawn. “Peerr…Excuse me! Perhaps your right its time for needed sleep. Yet to answer Mazithra question…It really does matter who goes first. I do like the thought of the Clerics Idea of getting Supernatural aid before were off. Then Kulideb and the others shall do what they can to help us along.” Keldorn thought about making a jest dealing with Ruthia words of her kinds Believing-Ability. He just smirked and thought. Oo….It reminds me of that Children’s story….The little Gnomish Train that Could!..oO He sniker as he made his way to his rented room. Oo….I think I can I think I can….I knew I could I knew I could…oO
Khaira 12-09-04, 01:09 AM	Mazithra, too, noted that everyone looked more than a little wearied. It had been a long day, with a long day of travel. If they were to rescue Agudo and survive, it'd be best not to do it on blinking eyes. Turning to the rest of the group, the Githerzai bowed. "In the morning our rendezvous begins. I have a sneaking suspicion that we will know each other much more in depth before Agudo is restored to his esteemed position once again..." The Githezai looked towards the upstairs room that was reserved for him; he had spent most of his life sleeping with the stars for a bedroll...how could he sustain a night of luxury now? Turning around once again, the Githerzai once again bowed. "My deepest, most regretful sorrows...I'm afraid my body nor my mind shall accept a bed this night, if ever. I feel more at home with the open skies and the shining stars as my guardian. This night, I shall be outside. In the morning shall I see you all." The Githerzai walked outside the door of the tavern, then, to find who respite in slumber that he could.
kulideb 12-09-04, 05:53 AM	Kulideb squeezed Shades hand back. "I dont sleep..but I do need to rest." she said softly for his ears alone. "We will all go to our rooms then..or places of rest." she added a little louder for all to hear. "If Spetris's prayers are answered then that will be our first method of travel. We can talk about how to set Agudo free along the way. Even with the methods of travel we have available it will still take us awhile to get there." She stood up, her hand still in Shades. They had tip toed round their relationship for a while, just as they seemed to get close something would happen. The elf didnt want Agudo's rescue to put their relationship on halt once more, after all Shades was human and humans did tend to age faster than elves. She looked at Shades..well at least she thought he was human... She gave a tug on her hand to pull him up.
Pipers Youth 12-10-04, 09:15 PM	Shoudra the Emissary shrieked with glee when she saw the majestic enchanted owl. And she called us vipers. Oh, that made her cold heart weep with joy! Shoudra could care less about Agudo's fate, as long as she got her part of the bargain. The Emissary quickly snapped her fingers and two servants appeared bearing a magically enchanted cage, Shoudra had forged this herself with her own hands. The bars were pure gold, with a decorative vine pattern. Along the cage were and assortment of beautiful, sparkling gems embedded within. She knew that Lady Hoot would inevitably try to escape that's why she took the precaution of placing a powerful enchantment on it. The first handler greedily reached for the owl with hungry hands, but Shoudra snapped at him," With gentle hands you fool!" Piper now read Shoudra's every thought with the help of his new acquired Medallion of Thoughts. Oh how she obsessed with that bird. The previous night before the young Red wizard took leave she reminded him with a tender kiss not to forgot Hoot. How he hated the infernal bird, ever since, the book signing those years ago, when Hoot publicly embarrassed him. He shook that thought at of his head, and grinned when he thought about the future rewards that would come from Shoudra then. Piper was disturbed from that thought when the same familiar, manavelous voice was heard," Now revive Agudo, and get him washed up. He looks horrible, not to mention the smell. When the morning comes I will see him. For now be off with you." Piper gave his old friend a sympathetic look and pulled him by his tattered robes onto his shoulder. From there he carried the Wizard of Light gently out of the chamber to disappear from sight. ********* Back at the Floot and Boot Inn, the dawns first rays of lights crept over the hillside, and into the windows of the several weary travelers rooms.
Khaira 12-10-04, 09:42 PM	As Mazithra lay nestled between the sturdy branches and the tender leaves of a tree, the first rays of the sun rose to greet the Githerzai Warrior's face, warding off the last of the chills from the night. As he stretched and let himself drop to the ground on silent feet, he remembered the purpose of this day. Stretching the last of the stiffness of a remnants of sleep from his weary limbs, Mazithra strode softly into the quiet of the tavern, looking around to see who was awake.
Drindin 12-10-04, 11:07 PM	Shades rose from his deeply-needed slumber, his eyes squinted against the daylight, which burned them in such a manner that made it obvious he was not a morning person. Rubbing them thoughtlessly, he looked about the room for Kulideb. He had long had feelings for her, and just when he was readying himself to settle down his weary mind, yet another event arose. He would not let it impede his relationship for her, however. Love is strength, he often told himself, and he would let this be little different. He ran a hand through his messy hair, and stroked his stubble-covered face. He rose from his bed, his wollen night pants the only thing he was wearing. The scars of many wars fought showed on his chest, back, and arms, but he was fast to pull a shirt on. To tired to actually look for her, he grogilly let out her name. "Kulideb...?"
kulideb 12-11-04, 07:10 AM	The elf slipped out of her revive at the sound of Shades voice. She sat up in bed and smiled as she watched him,he really wasnt a morrning person she thought! A slight frown crossed her brow as he pulled on a shirt hiding away the marks on his body. "you shouldnt have to do that..not for me." she said softly as she slipped out of bed. "I wonder if the others are up yet, I guess we had better go and see." She added quickly to distract him knowing that talk about the scars would cause him discomfort, it would be something they were going to have to face at a later date. The elf went into the washroom to wash and change, appearing a few minutes later. "Ready?" she said cheerfully.
Myranthor 12-11-04, 08:36 AM	Calmly, serene, I followed the aquatic currents, let the roaming flow of the lake pull my body in whatever direction it chose, showing me the peaceful wonders of this aquatic world: the crystalline seashells, the multicoloured seaweeds, the lively fishes accompanying me, joining me in my uncontrolled dance. With them I raced, feeling their glistening scales tickle my naked skin when they came aorund me, teasing my humanoid body with their superior speed, their impressive aquatic velocity. Playfully they led me to a remote, isolated cave in which lived a strange creature. A merrfolk was there to welcome me, warmfully smiling, its hand opened towards me. In front of her, I stopped, mimicking her posture. She inclinated her head to her right and, at the same rythm, I did the same to my left. She did the opposite, and I did the same. Progressively, she wasn't even leading me anymore, all of our movements were fluid, were adaptating to the other's, we were dancing, our gazes locked together, each of our mutual motions soothing us in a warm bath of appeasing well-being. At each moment the other seemed more desirable, more beautiful than she was a second before, ut the dance was so mesmerizing, so enthralling that none of us would've dared to come closer to her counterpart. Then, suddenly, an entranced smile over her lips, she broke our soothing dance, gesturing towards the surface. I stopped, too, a firm expression adorning my deceived features, accepting the difficult conditions of my fate. A few minutes later, I was swimming higher, always higher, leaving the unharmed waters of Fuilmy Lake tor each the dreaded surface, full of shrieks, of whimpers, of displeasing sensations, coming to me already, blurred by what remained between I and reality, until my head pierced the fragile web of the surface. I opened my eyes, discovering a modest bed in a humble bedroom, remembering all that happened lately. I recalled how Bonze had called me, how Agudo had bee kidnapped, how we came to that Inn, how my companions behaved. A shudder traveled along my spine, when I remembered the atrocities they were willing to commit. Nevertheless, it was with a decent smile that I descended the stairwell leading to the Inn's common room, despite the challenge that would probably await me in there.
Drindin 12-11-04, 01:55 PM	"For you? Always, even at this ungodly hour of the day." Shades mumbled. Moving towards Kulideb, reaching his hands out to her, attempting to bring her in for a good-morning kiss. Algared tromped in from outside, where he had been keeping watch... all night. But not even the slightest sign of tiredness crossed his massive form. His eyes were as piercing and sharp as ever. He snorted lightly. "The night was calm enough. I spotted no signs of trouble." He stated, gruff and to the point. Adjusting his breast plate, the minotaur looked about. "How fares everyone? Has the Gith returned yet?"
kulideb 12-11-04, 05:34 PM	Kulideb ran her hand over Shades rough chin. "there is no way you are kissing me till you have shaved!" She said with a giggle, but she did wrap her arms round him, hugging him tight. "Agudo will be alright..wont he." she said her voice losing its playful manner. With a heavy sigh the little elf pulled away from Shades, she stood on tip toe and lightly kissed his cheek. "Shave!, I'll go get breakfast started."
Drindin 12-11-04, 07:40 PM	After Kulideb whispered her concerns for Agudo, Shades answered softly. "I assure you... he will live." After the kiss, Shades rubbed his cheek. It had been a long time since he last shaved. Rising, he fetched a knife from a back, and went into the bathing room. Shaving off his stubble, he through on his cloak, and went from the room to meet Kulideb, and the others.
Good Knight 12-12-04, 01:32 AM	Sitting at a large table in the early morning hour. Firecam ate a large helping of breakfast. The cook of Kulideb's tavern had made eggs, bacon, hashbrowns. And he had fresh ornage juice ready for the soon to be heros Seeing the others he stood and wiped his mouth with a cloth napkin. “Surly this day has brought us all a restful sleep. I for one am impressed by the young lass Kulideb’s clean and comfortable bedrooms.” He then spread his hands out before his hearty meal. “As well as the feat prepared by her diligent workers
kulideb 12-12-04, 08:24 AM	Kulideb was glad to see that Halfloaf had taken care of breakfast for her. "Please Firecam, stay seated." the elf said as she joined him at the table. A blush crept up her face at his kind words. "Oh! I carnt take all the credit, I would be lost with out Halfloaf. She take care of the Inn while I'm away." Kulideb popped a red berry into her mouth, preferring to eat fruit for breakfast than the heavy fried fair that Halfloaf liked so much.
Agudo Archmage 12-12-04, 10:35 PM	Piper had given Agudo the opportunity he needed. For they were now alone as he lifted Agudo weakened body, by placing his arm around Piper shoulder. As they stumbled along the darken hallway, Agudo spoke with his now raspy voice. “ Piipeer” Cough “Piper its never tooo…” Cough/ spitits up blood “Its never to late to return to the Light of Redemption” Lifting his sweat matted blond haired head, he looked at Piper with swollen black and blue eyes. “Its Neeever to late!” ***** Elsewhere Lady Hoot had tried to Pray for aid before the evil Red Wizard had placed the magical amulet on her feathered body. Yet the wicked Piper had thumped her as he dragged her along In that sack Piper would with gleeful laughter Rap his chubby middle index finger, on her white feather head She was sure he did out of pure malise That and the constant dropping of the sack that she was in kept her off balance. And now she was in the hands of an evil maiden who had magically cut off her Clerical powers. “No matter what you do to me… The Light shall shine through the darkness of this place.”
Pipers Youth 12-12-04, 11:28 PM	Piper had given Agudo the opportunity he needed. For they were now alone as he lifted Agudo weakened body, by placing his arm around Piper shoulder. As they stumbled along the darken hallway, Agudo spoke with his now raspy voice. “ Piipeer” Cough “Piper its never tooo…” Cough/ spits up blood “Its never to late to return to the Light of Redemption” Lifting his sweat matted blond haired head, he looked at Piper with swollen black and blue eyes. “Its Neeever to late!” Once or twice Piper almost tripped on Agudo's, and his own robes, hobbling down the darken hallway. The man tried to ignore all the pleas of Agudo, until he looked up at him. I couldn't manage to break my stare away. Through those eyes, I saw desperation, and hope. Hope that I did exactly what he said. Those three words lingered and stung my mind so painfully. "It's never to late!" For a minute I wanted to believe my old friends words. To truly turn back to the light of redemption. To be with friends, and loved ones. Piper swallowed hard. So hard that he thought Agudo had heard. But it was useless. Piper broke down right there. He sobbed into his friends shoulder. Crying away everything. His pain, love, sorrow, and guilt. Tears streaming down his face, he looked up at the bruised and beaten Agudo. Through sobs he managed to speak," Know this my friend, that I will be there for you in your last days of this life." As he managed to wipe off some of his tears with his sleeve, he ended," I am so sorry." Elsewhere........ And now she was in the hands of an evil maiden who had magically cut off her Clerical powers. “No matter what you do to me… The Light shall shine through the darkness of this place.” As Lady Hoot was placed in the cage, and firmly clasped shut, Shoudra picked up the cage with delicate fingers, and headed out the door to the outside world. All the while she smiled, her long dark hair and robes bellowing behind the Emissary.
Drindin 12-12-04, 11:34 PM	Shades grabbed an apple, rubbed it off on his cloak, and bit out of it. "Get ready to go. Every minute we stay here, is another minute of torment that Agudo and hoot must go through. I plan to leave as soon as is humanly... or inhumanly possible."
ruthia 12-13-04, 11:26 AM	~At first light~ The woods around the tavern was slowly waking as the first rays of sun hit upon the tree tops. Some of the tree tops sway suddenly as a breeze appears from nowhere, causing the birds in them to squawk in fear and take flight. Above the trees soared a white dragon, scales gleaming red in the rising sun. This was her true freedom, her true love, as she glided on the warming thermals above the woods. ~A little while later~ Ruthia walks into the tavern, seeing everyone else already gathered. She has a back pack slung upon her shoulder, and a steardy looking brown traveling cloak. She had at some point also changed from her normal white dress to sturdy pants and a tunic of a light brown color. She stands near the door as everyone else eats and prepares to leave, waiting to see what they would do first.
Myranthor 12-13-04, 08:14 PM	I finished to engulf my last piece of bread, while a few cherries still awaited to be swallowed down my frail body. "During the night, I left this material plane to commune with my benevolent goddess. She agreed to allow us - all - to travel, but she would be really unpleased if her bountiful gift were used to spread even more disorder than is already sewn over the thayan realm. When I asked her if she would also offer us a safe way back, she remained utterly silent. Likewise, I do not believe her protective charms will be equally shared between all of us, because of the different views we have on the nature of Evil. Would you choose to swear to be entirely non-violent, to always choose to subdue, never to kill your opponents, I know she'd be delighted, then, to take care of each of your lives. Nevertheless,she'll carry all of us on her soothing flows to get closer to the Red Wizards."
Drindin 12-13-04, 09:37 PM	Shades had been examining his dagger, making sure it's edge was keen. When Septris finished, Shades turned his back on the group, lining his dagger up with the sheath, seeming to think for a moment. With a sharp ringing noise, the dagger was forced back into it's sheath. "If I could make that promise, I would gladly do so. But, alas, I can make no guarantees. As *my* god would say, balance must always be maintained. Not that I've been to good at doing so... But, either way, so passive, if you wish, but either way, we must off soon." Was all he said. Algared, hefting his axe onto his shoulder. "Sadly, I must comply with our leader. I can make no such promises either. If not by choice, then because I'm simply no good at subduing any one. To big, you know?"
Khaira 12-13-04, 10:00 PM	Mazithra shook his head as he listened to the priestess' request, seemingly straight from her goddess. To only subdue enemies would cause more trouble than it was worth...in part, he did agree with being honorable, but it was suicide to subdue all enemies...an eye for an eye; that was his philosophy, how he lived his life. And yet, here, she was askign him to throw all that away? In a resonating voice, the Githerzai spoke up from where he had been leaning off to the side of the door, within the shadows. Raising himself from the comforting firmness of the wall, he stepped into the light, his tall, muscular body casting an eerie shadow in the growing light of day. "Honor an endearing virtue to follow...as long as it doesn't get you killed. Honorable is my path of fighting, but, alas, I cannot do what you ask. Suppose we did subdue each and every individual enemy that we encountered; what should happen if they would awaken from being struck unconcious or untie themselves from that which we had tied them, and strike at us from behind? I can understand your want for peace, holy one, and I can empathize with your peace-loving nature. Truly, I do respect your virtues, standing unwavering like the strength of stone. However..." Mazithra paused for a moment; what he had to say next would probably be stepping on the toes of this priestess. Granted, the benefit of having the powers of a goddess on your side was, no doubt, a great blesssing, but to not, in any way, shape, or form, shed blood, was not only impossible, it was suicide! Simply put... "...I cannot do as you ask. To prevent undue bloodshed; aye, such was my intention. Alas, like it or not, there *will* be combat. And, as unfortunate as it is, as much as your goddess may frown upon it, as much you may dislike such...where there is battle, there is bloodshed. If we all snuck around, trying to take out the damned Red Wizards without hurting them...it would be suicide. Utter and complete suicide. I will not take undue life, should I be able to help it, but if I find myself engaged in combat with another Red Wizard I will be forced to dispose of him before he does of me. It is Survival of the Fittest. Kill or be killed. Such is life." The Githerzai's expression was of stone, unmoving, unfeeling. Almost uncaring. Yet, behind the mask of strength and stone was a reeling mind: had he gone too far? Would the Priestess be insulted? His body dipping slightly in a bow, the Githerzai's voice floated low and gruff to meet with the Priestess' ears. "Forgive me, my lady. I am eternally pleased that your goddess has chosen to bless us all with her divine grace, and for this I am thankful. Yet, we can only do what we know how to do. Unfortunately, if I were to attempt to subdue all enemies instead of killing them...it would result in my own death. As I have said, I shall not take undue bloodshed, but Agudo must be helped. Battle is chaos; you cannot think, you cannot feel...you can only do what you have to do in order to survive. It is with deepest regret that I cannot do as you ask. My appologies."
Pipers Youth 12-13-04, 11:13 PM	Shoudra shut the door behind her and gingerly walked down the steps into the open street. A chill wind past by her that moment tousling her long, dark hair, and through the corner of her eye she saw an old women coming from behind her. The Emissary ignored this and continued to walk towards her corner street mansion. Just one more block, she thought. The old women had crept closer and spoke up when she recognized the famous Lady Hoot. "Lady Hoot is that you? By the gods it is! What happened?! What is this world coming to....oooo Ahhhhhhhhhhhhh! A large, sickly "cRAcK" was heard echoing throughout the street as the old women was smacked by a (1)large magical hand that appeared out of nowhere, and was sent hurtling into a brick wall. The elder women's limp form gasped for breath one last time, and was no more. The Emissary just laughed as she continued walking. (1) Spell- Bigbys forcing hand
Agudo Archmage 12-14-04, 12:45 AM	Looked on sadly as the elderly woman was callously murdered. This gilded cage was unbearable, yet what could she do? Someone had recognized her, yet because of Piper, she herself was a slave to this evil Red Wizard. Seeing no hope in helping the dying elderly woman, Hoot tried prying information from the Wizard. “Why is that you want me? Surly you can have any familiar that you desire”
Myranthor 12-14-04, 08:56 AM	Expectedly, three of the men already gave me a stunning, unambiguous refusal, spicing their weak apologies with hypocritical pleas, all of them saying how much they'd like to be able to accept the oath I asked them to take, yet couldn't. It was easy to commit the greatest of sins, to act in ways no more honorable than those of the most roguish scoundrel, yet to feel unashamed, when one's consciousness remained carefully protected against an unbreakable barrier of false ideals. How much harder was it, not only to pray for a consecrated salvation that didn't emane purely from a fruitless faith, but from true, veritable conviction, painstaking sacrifices and palpable acts. My heart filled with huge grief, I sighed faintly, turning my eyes to the last who spoke, the extraplanar warrior, to usher a few words, in a tone bruised, saddened by Mazithra's last sentences. "You know, companion, it is wrong to believe that all those that'd wake form their forced slumber would necessarily turn agaisnt all of us. In fact, if they saw that we're willing to leave them unarmed, that we seek no brutal conflict, some of them would probably leave the chastising and ruthless masters that are the Red Wizards to assist us in our more noble endeavors. However, if we keep showing them the keenest and most lethal side of our benevolent philosophy, why would they consider it even slightly better than the one they are caught under right now? Remember that a huge majority of those we'll meet are not with the Wizards because they share their views, but because they are submitted to their tyrannical power. They need our help, as much as Agudo needs it." I said, the last words dying in my throat, burdened with a terrible, piercing melancholy.
Drindin 12-14-04, 09:58 AM	Shades looked at Septris sternly. "I left some one alive once. I had subdued a number of men when I was still in the military. I tied him up, and left him there. Three weeks later... he had tracked back into my home. He tried to murder me for what I had done. If I didn't sleep with a dagger under my pillow... I'd be dead."
Myranthor 12-14-04, 05:03 PM	I turned to this doomed group's unadvised leader, shocked at his severe tone, at his upsetting intrusion he made while I tried to talk to the far more open soldier. "If only one tracked you in the hope of striking back, this means most of those you left behind were not a danger anymore, contrarily to what most of you seem think. By acting as you did, you saved more lives and spread less disorder than if you had killed all of them outright, and you should be proud to have took that risk." I took a brief pause, my gaze locked on Shades' visage, a warm smile having appeared over my lips as I uttered my last sentance, warmed to know the man had already enjoyed the pleasing sensation to have a moral conscience at least once in his lifetime.
Drindin 12-14-04, 08:28 PM	Shades looked at her coldly. "If it's alright, I'd suggest we leave now." Algared nodded in agreement. "Yes. The sooner we leave, the sooner we can have the Mage back in safe keeping."
ruthia 12-15-04, 09:03 AM	Ruthia remained quiet as the others talked, watching from her place by the door as the others argued. When Shades FINALLY suggest they leave, Ruthia opens the tavern door and heads outside to wait for the rest.
Khaira 12-15-04, 12:36 PM	THe Githerzai sighed, shook his head. Bored by this debate of morals and subduing the enemy versus giving them a new, 6 foot under space for rent, he once again spoke, a calm, apathetic voice pervading the Planar Warrior's tone, intertwined with an impatient annoyance. "I've come here to save Agudo. I don't care what it takes, but Agudo will be saved, or I shall go on to my next lesson in doing so. Red Wizards that get in the way will receive the fury of my blade. They certainly deserve no better. You can stand here and debate the morality of striking a Red Wizard and drawing his blood...but I'm going to go save our friend who, as you may have forgotten, is still in captivity." Turning around, Mazithra walked outside and leaned against the wall of the tavern to wait for his comradres.
kulideb 12-15-04, 03:19 PM	Kulideb found her self in sympathy with Septis. They were high ideals, but hard to live up too. She had never hurt any one who had not attacked her or her friends first. She could see Shades didnt like her words, the elf smiled and shook her head, may be one day they would find time to just live in peace..but for now Agudo waited for them. The elf stood and moved over to Septis. "Well spoken, you are right we carnt just kill all who step in our way. The others are just anxious about Agudo and the red wizards dont have the best reputation for hospitality." She said softly to the lady, before she followed Ruthia outside.
Myranthor 12-16-04, 09:56 AM	Sitting still, I looked at al those who had left, my teeth clenched, watching their back take more and more distance, until they were suddenly engulfed away from me, in another realm, beyond the door. Even the elvish lady, despite her kind and wise words, chose not to swear, erring on the side of caution. They wre all, all, individualistic, egocentric adventurers, caring not for the greater good but for their own lives, their personnal friends, their own problems and weaknesses. After a sigh, I walked outside with them, walking to a little spot,away from the inn's walls. "Please gather around me, companions, before I start praying. If I understood correctly, Ruthia, you don't need to be kissed by Nienna's grace?" I asked.
ruthia 12-16-04, 10:02 AM	Ruthia just nodded, not speaking. She appeared to be concentrating on somthing and did not want to loose that concntration.
Good Knight 12-24-04, 12:50 AM	Keldorn shiny brass colored armor sparkled in the early morning hours. He was not an impatient man, but even he was glad to doing something that would save his dear friend Agudo. Listening to the Lady Cleric, he moved closer allowing her divine wisdom and power to take place. Clinching his teeth despite all the help. Keldorn was still afraid they were to late. “Prophetess Septis, if you need anything to help aid our departure.... I shall do all that is Righteously possible in assisting you.” With that he nodded his head in prayer of his own.
Khaira 12-24-04, 07:23 PM	Mazithra, on silent footfalls, stepped outside the door of Kulideb's prosperous tavern, to come into the light of the new day, gathering around the members of the small rescue group that had already come. Stepping into the circle of comrades, he nodded solemnly. "I am ready unto whatever end may be served."
