Adventures of Caelereth

Troas Troas did not sit long in his chair.  Even before the sun came back out he was barking orders to clean up the place.  He had stormed back into his private library and was sifting through the sand looking for the "thought globe" given to him by Malok.  His servants were buisily sweeping up the sand, and some were already replacing the broken windows.

A guard walked in. "M'lord, a man named Nahor stands without asking for an audience with you."

Troas stopped and thought a moment, then replied. "Send the man to my lower chambers.  I will meet him there."  He continued searching for the globe as the guard nodded and left.  Finally he told one of his servants, a pretty young Shan'thai slave girl, "Find the globe, once it is found bring it to me.  I shall be in my lower chambers."

"Yes, M'lord." she said and began ernestly looking for the globe.

Troas made his way down to the lower chamber and entered in.  A man dressed all in black stood with his back to him.  He turned at the sound of Troas's entering.  The man gave a slight bow and said. "M'lord Troas, Malok gave me this message to give to you."  Nahor reached into his glove and pulled out the written message and gave it to Troas.

"I already know what the message says and Malok knows the answer.  Now tell me what do you know of this storm?"

Nahor's eyes grew wide with awe. How did he know what was in the message and how did Malok know the answer.  Is Troas a magician as well?  Nahor stammered. "I...I do not know anything about this storm, M'lord.  I was heading toward your place when it hit.  I was thrown off my horse and had to walk the rest of the way here."

"Pity, the you did not break your neck.  I need information, not excuses!"

Nahor's eyes narrowed.  He did not appreciate being talked to like this, especially by this two bit tyrant.  He smiled though and replied. "Ah, M'lord, information is something I can get for you.  I know many people...However information does not come cheap."

Troas weighed the person in front of him.  He had heard of Nahor, heard of his connections in the underworld Strata, heard of his own prowess as a master thief.  Bahar and even his other generals and advisors recommended and had high praises for him.  Troas nodded. "Name your price, master thief.  But it had better be information I can use or the next head upon the spires of the Northern Gate will be yours."

Nahor swallowed hard. "The price for the information will cost at least as much coin as one bar of Uryant.  My price for my services... will be...much higher."

"You think highly of yourself master thief, however I accept your terms. But remember my terms."

Nahor smiled and nodded. "I remember, M'lord.  I shall not disappoint you."

"You may leave now."

Nahor bowed, raised his head, turned upon his heel and walked out of the room.  A wide evil grin spread across his face. The price will be more than you expected, M'lord.

After Nahor left the servant girl walked in with the globe.  She kneeled and presented it to Troas.  She was about to leave when Troas motioned for her to stay.  She knelt down at his feet and he caressed her head, like someone would pet their dog and then he tried contacting Malok.

The globes mist vanished and instead of Malok's face, he saw a very beautiful female face instead.  Her eyes mesmerized Troas.  He shooed the servant girl away.  Then he asked the woman. "Where is Malok?"  

The woman replied emotionless. "Malok is dead.  I now am the Lord of the Fire Druids."

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Damien cursed as he walked through the sewers and passageways under the city of Strata.  The leader of the rat brownies running along side him, trying not to get himself squashed by the big human's boots. "Hey big man, watch it! I am down here you know."

Damien stopped, peered down and lifted the little brownie up and put him on his shoulder. "I forgot Minch.  I am angry.  Years of work, down the sewer. No insult intended.  Secret passageways, destroyed.  Rubble and sand everywhere.  Where in Bavaras name did the sand come from?"

Minch rolled his eyes.  Damien eyed him through his peripheal vision. "Don't, I know we live in a desert.  But we live in a city, right beside an ocean.  We also live underground.  But this?  This is not normal.  I have people out trying to gather some information.  What have your people discovered?"

"What we discovered big man, is that our homes are destroyed!  You big stupid humans have done something to make the gods angry!"

"Don't go blaming me for your misfortunes you little rat!  Look at my place.  I live below the house of Troas, the richest most protected place in Strata, and my men are still cleaning it up.  I wonder how Troas survived?" he muttered.

One of Damiens men came to him through one of the tunnels. "Lord Damien, Nahor has come and is asking for you."

"Nahor? Hm.. Is my throne room cleaned up?"

"Most of it."