Myranthor 12-27-04, 07:57 PM	Surrounded by all my companions, those I liked, those I trusted, those I had already been deceived with, I softly closed my eyes, ddelicately humming to myself a serene tune, visualizing myself, floating calmly, securely, over a beautiful and placid lake. "Merciful Goddess, May your perfumed breath have us sent, blowing on the waters you bless, where our precious help can be lent." From a wooden symbol, resting agaisnt my feeble chest, A bright, vivid light erupted, touching each of my nearby friends, altering their appearance, minimizing them fastly, turning them into tiny, vaorous versions of themselves. The slightest breeze made their new shapes waver inadvertently, surprising them at first. Still visible to to any viewer's eyes, they could, however, easily be concealed by the distant clouds coloring the sky above their heads.
Pipers Youth 12-27-04, 09:55 PM	“Why is that you want me? Surly you can have any familiar that you desire”Why is it that you want me? Shoudra walked the rest of the short walk to her home in silence. Her fingers clenched tightly around the handle of the cage, so tight that her knuckles were beginning to turn white. At the door she set the cage down and started to shuffle through her pockets looking for something. Her eyes raised in triumph as her fingers touched cold metal. Out of her pocket she produced a small brass key, fashioned to have two serpents entwined together. She placed the key in the lock and gave a turn to hear a soft "click". As the door edged open she stopped," I suppose that is true. I really don't know why myself. I see something I want, but can't have. And that even temps me more, I guess. But enough of small talk." Shoudra picked up the cage bearing Lady Hoot and headed inside. The house was simply elegant, furnished with all alpolstered furniture, with large silken pillows. A collection of tapestries from all over the East hung from the walls. Glass cases held several rare artifacts such as vases, tomes, pottery, and other magical items. Flowers were displayed on fine wooden tables. Light shined brightly through a skylight in the center of the room. "Welcome to my home." ********* "This is where I leave you." They had reached the end of the dark hallway. They stopped in front of a large iron door. The hinges were rusted from age, but nonetheless, it was well reinforced. And who knew what magical devices were at work here placed by the Red Wizards. "CReAkkkkkkk" The door hesitantly came open. The cell was eerie. Water leaked in from the ceiling into a small pool that had formed on the ground. There were no windows, nor light. Just a single hard bench, and a bucket filled with water and a washcloth for bathing. Piper eased Agudo off his shoulder and onto the bench. Not to dare look at him, he turned at shut the door behind him, locking it tight. Agudo the Wizard of Light was left there in the darkness alone.
Drindin 12-27-04, 11:11 PM	Algared was uneasy with the casting of the spell. Magic in general had made him uneasy ever since he came upon his axe. Shades seemed to be in his element. Strange things happened to him often, and this was just another one of those strange things.
Agudo Archmage 12-28-04, 01:20 AM	Her white feather drooped, as she was setup like some plaything. Looking around the ornate yet some how cold room. Lady Hoot felt as if she was a prized object to be admired in a museum. Still she did not miss the slight emotional insights given by Red Wizard captor Shoudra .......I really don't know why myself. I see something I want, but can't have. And that even temps me more, I guess. But enough of small talk." Given enough time she hope to use that insecurity against Shoudra ************ Agudo on the other hand was in less opulent quarters. No plush carpet, nor skylight to warm his naturally tanned face in. His eyes were near swollen shut. Black and blew would be to kind a word. It was a miracle at all that the Wizard of Light had not lost his sight. His long blond hair was matted with his own blood. Agudo’s normally radiant smile was miss sharpen by his bloated and nearly disfigured face. He lay their on the worn bench…..praying for help
ruthia 12-28-04, 09:37 AM	As Septris Finishes her prayer and the effects take place anyone who looks around will notice Ruthia is gone. In her place is a tiny white dragon, no bigger then a small cat. the little dragon flies up to a tree branch and looks down on the wispy forms of the rest of the group, waiting patiently for them to start the journey.
Khaira 12-28-04, 09:55 PM	Mazithra was used to other-planar travel; it had been his job for quite some time now. Even so, however, the Githerzai tensed as he felt the brillaint, calming breeze swell around him, and carry him, as though a drugged man would feel, up into the air, light as a feather, into the horizon, towards whatever awaited him...
Pipers Youth 12-31-04, 02:50 PM	Piper emerged from the darken hallway to be greeted by a familiar voice. "Gooday Mr. Youth, how fares the.....prisoner?" Standing or more like slumping there in front of me was Master of the Guild of Foreign Trade, Samus Kul. Ambitious and cynical, Samus Kul was known for his acidic sarcasm and urbane manner. He is a tall, corpulent man who flaunts his wealth shamelessly, bedecking himself with gem-studded robes and rings worth thousands of gold pieces. "I'm sorry Lord Kul, but I don't seem to know whatever you mean." Piper sneered innocently. Kul pulled out a handkerchief from his pocket and wiped sweat from his brow,"Do you take me as a fool boy? I know you have Agudo here. Your master has just informed me." Kul motioned at the slim hooded figure still seated at the end of the large table at the end of the room.Kul replaced the handkerchief in his pocket and produced in it's place a large sack. He then threw into on the table. Gold pieces spilling out of the corner, making it clear what it truly was. "I have a proposition for you and your master." Piper went completely motionless that moment. Unimangable thoughts and horrors of transmutation, a magic of no small skill that Samas Kul was known for. "What do you exactly mean?" Piper could only manage to stammer. Ofcourse he already knew, for The Amulet of Thoughts was in play. Meanwhile back at the Mansion Shoudra had been having her afternoon tea and was now comfortably sitting in her plush chair opposite of Lady Hoot's cage. She took a sip and nibbled on a pescoti when she finally looked up at Hoot,"So tell me, what do you think of me. Theres no point just sitting here in silence. You may speak on your on free will. Your not a prisoner in my home. Despite the necessary accommodations that have been taken."
Agudo Archmage 01-01-05, 12:31 AM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongladyhoot.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Shoudra So tell me, what do you think of me. Theres no point just sitting here in silence. You may speak on your on free will. Your not a prisoner in my home. Despite the necessary accommodations that have been taken." Lady Hoot sat with her eyes closed while the Red Wizard had her tea. When the sly remarks came about not being a prisoner She open her snowy white featherd eyes and tapped on her Restraint with her beak But it was also clear that Shoudra was very needy. And Hoot did not waste more time about the being a prisoner. "You and I have yet to sit together like this for me to form an opinion of you Shoudra. She didnt have alot of friends..... Perhaps Piper Hoot thought. Yet Shoudra like to have nice things around her at all times. But they didnt talk to her. Maybe that is part of the reason she wanted me. Lady Hoot ponderd that thought. "Tell me of yourself, why did you become the woman you are today?"
kulideb 01-02-05, 07:32 AM	Her breath caught in her throat as she watched Septis's spell take shape and cast the changes on the gathered companions. She looked over to Shades but instead a white object caught her attention, it took her a moment to realise that it was a small while dragon, Kulideb smiled.
Myranthor 01-02-05, 07:54 AM	Floating in the air, happily flying through little air currents I could'nt even have detected in my precedent form, I looked forth at Shades. "So, are we ready to leave, now?"
Drindin 01-02-05, 03:50 PM	Shades nods, and Algared steels himself. "Ready or not... here we come..."
ruthia 01-02-05, 05:09 PM	Ruthia flutters her wings slightly as she shows her readiness to leave.
Khaira 01-02-05, 05:11 PM	Floating in the air, Mazithra looked towards his companions before speaking. "Time, like the sands blown by the wind, quickly is struck into oblivion, lost to the mortal minds. We had best be going now before our time, and the time of our esteemed wizard, too, is lost."
Pipers Youth 01-02-05, 07:59 PM	In the midst of my thoughts, there was nothing but pure silence, an obscuring view that seemed to cover my past, not allowing me passage into the void in my mind. My previous master had told me I was born into nobility by my parents, that had both died when I was young. And like every child born as a noble, was to be tested for any special magical abilities or traits, and was sent to one of the eight schools of magic that I was best sooted before. Soon I gained a master to work diligently under, developing my skills until I too became a Red Wizard. Later on in my life I surpassed my master, and worked my way to the top, doing anything by means to gain more power, to gain the title I know hold today. But I know their must be more. I know this truly because that one fateful day. When an old seer recognized me in the market, and called me by my real name. He called me a murderer, said I killed both my parents because of pure greed. Before the man could finish, a Thayan guard cut his throat for speaking in such a manner to a Red Wizard. The penalty for this was usually instant death anyway for the old seer. Shoudra's delicate fingers let slip the cup of tea in her grasp. She watched it fall, and fall until the porcelain cup shattered spilling tea onto the plush carpet. A small gasp escaped her lips as she rushed to clean up the mess, hoping the tea wouldn't stain.
Agudo Archmage 01-05-05, 11:32 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongladyhoot.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Lady Hoot listened carefully as Shoudra spoke of her disturbing rise to lustful power. Yet she thought it strange that she could not remember her past, except with the fateful encounter with the sooth sear. It was even more odd when the Red Wizard nervously drop her tea cup. Hoot noticed that she did nothing to stop the fall of the cup. More like Shoudra was viewing the situation in a second hand sort of way. As her capture quickly cleaned the mess Hoot spoke up. “Don’t you think it was odd?” Lady Hoot left the rest unspoken allowing the thought to sink in.
kulideb 01-06-05, 04:07 PM	It felt so strange, so unreal, like a daydream, the elf thought as her form floated lightly in the air. Looking round she saw that they were ready to move. She smiled at Septis and nodded her head. "Ready my lady."
Drindin 01-16-05, 10:33 PM	Shades gives Kulideb a rare smile as the blessing takes it's effects...
ruthia 01-16-05, 10:58 PM	Ruthia fluttered her wings a little more and took off into the air slightly above the group as the blessing lifted them up and away from Kulidebs humble tavern.
Pipers Youth 01-17-05, 12:44 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley Lady Hoot listened carefully as Shoudra spoke of her disturbing rise to lustful power. Yet she thought it strange that she could not remember her past, except with the fateful encounter with the sooth sear. It was even more odd when the Red Wizard nervously drop her tea cup. Hoot noticed that she did nothing to stop the fall of the cup. More like Shoudra was viewing the situation in a second hand sort of way. As her capture quickly cleaned the mess Hoot spoke up. “Don’t you think it was odd?” Lady Hoot left the rest unspoken allowing the thought to sink in. "Odd? Do you care to elaborrrra....." There was a small disturbance heard outside of the door that caused Shoudra to tense. Until a soft 'click' came meaning a key had turned the lock. The door swung open and Piper stormed into the house. Meanwhile The adventures had left and now were wisped away across FAERUN. Overtime they had crossed The Legendary Dragon Coast, over The Turmish Mountain Ranges, in the Pirate Isles of The Sea of Fallen Stars, into Aglarond, and now settled over the strange, and dark Ganathwood, as the spells affects slowly started to fade away.
Khaira 01-18-05, 10:49 PM	After what seemed like many long hours of soft and peaceful travel, not that mcuh different than the long journeys through the time and space continuum that existed between the planes, Mazithra finally felt himself floating, softly, gently, towards the surface of the earth. Finally, at long last, the Githerzai Warrior felt himself raising to his normal size. He stood there for a long moment, feeling the solid strength and durability of the earth, and regaining his surroundings. Feeling his sword at his back, Mazithra looked around, surveying the area. They were in a thick forest now, and it seemed almost as if the very earth was speaking to him; the earth, the trees, the plants, all of them stood as a formiddable presence against the tentative presence of the rescuers who now, finally, began to form amongst the everlasting presence of the earth. His yellowed eyes, slitted in concentration, scanned the area ahead of them, and quickly to the sides. He seemed a statue, listening to the silence that lay like a heavy blanket over all the forest, and, too, over them. With graceful movements, the towering Githerzai turned around to face the group as they materialized and regained their senses. Softly, much softer than usual, he finally spoke, his voice reserved, soft, held back. "It is quiet here, in this place, this thick bed of forest. It is as if though nothing is alive, not even the birds; it must be that something or someone causes it to be so. Regardless, we should be on our best alert so as to not be suprised by whatever it is that roams through these wilds. Only once have I beheld such a quiet, almost deathly presence... ...But that was not of this plane of existence..." His voice seemed to trail off, then, absorbed into the heavy, still blanket of silence that lay guard over the entire area and he turned around, looking into the formidable stretching of the land, over so long a distance, trying to see what he could see of what life forms thrived here that would cause so a deathly silence...
ruthia 01-19-05, 10:58 AM	As the group began to settle on the earth below. Rather then settle down right away, Ruthia stayed above the group survaying the area as the spell dispersed. Once everyone was solid again, Ruthia lands on Kulideb's shoulder. For some odd reason she does not change forms, instead she sends a brief mental message to Kulideb. o O(Somethings not right here. Tell Shades to keep sharp, I'll scout the area before we rest.) With a brief squeezes to Kulideb's shoulder she takes off into the air again, Slowly circling upwards as she checks out the immediate area for danger.
Drindin 01-19-05, 07:37 PM	Shades settles onto the ground with a happy sigh. Shades looks at the cleric. "So have I... and I came out with scars of mind AND body..." The Minotaur looks about, his red eyes gleaming. "Hmm... my soul is restless here, the spirit of my axe is crying to be released."
Agudo Archmage 01-20-05, 12:30 AM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongagudo.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Just then as they landed and made camp. A tattered blue robe figure came out of the woods. His eyes widen as he saw the familiar group of friends. It was Agudo! He staggered forward then falls to one knee. “Help me there behind me…..!” His eyes closed and his body swooned before hitting the ground.
kulideb 01-20-05, 05:00 AM	The trip had been pleasant, but all that changed as the elfs feet touched the floor. ~It does feel ...unsettled here doesnt it?~ she sent in reply to the dragon on her shoulder before Ruthia tok to flight again. "Shades, Ruthia says to stay sharp..."Her words were cut off as something blue caught her attention. "Agudo!" she called out rushing to the mages side as he swooned to the ground. She knealt down next to him and ligtly patted his face. "Agudo" she said saying his name once more, while at the same time she wondered where lady Hoot was..
ruthia 01-20-05, 08:58 AM	Ruthia had been circling just a few minutes when she spotted a figure stumbling below. Before she had a chance to warn the group he was in front of the group, and Kulideb had shouted out that it was Agudo! Surprised, and slightly suscpicious, Ruthia doesn't land to great him but rather stays in the air. She searches behind where Agudo may have come from, trying to see if there is any pursuit.......
Khaira 01-20-05, 10:01 PM	As Mazithra stood, watching the forest in silence again, he saw an odd sight; Agudo! There he was walking towards them...was this some ill-gotten effect of Septris' teleportation spell? As the Archmage fell, Mazithra, too, began to make his way towards Agudo even as Kulideb rushed past him and knelt at his side. Suddenly, the Githerzai stopped. This wasn't right... "Hold, little elf. Can you be sure that is Agudo? Is he not under guard by a whole army of Thayans? How could he possibly have escaped...? There is no way; the only explanation is..." Mazithra paused, and drew his rune-inscribed great sword, watching the body of the Archmage cautiously, standing ready for some kind of an attack. "...a trap. Perhaps it would be a good idea to hide ourselves."
Drindin 01-21-05, 04:13 AM	Gripping his staff, Shades readied for battle, calling out his challenge. "WHOEVER YOU ARE! WHERE EVER YOU ARE! SHOW YOURSELVES! DON'T REMAIN HIDING LIKE COWARDS!"
Myranthor 01-21-05, 10:45 PM	Mystically, we materialized ourselves, our firm, fleshy bodies gaining once again consistency, after having turned into their misty, plummeting counterparts by divine powers and devout obedience. I threw behind my head, exposing to the warm and comforting rays of the Morninglord the tiniest parcels of my newly found body, reveling in each delicious sensation, tasting the delicious flow of the cold breeze against my smooth skin, the therapeuthic caresses found under the sun's inspiring, radiant glory. The intense plesure, the delicate hedonism I experienced by finding back my self filled me with joy, a blessed, precious joy I offered all to Nienna, celebrating through this simple ritual the gratitude I had for her recent generous gifts. "WHOEVER YOU ARE! WHERE EVER YOU ARE! SHOW YOURSELVES! DON'T REMAIN HIDING LIKE COWARDS!" Couldn't they, only for a few seconds, stop they martial rampage and lose their masculine pulsions*, couldn't they quiet their violent urges and lose their irrational fears, their insecurities behind, melting like ephemeral snow under today's sensual warmth? I opened my eyes, leaving my ecstatic trance, upon this disillusionned and deceiving reality, only to distinguish, next to Kulideb, a distinct cloak, worn by everyone in Agudo's school. Already, the cold githzerai and the temperamental leader had drawn their swords, while the generous and altruistic Kulideb was on the ground, kneeling next to the needy. I ran next to my elvish friend, laying my hands over the man's head, soaked in his boiling sweat, probably caused by a delirious fever, built in him since long days and nights, bringing him ever more closer to a destructive madness. I impulsively converted a curative spell, hoping to calm his immediate torments, feeling, emanating from my bountiful soul, a flow of positive energy, reaching his sore limbs and his shrouded mind.** * Those views are Septris', not her player's. ** should cure 2d8+5 damage. *** Septris has an aura that mimics a zone of calm emotions. See her description for more info. **** Septris' touch is pacifying. See her description... ***** If she is about to get attacked, she has a chance to destroy any weapon hitting her. Once again, see description.
Pipers Youth 01-21-05, 11:47 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley Mintues Later Piper and Shoudra were now leaning over a scrying glass. Both sets of eyes studying it intently. Early Piper had come with news of a strange group of travelers that had magically windwalked to Gathawood, apparently in search for their lost friend. "See those one's there! Look at how naive the elves are, running to his aid without thought. The cleric is even trying to heal him! They have no idea what is in store for them." Shoudra shrieked with glee. Meanwhile Piper pondered the situation carefully. The rest of the group were not so easily deceived by the illusion he knew. And his women companion held to much faith in this false Agudo. Looking at the group of travelers again he concluded, to much faith indeed. As Ruthia looks for any signs of pursuit, she finds none.
kulideb 01-23-05, 05:23 PM	"And what if it is Agudo, shall we stand and watch him bleed to death and then say sorry?" Kuideb said to Mazithra, it was just a risk she would have to take. "Agudo..please.." she said lightly touching his face as Septris cast a spell on him. Behind her she heard Shades call out, she trusted him and Ruthia to watch their backs as well as Mazithra.
ruthia 01-23-05, 06:47 PM	Gliding in the gentle breezes above the group, Ruthia had a sudden uneasy feeling as she noted No pursuit. She kept looking and looking, why were they not chasing Agudo down? Why would they have?? Ruthia see's Kulideb and Septris kneeling near Agudo...... o O(Kulideb! Get away from him. Something's not right! If that's Agudo then why aren't there any Red Wizards chasing him? Tell Shades this isn't right, there should be someone trying to get him back! You and Septris need to get away from whom ever that is this may be a trap!) Ruthia kept circling, praying her insincts were wrong this time, but she's come to understand her animal instincts are rarely wrong.........
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 01-23-05, 07:47 PM	Mazithra Mazithra paused, and drew his rune-inscribed great sword, watching the body of the Archmage cautiously, standing ready for some kind of an attack. "...a trap. Perhaps it would be a good idea to hide ourselves." Shades Gripping his staff, Shades readied for battle, calling out his challenge. "WHOEVER YOU ARE! WHERE EVER YOU ARE! SHOW YOURSELVES! DON'T REMAIN HIDING LIKE COWARDS!" Kulideb Agudo..please.." Septris' was kneeling beside Agudo as he slowly open his eyes He smiled that warm enchanting smile that he was famous for Then he turned to look up at Kulideb. “Please?....Well alright my dear” The wizard of Light lifted himself half way and chuckled “Do you have my pipe? I have seemed to of misplaced it. You know how I love the smell of.... strawberry? Or did they say it was apple cinnamon..... O’ well In any case you and the Cleric with the soft hands” Agudo winks at Septris and then laughs at Shades and Mazithraen "Trap....Hiding.....Some things are best done in the open You all should have read my latest book before dashing forth to save me........or is it him? HA! I call my book.... How to Blow Up a simple Band of Do-Gooders” With that a mighty explosion took place The clone body of Agudo went every where in a fiery ball of bone and guts ****Back at the Thayen Empire*** Edwin looked over the shoulder of Piper with a sly smile and spoke some strabge words One Cloned babbling Agudo – 25 thousand Silver coins Exploding Dwarven powder – 3 thousand Silver coins Dead Do-Gooders- “Priceless” MasterCard don’t leave home without it" Then glancing at Piper he shruged "I lived in this Realm where I started a fiendish way of putting the mongrel populace in deep Debt I called it a Credit card they had no coin yet they bought chunck that made them happy for a short time. Before they needed soemthing else to fill their shalow lives” Edwin smiled his wicked smile “Lets just say they spent half there life trying to pay it and me off”
Drindin 01-24-05, 12:57 AM	Mazithra You all should have read my latest book before dashing forth to save me........or is it him? HA! I call my book.... How to Blow Up a simple Band of Do-Gooders”[/COLOR] At the term "Blow Up" Shades threw himself into Kulideb's path, taking the brunt of the explosion head-on to defend Kulideb, knowing full well what the cost might be...
ruthia 01-24-05, 08:13 AM	Ruthia did not have enough time to react. First the "Agudo" Sat up and seemed to be talking to the group, then next he blew up. There was nothing Ruthia could do, because she was above the group she was spared the force of the explosion but now she couldn't see anyone! Circling the area some more she waited for the dust to clear so she could asses the damage.........
Khaira 01-24-05, 01:32 PM	As Mazithra watched Agudo sit up, he still stood like a stone statue, neither showing emotion nor concern. It just didn't seem like Agudo. Besides, the genuine Agudo would never be anywhere without his pipe. "Trap....Hiding.....Some things are best done in the open You all should have read my latest book before dashing forth to save me........or is it him?" Mazithra couldn't help but wonder this Agudo was talking about. His latest book? What was best done out in the open? The Githerzai's Warrior's sword came up quickly, in a defense against what he was sure was coming...but then, he heard the dread-filled words "Blow Up". "Everybody down!" [/I]He, himself, threw his own body down as the fiery burst of flames shot out, singing what was left of his clothes and skin.[I]
Drindin 01-24-05, 02:39 PM	Little did they know... Algared was no 'Simple Do-gooder'. His very being having been tainted by infernal magics, the firey explosion did very little aside from knock him back, and maybe give him a slight singe. After the explosion subsided, Algared rose and brushed himself off, and moved in quickly to assess the damage done to his fellows, and call up what he finds to the dragon.
Pipers Youth 01-25-05, 05:18 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley Piper and Shoudra both turned to regard Edwin, faces played with confusion. In unison they both echoed "Wha???" "How original. Dwarven explosive powder. Pfffff.... I could have been more creative than that." Shoudra said sarcasticly resting her hands on her hips. "Arghhhhh!!!!" Piper just shook his head at the bickering and peered back into the scrying glass were the remnants of the smog were finally dissipating allowing him a clear view of the scene. Meanwhile back at The Real Agudos Cell The slot of the barred door came open and two little curious eyes peered in. "Psssttttt. Hey you, wake up."
Khaira 01-25-05, 08:47 PM	Mazithra got up as the flames died down. There was a massive cloud of smoke raised up over the entire area and then he remembered...his two compainons! Jumping up, the Githerzai ran to where Septris and Kulideb were when Agudo exploded... "Either of you two alive?!"
Drindin 01-25-05, 09:32 PM	Algared moved to the Githzerai. "You seem to be okay..." He calls this upto Ruthia. "The Githzerai is okay..."
Agudo Archmage 01-25-05, 10:55 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongagudo.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Agudo head hurt yet with some heavy breathing her open one puffy eye. as he laid on the painful floor. "I....Cough" He spiy out some blood "I told you its...apple cinamon...Cough....in my pipe" Agudo could not under stand why they tourcherd him over such a mundane thing Yet part of him didnt want to know. "Water please"
Pipers Youth 01-26-05, 07:47 PM	"Agudo!" As Keldorn the Radiant Heart Knight ran forward to wrap Agudo in one of his famous bear hugs, he now found himself being blasted backwards? Keldorn went soaring back and collided into one, two, three, trees! Lord Firecam now lie very still, until he let out a groggy grunt, and found his footing, staggered to his legs. Befuddled and his aged muscles aching he brushed some dirt out of his salt and pepper hair. Then looking down at his near perfect chain mail and armor, except for the large scorch mark lining the middle of his breast plate he mused,"By the Light what happened?!"
kulideb 01-27-05, 10:32 AM	Her head hurt, how much had she drank, she didnt even try to open her eyes. She tried to move but couldnt...Shades! she thought happily as she recognised his scent. "Hey, honey.." she said softly, her hands hugging him to her as she slowly opened her eyes..she just wished her ears would stop ringing..it must have been that gnomish wine... "OH MY!" she said as her eyes opened, "How..where.." she muttered as she realised that they werent in her room at the inn.