"Then I will meet him there."
************************************************************************

Nahor was lead to Damiens throne room.  Nahor looked around, smiled inwardly. Damien thinks this is a throne room.  He always thought too highly of himself.  Look at it now.  Suddenly a wall opened to the right of Nahor and Damien walked in.  Nahor could see the rat brownie upon his shoulder.  Damien walked up the makeshift dias and sat down upon his throne.  It was only a chair, but Damien had it covered with black satin.  It showed off the inset jewels of diamonds and rubies throughout the legs and arms of the chair.  Nahor waited patiently until Damien got settled; which meant he had to have a drink in his hand, and a pretty woman serving him.

Finally Damien looked over at Nahor, motioned him to come forward.  By this time most of Damien's captains and officers had arrived with news and hungry and thristy mouths and stomaches.  "What is it, Nahor?" Damien asked.

"I send greetings to you from Troas.  He is willing to pay greatly for information concerning the storm and of course anything about the Resistance.  I am to be his liason between you and he."

"Really? How did you acquire such a position?"

"It does not matter, what matters is this."  Nahor pulled out a sack of money. "This and much more is for you for the right kind of information."

Damien's eyes widened when he saw that the sack was filled with gold coins. And the sack was not a purse, but a sack, as one would fill a half barrel of grain.  "Troas gave you that?"

"He did."

"Just for information?  What else does he want?"

"Just information." Nahor replied.

There was a buzz of voices throughout the room.  Damien glared until the noise died down.  He spoke. "Does anyone have any information worth this coin, or even part of it?"

A voice spoke up. "M'lord, my cousin Verhz, a guard at the Northern Gate, told me that right before the storm appeared, several travellers were seeking entrance into the city.  When Verhz asked what their buisness was, he recieved no reply, but then this storm hit.  He says it blew the gates wide open, and the travellers entered the city.  He said that one of them looked liked a... troll."

A huge uproar erupted.  Minch almost fell off of Damiens shoulders. "See I told you, I told you, big stupid humans. The gods have sent a troll to destroy you all, and we brownies will be destroyed as well."

Damien took his finger and flicked it at Minch.  Minch went flying through the air, fortunately he landed on one of the servants girls laps, but she screamed and tried to beat him off of her.  "Hey big bosom.  Stop trying to hit me.  I get off. I get off."  Minch ran around her lap trying to dodge the blows of the scared girl.  Finally he jumped off her lap and ran toward a crack in the wall and disappeared.

"A troll travelling with others? Impossible!  I want a meeting with this Verhz.  Set it up.  Usual place."

"Yes Lord Damien.  At the Merchants courtyard.  Say around 25 bells."

"Yes, that will be fine."  Damien motioned to Nahor.  "Well we will see if this information turns out to be the cause of the storm.  Until then can I invite you to partake of some wine, and other dainties I have."  Damien's eyes swept across several of his servant girls.   Nahor smiled, and replied as he walked up to one dark haired, dark eyed beauty and stroked her face.  "Don't mind if I do.  I always did say Lord Damien, that you had excellent taste."

Damien laughed.  "Yes I do, don't I."

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Sasha Sasha felt the wind tear at her establishment and then the walls began to buckle and several chandeliers fell from the ceiling. Most of their candles blew out when they hit the floor but some touched her silk curtains and they went up in flames.  Her customers, some of the richest in the city and world, scattered like mice.This is not supposed to happen to the Glory Inn.  She was throwing water upon the curtains as were her helpers when the door to her inn burst open and several sand dusted people came crashing through.  One she saw was a woman, girl, but elven and the other was a male elven.  The male called for others to enter.  And one other person did.  He at least was human. But he was shabby looking.  Sasha did not like this at all.

Then a brownie came in!  That was all it took.  She yelled.  Alot of her customers, especially female ones yelled, and tried to jump on the tables.  Sasha screamed. "Get out! Get out you vagabonds.  This place is not meant for your kind. This inn is meant for the most refined of Strata.  Your kind of establishments are nearer the waterfront.  Now get out!"  

Then she noticed that the male elf collapsed in the middle of her front door, holding it open so that sand began to fly into the room.  She looked at several of her bouncers.  "Throw these uncouth people out of here, and call the guards.  They are scaring my customers. And kill that brownie!"

One very large, ornately dressed woman, screamed at the word and the sight of Raoneth and fainted.  A large thump was heard as her overly heavy backside hit the floor.  An elderly man sitting next to her began to laugh so hard he fell off his chair. He continued to laugh, as he rolled on the floor.

The bouncers advanced upon Keelin, Shaint, Atri, and Raoneth.  Wooden staffs swinging in their well muscled arms.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Shaint's eyes slowly opend an dthe sandstorm died down his head shook lightly fying sand from his loose strands of hair he looked over his shoulder only to see a very large and muscular man swinging a staff at him "GAhhh!" Shaitn was suddenly pound in the back by a staff "Uggh, You shouldent have done that".

Shaint pushed himself off the ground with his arms and rolled over a staff missing him with every roll He threw his knees behind his head and then thrust them forward sending him upward in the air he landed on his feet a bouncer was behind him as he though Just my luck...this is going to hurt Shaint spun quickly on the ball of his foot and met the bouncers face with a firm back-hand,

The bouncers head turned as he grasped and rubbed his jaw lightly he soon noticed a bouncer was headed for just about every person in his party....and where in Av'as name was Gararion?!. Shaint's eyes narrowed as a Bouncer headed for Keelin, A scowl crossed Shaint's face as his fists made themselves tight and the mucles in his arms rushed with blood,

His veins rolled over his fore-arms  "STAY AWAY FROM HER!" Shaint was about to reach for his sword and quickly slash the head of the man strait from his shoulders but shook his head as he muttered to himself "There just doing there job...." he calmed down a little but rushed to Keelin but then being hit in the face by a staff sending him backwards.

Shaint grasped his face as blood came from his lip he stood and a staff headed for his face yet again "I dont want to fight or hurt anybody just let us leave!!" Shaint grasped the end of the staff that was headed for his face and pulled it form the mans hand snapping it over his knee "ah, Good A'va that hurt!" he shook his leg slightly and then grabbed Keelin rushing twords the door to get out.

He looked down to Keelin's face "Sorry about all this saving stuff but I can't just let you get hurt I might kill the person that hurt you" he extited the Inn an dlooked back at his companion sthat had came in after him "C'mon!" he looked around and awaited his party members as-well as if the bouncers where going to chase them or not.

As soon as Shaint was struck with the staff Atrii drew his long sword with extreme skill slicing the closest staff in half before backing out behind Shaint and Keelin watching the bouncers. He stood at the door, sword drawn waiting for the others to exit the Inn.

A few screams and yells came from the inn.  Radaroc looked over just in time to see Shaint and Keelin dash out.  "Is anyone still inside?" not waiting for an answer he ran to the door.  Slamming it open he saw Atrii standing with his sword drawn facing a number of bouncers.  Sooo not good he thought to himself, I hope this works...  Reaching in with a long arm he grabbed Atrii around the neck and tore his sword out of his hand.  "Nobody move or the guy gets it!" he roared holding the sword to the ranger's exposed neck.  Leaning his face close to the human's ear, he whispered, "Play along and we might get out of this ok."  Slowly backing back out into the street he was careful to keep his face under the hood.  He then pulled Atrii along he brought him over to the others.  Then it dawned upon him.  He turned to the others, "Where's Raoneth?"

Keelin yanked her arm free of Shaint's grasp with an angry glare for good measure. I though he was with you... She signed at Radaroc. She glanced around and thought an oath that probably would've made a sailor blush if the sailor could've heard it. She spun on her heel and sprinted back to the inn and slipped inside. She thumped one of the bouncers between the eyes with the pommel of her sword and scanned the inn for Raoneth.  

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Raoneth trotted in to the inn everyone seemed to be entering. A place to sleep, that's exactly what I need now...
When the screaming started he looked around nervously,
what's happening?
Then he noticed all the people who were looking at him. Not looking happy.
Oh, joy. another city, another type of prejudism... Honorless filth