Drindin 01-27-05, 09:09 PM	Algared knelt next to Kulideb, gently rolling Shades off of her. "You've just been caught in a fire powder explosion. I'm familiar with it, as we use the stuff frequently on my home world. I would suggest you not get up until the Bardess has checked you out for any injuries." Algared looked over at Shades, and gently placed a fingure where the vein on his neck would be. "He's still alive! We need to administer healing fast, or else his condition may not stabilize in time!" He looked over at Kulideb. "He's damned devoted to you, miss. I saw him jump infront of the blast." Shades' cloak was torn and burnt, his staff had completely shattered. It was amazing that her survived at all. Fate surely showed him much grace... An indistinct form looked over at shades in the room void of all light aside from the weak one that shone just brightly enough so that he could make out the shapes ahead. "Shades!" The voice echoed through the chamber "Shades! You must hold onto life! Your purpose is not complete! Indeed, it shall not be complete for some time... NOW GO!" And in an instant, shortly after Algared had called out for help... shades began to cough hoarsely, and he had risen fastly to conciousness. "K...Kulideb..." He forced out. "Hush, man!" Algared commanded him. "Lay down! Kulideb is okay, she will live! But we need to administer medical care to you, first."
Pipers Youth 01-27-05, 10:09 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley Damn, not one killed! This is proving quite a challenge indeed, much more than I ever imagined. But wait! One seems to be injured, maybe perhaps mortally injured. Surely it would be a burden for the group to carry there wounded companion. This could quite prove beneficial to me. "A excellent attempt Edwin, but in vain, for they are still alive. Do not fret thought my friend, we will try again another time." With that Piper waggled his fingers at the mirror, and the scrying diminished. Turning around a sly grin played upon his face. "For now though, there are more pressing matters for us to attend to." Shoudra obviously frustrated turned heal with all huff and left. Plopping down in her plush chair she managed a small smile when pushed all thoughts aside at looked at her prized trophy, Lady Hoot. Very peculiar was this, because regularly the famed, beautiful tyrant Shoudra Balen never smiled. At least not this way. Back at Agudo's Cell Agudo's head hurt yet with some heavy breathing he opened one puffy eye. as he laid on the painful floor. "I....Cough" He spit out some blood "I told you its...apple cinamon...Cough....in my pipe" Agudo could not understand why they tourcherd him over such a mundane thing Yet part of him didnt want to know. "Water please" "Water!? Yes ofcourse, here take it." The haflings face showed panic as he scanned the dark hallway making sure it was clear. Drawing a water skin out of his breeches he hastily threw it into the latch where it landed on the floor in front of Agudo.
Agudo Archmage 01-29-05, 01:20 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongagudo.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Another trick perhaps? The Wizard of Light could not help but wonder. The dry blood in his mouth and strong almost desperate need for water was to much. Agudo like some simple begger on the street got down on his knees and took up the waterskin bag. With only one glance at the Halfling Agudo drank deeply Nearly choking on it he stoped after a minute. Panting as he spoke "Why? are you helping me?"
Myranthor 01-29-05, 05:17 PM	A few sweet words slipped out from the archwizard's lips, complimenting our readiness, praising the affection and strong sense of duty both Kulideb and I so eagerly demonstrated. I would've almost turned around, in triumph, to glnce mischieveously at our scornful, mefying leader, when I heard Agudo continue, unstoppable, his inane babbling. I only had the time to push myself backward, grasping between my clenched fingers the rough, humid earth, merging softly with the source of All Life, offering the least surface possible to the hellish aftermath that would be unleashed against us. Tempus' blazing fury exploded all around us, burning all it could find in its path, his ravenous mares devouring the most tender pieces of flesh they could find under their pointed teeth. The carnivorous blast gnawed at me, damaging my thin arms, rolling over, rampaging my exposed back. Still, a true servant of the faith always bears a divine sield. Under the pressure, the intense heat jumping at me, I felt a tender presence, the comforting caress of Nienna, alleviating from her immortal realms my worldly pain. Barely hurt, thus, I stood up, distinguishing that most of my stalwart companions were still healthy, too. While Mazithra and Ruthia had been cautious enough not to jump in the proximity of danger, Algared and Kulideb had, mysteriously, handled the firey threat masterfully. Keldorn and Shades, however, pushed by their immoderate passions, felt an intense backlash, as if fate itself tried to teach mortals the virtues of a wise and often distant moderation. The knight, shocked, didn't seem to be lethally wounded : he was rather perplex, wondering what happened to him. In a few minutes he would've regained his senses. The mercenary, however, wasn't in such a good shape. I walked hastily to his side, kneeling for the second time in less than one minute next to a dying man. Again, I laid my hands over his body, chanting the old mythical formulas destined to keep his temporal shell preserved from harm.** "Merciful, Crying Goddess, With eyes soaked of sadness, In a restorative balm plunge this man's wounds , May he still run along forests, rivers and mounds." *What is the state of the forest? Is it burning? How many trees? etc. ** That's a heal spell
Drindin 01-30-05, 01:13 AM	Shades coughed. The healing spell coursed through his body, fixing all but a few wounds caused by the terrible explosion. The moment he recovered, he flew to Kulideb's side, to see for himself that she was alright, despite Algared's cautions. "Kulideb... Kulideb, my dear! You... you're okay?" He stuttered frantically. Algared rose back up. "So, then, we are all still alive? This is good." Were it not for this cursed axe... I may well be dead... but still, I best be wary of it's true owner... Algared thought to himself.
kulideb 01-30-05, 07:05 AM	"Oh Shades!" The elf cried huging him, "I'm fine, just a little dazed. You saved my life." then blushing once more as she remembered they werent alone. "We have Septis to thank for healing you." she said to Shades as if poking him to remember his manners. A quick look round showed that their group was more or less intact still. "Next time I will take more notice of your words." the elf said to Mazithra. "Ruthia!" she called out to the white dragon, "How do things look from up there?"
ruthia 01-30-05, 09:23 AM	Looking down upon her companions in this venture, Ruthia watched silently as the group gathered itself. Occasinaly someone would yell up a status report to her, but for the most part she was alone with her thoughts. To Self o O(They know we're coming. Why else would someone have tried to kill us all.) Then Ruthia hears Kulideb ask about whats happening around the group. To Kulideb o O(Things don't look good from up here. That explosion cleared out a rather large spot around you guys and some of the surronding trees are on fire. In fact the last tree Keldorn hit is on fire, prehaps he shouldn't stand under it anymore.)
Drindin 01-30-05, 01:30 PM	Shades kneeled infront of Septris. "I am in you debt... I literally owe you my life."
Pipers Youth 01-30-05, 09:03 PM	Keldorn thought how ironic it was that he was so caught off guard by these false perceptions. "I knew it wasn't him." Kheldorn mumbled Still it nagged at him. How easily a Radiant Heart could be fooled, and a knight of years experience such as himself. The same witty, intelligent Keldorn that had served as the offense attorney at Khaira's trial. A distinguished Inquisitor as himself! "Should of cast true sight." As Keldorn was about to head toward his companions, he looked up and noticed the expression on Ruthia's dragon visage. As Lord Firecam pondered this, he was unaware to notice one of the burning tree's limbs had snapped and came crashing down upon him.
Khaira 02-01-05, 10:51 PM	Mazithra nodded to Kulideb, bowing to her. "Our enemy will stop at nothing to bring us down. If you did not believe it prior to coming here, the previous attack should convince you of such knowledge. Utmost caution is a requisite if our desire is to survive this conflict and rescue our highly esteemed friend. Appearances, in this place are deceiving...this forest is deceieving...and angered." The Githerzai paused and looked around, surveying the damage caused by the recent explosion. It was only then that he saw Keldorn lingering below the flaming tree branch. Moving with quick, long strides, the Githerzai began to rush towards the endangered Knight, whilst at the same time initiating an innate ability* that came easily to the powerful beings of his race, causing the branch to slow it's momentum. *This is the featherfall psionics ability
Drindin 02-02-05, 12:31 AM	Shades nodded. "Yes, we shall proceed. Let us do so with caution, however. Mazithra and Ruthia, I want you two to scout ahead. Ruthia, you relay your findings through Kulideb, Mazithra, check back every five minutes, or, if you have such abilities, relay them to me." He looked over at Septris. "Do you have any divination abilities? If you do, I want you to check as far towards our goal as possible. If not, I know you bear healing abilities. I want you to try and keep yourself handy for any healing we need done. In other words, prepare as many spells as needed, and keep yourself in one piece. Particularly if we plan to do things as non-lethaly as possible. He looked over at the Minotaur. "You there... Algared, I want you to cover our rear. I'll cover the front. If there's any trouble from behind, I want you as a buffer. Septris, stay in the middle with Kulideb. Kulideb, get your shadow pals ready and set them as flank guards." "Keldorn, You're staying with me in the front. If you have an extra sword... I'm weaponless right now. My staff was destroyed in the blast."
ruthia 02-02-05, 09:23 AM	Wings outstreched, catching the thermals that will allow her to glide rather then fly, Ruthia starts widing her circle around the group as she see's Keldorn is being cared for. Memorizing where the group currently was Ruthia starts scouting ahead as Shades had asked. To Kulideb: o O( I'll start now, let me know when you guys start moving.) Futher and Further away from the group she starts looking for any signs of trouble, or at the very least a place the group could rest safely for the night to come, knowing that Septris may tire soon with having healed two people already today as well as having transported the group this far.* *Yes Ruthia relizes this was on a goddesses blessing, but Ruthia is smart enough to relize that it can take alot out of a person to appiase ones goddess.
Myranthor 02-02-05, 10:12 AM	What had been my surprise when, unexpectedly, Shades dropped to his knees, claiming he owede me a debt, of a value as grand as his life. Anxious I was, when I saved him, that he wouldn't thank me, that he'd use his newfound vigor to strike even harder at his foes, forgetting that it was the hand of peace that came to his rescue. Kulideb's fortunate intervention would be forever remembered, and opened the door to a lot of opportunities in the future. I came to realize that she was the glue holding this group together, the ltongue in which we should all communicate, if we wanted to understand ourselves. A loud sound drew me from my reflexions, as a gigantic, impressive tree branch, flaming like Talos' vengeful thunder, came down, surrouding Keldorn in its somber shadow. When it slowed down, however, and Mazithra dashed to get Keldorn out of his hazardous situation, I redirected my attention towards Shades, who was assigning each of us our future position. It was no wonder that we had been unanimously chosen as a leader : His indications were clear, precise, and straightforward. His tactics were impressive. "I could cast such a divination, if Ruthia could find a large pool of water for me to focus on. Beforehand, I think we should put off the fire. Not only is it dangerous for those under it, it could spread to the entire forest!" With these words, the blue-haired priestess went to the fire, quenching it with her delicate, bare hands.* *fire energy resistance, remember.
Drindin 02-02-05, 08:20 PM	Algared easily quenches much of the flames with his hands aswell, and retakes his position near the back of the group.
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 02-02-05, 10:38 PM	Trying not to show his anger at the lack of deaths Do to his false Agudo not even killing that Mazithra low life. O how he hated that thing after it sent Edwin away from Agudo school. "Well of course there are more pressing things to attend to! Bahh That’s obvious to see Piper.” Then with snicker he added. “But please say it so the lesser folks may know.”
Agudo Archmage 02-02-05, 11:10 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongladyhoot.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Lady Hoot raised an eyebrow as Shoudra showed a strained smile. “You are pleased this day? The snow owl waited to see deeper into the mind of the dark Red Wizard. (In Jail) Agudo waited for the answer from the Halfing Not trusting this simpile act of kindness.
Pipers Youth 02-04-05, 09:40 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley The two wizards moved easily throughout the gathered crowd of people in the town square, mostly because they were quickly issued aside by fear of the Thayan slavers biting ebon lashes. The drooling peasants, screaming for blood and torture, the excited almost elated guards working the crowd, and the unfortunate prisoners. This place was Slaves Carnival, a dreaded place were men, women, children, and even the elderly were auctioned off to the man with the fattest purse. This alone couldn't attract that many people. No, today was also the day when the prisoner caves emptied. In the booths aside, Piper beckoned Edwin to sit. "Please do take a seat, the show is about to start." Shoudra Balen Shoudra arched a brow and ran her delicate fingers through her long, black hair. "Happy is an understatement my dear familiar. I think joyous would better suite this feeling better. I was just thinking about how delighted it would be if you were out of that cage. In time though you will learn to trust me, and your loyalty for me strong. Cannot you see? Fate has brought us together!" Hafling Another trick perhaps? The Wizard of Light could not help but wonder. The dry blood in his mouth and strong almost desperate need for water was to much. Agudo like some simple begger on the street got down on his knees and took up the waterskin bag. With only one glance at the Halfling Agudo drank deeply Nearly choking on it he stoped after a minute. Panting as he spoke "Why? are you helping me?" "Just giving a dying man his last request. That's me job you see. Now drink up that water good, because it might be your last. Oh yes, now what might that be wizard? If ye can tell me, I'll do my best." Keldorn Firecam Keldorn watched with amazement as the Githerzai exploded into motion, covering long strides with amazing agility with an agile grace to reach him. Only then did he realize what was about. As the flames licked as his collar, seeming to breath down his neck, they just stopped. No, not stop but slowed down. Seeing this as an opportunity that the planear warrior bought him, the Knight dived to the side. Standing up he gave a grateful sigh and an appreciative nod to his friend. "Once again Mazithra you have proven your loyalty, whether it be warding off goblins from our grand School of Light, or saving a friend. Your skills are truly unmatched." "Keldorn, You're staying with me in the front. If you have an extra sword... I'm weaponless right now. My staff was destroyed in the blast." The Radiant heart Knight quickly ran towards Shades then. With a puzzled expression on his face he shrugged. "I'm afraid not, just my sword." Then Keldorn spots something in the corner of his eye and jumps to. Ofcourse this was a forest! There was bound to be some branches you could easily make into a weapon. Picking up a stout branch with a thick end he hands it to Shades. "Perhaps you could use this as a makeshift club?"
Drindin 02-04-05, 11:48 PM	Shades sighs, then gets an idea. "I'll be right back..." He rushes to his pack, and removes a utility knife - It had survived the blast, but wasn't a very good weapon. He cut down a small sappling. Bouncing it on a stone, he made sure there were no flaws before stripping it's branches and bark. "There we go. A new staff..."
Agudo Archmage 02-06-05, 12:10 AM	THAY JAIL AND THE HALFING "Just giving a dying man his last request. That's me job you see. Now drink up that water good, because it might be your last. Oh yes, now what might that be wizard? If ye can tell me, I'll do my best." Agudo with his one good eye blinked for a second before replying "Yes....my last request is that you excape from Thay. Go North to the Lands of Darmara" The Wizard of Light waited then added "The Halfing Race is gathering in great numbers there. Why? You may be thinking..... Destiny! Your kind shall some day claim the Lands of Thay for your very own. For the Red Wizards will fall! Mark my words! History be it Past or Future can not be undone" Agudo did not tell how these things shall take place He only tunred like some half crazed hermit and layed back down in the muck **** THE HOUSE OF SHOUDRA **** http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongladyhoot.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley SHOUDRA "Happy is an understatement my dear familiar. I think joyous would better suite this feeling better. I was just thinking about how delighted it would be if you were out of that cage. In time though you will learn to trust me, and your loyalty for me strong. Cannot you see? Fate has brought us together!" The traped Owl didnt blink nor respond at first She just looked deeply at the Lonely Wizard. Nor did Lady Hoot speak of how fikel Fate can be "For that to be true then soemday you will have to trust me by freeing me to if I stay For if Fate has been the bringer of this gathering ....then where is your faith?"
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 02-06-05, 01:04 AM	The Thayen Slave Pins The two wizards moved easily throughout the gathered crowd of people in the town square, mostly because they were quickly issued aside by fear of the Thayan slavers biting ebon lashes. The drooling peasants, screaming for blood and torture, the excited almost elated guards working the crowd, and the unfortunate prisoners. This place was Slaves Carnival, a dreaded place were men, women, children, and even the elderly were auctioned off to the man with the fattest purse. This alone couldn't attract that many people. No, today was also the day when the prisoner caves emptied. In the booths aside, Piper beckoned Edwin to sit. "Please do take a seat, the show is about to start." Edwin coverd his nose with a fine hankerchif. "Why must they smell so? If we are short on water then cant the gaurds urinate on them?" Then he laughed "Now I know why the slaves smell"
kulideb 02-06-05, 10:19 AM	~Will do~ The elf sent to the white dragon, ~Septis needs a pool of water, can you see any?~ she added. Once her message had been sent and while the others put out the last licks of fire, the elf closed her mind from all around her. A dark place, the image formed in her mind, red eyes glinting. ~come~ she comanded, and opened her eyes. For those who noticed, the shadows began to swirl, forming squat black bodies with eight leggs, five creatures in total. The shapes stayed in the shadows, red eyes looking at the group. "They are here." she said to Shades, Shady she could control, she just hoped she was strong enough to control his 'friends ' too. She sent a silent order to them, telling them to split up, some would go a head of the group while others would follow.
Khaira 02-06-05, 01:07 PM	""Once again Mazithra you have proven your loyalty, whether it be warding off goblins from our grand School of Light, or saving a friend. Your skills are truly unmatched." As Mazithra looked to Keldorn neither pride nor relief seemed to be reflected in the dutiful, resourceful Githerzai's eyes. With a steadfast gaze to Keldorn, and then to the rest of the group, he once again reiterated his previous statement. "It is of utmost importance that we act as one, singular team. We are few, and each one of us has a part to play in this rescue, if it is to be executed correctly or, for that matter, successfully. If we each go our own, separate way, and not as one, united force working together to achieve this one, ultimate goal, we all shall fall, and our lives shall be for naught. Furthermore, do not let any of the acts of these Red Wizards surprise you. They have their target and will, no doubt, achieve any and all means to keep their target in their greedy clutches." "Mazithra and Ruthia, I want you two to scout ahead. Ruthia, you relay your findings through Kulideb. Mazithra, check back every five minutes, or, if you have such abilities, relay them to me." Mazithra bowed to Shades, apparently the appointed leader of the rag-tag group. Steadying his massive great sword upon his muscled shoulder, the Githerzai bowed to the rest of the group. "I shall go forth, then, to see what dangers may await us and to, hopefully, seek out a means of safe passage through this unfamiliar and treacherous terrain. Take care not to fall into any more traps; I doubt not that the Red Wizards would let us traipse freely our way to rescue our friend and wizardly friend, particularly if they have a means for his life to be sacrificed to." With this warning, the Githerzai Warrior set out into the unknown wilds, his great sword now held at ready as his sharp eyes glanced to his right and left in search for signs of life, and his ears listened for signs of a trap that may be sprung in hopes to catch him unawares.
Duvhal Greenbottle 02-06-05, 09:15 PM	Flipping his silver dagger over his nimble fingers, Duvhal sighed. What a depressing job, listening to the delirious prisoners and their grand delusions. Then he thought back of how he came upon this job. Flashback "Get off me stage you dirty dogs or I'll run all you through! Break it up, and no you can't have your money back! Worst crowd ever, I'll tell you!" Like most entertaining bards most common problem, is one time or another in their career theirs always a tavern brawl fight or a squirmish. In this case Duvahal was standing on top of the bar, pan pipes in one hand, silver dagger in the other. Shaking back his dark black hair from his ears he kicked at the nearest half-orc climbing the bar with the bottom of his heel. As the orc fell clutching it's broken nose, Duvhal made his break. Grabbing his new earnings for the night and pulling his cloak tight, he jumped onto the orcs head and with amazing agility and grace, he leaped and dived for the door. Not before leaving a good cut or two. He emerged from the tavern into one of the many streets of Thay. Staring up at the moonlit sky, he admired it's beauty for but a brief moment, then bit his lip in frustration. "Why couldn't I become a highwayman in Silverymoon?" The hafling walked off into the night counting his measly earnings and looked for a place to rest the night. Not before he ran into a shady red robed character. The man had clearly seen his skills and seeked to aquire his services. Ofcourse the first that came to mind was robbery. End Flashback Biting his lip again he mumbled,"Watch guard, what kind of half end job is that?" Bored, he peered back into the latch where the wizard of light lay on the grungy floor, "Don't you doubt that I have been to Darmara and back, and I doubt that the folk there would want to take over this wretched place. I'll tell you what I can do. How's about a little bit o' music?" Taking out his panpipes the hafling starting playing, filling the building with soft melodic music.
Pipers Youth 02-14-05, 02:29 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley "You are to be charged with conspiracy and intent to heinously murder of Lord Teral, a visitor in exellent standing in out fair city! "Bah, I did no such thing! Innocent!" A hundred cries arose from the rampant crowd, as a rogue was marchedup to the platform and been told his gruesome fate. When the Slaver quieted the crowd he signaled forth. A box was brought forth that the slaver held high, turning it slowly so that the crowd could see it's ingenious design. The front was a metal mesh cage, the other three walls and the ceiling solid wood. The bottom was wooden as well, but it had a sliding panel that left an exit hole. The instrument was commonly known as the rat box. A rat would be pushed into the box, then the box would be put onto the unfortunate mans bare belly and the bottom door removed. Then the box would be lit on fire. The rat would escape through the only means possible-through the man. A gloved man came out holding the rat and quickly put the boxed creature in place ontop the prisoner's belly.The man eyes popped open in horror as he Slaver called,"Light the box!" Not so far away Piper groaned and tapped his foot, whispering a sarcastic, "Lovely." The trapped Owl didn't blink nor respond at first She just looked deeply at the Lonely Wizard. Nor did Lady Hoot speak of how fickle Fate can be "For that to be true then someday you will have to trust me by freeing me to if I stay For if Fate has been the bringer of this gathering ....then where is your faith?" Shoudra blinked several times, seemingly perplexed. Standing she made her way to the cage. Leaning in fingers brushing the clasp she seemed to hesitate, and then jerked back! In a hard, cold tone, far different form her usual musical voice she said in a single word,"No." Keldorn As Keldorn's club was rejected, all he could do was shrug and be done with it. Discarding it aside he watched The Githerzai warrior move ahead of the party, as well as the famed dragon of Pern Ruthia scouting from the sky's. It was good to know that they had eyes on ground and above. Fastening his gear properly he raised his sword high and shouted in a mighty voice," Now let us venture forth in these dangerous and feral lands and seek our beloved Agudo! No matter what perils and odds that are pinned against us, we shall prevail!"
Khaira 02-15-05, 01:15 PM	As Mazithra continued to move through the expanse of trees that formed this lush, yet deceiving, forest, his eyes dropped to the ground. Bending low, crouching on strong, muscles calves, the Githerzai traced footprints that he only now had seen. There were still some traces of life around here, other than the company of myriad adventurers, within this very forest. The tracks, too, weren't that old. Rising again, Mazithra continued walking down the path. Looking up to the skies, he searched out for signs of the dragon. Perhaps if he could get her attention, they could work together to find the source of life that was still existent within the forest.
Agudo Archmage 02-15-05, 07:39 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongagudo.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley The dripping stench near by continued it’s never ending plopping from the ceiling above. Yet the Halfling jailer offered a reprieve of sorts Duvhal Greenbottle "Don't you doubt that I have been to Darmara and back, and I doubt that the folk there would want to take over this wretched place. I'll tell you what I can do. How's about a little bit o' music?" Grunting as he turned over to get a better view of this chaotic fellow Agudo smirked and hoarsely replied “Something light hearted and happy” Elsewhere in Thay http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongladyhoot.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Shoudra Shoudra blinked several times, seemingly perplexed. Standing she made her way to the cage. Leaning in fingers brushing the clasp she seemed to hesitate, and then jerked back! In a hard, cold tone, far different form her usual musical voice she said in a single word,"No." Lady Hoot bowed her head “Ironic all that you hoped for is just a turn of a cage door away”
ruthia 02-16-05, 08:46 AM	Just as Mazithra thought about her he see's a shadow pass him over head. Glancing up he spots the white dragon flyin above him, now all he has to do is get her attention..........