Suddenly all the people he traveled with rushed past him, and a bunch of bouncers were going after them.
Or are they? Some of them are looking at me! Baithag!
"Uh, stand back or I'll... ah, sod it..."
He picked down the front man first, his expression changed from amusement from Raoneth's unfinished threat to shock from feeling his lifeforce being drained before he fell like a sack of grain on the floor. Raoneth felt better, not because he'd just knocked out a man ten times his size but because he was more awake.
He could hear fighting behind him. Probably Shaint and the others
Another bouncer jumped over the unconchious man. The fighting behind him had stopped, he looked over his shoulders The troll and the human were still there. At least one guard lay on the floor.
Probably dead... What a way to win a combat... Maybe not as pathetic as running away, though.
He turned to the direction he was looking and started running, he could hear a loud thump behind him and the floor shook.
They're trying to STOMP me?
The floor underneath him started creaking and he could hear loud noises behind him. He didn't look back, but he knew...  that somehow pieces of the floor were spraying up behind him. He could also hear shouts of, "follow him" and "kill the little demon" as Keelin rushed past him, she seemed to be looking for something.
The violent noises from the inn started to die down  

Edited by: Raoneth at: 2/28/03 8:51:54 pm

Sasha Sasha stood there, jaw open wide as she saw her most trusted and strongest bouncers being decimated right before her eyes.  She would not have believed that an elf, and even a female one, could do such damage.  Then when that big whatever it was came bursting through the door and grabbed the human, a ranger, Sasha saw, sword and threatened him but pulled him out of the tavern.  Sasha grew suspicious.  Then just when Sasha thought all was well the female elf, comes in, whacks her last remaining bouncer right between the eyes, he falls like a sack of grain. And she begins looking around the place.

Several customers fled before the elven girls gaze and her shiny blade.  More threw gold coins at her and told her. "Here take the money.  Just spare our lives!"

Then out of the corner of her eye she spied the brownie.  She grabbed a broom and was going to chase the little rat out, when she noticed he did not look like a rat brownie.  but still, a brownie is a brownie.  However before she could move, and she was wary of the female elf, the brownie just walked calmly as you please outside.  Sasha sighed a sigh of relief, but the female elf was still in her establishment, brandishing her sword, and all her bouncers were on the floor.

Sasha finally screwed up her courage, picked up the gold coins thrown on the floor and handed them to the female elf. "Here, take the money and go.  Please, my customers are frightened enough."

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Keelin looked surprised for a minute. Great, now they think I'm a bandit... She handed the coins back to the innkeeper and noticed Raoneth creeping outside. She sighed mentally, gave the innkeeper an apolgetic look, and followed him outside. Well that was fun.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Edited by: KeelinElf at: 3/1/03 3:43:05 am

Gararion had helped many people now within the city walls and now it was time for himself to rest a little.

As he looked about he saw a dock nearby and a building bearing the label "Bavaras's Anchor'.

Gararion watched a few men come and go within this establishment, each seeming to be a little drunk and some poor or even broke as they just spent their wages in drink.

Surely this was a tavern of some sorts.

Gararion walked up to the building and was about to push open the door when the doors were suddenly opened by another leaving.

"Hikup....good da-up"

Gararion looked this man over and could tell he had drake his wieght in ale and now was not full of his senses.

Gararion now walked through the opened doors and sat down near a table near the fire, receiving a few strange looks from the other customers within the establishment.  Surely they had seen very few mages Gararion thought, and wearing his most prized garmet, he didn't look like a person who had just been through a two sandstorms or even adventured that much.

Gararion waited for some one to come take his order...hopefully he didn't have to yell out his order within this establishment Gararion hoped....

Sasha Sasha felt somewhat like as if she was in a dream.  She stood there with the coins the female elf gave back. What seemed strange was that the elf never spoke, just with her eyes, and her eyes told Sasha that she was a kind person.  Some of her bouncers began to get up, a little groggy, but at least they were alive.  The servants began to turn the tables and chairs upright, women came down from off their chairs, Sasha returned the money to whomever said they wanted it back, and things became normal, again.  Sasha wondered if anything was going to normal again?
***********************************************************************
Grunkez Grunkez or Grunk as he was better known was filling his pockets with some stolen money from a drunk sailor he had just found lying on the ground after the sandstorm had passed.  He thought it his good fortune, the sailor had just got paid and had three silver pieces in his pockets.  He then noticed a stranger walk into the Anchor.  The stranger looked rich, at least his clothes did, so Grunk followed him. Why would a rich man go in the Anchor? he thought.