Khaira 02-16-05, 11:10 AM	Looking up, the Githerzai Warrior felt, rather than saw, the rush of wind preceding the presence of the white dragon, Ruthia, the other one whom, like he, was scouting for the rescuers. Somehow, he had to get her attention, without drawing undue attention to himself. Thinking quickly, the Githerzai bent low, gathered a sizeable rock in his hand, and after feeling its weight and strength, sent it flying towards the white dragon. Then, letting his great sword that still rested in his hand fall to the ground, the Githerzai traced the symbols of the sigil that was engraved upon the amulet that hung about his neck. Closing his eyes, the Githerzai's mind attempt to reach out and contact the white dragon, whether or not the rock strikes her. O. o . My lady dragon, I seek your attention from my vantage point below. I seem to have located tracks and I believe it be best to attempt to seek out the source of these tracks. Your eyes and your speed and mobility in fleight is better than mine is; perhaps it'd be best if we work together as one in this.
kulideb 02-17-05, 04:24 AM	"Come, all the fires seem to be out now." Kulideb said, "We should try and catch up with Mazithra." She didnt like the idea of their group becoming too far apart from each other. Shades had finished his new staff and so they should be ready to leave. "My lady, are you ready to move?" she asked softly to Septis, she knew healing could drain the body, though she knew the elven lady was stronger than she looked.
ruthia 02-17-05, 08:41 AM	*Clunk* ....Hmm...What was that? Hovering in place Ruthia looks down in time to see a rock falling back towards the ground. It had just hit her tail before it fell. ...Some one's throwing rocks at me?? Looking down she spots Mazithra looking up at her. Just as Ruthia spots him she feels some sort of mind contact, though slightly gurble since it was trying to push through her mental barriers. O. o ............ dragon, I seek ......attention from.... vantage point........ ......................... located tracks.......................... attempt to seek out .... source ......... tracks. Your ....................................mobi lity.................................... ................better than mine is;................best if we work together as one in this. Ruthia spirals downward and lands on a tree branch slightly above the Githerzai Warrior. He then feels the light mental brush of Ruthia's mind as she says quietly to him. o O(Yes.)
Khaira 02-17-05, 12:23 PM	Crouching low, Mazithra motioned to the fresh tracks upon the ground, not speaking; barefoot, and not too old...Looking up to the white dragon, then, he spoke in quiet, cautious tones. "These tracks are still fresh; I am not trained in Tracking, and so I cannot tell what species these could be, though obviously they are humanoid. The group will, no doubt, need to know of this so that they may better prepare themselves for any encounters that we may have. Regardless, I believe it's imperative to locate the source of these tracks soon. If they are friendly or can be made into such, perhaps they would serve us as a guide through this forest. If not, then they must be avoided or disposed of at all costs of a threat against our lives and the lives of our companions. Your eyes are better than mine, particularly in your aerial mobility; had you seen any signs of life below or throughout the forest, other than animal wildlife?" Picking up his sword once again, the Githerzai leaned against a tree as he waited for Ruthia's answer.
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 02-18-05, 07:39 PM	Thay A hundred cries arose from the rampant crowd, as a rogue was marchedup to the platform and been told his gruesome fate. When the Slaver quieted the crowd he signaled forth. A box was brought forth that the slaver held high, turning it slowly so that the crowd could see it's ingenious design. The front was a metal mesh cage, the other three walls and the ceiling solid wood. The bottom was wooden as well, but it had a sliding panel that left an exit hole. The instrument was commonly known as the rat box. A rat would be pushed into the box, then the box would be put onto the unfortunate mans bare belly and the bottom door removed. Then the box would be lit on fire. The rat would escape through the only means possible-through the man. A gloved man came out holding the rat and quickly put the boxed creature in place ontop the prisoner's belly.The man eyes popped open in horror as he Slaver called,"Light the box!" Not so far away Piper groaned and tapped his foot, whispering a sarcastic, "Lovely." "Ahh now this is more like it Piper." Odesseiron waved over a saler of spiced suger nuts then after chomping down some he laughed at the rat and scared man "Buuhaahaa i hope the rat doesnt die eating that dirty swine"
Myranthor 02-19-05, 08:46 AM	Kulideb's intervention, as always, had been soft, and meant to hurt no one in its utterance, while she could,ve manifested impatience, or disgust. That woman should've tried a career as a diplomat, or as a renowned emissary. Maybe she wasn,t exactly tricky, particularly mischievous or scheming, but she had a genuine kindness that would make it hard for anbyone to be mad at her. "I am ready to elave with all of you", I answered her. "However, I thought I should wait to know if there was a pool of water nearby, or not. "
Duvhal Greenbottle 02-19-05, 09:12 AM	Duvhal fingers worked in a fluent up and down pattern as his breath went clearly through the end of the pan pipes. He played for a short while until he heard the wizard shuffling in his cell. Turning around he saw Agudo smirk and give a request. "Something light hearted and happy, eh? Scratching his chin deep in thought he noticed the man seemed to be in major discomfort. His nose bleed, cheeks were swollen profusely. And he coughed constantly. He had been beaten bad hence his arrival here. Duvhal felt a little sympathy for this man, which was surprising even to himself. Maybe he could make this man's time here just a little more pleasant. "How about one called 'Take My Hand, My Love.' As he pressed the instrument to his lips again and started playing, a light glow came over Agudo. ( The song cures moderate wounds)
ruthia 02-19-05, 05:10 PM	Ruthia sent a thought back to Kulideb before confering with Mazithra. o O(Friend, so far I have had no luck spotting water for our Cleric but I have other news you may need to pass along among the others. Mazithra has spotted some fairly fresh tracks belonging to an unknown being. I will let you know more If we spot what it is.) She then looks directly at Mazithra and says o O(No I didn't see anything. But these tracks look human. Should we follow them?)
Khaira 02-20-05, 05:38 PM	Mazithra nodded, looking down towards where the tracks led. He rose, his great sword once again resting in a ready position upon his shoulder. His eyes strayed back the way he came, and where the other members of the party awaited. "First, I think, I had best return to the main force of our group and notify them of what I have found. I will return shortly; if you want to begin looking around for more signs of whatever life-forms these tracks belong to, we can perhaps find them swifter."
ruthia 02-20-05, 06:06 PM	Ruthia chuckles inwardly o O(Mazithra you forget whom you are with. I've already been in contact with Kulideb, she is passing all the information we find along to the others. All I have to do is tell her we are following the tracks and she will let everyone else know.) Ruthia then recontacts Kulideb o O(Friend, we are following the tracks. They appear to be human.)
Khaira 02-20-05, 06:20 PM	Just as Mazithra was about to begin walking back to the group, the white dragon reminded him of her powers. Turning around, the Githerzai shrugged, calmly retorting to Ruthia. "I have a very long memory; there are not many things that I forget unless I choose to. Yet, how can I be expected to forget something that I have not known in the first place? I cannot read your mind as you, I am sure, can read mine, and so cannot know that you are constantly sending messages via the mind to your friend. Regardless, yes, let us follow the tracks; the more time we spend conversing here, the longer they recede from our outstretched fingers....or talons."
kulideb 02-21-05, 03:21 AM	"No, Septis our Dragon friend hasn't found any water yet, but she is still looking." Kulideb said to the graceful lady. The elf then turned to look at the rest of the group. "However Ruthia and Mazithra have spotted some fresh tracks, they are going to follow them." Kulideb moved over to Shades, her small hand rested on his arm. "Shall we follow after them, or wait here till they have more information?" she asked their leader.
ruthia 02-21-05, 09:44 AM	Ruthia looked at him and blinked her inner eyelid. o O(Sorry. I forget not everyone knows dragons as well as my young friend Kulideb does. Prehaps that is why it is so easy to talk to her.) With a soft flap of her wings she lands on the ground in front of Mazithra and looks at the tracks. Then with a couple more soft flaps of her wings Ruthia takes off back into the air and lands back in the trees. She looks at Mazithra to see if he's following then she hops over to the next tree along the trail........
Drindin 02-21-05, 11:06 AM	Shades rested his hand ontop of her own. "You and I shall go..." He looked over at Algared, Septris and the rest. "You remain here. If we do not return within three hours, go on a head. Septris, I trust you enough to let you remain in charge until such time as my return."
Pipers Youth 02-21-05, 11:17 AM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley As the crude box was lit, the rat began it's escape. The unfortunate mans eyes grew large and he gave a howl. The crowd absolutely loved it. Hooting and screaming it was almost something you could expect from a band of goblins. After several minutes the man slumped back against his post, and the vermin fell from the gaping, bloody hole at the end of his back. As the corpse was dragged from the stands the line continued. Now a feisty women with short light hair, and daggers for eyes was forced next. She bit, spit, and tried to kick her way out , even when her hands were tightly bond by rope. Out of pure luck it seemed that she struggled free from the slaver. As he went down holding his crotch she leapt off into the crowd and sprinted. She almost would of made it past the drooling gnoll guards for not a bolt of crackling lightening struck her square in her chest that sent her flying backwards into a pile of crates. Everyone turned to regard the wizard who issued the attack. Piper seeing the women wasn't moving patted his hands in the air and sat down. The area around him still sizzling with the remnants of magical energies. He shouted and bade the slavers to continue. Shoudra Going against her better judgment, Shoudra reached forward once more and removed the clasp. As the enchantments dissipated the bar creaked open. Brushing her hair back she extended her arm for Lady Hoot. "It seems I have more faith then you believe." Keldorn As Keldorn made his way down the same path Mazithra had taken Shades then announced that he and Lady Kuldeb were to venture forth without them. And the Cleric Septris was to remain in charge. Kheldorn dug his heels in the dirt and spun around toward Shades. Red faced and frustrated he sputtered, "But..but.. we don't have that kind of time! Think about Agudo, he might be hanging in the gallows by sunset." He pointed a stubby finger to the sky emphasizing his point.
Khaira 02-21-05, 10:00 PM	As Mazithra began to move down the path, his movement was halted, suddenly, by the sharp twang! of a bow, quickly followed by an uproarious battle cry. Turning around, his great sword already at the ready, the Githerzai peered into the brush. He could make out the figure quite easily, now that it was moving to nock another arrow to its bow. His long, sinewy legs moving quickly, the Planar Warrior rushed through the trees, feeling, at the same time, the intimidating aura that his sword was now emitting.* When he was within reach of the figure, instead of striking at the ambusher, the Githerzai executed the converse, launching his whole body weight into the surprise attacker, while roaring out loud some, seemingly, nonsensical phrase which, at first, sounding incoherent and purely gibberish, soon began to make sense! "Ambush, ambush! Make all haste, comrades!" * 30 foot fear aura
ruthia 02-22-05, 07:36 AM	*Twang!* What the heck..... *THUNK* Wha......???? Ruthia looks down again as yet another annoying object smacks her scales. Luckly for her that even in this pint size she was still completely covered in rather impervious scales all the way down her neck and onto her lower belly. Now if the aim had been a little lower..... Ruthia looks down to yell at Mazithra when she hears him cry AMBUSH! Shocked Ruthia see's the man with the bow aiming at her again. Rather then be a sitting target though, Ruthia dives at him Attempting to grab him by his hair and make life rather painful for this ambusher...
Drindin 02-22-05, 11:58 PM	Shades headed foreward. "And if we don't proceed with caution, we'll all be headless and babbling." He made his way foreward. "If you're that worried, you may proceed after an hour." AMBUSH! Shades looked about sternly. "On second thought.... TO ARMS!" He charges foreward, brandishing his Quarter staff, ready to pummel the first hostile that approaches. "Try and hold them off... take someone for questioning if you can... scatter the rest!"
Agudo Archmage 02-23-05, 01:07 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongagudo.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Agudo did feel better at tap his foot at the jig “You must of had a good teacher in the arts of music to be so talented”The wizard of Light smiled at the Halfling http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongladyhoot.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Lady Hoot smiled as the clasp was removed “Thank you and as you can see your faith has be rewarded I haven’t flown the coop as they would say” The wise owl wanted to find Agudo and new the best way was to stay near the Lonely Red Wizard
Myranthor 02-26-05, 10:21 AM	The kind Kulideb relayed to me Ruthia's lack of discoveries, hence snuffing out any chances that I could, right now, use a scrying spell to discover anything about our missing friend. In fact, I could have done it, but doing so would,ve costed me a great deal of energy, would've necessitated to use my own will, my desires, my bones and nerves as the focus of the spell, instead of using the tender and bountiful marvels of mother Eldath. However, the group's attention was soon diverted to another matter, the fresh tracks observed further down the road by our trusted scout, delivering me from consciously lying to them about that last and crucial detail. At first, Shades decided to elave with Kulideb to help Mazithra beyond, keeping Keldorn, Algared and me in the rear, probably hoping that we'd save Agudo, would they be found by their mark before they found it. Our leader even named me temporary chief of this little squad, proving the new trust he had in me, probably guessing that I was the one who had the less desire to leave our spot to go battle along the rest of the troops. However, Mazithra's surprising shout snapped all of us of our relaxed debate, drawing all of us to him, as I remembered all the spellsI had prayed for in the morning, wondering which one would be the most useful to minimize the bloodshed my demented companions relished.
kulideb 02-27-05, 05:41 AM	While she wanted them all to press on and save Agudo, Shades was right they need to act cautiously....though the matter was taken out of their hands as a shout reached them. Kulideb closed her eyes and called out to her spiders. ~Find the attackers~ she ordered them. Opening her eyes she unsheathed her sword and dashed off after the others. The spiders moved through the shadows swiftly, their many eyes on the look out for the owners of the arrows.
Pipers Youth 02-27-05, 07:52 PM	"An easy kill for today, all I have to do is make a solid shot and...Puffff." As David was lining up another shot, he suddenly hesitated. Panic seemed to overwhelm him. He found himself unable to move, stricken by fear. Then he was tackled backwards by a muscular form that blasted the air out of him. On he fell to the forest floor, his vision blurring he caught the last glimpses of his consciousness. A warrior with yellowish hue on his skin, and a great ruined carved sword. Also a pair of tiny wings and claws closing in on him. How strange it was indeed.
Drindin 02-27-05, 10:34 PM	Shades looked at the others. "Hold! Let him up and let him speak for himself!"
ruthia 02-28-05, 09:59 AM	When the man goes down just before Ruthia gets a handful of his hair So the resulting motion lands her right on his chest. She looks up in time to see Mazithra running right at her with his sword up. Panicking she curls into a ball and uses her mind to push out a force that will hopefully stop any sword that Mazithra swings at her.................
Khaira 02-28-05, 11:27 AM	...But Mazithra swung no sword, instead using the weight of his body and the momentum of his current speed to launch himself into the grizzled, middle-aged man. As Githerzai, Human, and Dragon all landed in a heap (with the human on the bottom...), Mazithra leaned close, taking note of the man's features; his clothes were torn and wore out, his face bore the stubble of what could only be a beard, and he looked (and smelled...) of one who hadn't bathed in...a while. Grabbing him by the neck of the collar, the Githerzai's strong hands lifted the sneaky man up from the ground, his pale yellow eyes leering dangerously close to the man. When he spoke his voice was soft and lacked tonality, and it was in this monotonous expression of his voice that bore the intimidating quality. "Who are you? Why did you attack us? If you do not answer me, I will rip your body parts from you limb by limb."
ruthia 02-28-05, 02:09 PM	*THUMP* *CRUNCH* *EEPPP* When Ruthia finally recovered from being squished between two much larger beings she finds herself hanging upside down from the captives torn shirt. With another *THUMP* She lands headfirst on the ground. Shaking her head to clear it she wobbles over to Kulideb and the others whom where just running into the area. With a full body shake she looks up at Kulideb, then slowly walks up Kulideb's body till reaching her shoulders, being careful not to rip Kulideb's clothes or hurt her in anyway as she does. Once comfortably perched on Kulideb, Ruthia proceeds to look herself over as she waits to her the odd attackers answers......
Myranthor 03-02-05, 08:32 PM	Of course. Of course, they couldn't simply try to neutralize him, try to keep him form ahrming them simply. They had to play with their sharp claws, they had to jump directly at him, to roll on the ground, to feel their blood run faster in their veins, to see themselves as the great heroes they all tried to emulate, for lack of stronger faith to bellieve in. I looked at Mazithra in bewilderment, stunned by the nonsense of plunging his opponnent in the ground like that, when his enemy was alone against the seven of us. Jogging to the stilled bodies lying on the floor, I touched the forehead of the stranger, hoping to divert form his mind his any agressive or spiteful thoughts he might have.* *pacifying touch : there's no saving throw or resistance, to this. BOED
Pipers Youth 03-03-05, 12:05 AM	Soon Shoudra was walking the busily streets of Thay once more, bringing along Lady Hoot as well. By this time the sun had slowly started to descend onto the hilltops. This seemed to be her favorite time of day, so she was now in a rather pleasant mood. She walked with wide grin and a skip in her step. Yes, indeed! This was going to be a splendid day for Shoudra Balen. Meanwhile Piper was not having such a splendid day. More perturbed than anything. "My patience wears thin for this game. Why don't they just kill them all at once and be done with it!" "Not as easy a task as you seem to believe," came a feminine voice form behind the two, Piper glanced over to see Shoudra leaning over his chair, dressed in a long gown slit high enough to reveal one very shapely leg. He followed that leg all the way up to her bosum,to her long dark hair tied neatly in a ribbon, to her delicate shoulders. Upon her shoulder sat a plump white figure by the name of Lady Hoot. "Why, you!," said Piper coming forward from his comfortable chair. "What is she doing out of that cage! You are out of your mind Shoudra, walking freely in public with her!" Piper seemed to hiss and grabbed at Lady Hoot, but Shoudra took hold of his hand."If you as so much lay a finger on her, you will find yourself without someone to warm your bed at night." Shoudra gave a sly pout. She loved how women have that power over men that so rends them helpless. She could bend him to her very will if she so pleased. Piper just grumbled, but he still patted his chair for Shoudra to go over and sit with him, which she did, curling about him familiarly. ooc(will post rest later...to tired to go on.)ooc
kulideb 03-03-05, 06:35 AM	~stay back~ Kulideb sent to the spiders as neared the the jumbled group. The elf put her sword away and watched as Septis moved forward to touch the stranger. "Are you all right?" she asked as the small form of Ruthia made its way up to her shoulder, an image of another small lizard sitting there came to her mind..Brad, but now was not the time to think about the past.
ruthia 03-03-05, 07:46 AM	Ruthia shakes her head as if clearing it. o O(He's heavy! I don't think I like playing pickle in the middle!)
Pipers Youth 03-05-05, 03:23 PM	As David's head swooned with blurred images, he heard the foot faults of more people coming his way. Then he was roughly hoisted up by his color by strong arms. He cried out in in a mixture of anger, and fright. Shades looked at the others. "Hold! Let him up and let him speak for himself!"" "Who are you? Why did you attack us? If you do not answer me, I will rip your body parts from you limb by limb." Then all was quiet it seemed. Everything that was happening seemed not to matter anymore. His mind was clear, he felt a tranquil peace wash over him. Had he passed on from this world, and had gone to the bountiful land of his patron deity? No, this was not the case. As David opened his eyes he found a young elven women by his side dressed in the gown of robes. He also felt the soft touch of her fingertips on his forehead, a soft energy was being poured into him. David paid no heed to anyone else around him. He just plaintively stared at her.
Myranthor 03-05-05, 04:47 PM	When I distinguished, in the archer's eyes, a familiar glimpse, the usual, flickering light of those calmed by Nienna's kind touch, I drew back my hand to me, sitting peacefully next to the lone prisonner. "Greetings, friend." I told him in a reassuring tone, smiling gently to him. " I do not know what you think of it but, personnally, I don't believe having someone landing over you is particularly comfortable. Would you please swaer an oath not to attack or interfere with us in any way? Once this will be done, you'll be spiritually linked to the respect of your serment, and the vigor of your soul as strong as the respect you'll offer to your words. I know you have no desire to attack any of us right now, and that swearing this is only a minor technicality for you, now that you know that you are with hospitable companions. I swear in exchange, personnally, not to harm you in any way, as a proof of my trust in your good will. Please do so, as my companion will be able to loosen his grasp over you, and as we'll be able to converse more freely without mefiance and doubt asting their dark shadows over our hearts."
Drindin 03-07-05, 01:18 AM	Shades looked on, not actually having struck the man. "Well? Can we deal with this any quicker? We need to push forth. We've come this far, and we haven't got much time!"
ruthia 03-07-05, 11:41 AM	With a a quick downward flip of her wings, Ruthia takes off from Kulideb's shoulder into the air. Slowly she gains altitude, till the group is far below her. She banks to the right and begins circling around the group in wide, eratic circles, staying alert in case another danger tries to approach the group as they deal with this new person.
kulideb 03-10-05, 06:59 AM	Kulideb watched the little dragon take flight, her eyes followed Ruthia's path for a while before she once more focused on their group. "Have a little patience." she said softly to Shades as she slipped her arm through his. "Any one can make a Prisoner talk, but we need him to speak the truth, let Septis try." she said in hushed tones, giving his arm a gentle squeeze and resting her head upon his shoulder.
Khaira 03-10-05, 01:13 PM	Mazithra's grip loosened around his newly discovered captive as Septris worked the goddess-given power of her magic to incite a newfound calm within the ambusher. Though his face was as expressionful as stone, his white knuckles were evidence itself of the frustration he felt. His grip, though, finally relaxed and he let up his hand, standing, and moving out of the forest to retrieve his great sword. Looking, then, down the path which he had been following, the Githerzai Warrior shook his head, looking at the pair, now alone, in the length of foliage and trees. "How disillusioned does one have to be to see that peaceful relations are not what he wants...?" Turning then, to Shades, Mazithra pointed down the path, the blade of his great sword leading the way. "I shall be up ahead, ensuring that no further traitorous individuals await to ambush us from the hidden visage of the trees." Then, with his great sword balanced upon his broad shoulder, the Githerzai made his way back down the path again, once again resuming the search for suspicious actions and people.
Pipers Youth 03-10-05, 09:37 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley Seemingly bored Piper sighed and blew a stream of chill air through his parted lips, night was coming and a cold draft started to come down upon Bezantur. He looked over to Shoudra who was gingerly scratching Lady Hoots tuff under her chin. He replayed the turn of events that had taken place over the last few days. The journey to Candlekeep to meet Agudo in a secluded Inn, where under his masters command he would lure him to Thay. Then his grueling imprisonment. During that time the tyrant Shoudra Balen had unexpectedly felt it her duty take in Agudo's companion as her own familiar. And not to mention the group that his resources reported in Ganathwood. That where rumored to no doubt come to rescue they're beloved Headmaster, or avenge his death. And also the alliance with a hot headed Red Wizard by the name of Edwin, who proved to be quite resourful. He was suddenly stirred from his thoughts as burly man's head was lopped off, and sent rolling into the screaming crowd. Something flickered in his head then, and he spoke aloud to Shoudra and Edwin. "The Alamber Sea..." Back at Agudo's Cell Agudo did feel better at tap his foot at the jig “You must of had a good teacher in the arts of music to be so talented”The wizard of Light smiled at the Halfling Duvhal's heart seemed to lighten a bit when he saw the wizard partially recover, and even tap his foot. As he finished the last verse of the tune he replaced his pan pipes back in his pouch and leaned over to the opening in the iron door. "Well, thankya, but it was nothing. Growing up in Luiren you learn a thing or two about music. Duvhal frowned when he thought about his most fond profession "The people here however are not so fancy to that kind of thing. Especially the orcs and gnolls you got living here, and I do hate orcs. So pray tell stranger, I never did come upon your name?" The Forest As Mazithra let him go, David's knees came resting to the ground. Still he stared upon the tranquil women while she spoke. Every word she spoke came in harmony with his mind. "I do swear and oath my Lady, not to harm any of you." Keldorn Keldorn tired of standing stabbed his sword face down in the dirt and leaned on his hilt. He watched as Mazithra released the scruffy lad and picked another path to scout. He almost went with him for not Ruthia had just taken off as well. He also noted there leader Shades impatiently shouted orders like he had once done not long ago, and Kulideb trying to coax the man gently. He smiled at the notion of the couple, they did indeed fancy eachother, and they're relationship had sprouted. The Radiant Heart Knight then focused his attention to the more immediate thing. He watched curiously as Septris seemed to put the man in a trance state, yet on his own free will. Maybe her ideals of doing things were better in these circumstances, rather than everyone else's conventual ways.
Drindin 03-10-05, 10:22 PM	Shades simply sighed, his head gently resting itself upon her own. "Then, for love of you, I shall wait..." He nodded to Mazithra. "If you do find any... see if you can make sure they don't know they've been spotted. We will try to bypass them if we can... the less trouble we cause back here, the less we may need to face up ahead." Algared looked about, sniffing at the air. All seemed in perfect order, though his axe was being unusually quiet. He set the giagantic weapon head down, and handle up, leaning on it in a similar fasion to Keldorn.
Agudo Archmage 03-11-05, 01:58 PM	Halfing Duvhal "Well, thankya, but it was nothing. Growing up in Luiren you learn a thing or two about music. Duvhal frowned when he thought about his most fond profession "The people here however are not so fancy to that kind of thing. Especially the orcs and gnolls you got living here, and I do hate orcs. So pray tell stranger, I never did come upon your name?" As the halfling spoke Agudo tryed to move a brused arm but thought better of it Yet he could see spots in his puffy left eye At least he hope that was agood sign "My name? some call me the wizard of Light Others Teacher....Headmaster...Book Writter Take your pick But you may call me by my given name Agudo"
Agudo Archmage 03-11-05, 02:03 PM	Well another of my NOT so secret Masks has slip off :embarrass D"OH! :P
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 03-11-05, 02:08 PM	Ediwn looked at Piper "What are you yelling about? And why is that half baked bird brain Lady Hoot out of her gilded cage? Must Shoudra mess up are plans so easily? This is why women should stay at home where they belong Barefoot and baring children"
Myranthor 03-13-05, 01:25 PM	I smiled warly after the foreigner's last words, changing my stance slightly on the ground, sitting more comfortably. Hopefully, the following conversation would be lengthy and highly interesting. I was extremely satisfied that,. for once, my high ideals had served me well. All the painstaking sacrifices, the years spent without a dime in my empty pockets, the vulnerability and countless laughs caused by my pacific principles found in this moment their ultimate motivation, as I neutralized, inoffensively, a lethal threat. "Thank you for your trust and your friendship" I told the foreigner. "First of all, I'd be interested in knowing your name, and learning why you were in this forest, hidden, trying to shoot flying dragons who weren't even threatening. "
Agudo Archmage 03-13-05, 04:48 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongladyhoot.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Lady Hoot huffed and leaned into Shoudra ear “Are you going to let that squealing mammal insult us? Have I been dragged half way around Fearun just to be insulted?” She wasn’t really mad but felt that this was good opportunity to divide this cabal of evil doers”
Pipers Youth 03-15-05, 06:55 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley Piper wasn't even concerned about what Edwin had said, he was to lost in his thoughts to even notice. Instead he rubbed his chin and started to speak once more. "Yes, If they are able to get out of Ganathwood, the next place to go would be the port town Sultim. To cross the Alamber Sea! Shoudra, how fast can you prepare a ship to leave port? We need to be there first to intercept them. "Shoudra?!" Shoudra Shoudra had been enjoying herself. She was lovingly still stroking Lady Hoot's chin and was warm cuddled against her partner. The roaring of the crowd was thrilling to her. Until Edwin opened his mouth.... Now she had slid off Pipers knee and was standing with one hand on her hip staring fiercely at Edwin. Her temper even flared more with Lady Hoot whispered into her ear. Her lip was curled into a snarl and her face was a shade of bright red. "Your plans! Barefoot and baring children! How dare you speak in that manner to me, and my familiar! I will have your tongue ripped out so not a word could be spoken out of that foul mouth, and your finger and toe nails plucked one by one. Then I will flay you body over the fiery pits of the Abyss. Hence chaining your stinking burnt corpse in the foulest, rat infested dungeon in Thay. And when you hope to die from starvation, I will keep you alive only by feeding you your own flesh! But ofcourse, you won't know any better when you haven't any eyes. Shoudra swept her arm out to the platform where the newest victim's demise brought a blood curtling scream to the crowd. "If you think this is bad, you can't imagine the fury I will invoke upon you Edwin Odesseiron you shrew of a Red Wizard!" Duvhal "Well, Agudo, it seems you've built up quite a reputation for yourself if the Red Wizards came seeking you out. Right now there is a lot of slave trading going on. I don't really know for sure, but some say they are planning to expand there Empire. To build more Enclaves all across Faerun. Perhaps to eliminate those that they would fear to stand in the way?" Duvhal sat back against the cold wall and crossed his legs waiting for a reply. Back at the Forest David watched as the women smiled and got into a more comfortable position. The cuts and bruises from the skirmish did seem to not sting anymore. Rubbing his shoulder and shifting his posture to as to stare face to face with the elf he spoke. "My name is David Marik, and I live in the forest with the others ever since we fled from Thay when I was a young boy. And I shot at the dragon because it was in our territory. It wasn't that big, and I thought I could take it."
Drindin 03-15-05, 09:11 PM	Algared turns his back on most of the group, patrolling to keep an eye out for trouble. Shades looks towards Kulideb, softly reaching up to stroke back her hair. Algared finally sits down on the ground, legs crossed, his axe resting on his shoulder, handle down, the blunt inside edge of the head hanging off his neck. His ear twitches occasionaly, but otherwise he simply seems to be sitting there, listening for... something... *Cue for you, Piper!
ruthia 03-15-05, 09:16 PM	As David Marik tells his story, Ruthia quietly circles above the group again. After a while she spots something. o O( People fire? Must be.) She sends down to Kulideb o O(There are others in the area. I see smoke not far from here. Maybe a camp or home of sorts from how steady the smoke is.)
Myranthor 03-19-05, 12:48 PM	I nodded calmly at his last words, having not yet still perfectly accepted that most creatures needed to kill, to murder, to eviscerate other living, sometimes sentient beings simply to keep their own bodies form withering of inanition. "And why, " I said with a saddened tone, "had you and your friends left the realm of Thay to live int hese woods? What kind of lives did you lead back then, and what kind of lives are you leading nowadays?"
Drindin 03-19-05, 01:35 PM	"More specificaly... Why run to woods so close to thay? Surely there are further, better places you could have set up camp?" Shades said, quite passively.
Agudo Archmage 03-23-05, 01:16 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongagudo.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley The smell of this dank dark hole in the ground was almost as bad as the thought of free people being shackled into slavery “This din of evil shall fall some day and as I have said before the Halfling race shall be a part in it.” ((Speaking of din of evil)) http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongladyhoot.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Lady Hoot listened as Shoudra verbally rip into the prideful Red Wizard. She could see Edwin’s face change to the color of his blood red robe. She could see Piper didn’t like being ignored by the others as his partners squabbled Well that alone was some satisfaction as Piper like some comical jester tried to get attention for himself. Yet Lady Hoot wondered what Edwin would do after such a clear challenge by Shoudra
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 03-23-05, 01:25 PM	Shoudra "Your plans! Barefoot and baring children! How dare you speak in that manner to me, and my familiar! I will have your tongue ripped out so not a word could be spoken out of that foul mouth, and your finger and toe nails plucked one by one. Then I will flay you body over the fiery pits of the Abyss. Hence chaining your stinking burnt corpse in the foulest, rat infested dungeon in Thay. And when you hope to die from starvation, I will keep you alive only by feeding you your own flesh! But of course, you won't know any better when you haven't any eyes. Shoudra swept her arm out to the platform where the newest victim's demise brought a blood curdling scream to the crowd. "If you think this is bad, you can't imagine the fury I will invoke upon you Edwin Odesseiron you shrew of a Red Wizard!" Odesseriron folded his arms and huffed with anger Yet he then laughed “Was it something I said? It was just a suggestion.....Ha!.....keep yer shoe on then But the thought of you having me helpless and at your comand....hmmmm” Turning to Piper he whispered “I can see you like a lover that is as crazy in bed as in out” Laughing more “It looks like the bird has replaced you Piper...at least in her heart” Edwin Glanced at Shoudra and Hoot
kulideb 03-25-05, 09:06 AM	Kulideb looked up at a creature flying high above them, she closed her eyes. ~I will let the others know~ she sent to the dragon. Her grip tightened on Shades arm. "Ruthia has spotted a fire and poeple not to far from here." She whispered softly to their leader.
Pipers Youth 03-26-05, 06:42 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley As my two counterparts were arguing I took into upon myself to begin casting the simple teleportation spell that would take me right outside Agudo's cell. Teleporting to the inside the cell could proof deadly, with the wide assortment of enchantments and spells that were placed on the door to keep the powerful mage in. Speaking the last syllable of the spell I caught the familiar glimpse of the Weave as spellcasters called it. It is the conduit in which spellcasters use to channel magical energy for their spells, the body of Mystra, The Goddess of Magic. Now I would use it to shape my will, and disrupt the flow. Swirling blue energies now entwined and rapped Piper into a shroud of magic that rushed around him, enveloping him until he vanished. Opening his eyes he was no longer in the fray of the screaming crowd, but in a damp and dreary hall he had later visited this day. As Piper followed the hall, his bellowing robes muffling footfall's, the small shadowy silhouette of a figure appeared. "You are dismissed from your post sentry, now go home. The Red Wizard called out reaching into his robes a pulling out a small sack bulging with coins. Soon after throwing it to the ground the figure disappeared into the shadows with his payment. Now was the task of opening the door occupying it's dangerous captive. Knowing Agudo, he would be fast on the way to recovery, and well capable of defending himself. Piper now started the tedious task of removing all the safeguards, one wrong move and a trap could go off triggering a chain reaction to the rest, a mistake he could not afford. After disabling the last trap he turned the lock and began opening the door. Shoudra "Don't you think I heard that, you snake! I contest working with you, I absolutely..... Shoudra too sensed the presence of magic working here, and immediately spun around to see Piper vanish from site. In his velvet plush seat was a neatly folded parchment. Walking over to it, she shot a glare towards the smiling Edwin before snatching up the note. Using her sharp nails Shoudra tore the seal off and stared skeptically at what was written. It was the name of a pirate Captain well known in the coast of Thay, and was now docked at it's shores. Spitting curses under her breath Shoudra tossed the note aside. "I suppose this means we our going to port." Back at the Forest As David began to recount his story to the elven cleric, there was a deep sorrow in his voice. "We are a tribe of escaped slaves from Thay and Mulhorand who have found a home here. We were chattels, like livestock, merely someone else's property. As a source of cheap labor you may say for the economy, sold for 50 gold pieces...Some of us escape our cruel taskmasters and flee for this forest. This is the only home we know of now and we learn to make do with what my people can scrape together."
Agudo Archmage 03-28-05, 09:55 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongagudo.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Without looking up even before he heard the footsteps coming down the dank hall Agudo could since the familiar aura of the once respected friend Agudo lay there on the stiff bench not even opening his emerald eyes as Piper came into view “Whats this?” The Wizard of Light said with jest in his voice “You have come my old pupil (Cough)... to hear an enchanted story of Heroical deeds of Goodness....or perhaps learn a new spell or two......” With a sad soft laugh Agudo raised his head “What brings you to my humble abode....... Piper
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 03-28-05, 10:03 PM	Edwin shook his head at Piper as he vanished but saw an opportunity to jest more with his girlfriend. “Ahh alone at last...you really shouldn’t make Piper jealous over your interest in me” She seems to ignore his last comment as Shoudra read the note. “Docks?.....So be it lets get out of this boring place Only five deaths in an hour!”
Drindin 03-29-05, 12:36 AM	Algared grips his axe, as though repressing a violent urge of some kind.
Mazithra-Amakiir 04-01-05, 11:48 PM	As Mazithra made his way down the path, he soon was out of the vicinity of the peace-loving priestess and the group leader. He shook his head, his thoughts troubling his mind; this group seemed to be doomed from the start. Their conflicting interests and difference in methods were causing the group to slowly deteriorate. If they ever got to Agudo, would the relations from the group be... Suddenly, Mazithra's eyes caught something on the ground, pulling him out of his thoughts. Looking down, he noticed a small leaf indented in the ground, crushed by a footprint. This was no human footprint, however...in fact, as Mazithra continued to move further along the seldom used path, he noticed human footprints mingled with non-human ones. Furthermore, these footprints were barely 2 hours old... Hefting his great sword to a ready position in anticipation for this mystifying find, the Githerzai began to slowly creep forward again. One minute, two, three, then four minutes of following the tracks passed when suddenly, he stopped. His yellowed eyes narrowed into the distance as he again stopped, the new sound picked up by his perceptive ears causing him undue worry. Screaming humans...women and children. But there was another sound, too...battle cries. Primordial snarls. And the smell of smoke... The Githerzai Warrior broke into a run, then, crashing through bush and tree leaves until he came to a small plateau over looking a valley. There, below him, within the valley was a small village. A small, burning village, in fact. In that village were human women and children. Screaming women and children. Bodies already lay littered on the ground; bodies of poor, defenseless humans already slaughtered; several of the buildings were already alight, set to fire by human-sized creatures. Yet, they were not humans, could not be because their bodies were covered in fur and, as one turned around, Mazithra's fears were confirmed. He had encountered - and killed many - of these vile creatures throughout his travels. Gnolls. Horrid creatures which gathered in large packs to kill, plunder, burn...and rape. They were ugly creatures, dog-faced, covered in fur, and utterly savage, brutal, and depraved. From his vantage point on this small, grassy plateau, Mazithra could see the whole scene. Far across the village, several of the creatures were making off with several armloads of loot. In another location, gnolls were feasting on the flesh of a couple of the victims, sinewy muscle of the feast hanging from their canine jaws. And below him was a woman, being held down by two gnolls while a third stood above her, grinning gleefully, making primal, guttural sounds of sinister intentions. His yellowed eyes widened at the atrocities being committed here in this small village, as he readied his great sword. His eyes narrowed at the creature below him, prepared to ravage the innocent women. Justice must be served to these creature. They would not escape from this invasion alive. Throwing his head back, the Githerzai roared a ferocious battle cry that seemed to reverberate throughout the forest of the trees. Then, pointing his great sword at the village, and the gnolls who were destroying that village, he shouted his demands to the savage creatures. "Infidels! Stop the sacrilege against this life! YOUR LIVES ARE FOREFEIT!" With those words, the gnolls below him looked up, surprised to see the tall, formidable creature talking. Talking to them. His yellowed eyes focusing on the creature preparing to take the restrained woman for his own, Mazithra's sinewy, toned leg muscles tensed and then he leaped, the blade of his great sword positioned downward. The creature growled and begin to heft his battle axe just as Mazithra's sword pierced the head of the gnoll. As the body split in half and the creatures blood and guts began to ooze out, Mazithra turned to the other two, a grim look of death-promising fury displayed upon his features. "Ye should've ne'er come this day." Holding his sword straight out, level for one of the creatures, he lunged forward, impaling the gnoll in the stomach. Grasping the hilt of the blade with both hands, he slid his sword up through the creature's head, effectively cleaving the upper half of the body clean in two. Unfortunately for Mazithra, the second creature took the opportunity that it saw and thrust a vicious, crude spear into the his side. Mazithra, looking down at the spear, winced for a moment, but then seemed to shrug the pain off. He had endured far worse grievances in Limbo, during his rogue years. "Sorry. Ye'll have to try harder in yer next life." Mazithra kicked out quickly, catching the creature squarely in the stomach and then, as it crouched over, his great sword flashed swiftly across the creature's throat. As the creature toppled forward, clutching its throat in a vain attempt to halt the escaping hair, his great sword flashed across the creatures neck, sending the now beheaded gnoll's head flying over one of the burning huts. Turning to the woman then, he let his sword fall to his side, resting on the ground, and pointed up towards the plateau and the path that he had come. "Get out of here. Follow the path; it will lead you to safety. " Without bothering to wait for the woman to respond, either in gratitude or fear, he turned to the encroaching chaos that threatened the lives of all these villagers. Raising his sword above his head, Mazithra again shouted forth his rage to the savage creatures. "Scum of the earth, you shall threaten these people no longer! Come meet your death!!!" Two gnolls who, unfortunately for them, had just gotten done slaughtering another group of villagers looked to Mazithra as he shouted a challenge. In the next second, Mazithra was charging, the muscles of his arms bulging as his great sword was held out straight ahead of him. The two gnolls, barely able to act in time, were impaled by the blade and then, as Mazithra continued running, he lifted his great sword up, and jerked the blade behind him, sending the two gnolls - complete with a dent sized hole in their chest - flying behind him as he continued charging towards the fray of the next battle.
Myranthor 04-02-05, 02:58 PM	Without any hint of mefiance, the young man had explained, albeit briefly, what he had lived through during the last years, explaining the harsh conditions in which he and his kind had to survive, meeting with every new day several more difficult and unforgiving obstacles. Yet, their hearts proved stronger than the ruthless reality in which they wre caught, as they moved away from their secure, yet painful prisons, to reach an unknown environment in which they built a new, emerging society. Their inspiring courage and stoic determination to withstand their unfair fate was touching, a marvelous ode to all the downtrodden of Faerun, those who never believed, whose who failed to see how they could better their own reality, those who surrender in the face of adversity rather than comfort themselves in the beauty, the gentleness and the support of their friends and companions. After all, not everything was lost, and many still were shining promises for the benevolent utopia we all dreamt of in the few ranks of our congregation. "I understand" I answered David, a radiant smile upon my lips, meaningful symbol of the immense joy that had filled my bountiful heart. "Could you help us reach the land of the Red Wizards without any problems? We'd rather not be noticed, for we have often heard of many simple travelers who were robbed or attacked by strange aberrations, mindless undead, or even members of the tharchions' guard themselves. You must know these lands far better than we do, and having an experienced traveler with us would be of a great assistance to us. "
Pipers Youth 04-05-05, 11:39 PM	"I'm disappointed Agudo, what no giant gale wind to blow me over cracking my head on the wall to make your hastily escape, or perhaps a striking ray of light to stun me? Truly you are growing weak as you age, but I thought The Grand Wizard of Light never grew a day past his prime. As for the story, don't flatter yourself. I'd rather not here another tale of how those Chosen Seven wretches save the world again. Piper strolled over to the open center of the chamber replacing the ward and lit a hidden brazier in the corner that blazed to life. As the room lighted Piper's eyes seemed twin pools of darkness as he asked flatly," What're you playing at? You act as if Khelben Blackstaff would jump from the shadows now and finish me. Speaking of Harpers....." *************
Agudo Archmage 04-06-05, 02:05 PM	Agudo listened as Piper made his personnel jabs with little compassion for his old mentors well being Piper I'm disappointed Agudo, what no giant gale wind to blow me over cracking my head on the wall to make your hastily escape, or perhaps a striking ray of light to stun me? Truly you are growing weak as you age, but I thought The Grand Wizard of Light never grew a day past his prime. “O im just enjoying this bonding time with you young apprentice I suppose Piper that fighting back would make it easier on you would it not? Me smiting you with a purifying ray of Light......instead of letting you look at me with my body all black and blue .....with dried blood on me. Piper What're you playing at? You act as if Khelben Blackstaff would jump from the shadows now and finish me. Speaking of Harpers Blackstaff? Why I have seen him since I tried to replace his dark stave with a nice whiten maple pole The blond bearded Agudo chuckled at found memories of that long gone Wizard convintion Then Sly Piper spoke of the secret guild “Huh...what of the Happers”
Pipers Youth 04-07-05, 06:09 PM	Pulling out a fistful of something from his robes, Piper threw them to the floor in front of Agudo. About a dozen pendent buttons jangled to the ground where they settled, curiously some fresh with stained blood. These silver buttons marked with the harper moon crest were worn on the inside of clothing symbolizing the organization dedicated to bringing peace to Faerun, and delivering justice to tyrants. Harpers would squeeze these pendants to give them strength in time of need, and remember what they stood for. Now the buttons no longer had owners, the brave men and women who died at the hands of one cruel Red Wizard. "I tell you, Harpers are as thick hereabouts as flies on rotting meat here. Oh don't worry I made sure most of them died a grueling, drawn out death, the best Thay has to offer. Although I kept one pretty darling alive for my own amusement. How that one arches her back I tell you, can drive a man wild. Piper's teeth then flashed in the gloom of the shadows the brazier was casting, for just a moment, shaping a wicked smile. "Perhaps too apt a choice of words." *************** Usually when Shoudra thought of pleasure, she thought of warm, hearty good meals, and having so many gems she could bathe in them, slithering around nude in their cool, hard beauty. She also thought of flogging servants and reducing them to tears or to obvious fear, and her newer memories of a lean young man with hazel hair and deep emerald eyes sharing her bed. And just lately, she thought of sugared pastries and biscuits, and of sweetened cream. Now she had just the opposite effect as the long, dark haired women made her way down the seaport side of the city. The smell of rank fished stunned her nostrils as fishing boats were unloading their catch onto the markets. Also the sight of fat, greasy sailors eying her bosom, whistling occasionally and rubbing their hands greedily turned her stomach. Turning into the docks from the markets with Edwin no doubt on her heels, Shoudra spotted a familiar three sailed schooner dwarfing everything around it. The ship that she'd come for. More talking to Lady Hoot then Edwin she chimed sarcastically, "Here we are." "I understand" I answered David, a radiant smile upon my lips, meaningful symbol of the immense joy that had filled my bountiful heart. "Could you help us reach the land of the Red Wizards without any problems? We'd rather not be noticed, for we have often heard of many simple travelers who were robbed or attacked by strange aberrations, mindless undead, or even members of the tharchions' guard themselves. You must know these lands far better than we do, and having an experienced traveler with us would be of a great assistance to us. " Though he was still in a calm trance, the last words of the priestess proved fi against the years of mental as well as physical punishment he had endured. All those memories from Thay flooded back to him, in such a way that David's face became a picture of horror and despair. "No!!! I will never go back to that wretched place! Never, they will I return to the abyss that I escaped, just to return and be slaved once more. Please priestess I beg of you. Ask me of anything else you wish, but I beg you, please don't make me.... Anger turned to sorrow as hot tears began to stream down the young man's face. In a plea for forgiveness the man crawled to her and buried his face in her lap, sobbing and weeping, hoping that she would take all his worries away.
ruthia 04-07-05, 06:46 PM	Ruthia had been flying steadily to the sight and smell of human fire when, just as she was a few hundred feet from the source, she began to hear screams and sounds of fighting. At first she was going to tell the group to go around this trouble spot, it wouldn't do for them to get mixed in it, but then she heard Mazithra yell out from somewhere in the middle of all of it. Startled she backwings for a second as she tries to pinpoint his voice, once she confermes she is hearing him among the battle cries she dives on the sight and tries to visably find him. She takes mental notes of where he is, what he's doing and what's going on before making a choice. Forgoing her normal protections of only talking to one person she takes the risk of opening her mind to the whole group. TP to ALL: o O(Follow the path quick! Mazithra has managed to get himself in the middle of a fight between some villagers and some ugly creatures, dog-faced, covered in fur. I have no clue what they are, but their brutal. These creatures are even killing children!) Once she sends this message out she falls to the groun near the middle of this village, unable to close her mind quick enough to prevent some of the emotions from the rest of the group filtering in. Shaking in pain from the emotional overload she is temporarily disabled and unable to see..... ((This effect last roughly five minutes. Afterwards she will be weakened for another half an hour. It's kinda an emotional overload thingy.....))
Khaira 04-07-05, 11:00 PM	As Mazithra continued to battle, he marvelled at the hordes of gnolls that continued to swarm at him. Behind him, to both his sides, even in front of him, gnolls were dismembered, beheaded, and incapacitated, all as the result of his skill with the blade. Suddenly, though, his mind was assaulted while, at the same time, the gnolls directly in front of him, gawked at something behind Mazithra, rather hungrily. Turning around, Mazithra was surprised to see a dazed Ruthia lying on the ground, near where the female human used to be. Looking back to the gnolls, who had apparently acquired a new target for lunch, Mazithra swept a wide arc with his great sword, feeling a few spatters of blood strike his face as the gnolls were cleaved in half. Then, he turned around, great strides carrying him, within a matter of seconds, over to Ruthia's side. Kneeling down, a hand touched her body, feeling the warmth still within her body. She was alive then...just shocked. "Don't worry...they won't come near you whilst you rest." Turning around, Mazithra leans on his great sword as he smiles at the growling gnolls. "Come, my friends...COME MEET YOUR DEATH!" With those words, the Githerzai dashed forward, using his great sword as a propellent as his own leg muscles tensed, the sinewy muscle bulging as he jumped...directly into the middle of the throng of gnolls. As he landed, he smirked as the gnoll that he had landed on fell to the ground, his own sword impaling him. Smiling to the rest of the gnolls, he roared a great battle cry, his blade swinging out in a wide arc...