Grunk situated himself in a dark corner so he could watch the man.  He seemed to be just sitting there, as if he was waiting to be served or something like as if he were in a place like the Glory.  Grunk smiled evily.  He sauntered up to the bartender. "Hey Boris, give me two tankards of Brown, will ya."

Boris looked at Grunk. "Lets see the money.  You already owe me almost a silver piece for the drinks I have already gave you."

Grunk took out one of the silver pieces. "Here you money grubbing shark. That should even us up and then some.  Now give me two Browns."

Boris took the silver, bit it, surprised it was real and even more surprised that Grunk had that kind of money.  He filled the Tankards and handed them to Grunk along with a couple pieces of copper coin for change.

Grunk took the tankards and walked over to the strangers table, he had a rich looking cloak on.  He placed the tankards down, spilling some of the contents on the dirty table cloth and his hands.  He wiped his hands upon his tattered, dirty, shirt, held it out, then decided better and pulled it back.  "Name is Grunk, you being a stranger here and all I thought I would be neighborly and buy you a drink.  Mind if I sit down?"

Grunk did not wait for an answer he sat down opposite the stranger.  The low light in the tavern did not allow Grunk to see the stranger clearly, besides the stranger had his cowl pulled over his head.  Grunk took a long sloppy slug of the ale, wiped his mouth, and slapped the table.  "Hey ar'nt you drinking?  It's the best ale you will ever drink and the only good thing those dwarves ever made.  Brown it's called.  By the way, where ye from?  Need a guide.  I come cheap and know this town like the back of me hand."
************************************************************************
Troas "Dead? How?"

The mesmerizing woman smiled. "I killed him.  Breach of contract.  Any problems with that?"

"Ah, no.  I would much prefer to deal with a beautiful woman anyday." Troas replied giving her his most dazzling smile. I would have never thought Malok could be killed, at least not by some woman. I wonder what she wants?  "So if you are now the Lord, Lady of fire, it would be crass to call you a Lord, when Lady fits you much better. I assume you knew the terms of contract I had with Malok.  In fact as I look at you, I seem to recall seeing you with him.  Isn't your name Issrah?"

The woman's eyes turned icy. "No, that was my sister.  She is dead also.  I am called Rhaz."

"Um.. did you umm.."

"No fool I did not kill my own sister.  What kind of person do you think I am?  No, some Elven witch we had captured in Thalambath's fortress did so when the Resistance's forces attacked."

"The Resistance!  Attacked!  When?"

"At night.  I must go.  I will talk with you later."

The globe went dark.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Bobbo was satisfied with Qui's answer and let him go. He was quite startled when the man pulled out his sword. But then he heard them say that they had found Oscar in the sand. Soon the storm ended. Bobbo threw back his hood, and in the act of doing so, showered himself with the sand on it. He quickly dashed to the other tent, forgetting Lucirina for a moment. Then he saw that Oscar was dead.

Bobbo stopped and stood in shock for a moment. He closed his eyes, but soon opened them again. Tears began to fall down his face, the cleansing water washing away the sand on his face. He went to the dead man's side and knelt beside him.

In much sorrow, Bobbo lifted his hand and gently closed the good old man's eyes one last time. He also closed his mouth. He coughed and stood up.

"If any deserved the title of lord it was you, Oscar," he said solemnly, "Farewell."

He heard Qui accuse him of being the cause of Oscar's death. He turned around in time to see the Tristin slap Qui across the face. Then Qui asked for his forgiveness.

"You are forgiven by me," said Bobbo, "I wish I would have known that you had Lucirina safely out of the tent. I could have stayed and helped. I feel I must thank you for saving Lucirina's life, Qui, for I fear if it hadn't have been for you, she would not be alive."

Bobbo turned and saw Lucirina say something to Oscar in elvish as his body was bore away. He saw she was in great sorrow. He rushed to her side and put his arms around her, letting her cry on his shoulder. As he embraced her, he found himself crying as well.