Myranthor 04-14-05, 10:13 AM	A calm and comforting hand came up to the man rear hand, scrubbing his offered skin in the most supportive manner possible, as I answered him, hoping to calm his sudden and unexpected fears, those permanent and painful scars left over his wholesome soul by the lethal, whipping blows of the thayan slavemasters. "Ssshhhh, my riend, don't worry, nothing shal happen to you. If you don't want to guide us, then be it, for I understand your difficult concerns, and willnever force you to act against your free will. I completely understand that such a trip could be extremely painstaking, because of everything you have already gone through, and it is not my desire to pit you against a demential whirlwing of chaotic, nightmarish rememberances. Nonetheless, if anyone in your vilage could afford such a travel, we'd be indebted to all of your commuity. If this is impossible, we,ll contend with having a few directions, and being directed to the most subtle passages we can go through."
Agudo Archmage 04-14-05, 12:46 PM	Shaking his head the Wizard of Light looked at his former asistant in distain “Look about you Piper! You’re in a dank dark hole, a death chamber Piper is this what you want for yourself? To be a sick man underground..... Like some sniveling Troll? Are you that bitter and lonely Piper?....So insecure with yourself? A Rapist?...a Murderer?......is this all that you are now? Elsewhere Edwin enjoyed how the sailors and vagabond of the docks looking at Shoudra “You know my dear Shoudra (Snicker) I believe you have found your true calling. Im sure you would always have a job on your soft back” Buahahahha Lady Hoot took this as an opportunity leaning close to Shoudra “Edwin is not worthy to be near you! Let alone mock your greatness.....end this now....show him what I see in Shoudra
ruthia 04-18-05, 09:06 AM	Gasping slightly, Kulideb tightens her grip on Shades arm as Ruthia's message comes through. Looking around the group to see if anyone else got the message she whispers to Shades. "What should we do?"
Drindin 04-18-05, 04:17 PM	Shades looked towards the area grimly. "We shall certainly not sit here and let innocents get mercilessly slaughtered..." He looked over at Algared. "Algared! Stay here and guard them lest the Gnolls make it here!" He looks at Kulideb. "I'm going in. Will you join me? Or would you prefer to stay here?"
ruthia 04-19-05, 08:56 AM	Checking her sword at her side, Kulideb gives Shades arm another light squeez before saying "I'll go with you." Meanwhile, Ruthia lays on the ground, seemingly outcold for the time being.
Myranthor 04-24-05, 07:57 PM	Inwardly, I pested against Shades unforgivable burden: mentioning out loud what Ruthia had already said to all of us, bringing to David's maybe sensible ears such terrible, terrifying news. Yet, I tried to retain my composure, continuuing to discuss with our hospitable prisonner, attempting to learn anything I could about the close residences. "Huh, David? Would you know of a village, that would be very near us in this moment? Do you know anything about that village?"
Pipers Youth 04-24-05, 10:17 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley If not for the antimagic shield surrounding the room, the Red Wizard would have surely struck out at Agudo with one of his favorite, excruciating pain spells. Though perhaps a more conventual weapon would do. Piper reached for the ebon lash tied to his belt as his voice dripped with sarcasm, but yet held a venomous quality. "Correction, your in a dark dank hole, and I live in one of the greatest houses in Thay. And perhaps next time you call me insecure, I'll ravish a woman in front of your eyes. Now I assume you know what I came for, so be helpful and maybe I can make your transition from this world to the next a bit more peacful. Piper now gripped the hilt tight and whipped is arm around, sending the lash slashing at Agudo's backside. "Speak!" Shoudra Shoudra's jaw muscled tightened and she tried to control the anger that was swelling inside herself. It threatened to surge up and burn her alive it seemed if the Lady hadn't found release soon. But to assume her a women that sold her affection to anyone was too much to handle. Throughout the day, the Emissary had endured Edwin's shrewd remarks and just pure ignorance, but no more! As Edwin had his laugh she'd thought of the way to kill him. Spellcasting was out of the question, at this distance the man would surly seize her before she readied her spell components and spoke them. No, she wouldn't do that, and leave herself open. Delicate hands slipped under her cloak as she felt the shape of a sinister dagger, and slipped it halfway out of it's sheath. This dagger would prove a fitting end for the wretch. With her other hand, she gently stroked her familiars chin, and softly cooed in a seducing way. "Oh Edwin, maybe you would like a taste first." David It felt warm and wonderful at the soft touch of the priestess that embraced him now. Her words were even more a comfort, that promised him nothing would happen that he hadn't wished. Oh, how he longed to stay like this for a while longer, to let her hold him. But that fantasy was halted as her comrade nearby spoke of something and he was hauled back into reality. Innocents mercifully slaughtered? Gnolls, a village? Panic overcame him as he thrashed in Septris' arm's, even as she tried to calm him from the inevitable. "Yes, it is my village! Gods what has become of it!" Fresh tears started streaming down his face to be caught in his newly forming beard as he thought of what had befallen his peaceful village. Gnoll Horde The stupid dog faced creatures chittered madly in their guttural language as blood spattered the air and fell on their tongues. Even though it was mostly from their comrades, it continued to rise their bloodlust and attract more of the creatures to the strange, yellow warrior that continued his brutal onslaught upon more and more of their kin. In the next few minutes, more and more gnolls had accumulated around the warrior, flanking him from all sides. It was then that a more feral roar then the rest split the air behind the throng, and heavy clawed footsteps pounded the ground followed by the clinging of heavy armor. It was now clear that the gnolls that gathered around him served as an arena. The footsteps were now closer as a section of the throng parted way and cheered to reveal their champion. This gnoll was so enormous it towered above his companions. His features sported that of a veteran warrior, with many scares on his canine jaws that dripped saliva. The beast carried a great war axe slung over it's shoulder and wore suitable armor compared to the rest of the gnolls. The chittering and screaming of the gnolls reached it's crescendo as their leader extended a large, blood soaked claw and gave a hoarse chuckle, taunting his new enemy.
Agudo Archmage 04-25-05, 12:58 PM	As Piper so painfully exercised his whip upon his former Teacher’s back Agudo screamed out in pain nearly falling to the ground in agony Yet with trembling legs the Wizard of Light held his ground With a glare and clenched teeth Pipers prisoner responded to his tormenters trick question. “Yoouu (Cough) You want me to answer your darkest fears perhaps? Why you fled the Light for the cold darkness! Why you feared your failures? Or perhaps......... why I took you in that cold night all those years ago and called you friend!
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 04-25-05, 01:04 PM	Edwin Odesseiron of Thay was to busy looking at the boat that Shoudra had pointed out. His eyes were cast at this rusy bucket wondering why it seem so familer to him. Perhaps a slave gallion he once bought cargo from he thought All this time not seeing how close he had gotten to the siductive wizerdress "What did you say woman?" he smiled at the thought of her offer not seeing the deadly knife at hand Lady Hoot on Shoudra shoulder waited for the right moment to act
Drindin 04-25-05, 08:59 PM	Shades nodded, and looked to Algared. "Then let us all be off! For Justice! Protect the villagers!" Algared threw his head back and roared his approval, and the two of them ran to the fray, preparing to defend themselves and the villagers fromt he onslaught of hyena-headed horrors.
Khaira 04-26-05, 01:03 AM	As blood, limbs, and bodies flew this way and that, the force of his onslaught too much for the primal, savage creatures to handle, the Githerzai seemed in his prime. He didn't slow down and hardly even blinked as he continued to cut throught the swarms of the creatures. This wasn't so different than from where he was from; in Limbo, battles and wars were always raging and sometimes, the sides even became blurred and confused. It was an everyday occurence, though in Limbo, the opponents were much more formidable...not these disorganized, savage gnolls. As he continued to fight his way through the creatures, he paused grabbing a villager's arm - an important looking one at that - gazing into the human's eyes, his voice steely and solid, leaving no room for argument. "Gather your people and get out of here. Flee this village if you value your lives." Turning, the Githerzai raised his sword against the crude axe of another gnoll, shaking his head at the brashness of the attack, even as his foot reached out, connecting solidly with the creatures stomach. As it was doubled over, his great sword swept out in front of him, relieving the creature of its head and all organs that held it in place. Looking ahead of him, he saw a new group of gnolls beginning to gather and, not wasting a moment, charged forward, the great muscles in his legs tensing as he leaped through the crowd of gnolls, axes and swords cutting minor wounds into his legs even as he did so. Even as he cut down the first gnoll, however, he noticed a look of glee upon the faces. It was then that he saw the giant of a creature stride confidently - perhaps too confidently - into the circle. This was, undoubtedly, the leader of the tribe; cut off the head of the snake, and the body soon would follow. His expression never changed as the Githerzai Warrior spoke in his native tongue. "Xura malaxas sima miyaer." It was a common saying, and one that meant, roughly, 'I will take you a piece at a time.' Of course, the gnoll probably would not know that. Raising his sword, he pointed it at the gnoll, an unbending gaze of pure defiance now etched upon his normally stony expression. Calmly, the Githerzai began walking steadily towards the creature; Mazithra understood the taunting trick for what it was, as it was a tactic commonly used in many battles, even among his own kind. Let your opponent expend his energy in bringing his attack to you, and use that rage against him. It didn't always work that way, particularly against experienced veteran fighters, such as Mazithra, as this large savage was about to find out. As he leaned on his sword, he regarded the gnoll, seemingly curious as his gaze travelled down the savage's body, to the feet, and then back up to the body, to look the creature in its eyes. Mazithra shook his head. He paused for a moment, no tell tale sign of any threat from this Githerzai readable within those stony, yellow eyes. It was then that the powerful muscles in his arms bulged as he brought the great sword swinging up towards the great gnoll veteran fighter...
ruthia 04-26-05, 08:22 AM	Kulideb went to run after Shades. Before she did though she stops at Davids side and says "Don't worry friend, we are off to try and save you village. Two of our friends are already there defending your people." Kulideb flashed him a friendly smile but before she left she bent close to Septris and said in a low whisper. "If you can keep him here that might be for the best. I don't know if anyone else saw the picture Ruthia sent with the words, but the village looks pretty bad." Standing up sraight, Kulideb rushes after Shades. As she goes she calls Shady and his friends to her, allowing them to run ahead of her to the village. She wasn't sure what they could do in this situation, but anything would be better then nothing. Ruthia shakes the spots from her eyes and tries to stand, getting up on shakey feet. Unable to fly she is grounded, unable to fight effectively she starts looking for a hiding place. As she does she notices that Mazithra is near her, set to do battle with the biggest and baddest of these ugly dog creatures. Deciding she had better stay within sight of him, she huddles herself near the body of a dead gnoll, very near Mazithra, so she can watxh what happens next.
Agudo Archmage 04-27-05, 01:12 PM	As Piper stood close to the bars, glaring at Agudo for his insightful comments about him The Mage of Light felt it was time to humbel this self proclaimed great Red Wizard of the Land. For Piper had made the mistake of not retracting the whip he had so painfuly used on Agudo back Reaching out with new found energy that was surprising for a man of Agudo brused stature He took hold of the Whip and pulled as hard as he could even falling backwards as he did.
Pipers Youth 04-27-05, 10:18 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongpipers.gif As the lash bit into Agudo's back Piper smirked, since the archmage still stood firm. He felt a ping of disappointment, but it only lasted a moment as he struck once more with the painful lash, enacting it's searing ability this time. Then raising his voice, he shouted at his former master. "You'll never understand Agudo, your a fool." The good peoples of the world professed to hate evil. In reality, Piper thought, they feared what they didn't understand. Thanks to the Red Wizards he did, and having understood it, he embraced it. For evil, like chaos, was one of the fundamental forces of Creation, manifest in both the macrocosm of the wide world and the microcosm of the individual soul. As chaos gave rise to possibility and imagination, so evil engendered strength and will. It made sentient beings aspire to wealth and power. It enabled them to subjugate, kill, robe, and deceive. It allowed them to do whatever was required to better themselves with never a crippling flicker of remorse. Thus, evil was responsible for the existence of civilization and for every great deed any hero had ever performed. Without it, the peoples of the world would live like animals. It was amazing that so many races, blinded by false religions and philosophies, had lost sight of this self-evident truth. His mind stirring with thoughts, Piper hadn't realized that Agudo had grabbed hold of the lash, and yanked hard with suppressing strength sending the Red Wizard toppling to the ground with the other mage. Shoudra Her ploy had worked, as Shoudra now strutted over to Edwin. With a small pout on her flushed checks she circled around the man, moving her delicate hands across his chest, and purring affectionately. Now she was entwined with him, as a shapely leg crossed his, and she leaned over and whispered into his ear, promises and fantasies that could be made true. Though just thinking about these perverse thoughts made her want to gag, she just kept telling herself it had to be done. As Shoudra's hot breath streamed and poured down his neck, she grasped the dagger out of it's sheath and inched it's way to Edwin's jugular. Artwork copyright © 2005, Gordon R. Quigley
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 05-03-05, 01:29 PM	Edwin raised his thick black eyebrow that was almost unified on his face. Her words were intriguing yet like viper to close for comfort his hairs on the back of his neck stood straight. “What are you up to Woman? Im not some drunk Dwarf ready to bed the first tierd looking tavern winch that comes along!” Edwin started to rub the top of his large gaudy ring on his right gnarly finger Even as he felt the hot breath of this tempting vixen
Pipers Youth 05-08-05, 08:45 PM	The gnolls jaws snapped hungrily when his taunt brought upon the strange words of the Githerzai. Though the beast couldn't decipher the language, it knew the challenge was excepted, when the Githerzai raised his great ruined sword and started pacing his enemy. An eager growl formed in it's enormous throat, as it to grasped it's own axe and prepared to cut the smaller creature down. The beasts could almost taste his enemies flesh now. He would tear upon Mazithra with claws like shrapnel and wallow in the messy gore. Rapture overtook the beasts as he couldn't contain himself, and lunged forward with amazing speed for such a humanoid of it's mass, to intercept the the sword with his own weapon. But, in losing his anticipation, and sprinting foolishly without plan, it missed where the Githerzai was! Thus landing just a hair right into the line of his sword!
ruthia 05-08-05, 11:43 PM	Ruthia watches as closely as she can as the Githerzai fights for his life. To weak to help, let alone let the others know what is going on, Ruthia can only hope that he would provail. Meanwhile Kulideb moves closer to the village, praying she and the others would be in time to save anyone.....
Khaira 05-18-05, 11:10 PM	As Mazithra and the gnoll circled around each other, he couldn't help but notice how the gnoll seemed over confident and so sure of himself. In fact, with every roar that the crowd directed at this champion of the savage crowd, Mazithra couldn't help but notice how even more confident the creature continued to get. Finally, as he was anticipating the beast rushed him, his weapon waving wildly and quite sporadically. Dodging, quite easily, Mazithra reached out and sent the creature flying into a small group of cheering, cajoling gnolls. As their champion got up, then, it went into a series of blows against the Githerzai Warrior. His great blade moving in quick parries, the Githerzai and the Gnoll Champion both sparred off, both of their weapons working quickly and efficiently, metal clanging upon metal, the sound resonating in this small little valley, rising far above the sound of the savage gnolls' drooling. Eventually, sparks even began to fly from the two blades that, as the battle continued, seemed to blend into one. Once again, Mazithra sidestepped a particularly vicious blow of the gnoll, watching as the creature's momentum from the charge carried him, once again, into a group of gnolls once again. Leaning calmly on his sword and, seemingly, quite relaxed, Mazithra watched as the gnoll roared and getting up charged the Githerzai. His sword once again weaving intricate patterns and his feet carrying him quickly around the gnoll in evasive maneuvers, the gnoll finally roared and charged the Githerzai, which was all the opening Mazithra needed. He rolled to the side once again and this time, when he came up, his sword was held in position...directly in front of creatures stomach. Even as it was reaching another group of gnolls, the Gnoll Champion found its very body cut in two, its own blood and guts leaking out. Walking over to the top half of the creature's body, his sword sliced downwards, relieving the creature of its head. Picking it up by the few hairs it had, the Githerzai turned to the dissapointed gnolls. "Who'd like to go next?"
Drindin 05-19-05, 01:08 PM	Algared finally came to the edge of the Gnoll camp. He hollered out his challenge. "You fiends! You honourless fools! Come and take on someone your OWN size!" The Minotaur let out a bellow, and charged foreward. Shades waited behind to let his much larger companion thin things out a bit before striking himself.
ruthia 05-20-05, 09:40 AM	Kulideb pauses with Shades to take in the scene. It seemed to her it was worse then Ruthia pictured, bodies everywhere and a smell that was bad enough to knock a person down. And in the middle of it all was Mazithra, surronded by the gnolls. Ruthia was nowhere in sight, but Kulideb prayed she was still above the battle field. Looking for an opening, she sends Shady in to start pulling some of the gnolls down and possibly creat a path through them.
Pipers Youth 06-02-05, 07:12 PM	Piper let out a yelp, trying to twist his body around, maybe his hip could take the brunt of the fall. No, his robes where too entangled around him, he was being pulled to something. He looked down just in time to see that he was still holding the scourge, and everything blurred. Piper's head met the hard stone of the floor with a large thwack. Sprawled on the floor he fought to keep his eyes open against waves of sleepy pain. He let out a soft groan, and let his fingers linger over his scalp to feel warm blood coated in his hair. Blinking away the stars in his eyes, the Red Wizard tried to remember what happened. Then it came flooding back to him, as his vision cleared revealing Agudo laying not far from him, and the discarded scourge. His eyes darted between the two as he labored to stand up. "Damnable bastard, you did this" Piper hissed, searching his mind for a spell. Shoudra None of the people around them bothered to look what the two Red Wizards were doing. As long as were not involved, it's none of our business. These were the thoughts of an average person passing by the nobility of the land, in which Shoudra would benefactor greatly. She would slid Edwin's throat, and get away scot-free. The hard part would come later, trying to fable a story for Piper. Perhaps she would say the ignorant fool got himself killed by a group of perturbed sailors. The thought made her shudder a giggle. "Oh well." Shoudra said, dragging the dagger across Edwin's throat.
Agudo Archmage 06-04-05, 01:38 PM	OPPS...NEW POST BEING MADE BELOW :P
Edwin Odesseiron of Thay 06-05-05, 02:20 PM	Shoudra None of the people around them bothered to look what the two Red Wizards were doing. As long as were not involved, it's none of our business. These were the thoughts of an average person passing by the nobility of the land, in which Shoudra would benefactor greatly. She would slid Edwin's throat, and get away scot-free. The hard part would come later, trying to fable a story for Piper. Perhaps she would say the ignorant fool got himself killed by a group of perturbed sailors. The thought made her shudder a giggle. "Oh well." Shoudra said, dragging the dagger across Edwin's throat. Her hot breath was so close to him He could feel her body as she came even closer It was then that the cold blade penetrated his neck Staggering back Edwin grabbed his throat, falling to the ground. Many things rushed through his mind. That harpy! She dare attack me, the Great Odesseiron of Thay! His head was barely hanging on to his feeble body In fact it needed one of his boney hands to hold it up Yet as many people on the dock gasped at what was taking place The pain! The gore! The Blood? That was the one thing missing the blood. And with a evil smile Edwin glared Shoudra His voice was cruel and raspy. “Your to late Someone already beat you to my death long ago” With that he vanished in a puff of magic Leaving a sinking feeling to those who saw this grotesque sight that some how a Red Wizard would soon have revenge
Agudo Archmage 06-06-05, 12:37 PM	Piper "Damnable bastard, you did this" Piper hissed, searching his mind for a spell. The amount of energy to pull that megalomaniac down on to the ground with his own fiendish weapon was a painful experience for both. Gritting his teeth Agudo countered Pipers venomes words with logic as he wiggled his way over to his tormentor. Reaching his hand around the prideful Piper The Light Wizard gripped his hand around the scrawny neck of this over glorified Red Wizard. “To....Beeee honest Piper! I know my farther! It was then Agudo let go of Piper neck But not to free him! O no! But to grab hold of Piper’s robe collar. With a mighty pull Agudo started slamming Piper's head onto the (Floor) :P . Back and forth as fast as his depleting strength could. All the time gasping out It...issss YOU .....whhhho doesn’t know his FATHER!....witch..... maaaaaay explain why you are so pompously INSECURE”
Pipers Youth 06-10-05, 06:29 PM	Teeth rattling in his mouth, and his head pounding like a bell, Piper struggled to stay conscious. If not for he spells placed on his person, his head surely would of cracked open. Every time he tried to form the words to a spell, they failed on his tongue with Agudo's continued thrashing. Cleverness, and wits had failed him here, so he would just have to use brute force. Eyes blazing with hot rage and fury, Piper reached up and grabbed at Agudo's, tangled mess of a blond beard, and yanked down as hard as he could. Shoudra Shoudra stepped back and smiled as the fool staggered and grasped at his neck feebly. She almost felt sorry for him, that it was taking so long. Maybe if she could stab him once more in the small of his back. It wasn't until Edwin turned around to look at her, when the color drained from her usually flushed face. There was no spray of blood, no thick pulsing tendons in his neck. A lich! Without time to react properly, he spoke and was gone, leaving Shoudra blinking and baffled. How come she hadn't seen this before! He must have masked himself in a powerful illusion to fool her. Something else struck her then. If she'd no been able to detect him, a certain cleric familiar could. "Lady Hoot." Shoudra said with a soft empathize to grab attention of the snow owl perched on her shoulder. Meanwhile.... All the gnolls surrounding the Githerzai warrior stared with blanked confusion at each other looking for an answer as to why their champion was reduced to pieces. It finally factored in their canine minds just what had happened when the Githerzai raised the head as a trophy. Most threw their weapons up and the air and fled howling, and almost made it out of the fray, until they were trampled by large hooves, and bulk. More panic was added, when others where pulled down by shadowy spider creature. But a few more skilled remained marauding the burning houses, and killing more. In once such instance a group a young men, barely of age yet, and un experienced in fighting fended off a storehouse, while others rushed with buckets of water to keep the flames from spreading.
Agudo Archmage 06-11-05, 11:26 AM	Things seem to be going well Agudo thought Piper head was hitting the floor He felt more hopeful than he had in a long time It was with some disappointment that Piper showed more of his feisty side And like some comical duo they both began slamming each other head into the ground. ENOUGH! Agudo roared “Lets be done this” The Archmage of Light reached up with both thumbs to press deeply into Pipers eyes ((ELSEWHERE)) Shoudra "Lady Hoot." Shoudra said with a soft empathize to grab attention of the snow owl perched on her shoulder. The lovely owl didnt like teh sound of this. "Yes my fair lady Shoudra?"
Mazithra-Amakiir 06-11-05, 06:11 PM	Mazithra seemed to be somewhat satisified as he watched the gnolls fleeing and, consequently, getting mauled by his minotaur companion and some form of a magical spider. Looking around, he seemed somewhat relieved: cut off the head and the body would follow. For this large group of gnolls, that had proved true. Another sight in the village caught his attention, however... Meanwhile.... But a few more skilled remained marauding the burning houses, and killing more. In once such instance a group a young men, barely of age yet, and un experienced in fighting fended off a storehouse, while others rushed with buckets of water to keep the flames from spreading. Seeing the young, inexperienced adolescent attempting to fend off the greedy, ever hungry gnolls, Mazithra hefted up his sword once again, still holding the gnoll champion's head. He jogged over to the storehouse where the young villager was still fending off the gnolls, and doing a poor job of doing so. It was only a matter of time before he made another mistake. Before that happened, though, it was time for Mazithra to go to work. Twirling the gnoll's head around his head, Mazithra soon let the disembodied, still bloody head fly towards the back of one particular gnolls' head. As the head of the previously stupid gnoll champion hit the other gnoll's head with a sickening Thunk!, Mazithra's calm, yet chilling voice rang out, as he leaned casually upon his great sword. "How about battling one your own size, beast?"
ruthia 06-12-05, 07:17 AM	Ruthia came out of her hiding spot as the battle moved on. Her eyes whirling in distress, her hide more grey then white, she begins looking for something. Wandering away from her protected hiding spot she searches for something to eat. Seeing a small animal she immediatly pounces with the skill of an advide hunter, downing her prey efficantly and quickly. Growling she devours her meal, her wings outstreched as if she is protecting it from someone or something........ ((In order to return to normally she has to eat. Several times..... Kinda a requirment of Pern dragons, when their stressed and over worked they need to feed.....))
Myranthor 06-19-05, 11:16 AM	Battered, bruised, our exposed skins flayed by the many branches we met in our hasty way, David and I left the forest's thick foliage to enter what should've been a heavenly clearing, a peaceful island of civilization in a greenish inferno of wild disharmony, populated by simple, exiled slaves in hope of a better future. Our eyes met a roaring fireplace, the combustion of the fragile huts coloring the few survivors, as well as the ferocious combattants, with threatening and eerie reflects. I let David alone, believing that we'd rather both act in the way we thought the better in the urgence of this situation, and ran to the group of improvised firefighters. There, I closed my eyes, visualized every single drop of water that Eldath could've used to drown Tempus' fiery ravaging anger, collecting the precious liquid in the cup formed by my two joined hands. From my limbs came a mystical, invigorating energy, a sudden refreshing wave that soothened the excruciated workers and myself, helping us in our noble endeavours. Then, I turned around to say the nearby fighters, listening to Maziithra's childish taunt. "And what if he wants to take on foes that are not of his size? Do you think that an elf can't be enough for a gnoll? Or is it because I'm a woman?"
Pipers Youth 06-25-05, 12:22 AM	Gods above! How could a simple interrogation have gone so awry? Piper thought as Agudo thrust his thumbs into his eyes. Blood welted, as they bit deeper, until finally the Red Wizard howled with pain, and shoved away, staggering blinded, and clutching his poor eyes. Frustrated, he barked the trigger word that only a few mage's were trusted with, and shattered the ant-magic field surrounding the room. It wouldn't have mattered, all of Agudo's possessions had been stripped from him, so he couldn't have had any spells prepared. And once he was out, he would immediately restore it. At once Piper began weaving intricate patterns in the air that were needed. Though his eyesight was gone, he didn't need to see his fingers to work the spell, years of practice had assured that. There! Arcane energy rushed to the tips of his fingers to create tiny pinpoints of light. He pointed to where he thought Agudo was and shot. A barrage of multi-colored missiles showered forth. Using this as a distraction the Red Wizard turned heel and began feebly clawing the wall for the door, trying to escape his own captive. Shoudra Shoudra was intent on confronting Lady Hoot as to why the cleric hadn't warned her about the lich, when a feminine, but strong voice sounded above her. Leaning across the port of the massive schooner, a fiery haired woman called. She was adorned with a regular pair of white breeches, a leather vest, and a cutlass fastened from a belt at her hip. The pirate dangled her bare feet over and called again. "Hoy, High Lady of Thay! Is there something I might help ye with?" Shoudra smiled, this must be the pirate captain she was looking for. Meanwhile One of the young lads defending the storehouse fought tiredly, fending blow after harsh blow, and trying to parry back. Every inch of his lean body was covered in sweat, and his muscled ached desperately for rest. One of the gnolls scored a slash to his arm, drawing a deep line of blood, and foolishly he grabbed at the bleading arm, just as his foes short sword came down for a killing blow..... But it never came, but instead he heard a crack, and thump as some sort of projectile slammed into it's head, and his foe went crashing to the ground. The other gnolls turned and bared their teeth in a defiant snarl, and then ran to the oncoming threat that was Mazithra. With a sigh of relief, just being cheated out of death, the young man collapsed to the ground, with his head resting on the soft earth. Most of the gnolls were either dead or running of with their new loot, but the fires were still spreading. Yes the fires! He looked to see scurrying feet running with buckets of water to douse the flames, but the blaze was to fierce. All of their food and supplies would be destroyed. Suddenly, like a beacon of hope, a wave of sparkling water rushed over him, and the burning building, quenching the flames. Were did all this come from? As the small wave died out, and the last of the burning timbers flickered out, a group of befuddled, wet villagers holding their buckets blinked in awe. The young man though glimpsed at a beautiful woman with pointed ears and dazzling white robes, right before cupping his hands in a puddle, and greedily started to drink.
Khaira 06-26-05, 08:02 PM	The other gnolls turned and bared their teeth in a defiant snarl, and then ran to the oncoming threat that was Mazithra. Mazithra smiled as the disembodied, still bleeding head connected with a sickening THUNK! into the gnoll's head. His smile widened as the gnoll fell from the shock of his missile weapon. Of course, the savage was not completely out of the game, but for the moment, it was out for the count. His attention then turned to the gnolls that were now charging him. Hefting his broad sword up, his sinewy muscles bulging as he prepared to defend himself. As the gnolls neared, however, a melodic, soft voice rang out; Mazithra turned his head, only to see the remnants of a large amount of water disperse itself. Clearly, the source was the damned, moralistic angel, also known as Septris, the group's priestess companion. Mazithra's mind raced to find an answer as to what the woman was doing. She, the one who had demanded that they refrain from violence in battle at the beginning of their journey, was now attractiing the violence to herself! She was either being suddenly courageous or she was foolishly thinking she could serve as a diplomat from their group to the gnolls. A diplomat to ever-hungry, savage, bloodthirsty creatures...what was she thinking!? "My Lady of Ever High Morals, these are not creatures to be reasoned with! They are bloodthirsty, violent..." Mazithra's words came to a sudden halt as he turned to regard the gnoll the was now before him, and the crude battle axe that was now swinging down towards his head! He moved quickly to the right, his great legs moving him with alarming speed, speed honed by years of battle and survival in the cruelest of conditions. Unfortunately for the seasoned Githerzai Warrior, his body was still strained from the previous battle. He was beginning to become wearied from the dodging and swinging of his gargantuan sword, not to mention the many jumps he had executed and the countless gnolls he had taken out already. It was for this reason that, while the gnoll's axe did not cleave his head in two, it cleaved the ear on the right side of his head not-so-cleanly off of his head. Screaming a wild scream of pain and rage, he kicked out with his left foot while, at the same time, coming off balance, feeling himself fall. Somehow, he managed to block the second gnoll's strike with his great sword. But how would he defend against any future attacks in this position...?
Myranthor 06-27-05, 09:52 AM	The githzerai warrior, confused, looked quizzically in my direction, stunned at my vain attempt to lure to me the bestial gnoll, probably believing that I was either sacrificing all of my eternal vows to combat the canine attacker, or that I was simply demented, for I would never be able to resist against such a dangerous and threatening foe. In his mind, I was maybe nothing more than a vulnerable, helpless and troublesome herald of an irrealist religion, a heavy burden keeping our little group from progressing on their way, who could never hold his own in a fight. His last move, however, was a terrible error on his part, for while he probably thought about my own ineptitude he did show his, lowering his guard for a few seconds, too much seconds, just the time a ferocious gnoll needed to charge the imprudent githzerai. His hard and long training allowed him to dodge most of the blow, but the savage humanoid's rusted blade still cut a large part of Mazithra's head, leaving a fluid, crimson trail in its passage. He fell on the ground, blocking another of his enemy's blow only with his reflexes, but seemed nevertheless to be in a dire and difficult position. Although I could've gleefully celebrated this inversed situation, in which the lethal fighter was now defenseless , his life depending of the actions of a useless herald of the goddess, I didn't even had the time to encompass the irony of this unexpected picture. I quickly wondered how I would the gnoll from finishing off my wounded ally. For sure, I could've had charmed or hel the beast, controlling his will by the force of my own. Nevertheless, such an idea was problematic to me, because once hold, he would be an immobile traget for Mazithra's unforgiving blows, while a charmed attacker in a burned and decimated village wouldn't survive very long, and would simply be another cause of argumentation between I, my group, and the villagers who would probably seek revenge for their slain brethren. I muttered a swift prayer. The air surrounding me became incrasingly humid, condensating in a dense, opaque fog, impeding vision over a large area, engulfing in its misty arms both fighters.* I really hoped that both of them would act wisely, using this situation not to outsmart or viciously attack their opponent, but to reach security, away from each other's weapon. "FLEE!" * Obscuring mist
Agudo Archmage 06-27-05, 02:27 PM	Holding his stomach the great mage of Light gasped in pain Piper had thrown him off with a quick knee jab Yet Agudo could tell he had hurt his old apprentice For the Red Wizard eyes were swollen and he staggered about trying to say his next spell Say! That it Agudo thought Piper was a powerful wizard But still just a wizard! He needed to speak the magic words for it to work His mind raced at what to do Piper was to far to tackle in time Blast this reached stinking place Agudo spat out in anger as he saw that his tormenter was all most done casting the spell. That it! Stinking....(cough) Right in front of him was the answer a bucket The jailers had said they did want Agudo shrinking down to a mouse an then scouring down a rat hole. That’s why they plugged the cesspool and gave Agudo a bucket to do his dirty business Kicking like some mad gladiator in the arena He sent the urine and smelly excrements straight at the open spell binding mouth of Piper :embarrass ((What a time for FOD to get in the way :P ))
Drindin 06-28-05, 07:13 PM	Shades stayed back and continued watching, not breaking his promise to the cleric, who was now standing in the thick of battle herself. Algared seemed undaunted by the rising mist, his teeth clenched, his eyes flaming, panting. He threw his arms back, and hollered to the sky, and rushed at one of the gnolls running off with the valuable from the warehouse, attempting to slam it into the ground with a terrible force, and then hack it open with his massive axe, all the while letting out a terrible, horrific, barbaric yell.
Khaira 06-28-05, 10:46 PM	Mazithra wanted for the final, killing strike to come, while he began to pull himself away from the gnoll. Just as it roared in glee to end thec life of the seemingly invincible one, however, a strange mist crawled forth upon the land, concealing both the Githerzai's vision as well as the vision of the gnolls. All he could see was a gray darkness akin to the always changing chaos of his homeland, the Ever Changing Chaos of Limbo. This time Mazithra had the advantage; he had grown up fighting in such blind conditions as this. Lying flat upon the ground, the Githerzai Warrior grasped his sword in both hands and with a great cry, he swung his sword out, in a great blind strike at the now concealed gnoll. He felt the connecting of the blade with the body of some entity, and felt his blade cleave halfway through the body. Not bothering to await the result of his strike, Mazithra stood up and quickly backpedaled out of the mist. Soon, he was back in the chaos again, his sword drippiing with blood and gore. He turned, and gave a glare to Septris, the one who had cost him his ear and saved his life, all at the same time. One hand moved up to the still bleeding stump at the side of his head that had, at one time, been his ear. "Concentration is vital in battle; I must not be distracted. I must be a survivor, as I always have been...." Looking back to the circle of mist before him, he began to wait for the remaining gnoll to stumble from the mist. It was then that he heard a blur of brown fur that was, no doubt, their minoutaur companion. He could handle them effectively enough. What concerned Mazithra now was the retreating gnolls over the hill. Could he allow them to escape this day, to ravage another village akin to this one another day? He could run, but, how could he catch them in time? Looking around, Mazithra pointed with his sword at the dim bodies of the gnolls dissapearing over a hill. "The gnolls!! They must not be allowed to escape this day! We cannot let them live this day to ravage a different village on another day!" Suddenly he rememered: Ruthia, their draconic companion. No creature could run faster than a dragon could fly! Closing his eyes, he concentrated on locating that fine, diminutive link to the dragon. It was only a moment before he found the remnants of the link that she had formed before and now, with the help of his magical amulet, he formed a stronger link with her. M'lady Dragon, the gnolls are escaping from this village with pillaged items. We cannot let them escape this day to ravage more people another day! They are just over the hill...I will meet you there. With a quick look around, Mazithra began to charge forward, following the gnolls over the hill, his great sword leading the way.
Myranthor 06-29-05, 01:24 PM	My vision, like those of the two combattants, being completely clouded by the aquan mist surrounding us, I quckly ran out of the spell's perimeter, hoping to see, a few steps in front of me, the furry back of a fleeing gnoll, leaving this dangerous village along with his comrades. Sadly, the only stimuli my acute elven senses could perceive were not such a comforting vision but, on the contrary, disturbing sounds, swift steps on this village's already ravaged earth, as well as the dreaded cries of torn skin and waterfalls of blood. From the opaque clouds came the murderous fighter, a fluid river of blood still flowing from the side of his head, while he held in his mighty arms, in an agressive stance, his cursed weapon, covered with the repulsive remnants of his savage opponent. The intimidating gaze he casted at me was terrifying, and I wondered if my soul would be the next to visit the Fugue Plane because of the extraplanar warrior's mindless destructive frenzy. Concentration is vital in battle; I must not be distracted. I must be a survivor, as I always have been.... That was the reason why he was so much angry! My recent intervention, which caught him off guard, destroyed his flawless apparition on this despicable battlefield, made of him not a shining hero or invincible warrior, but a normal man, who can sometimes fall on the ground or be touched in the middle of a melee by a skillful or opportunist enemy. Because of my unsuccesful attempt at helping him and minimizing bloodshed, Mazithra held a bitter rancor at me, for I harmed an idealized himself, probably the projected vision he had of his own talents and vicious strengths, the unique goal he wanted to reach in his whole, egocentrical life. His stern gaze, however, left me alone, busying himself with the comforting sight of the fleeing gnolls, growing smaller and smaller with each passing second. However, he didn't seem to entertain the same pleasing thoughts as I did, since his figure grew more and more tense while seeing the bipedal hyenas escape. Each of those who would reach their homes that day would be one more proof of his martial incompetence, each of them a living legacy of Mazithra's failure at being a paragon of lethal competence. "The gnolls!! They must not be allowed to escape this day! We cannot let them live this day to ravage a different village on another day!" WHAT? He was still bent on pursuing his rampaging rage on these gnolls when they were leaving the village, when they had enough of all this violence and left for a safer haven? That last display of madness was shocking, was unbelievable! Once and for all, the savage githzerai had to moderate his devilish pulsions! Looking at him, I let out a strong, enveloping, modulated sound with my voice, its rythm following the githzerai's motions' rhythm. Then, I slowed mine, hopefully parlayzing the awful warrior completely, as my plea grow less and less vivid, more and more faint.* * hold person
Pipers Youth 06-29-05, 06:23 PM	Piper couldn't see the substance that he was now choking over, but he could taste well the bitter increments that told him well enough what has just happened. The magic projectiles all but flickered out or died, as words of arcane power were lost on his tongue, now vomiting profusely. He could just well imagine how his fine gold-trimmed robe of red brocade looked like, covered in a mixture of blood, stool, and vomit. "You foul creature!" The Red Wizard said coughing and wiping disdainfully at the corner of his mouth. Quickly he searched the deep recesses of his mind for any silent spells, but he hadn't prepared any. And there was a slim chance of physically dominating Agudo, will all the blood he's lost, and was now still losing. So he did the only thing he could. "Guards! To me!" Shoudra The flash and flare of magic in her face sent Shoudra staggering back into her chair, and dropping the gaudy ring that had caused it. After her business at the wharf, and the purchase of a new silken gown from a merchant's she just had to have, Shoudra and Hoot returned home. After a glass of red wine, and idle conversation with her familiar, the mistress of the house found herself dull bored, and so she broke into Piper's office out of curiousity Blinking away stars from delicate eyes, Shoudra sat back up and browsed the wide assortment of magical items that once belonged to Agudo, spread on the desk before her. From time to time the Red Wizard would glance at her shoulder, to maybe read some reaction of the lovely white snow owl, that once was Agudo's dear friend and companion. Perhaps introducing her to Agudo's old possessions would allow Shoudra to see where Lady's hoots heart laid "So that's what the ring did." Shoudra's whimsical laugh sounded, as she reached up to gently scratch under Lady Hoot's beak. Something caught the corner of her eye then, something tucked gently under the desk hidden. Shoudra reached it and grasped her fingers around something wooden and stout. Her dark eyes bighted with surprise as she pulled out Agudo's famous walking staff, with a blue gem topped on it. "Ah, but a true prize...."
Khaira 07-01-05, 12:29 AM	Mazithra was off and running, his long strides carrying him closer to the receding gnolls of the background. His great sword was held in front of him, steadied by powerful, sinewy muscled arms, prepared to dispatch any creature that got in his way. While Ruthia was probably on her way, there was the chance that she was not. If that much was true, the Githerzai had to ensure the gnolls would not escape to destroy the lives of more innocents in the near future. He would follow them to their lair and if he could not dispatch the brutes by his own skill with the blade, he would bring the rest of his comrades. Something strange happened as the Githerzai Warrior began to near the gnolls; the feminine voice of his moralistic companion reached his ears. His fluid, swift movements became sluggish and in a very quick moment, had stopped altogether. Mazithra found he could not move a muscle, not even to speak. His mind methodically putting together the recent string of events, he suddenly realized what had happened: a simple spell, weaved around his body, to prevent the further justice upon the gnolls. He couldn't see his female companion, but he knew she was there all the same. Angry, seething rage enveloped him as he realized that now, in this position, he was completely, irrevocably helpless to prevent further attacks or even utter a warning. Using the same method he had used to contact his draconic companion, Ruthia, he concentrated on forming a connection with his lawful, overly moralistic companion. When he had found her and forged the proper connection, words tinged with blood red anger found their way towards Septris' mind. So determined are you to prevent violence that you would allow monsters, such as them, to escape this day, only to rip apart that which others have built in the near future! Do you not realize what allowing these creatures to escape this day will do? They will not listen to diplomacy or words of ration; they seek only blood and violence! By preventing violence upon their skins you are creating the prime opportunity for the blood of innocents to be spilled! They care for nothing but their own survival, even if it means devouring the precious bodies of the very innocents that they murder! Look around you, lady; do you not see the carnage, the innocent blood spilled, the souls robbed of their right to pursue a full life? In protecting them, you welcome the opportunity for another scene identical to the one that we have sought to prevent this day! As Mazithra reprimanded Septris he realized, much to his dismay, that he could not see behind him. He could not move to defend himself, could not move out of the way to prevent further damage to his already weary body, and could not shout a warning to any entities. He could not even see what was happening behind him. Suddenly, with a sense of doom descending upon his mind, the Githerzai Warrior that had survived so many battles prior to this one, realized that there had been one savage brute remaining behind in the fog...
Drindin 07-01-05, 12:58 AM	Algared, apparently successful in rending open his chosen enemy, looked about, a horrid fire in his eyes, blood staining his muzzel and front, his axe dripping with the foul stuff. He licked his lips, grinning as the blood touched his tounge. Seeking something that vaguley resembled a gnoll through the mist, his eyes blind to all else, he hollered and rushed foreward... ...Towards not a gnoll, but a frozen githzerai. ((Alright, this isn't the end, but I want Kharia to post before I finish his action...))
Khaira 07-01-05, 01:39 AM	He licked his lips, grinning as the blood touched his tounge. Seeking something that vaguley resembled a gnoll through the mist, his eyes blind to all else, he hollered and rushed foreward... ...Towards not a gnoll, but a frozen githzerai. ((Alright, this isn't the end, but I want Kharia to post before I finish his action...)) Behind him, Mazithra heard the roar, the carnage behind him, taking place in the fog. Then he heard the rushing forward of the creature that ... was most certainly much too large to be a gnoll. Indeed, could it be his companion...or another champion? Seeing there was only one way to find out, the Githerzai once again sent out the strands of psychic power that would form the essential connection to the unknown creature. Then, slowly, his voice reached out, speaking with a formidable, deep bass voice. Come no closer. I am not your enemy, and there is no reason for you to strike one such as I down. I am helpless and, as such, there would be no honor nor glory to striking me down.
Drindin 07-01-05, 01:43 AM	Mazithra only gets a confused, horrifying static, as though two minds are fighting for posession of the body. A loud bellowing emanates from the maddened beast, and then Thud! WHUMP! And silence, aside from scruffling on the grass. "GET A HOLD OF YOURSELF! FIGHT THE BLOOD LUST!" Hollers shades to his harry comrade, as he now kneels ontop of him. "Haven't enough people died?" The minotaur blinks his eyes, as they fade away from the red, back to their usual colour. He pants heavily, shaking his horned scalp. "Wha... what happened?" He mumbles. "Too much, old friend. Too much." Is shades response.
ruthia 07-01-05, 10:09 AM	Kulideb stood all this time near Septris, ready to protect her if need be. When Mazithra had decided to finish off the gnoll once and for all, then had gotten trapped by a spell, she just stood and watched. Personally she felt he was right though, the gnolls would just kill and plunder another place if not stopped now. Though Kulideb herself didn't do anything or make any movements of anykind, that didn't stop her pet Shadow Spider from doing what he knew his friend would like done. He and his comrades, the other spiders Kuli had summoned, snuck off and started chasing down the gnolls one by one. As they caught up to them they would wrap them in their webs and drag them into the shadow plane................. Meanwhile Ruthia, who had gotten the telepathic message but could not do anything about it, slowly made her way to the group. Her wings and tail dragging on the ground, covered in blood, she seemed uterlly out of energy and strength. She passes Mazithra with an appoligetic chirp and stops in front of Kulideb. Kulideb looks down at her with a cry and uses the hem of her shirt to wipe the little dragon off. She then picks Ruthia up off the ground and places her on her shoulder. Ruthia gives a happy little chirp and carefully curls herself around Kulideb's neck. ((Shes still weak, acording to the books on Pern dragons she needs food and a good rest before I can use any of her abilieties again. Gotta play your chars weakness's as well as their strength's sometimes.))
Agudo Archmage 07-01-05, 01:00 PM	Coward! Agudo spat out at his tormentor He knew that this maybe is only chance at escaping. Charging forth slightly limping as he did the wizard of Light grab hold of Piper’s robe Staggering in a circle and twirling about several times with Piper Agudo (Attempted...FOD*) to heave his jailer at the on coming guards With any luck a pointy sword would impale the insecure egomaniac Piper. ((Elsewhere)) The wise white owl and captive of Shoudra looked on as this dangerous Red Wizard broke into her lover’s office. Yet she was surprised to see Agudo gaudy jewelry strewn about the room But Shoudra’s lustful eye fell upon a much larger prize. The Staff of Agudo “Yes this is a very powerful artifact of Agudo. He never told me what it did per say.....but The snow owl glanced at Shoudra’s wizardly lust in her eyes for such knowledge. Yet I know that if you took it out in the light of day It would give the handler very rare magical spells. Whats spells depended on the intelligent of the handler Never the less all one needed to do was hold it up over her head and say Bring forth the Light.
Myranthor 07-03-05, 08:44 PM	The murderous Githzerai's movements slowed down, affected by the potency of my spell, keeping bottled within his muscled body the terrible surges of fury thathe would rather had let flow on the dismantled band of gnolls. All of his negative emotions turned back, finding, despite Mazthra's unwilliging paralysis, a proper target. The emotionnal backlash caused by both his suprise and his shock at seeing his opponents succesfully flee from his "just and redemptive" bloody sword blows coalesced in a single, huge wave of harmful words, that he targeted at me. His sayings hit me hardly, remembering me all the holy, judgemental commandements of some of my spiritual superiors, who thought and taught that violence was reprehensible in the profane hands of others, yet was the only viable mean to counter the projects and corrupted ideas of these same dastardly individuals. All in all, for these great men and women, only the purpose mattered : if war was needed to gain peace, then the war was justified. They would execute a murderer without remorse and without seeing, in that nonsensical action, a paradox. If I would've shared their agressive philosophy, I would've proably flared up against Mazithra, shouting, howling and roaring at the helpless warrior, probably slashing violently at him with a weapon or another,arguing that his dangerous views could've tainted the vulnerable minds of the youth or that his savage opinions were reasons enough to put him down, in a preemptive strike necessary to maintain the citizens in peace. From behind Mazithra I appeared, salted waters soaking my eyes, and, with a fragile, high-pitched voice, my mind saddened by all the incomprehension, the irrational and vengeful thoughts of my counterparts, I answered the arrogant man with a tone that sounded more like shrieks than a regular voice: "In what way are these different than what you are, Mazithra!? You say that they deserve death for the carnage that we can both see upon this village on this doomed day; yet, I see in this village that there are almost as much human bodies than there are of gnolls, who probably died at the tip of your blade. Will you also pursue yourself, all weapons drawn, to prevent another such slaughter?"
Khaira 07-08-05, 01:02 AM	As Mazithra remained standing there, prone, subject to the mercy - or lack, thereof - of their idealistic companion, he watched a miniature version of Ruthia pass by him, to stand by Septris' side while, at the same time, Kulideb also joined the stubborn woman. Had it come down to this, then, with his allies refusing to attempt to halt the retreat of such a vile enemy? Mazithra would have laughed at this ironic and frustrating situation if he was not held so by this disillusioned companion. Standing prone in the position that he was in, he watched Septris come up to him, with pity and a portion of fury in her eyes. It was then that she berated him, claiming that he had struck down humans as much as the vicious gnolls. Such words were blasphemous lies, as he had engaged the gnolls in an effort to protect the very humans that had fallen to the violence. He would've sighed, had his body been capable of moving; this was pointless. Here they were, two radical rivals, debating an argument that they would likely never reach a compromise on. He was a warrior, had been raised as such, and would likely die with a blade in his hands. She, on the other hand, was one of peace, one who'd been taught to not make any kind of a strike of violent nature. Frustrated, exasperated, Mazithra's mind once again reached out to his stubborn companion, his speech at first angered, but then reaching an even tone as his rebuttal neared its end. How are they different? Are you so enraptured in your insistent demands of peace that you are blinded to it? They are mindless, murdering scum, who care nothing for life nor their environment! I do not fight nor shed blood for the sheer glory of it nor for the glee of adding another scalp to my collection. If I did, *then* I would be no better than they! No, my blinded companion, I fight because if I do not, then nobody will. And if nobody offers any form of suitable resistance, then they WILL return to slaughter again! It is out of necessity that I fight, not out of the sheer hunger for blood, as they do. Mazithra paused, taking a moment to collect himself and calm his words - relatively - before continuing. Though his words now still were exasperated and tense, they no longer possessed the booming fury of rage. The human bodies that you see fallen before you, my companion, are bodies that the gnolls themselves destroyed before my arrival. How many more would have fallen if I had not drawn my own blade for the protection of the remainder? The gnolls, I reiterate, were slain out of necessity, and no more. If I had not chosen to intervene, there would be none left for you to magically turn to your side! Yes, I would hunt them down, and very last one, that they have not a chance to do such a massacre again in their lifetime. Are you so damned insistent of peace that you would allow creatures of violence to strike again? He desired to follow up with more; he wanted to make her see the point that he was, undoubtedly attempting to make in vain. Unfortunately, there differences and their perceptions were simply too great. It was for this reason that, when the Githerzai next spoke, his words were fueled by calm rationale. Face the inevitable truth...you and I are different, and always shall be. No words that you utter to me in order to convert me to peace and no words that I utter to you in order to cause you to see the sense in necessary strikes will make even a dent. With a sword I was raised and with a sword I shall fall, when that time comes and, unfortunately for both us and our companions, there is little that will sway me from what I know. If I followed your path, I would be defenseless and be found without means to protect either myself or those around me from the vicious advances of the violent species.
ruthia 07-08-05, 08:12 PM	Ruthia lifts her head slightly from her vantage point around Kulideb's neck. With a weak little grunt she uses what little energy she has left to speak to both Mazithra and Septris o O (Would you two stop already? Yes it is wrong to kill without reason, yes it is wrong to let those go who will kill inocents. Your both right, neither of you will chage each others minds. Now stop fighting like an old married couple and lets get on with what we are suppose to be doing, Saving that ancient egotistical fruad Agudo from a trap of his own doing!) She lowers her head back down and continues to look at the two of them.
Khaira 07-16-05, 07:47 PM	Were he not still held in place by their stubborn companion, Mazithra would've laughed at Ruthia's words. Yes, he would love to move on...but that wasn't really quite possible right now! An emotion of mocking coursed through Mazithra's telepathic connection. Y'know, I'd dearly love to continue on our rescue mission but somebody's bull-head, egocentric point-of-view won't allow them to see the logic in releasing me from their damned spell...
Pipers Youth 07-24-05, 01:14 PM	Still in this horrid physical state, and not much able to fight back, the only thing he could do was claw feebly at the wall, as he was dragged off and slung around by Agudo. He only hoped now that someone had heard his call for plea. Then the sound of heavy onrushing footsteps, and gruff male voices were heard in the distance, followed by the silly fumbling of keys scrapping against the lock of the door. The large iron door finally gave way and screeched open, as several of the guards tried to pile through. Luckily the first spiked armor guard, hadn't his sword out of scabbard yet, as Piper was heaved at the first one through the door. The result, was both men were sent crashing to the floor in a heap, as the other guards sorted through the confusion, and tried to climb over their winded comrade. Shoudra "Oh, so those are the trigger words. So cliche, but considering the former owner, it doesn't surprise me. Though I would like more time to study this, but if it is truly powerful in the light of day, than we shall have to wait for morning." Lady Shoudra said, as she delicately placed the staff back under the desk. Though there was no real time in the realms, she could tell it was late in the night. With a stifled yawn, Shoudra got up from the chair and made her way to the door. Almost to the door, she swayed and almost feel over, but fortunately grasped hold of the handle. With flushed cheeks she gently laughed, "It seems the wine as made me a little tipsy. Come, and let us prepare for bed." Then without further a do, Shoudra proceeded to her bedchamber.
Agudo Archmage 07-27-05, 04:35 PM	Lady Hot nodded her fluffy white head at her tipsy keeper Pleased at the fact that she had planted one more seed into the heart of the Red Wizard Shoudra. ((Elsewhere in a smellier place)) With a loud creak the prison door open spewing its handlers into the darken dungeon There gaze not yet adjusted to the damp twilight of the prison Agudo thrusted his tormentor into there mass of armor. As soon as one guard went down with Piper Agudo with his last ounce of strength ran forth on top of the two. Taking some pleasure in hearing Piper grunt as he placed his foot on the Red Wizards head. Then with a quick elbow to one of the guards face he made his way out of jail hold The Light Mage soon felt his magic returning as he exited the hellish room It was like having your ears pop at high altitudes But this was pleasurable for the magical energies engulfed him once more Not sure what to do first like some kid in a candy store Should he zap his tormentors or just make a quick escape Yelling as aloud as he could “HA! Now you cackling drunken thugs! You shall know what it is to see a Archmage take revenge” He started waving his hands for effect a blueish white glow sprouting from his hands “As you all know I am of the Light and it is in my nature to offer mercy to scum like you! Now pick up your manure smelling ego of a master Piper! Agudo smiled at the memory of the bucket full of muk kicked at Piper. And take him and with you into the anti Magical jail cell!
Drindin 07-28-05, 05:35 PM	Algared looks at Mazithra, and grumbles. "Pardon?"
Pipers Youth 08-04-05, 05:31 PM	Piper grunted in pain as the archmage clambered over him, and the guards to get out. Plump, hairy hands tried to reach out and grasp the fleeing Agudo, but he was to nimble, and they missed. The Red Wizard meanwhile slapped the men off of him with a slew of curses, hissed, "Fools! Make haste, and capture him! But don't kill him! Return him crippled if need be!" The three burly men finally untangled themselves from each other, and rushed back out into the hall, swords raised to find Agudo spell casting. Oblivious to magic, the men backpedaled as Agudo raised his hands, in what they thought to be a slaying spell. But were then very confused when the dirty bearded man ordered them to pick up thier master, and lock themselves inside the chamber. If anything, they were loyal, not stupid, and cautiously paced towards the threatening Agudo. Back on the floor, Piper had dragged himself up, and bellowed out the door. "It's a ruse, a silly cantrip!" If Agudo decides to run, behind him is a dark hall, illuminated by a few torches lining the walls. Once out of the hall, and vast chamber spreads out before him. In the room is a large table, with six sturdy high chairs. Piled on the table are several scrolls, and empty food trays foretelling of recently departed guest. A large chandelier hangs over the table, a few candles flickering. There are two doors in the room. One to his direct left which leads to outside Thay, and to his far right, unknown. The Lady Shoudra Balen was soon retired to her bedchamber, spread out amongst silken sheets and a waterfall of pillows, arranging from every size. The nightgown she had slipped into was a jade green, and hugged her lean figure at every curve. Unbound raven hair spilled over her shoulders, as she smiled, and set the tome down she was reading. Moonlight from the far window bathed her silky skin in a luminescent glow as Shoudra guided Lady Hoot to a golden ornate cage beside her canopy bed, and yawned. A servant must have moved it here earlier to accommodate Lady Hoot. "I wonder where Piper is. Probably scheming away all night.
Pipers Youth 08-06-05, 11:00 PM	As Septris still holds Mazithra immobile with her spell, and others looks on, the people of the forest village pick up the pieces of what's left of there lives. Every soul has lost something this night, whether it be a home, or a loved one. A weary father holds his dead son in his arms, wiping the soot from his brow, wondering why the gods didn't take his life instead. An aged woman sifts through the rubble of her home, trying to salvage what little she can, while her daughter, a young lass, bosom heaving, tends to a man's injury. She's afraid, as the man sits in his life blood, and fumbles trying to make a tourniquet to stop the bleeding. The renegade gnolls have run off, with more than loot this night.
Agudo Archmage 08-07-05, 02:39 PM	Te lovely white owl noded her head at Shoudra as she mused about her lover "Perhaps as normal.....knowing Piper He is blaming the people around him for his own mistakes and insecurity" She thought for a moment then added "And yelling...lots of yelling...like some small young boy who cant get his way" ((Elswhere)) Hearing the needling voice of Piper Agudo knew that the guards would swallow there fear of his magic and charge him. “Blast!” He mumbled out loud The Light mage wasn’t ready for a duel so soon after escaping The colorful lights around his hands were a simple cantrip More for entertain children than a death defying escape from his enemy Yet Agudo had no choice the guards were slowly moving forward Each step giving them more confidence as they saw Agudo step back in turn Lifting his hand on high Agudo yelled out “You asked for it!” A loud falsh of light spread through the room Making the wind roar around the gaurds When it was all over...there before them was....a 5 foot 9 :turkey: Yes!........ the biggest turkey in the world. Flaping his wings the red turkey faced :help: Agudo Flaped his wings and gobel gobel to the nearest door...... That being the right door leading to the unknown
ruthia 08-08-05, 08:23 PM	Kulideb walks over to the nearest villager and starts helping them pick up the pieces. Pausing at the young girl trying to help the bleeding man, she offers a friendly smile and helps the child apply pressure to the wound till the bleeding slows. Wondering if she can find something to stich up the wound with till he can get with to a healer, Kulideb suddenly feels something sharp in her pockets. Reaching in she pulls out a needle and some thread. Sighing she looks at them mans face, which has gone ghostly white. "Sorry sir, it's either this and get to a healer soon or loose the limb and maybe your life." Grimacing the man nods and grinds his teeth to stop himself from screaming in pain. Kulideb threads the needle and begins sewing the wound shut like it was a mend in a fine coat. The girl who was helping him has become pale also as she watches, but stays close untill this ugly procedure is complete. Once done Kulideb nod in reassurance and releases the tourniquet allowing the blood to flow back into the limb. As feeling returns the man cries out briefly, but the stiches hold and there is little more blood. The man passes out as Kulideb stands and give the girl a reassuring smile. "He'll be ok. Get him to a healer if you can." She wanders off to see if anyone else needs help, Ruthia wrapped tightly around her sound asleep.
Drindin 08-08-05, 11:33 PM	Shades approaches a man on the brink of death... He grimaces at the sight he is all to familiar with. A weeping woman kneels by his side, weeping. Deep in a dark forest, a group of harassed rangers stand, each with a green dragon on one arm, a snake on the other. In charge of the small shock troop, is a younger, less aged Shades Trunin. He draws a sword. "Tightly together men!" Then, from seemingly no where, a group of small lizard-like men, with bat-like wings, gleaming red eyes, and horrendous fangs creeps from the desert. They lift into the air, and begin to shower them with arrows. The men do their best to defend, retaliating in like, while Shades and one of the other four take out the ones near the ground with their expertley wielded blades... They drive them off, or so it seems, Shades now covered in arrows and bleeding in severely. The men begin to relax... until an arrow flys from the bush, striking one in the throat. Shades hollers out, and kills the remaining perpetrator, rushing to the suffocating man's side... He, too, is on the brink of death... He looks up at him with desperate eyes, to Shades' dagger... and the Trunin nods in knowledge of what he must now do... This man now looks up at Shades with those same eyes. Shades looks over at the weeping woman. "You don't need to see this..." She goes ghostly white, and now all out sobbing looks away, as Shades does what must be done, in a single, swift, well practiced movement...
Pipers Youth 08-16-05, 09:44 PM	With practically relinquished eyesight. Piper couldn't fathom what he was seeing as he peered out into the hall, to see the guards standing down a....turkey? An Agudo sized turkey was flapping it's way past the hall, into the dining chamber, and into the cellars below. Meanwhile the guards stood befuddled and not giving chase, doubtless looking for the real archmage. Piper stumbled along the now feather-strewn hall, and rammed the end of his gold bracelet into the back of the nearest man's head, emitted a small grown. "Idiots! You can't surround a single old man, never mind a fowl! I will flay all of you if you fail me, no go!" As the guards scrambled after the illusive captive, the Red Wizard dragged himself along the wall, searching for something. It had to be here, all these years. There! The ring on his finger flashed, and the wall in front of him dissolved into a secret passageway. Piper gave a wry smile, for the niche contained three small steal covered vials, each about a finger long. Healing potions! He wasted no time in snatching one up, uncorking it, and pouring the restoring contents down his gorge. A warm bitterness traveled down his throat, and he could already feel the tingle of revitalization on his skin. The bleeding stopped, and wounds closed over leaving nothing but white scars. Chugging down the other two, eyesight soon fully returned, and he felt somewhat whole. When Piper was younger, he had stolen some of his master's potions, under the noses of the other six apprentices, and stashed them here, for safekeeping. Looking down at his attire, the Red Wizard grimaced. Sadly the potions affects didn't work for his robes, and the rank stench. At least he still had all of his possessions, which Agudo didn't pilfer whilst he had the chance. He would pay dearly for such a bold move! "I just have to remember to break his fingers, and cut out his tongue next time." As Agudo enters the door, he now finds himself in a dimly lit room, crates stacked on top of each other in rows, and barrels labeled with varies foodstuffs, such as salted meats, fish, garlic's, and cream butter. The occasional sack of unpeeled potatoes dots the pile, and at the far side of the room, is a wall stacked with wine carts. Apparently this is the storage room. In the center of the room, two haggard looking men sitting at a table roll bones and laugh, each has a bottle of wine swaying in their hands. Though if Agudo looks carefully, beside the carts, hidden in a corner, a dusty latch lays on the floor. Each man turns to look at the giant turkey and chuckles drunkenly. Though behind him, the shouts of alarm, and footsteps tell that the guards are not far behind.
Agudo Archmage 08-18-05, 10:18 AM	The two inebriated men at the table were at least entertained by the sight of the giant bird in there mist Yet this fowl was more concerned with survival of his own neck Not wanting to end up on Piper’s dinner table Agudo quickly changed forms With only a few feathers fluttering about the now panting and very red faced mage looked around desperately for an escape Glancing at the men at the table once more time Agudo gave a weary look “An evil wizard.... or a desperate one at least! Would have change one of you into the embarrassing form I was just in.” Shaking his head Agudo quickly pushed the thought out of his head. Perhaps they were just sad people forced to work in Thay the land of Slaves It was then he saw the dusty latch near by “From the frying pan into the fire!” He quickly opens the door and pear down “Gulp” Yet just before blindly venturing into the unknown Agudo grabs hold of a bottle of win Then hearing the cackling anger of Piper off in the distance and his thugs quickly approaching Agudo jumps blindly down
Myranthor 08-28-05, 03:31 PM	Before letting free of my mystical grasp the helpless, extraplanar warrior, I looked around at my generous yet merciless allies, who took care of lethal wounds and severe grievances with sharp steel and mundane treatments, instead of trusting the much more intuitive and painless ways of curative magic. Since eons, every civilization - and, even groups that shouldn't benefit of that distinguished name - had shamans, adepts or crafty spirit speakers who could tend to the traumas of their brethren, simply asking for their chosen protectors to alleviate the sufferings of their community. Nevertheless, many still found a dark and incomprehensible solace in the might and ruggedness of metal, while it would be so easy, and so peaceful, to leave behind all of technology and metallurgy behind us... whispering a command word, I released my hold of Mazithra, allowing him to move again, now that the gnoll warriors were out of his murderous reach. However, before he could act, shout, scream because of his anger, fulminate, rush towards the fleeing horde or - who knows? - toward me, I rose my voice, enough for most of the villagers to hear me: "Inhabitants of this clearing, the divine forces of good have not let you fell prey alone on this desolate day. The goddess Nienna, from the plane that is her home, probably sensed the terrible danger you would face, for she sent one of her prophet to heal those of your people who need assistance. May all the wounded gather in the limits of that circle, drawn on the ground, a dozen at a time. In her infinite compassion, most, if not all, of their sufferings shall be erased."
kulideb 08-29-05, 05:53 AM	Kulideb stood and surveyed the devastation, most of those that had been severally injured had been attended to, if only it was a easy to heal minds as well as bodies the elf thought sadly. Turning she caught sight of Shades, his body hid the work he carried out from her view. She felt tired, not the sort of Tiredness that rest would cure but a bone weariness of seeing so much hurt. She could go live in peace and harmony in the elven retreat but deep down she knew that would not be possible for her heart and mind would always be worrying over her friends many of whom were not elves and so would not be excepted at the retreat. Her gaze settled once more on Shades. No, her place was here with her friends both old and new. And one old friend was in great need. A voice rose out over the soft muted cries of those in pain or weeping over lost loved ones. Looking around Kuli found the voices owner, Septis. The elf offered her hand to one of the wounded, guiding him closer to the 'daughter' of Nienna so that he might benefit from her healing power.
Khaira 08-29-05, 04:31 PM	Finally, Mazithra was free from the she-devil's grasp. He clenched and unclenched his muscles, muttering to himself as he sheathed his mighty sword in its sheath once again. When his female, diplomacy-minded companion began to claim that she was a prophet, sent by her god, specifically for this reason, Mazithra turned away in disgust, snorting to himself. In his own language common to the denizens of the chaotic, swirling mists of Limbo, he uttered what sounded like a common phrase but what, more likely, was a derrogatory term. "Versevash ureataor." Mazithra continued to mutter under his breath, sarcasm dripping heavily off of his tone as he walked away from the messiah of all sentient beings. "Our own personal messiah. Maybe she's an avatar sent from her god too, eh? Imbued with her goddess' infinite wisdom, to be sure. Perhaps we should, too, bow down to Her Who Is Great and All-Seeing." Continuing to grumble, Mazithra made his way back to the rocky outcropping from whence he had viewed the initial calamity, maintaining a vantage point over the land for other threats that may come their way. Perhaps she would have a talk with the next savage, murderous creatures as well. It would be a sight worth seeing...
Pipers Youth 09-06-05, 08:03 PM	At the sound of the feminine, yet strong voice, all the villagers seized what they were busying themselves with, and turned to listen to Septris, the prophet of the goddess Nina. Not a soul knew who this deity was, but why should they not head her? The strange band of saviors had driven the hoard away, so why qualm now? Some turned to look at each other, but soon women, men, and children alike carried they're wounded under the curable touch of the priestess. The first dozen gathered in a tight circle under Septris. In the first group, a man had suffered a most grizzly injury. Face twisted in agony, he held on to what little his arm was now. Bone protruded from his shoulder where it hade been hacked away by a crude gnoll axe, and flesh, and sinew muscle hung limp to a cord of tissue. He looked at the priestess in incredulity, as he seriously thought his arm couldn't be saved. Though if what this elf woman said was true, than the healing touch of this woman's goddess, would make whole, and restore. The man Kulideb had taken hold of, was in fact a young man or lad, the beginnings of a beard cresting on his chin. He tried to smile thinly at the woman's delicate touch, as she lead him into the circle. His other arm was reasonably burned from dashing in one of the burning buildings, trying to salvage supplies, as well as his singed raven hair.
Drindin 09-06-05, 09:06 PM	Shades stood up from the grizzly act he had performed, after giving a quick prayer to whatever god or goddess would listen to cary the aged soilders soul over to whatever afterlife awaited him. He walks back over to Kulideb. He was weary... he was tired... lonely... he needed a shoulder to cry on, and hers was the most inviting. He walked over to her, and went to embrace her, to rest his lonely head upon her shoulder.
kulideb 09-07-05, 05:55 AM	Carefully Kulideb led the man over to Septis, (Though now she was closer she could see just how young he was). Strong arms encircled her, the elf at once recognised the touch as that of Shades. His head rested wearily upon her shoulder. Her hand reached up and her fingers ran through his hair soothingly. "My love."She said in a soft caress, letting him know that he would never be alone for she would always be with him.
ruthia 09-08-05, 09:40 PM	:eek: Ruthia manages to not move as she was asleep around Kulideb's shoulders and gets rather..... Squished between the two love birds. With a quiet hum she disengages herself and jumps off Kulideb, gliding across the ground Landing at Septris's feet. She curls herself there knowing that if the party moves she'll feel Spetris move and wake up. She goes to sleep during this healing stuff........
Myranthor 09-10-05, 11:23 AM	Swiftly, the bulk of the wounded gathered in the middle of the fake ritual circle I had drawn on the burned sand and ashes, only useful to delimitate the area that I could affect with a single prayer and to amass all of the harmed villagers within its limits. They were not a particularly beautiful group to look at. Their tanned skins were vividly colored by the red stains of their own blood, and, once in a while, the eye would catch an awful glimpse, a revelation of the muscular, bulging organs that should forever remain hidden under the cover of the skin. Nevertheless, any observer would've been delighted - delighted and moved - by all of their steady gazes. In every single one of their eyes was a glimpse of hope, a profound desire not only to be healed, cured of all of their recent wounds, but also to see that the gods hadn't left them to their unforgiving fate, lost, alone, in the middle of an unwelcoming forest, hunted by ravenous gnolls and maybe, maybe, researched or spied on by the dreadful Red Wizards, their former masters. If any one of them did, indeed, scry on the former slaves at that time, even his torn heart, dessicated by his ruthless life of hard apprenticeship and dire survival, would not remain untouched by the palpable rays of hope fleeing from their focused pupils, condensed in one single beam of light. To me, however, the present situation wasn't a marvelous, transcending experience. No, in fact, I was rather stressed, feeling overburdened by the dense weight of their extremely high expectations. Would I know what to say correctly, so that they would feel safe under the guidance of the goddess, before spreading her blessing on that lost herd? Would they feel, deep within their chests, the infinite compasion Nienna had for them, or would they simply see my feat as a tool to cure their sprains and broken bones, and then feel no gratitude? In doubt, I decided to act swiftly, and no to bore them to death with hollow prayers before I would save their lives. "Men and women of this forest, may you greet in your souls the pure tears of She Who Weeps for your torments." And, with these few words, a gentle rain, carried by no ominous cloud, seemingly seeping from the blue sky itself, fell on the little group like a refreshing wave, tending to their bruised bones and limbs. * This mass cure light wounds spell should heal from 13 to 20 HP per person affected. It affects 12 persons.
Pipers Youth 09-24-05, 10:09 PM	Piper limped his way through the hidden passageway, the only light coming from his outstretched hand, which illuminated a bright white. Wherever he was heading to must have been hundreds of years old, living through the first Red Wizards, and the rise of the Thayan empire. The once smooth polished limestone, had become thick with dust, and the walls contained cracks that veined everywhere through the structure. Piper watched as a rat scurried across his field of vision. It stood up on hind legs, and flicked its whiskers, scenting the air. Not more than a second went past, when the vermin was snatched into the air by invisible hands, and its head bitten cleanly off. A small humanoid shape, with a set of leathery wings, and pointed ears faded into the material plane, hunched over. Wry amusement spread across his lips, as his imp devoured the thing, and licked it's fangy chops, only to glance back at it's master, grin, and vanish. Ever since he had delved his studies into the art of demonology, Piper had been completely enthralled, even with the lesser of demons. With this in mind, he smiled, almost of the same quality of the imps, and continued to walk to the forgotten passageway.
Agudo Archmage 10-13-05, 05:03 PM	It was dark and definitely damp with the way his luck had been going Agudo was sure he was beneath the surer system of this reached Thayen Empire. At least it didn’t smell he chuckled in less than a happy tone Holding the bottle of wine he found above his former prison he stopped “Well Im hungry and thirsty yet I can’t help but wonder if I should wait a little longer before quenching my thirst” Grimacing he wasn’t even sure witch way to go yet on word he did deeper down into the catacombs