As everyone emptied out of the inn...well that was in his party anyway he saw Radaroc holding a sword to Atrii's neck Shaint threw a brow up at him aswell as an odd look "Drop him Radaroc" Shaint looked over his shoulder "You may follow me, however if you do not do what you wish" Shaint slipped his two hands into his pockets and began to walk forward across the sand from the sand-storm,

Shaint slowly walked through the city looking at a few recovering people but groggy from being hit so hard by the suprising sand, He came to around a dock on where a Tavern sat....he could tell so by a slight smell of ale and wine mixed aswell as the occasional drunkard dragging himself out, "I could use a drink....." Shaint came closer to the tavern as a drunk passed him "Hick-'ey go shee' the Hick-newsh 'uy"

Shaint looked at the drunkard and shook his head slightly " go rest my friend" he walked passed the drunkard and into the tavern Shaint didn't pay attention to heavilly or he would have noticed that Gararion...or someone that looked like him was sitting off at a table where another man had just approached him.

Shaint sat down at a table and rubbed a hand through his hair he glanced around as a waitress approached him "Can I get any-thin for yea darlin?" Shaint looked at her oddly "uh...just a wine please" Shaint looked back and folded his hands he began to think about this whole thing but mostly Keelin....

'Perhaps it is a waste of time....perhaps not....now I wonder why I ever gave up feelings......but at the same time why did I bring them back?!

Lucirina felt the warmth of a pair of arms embracing her and once more she could feel guilt over the death of the old man wash over her once more... this was all her fault..... had she not returned to the tent crying as a child both Qui, Bobbo and herself would have been there to aid Oscar and maybe the kind old man would still be alive.
Filled with guilt and self loathing she wriggled herself free of Bobbo's arms and walked away in silence, the tears already starting to dry on her cheeks as her eyes grew distant and cold as they had been the day she entered the tavern of the Thirsty Herald.
She walked over to a soldier that were trying to kindle a fire and placed a hand on his shoulder, as she spoke the voice could well have come from a corpse, so flat and cold it was.

"One dosn't mean to bother you Milord. But One needs to know if there is someone in this camp, besides Qui, that can teach One the art of the throwing knifes."

The soldier looked down at the elven woman and shuddered slightly, it was like looking into the void as he met her emotionless eyes, he had seen her early this morning as she had gifted him with a smile, and he was amazed that she was the same woman, she seemed so changed.
"You may ask Valach, the man standing over there, close to the gate, he is a master of the knifes, his skill almost rivaling that of Qui himself."
He answered her  and pointing at the man he called Valach, a soldier who had his face marred by several scars and that leaned quite heavily against the gate of the fortress.
Lucirina bowed slightly at the soldier without smiling before heading toward the gate where she bowed at Valach before speaking.

"Greetings milord, One is sorry to bother you in this time of mourning but One was told that milord is skilled with the knifes. One needs someone to teach One the art of the throwing knifes but milord Qui has other things on his mind at the moment.....
One's question is simple, will milord teach One?"

Valach
Valach was amazed over the fact that there suddenly was a short elven woman standing beside him and asking him to train her in the art of the knifes.
He scratched the back of his head and was about to ask her to leave him alone when he looked into her eyes, cold and empty as the void. Eyes that had decided to shut everyone out from her heart and only care for herself.
He frowned and leaned down to look better at her.
She was fair, as most elven women, the air of coldness around her only making her seem more attractive.
Curious about her and about the reason for such coldness made him nod at her, speaking with a low and almost growling voic.
"I will train you, it will not be easy but I suspect you have lived a harsh life and you have survived it up to now so I guess you can take the training.
My name is Valach Ezard."
He stretched out a massive hand to take hers that almost dissapeared within his grip.
The elven woman smiled, a smile that didn't reach her eyes that remained cold and distant as she spoke her name.

"Ones name is Lucirina Telor Vevan.... Milord can call One Nightbird"

With a soft shake of hands the two wandered off to a distant part of the camp and started the training, the eyes of the elf carrying a look of determination in them.... and emptyness

Edited by: Lucirina Telor Vevan at: 3/2/03 2:43:19 pm

"Right." Radaroc replied quickly placing the sword back in Atrii's hand, he looked at him apologeticly, "Sorry 'bout that it was all I could think of to keep anyone from getting hurt or worse killed.  Believe me.  People go crazy over even little things in cities."  

Following after Shaint he built up his nerve and walked into the bar. He was relieved as only a few were sober enough to be curious at his height.  Heading over toward Shaint he looked at each of the chairs at the table, trying to figure out which one would support his weight.  Finally choosing one he sat down, it creaked but held together. However it was uncomfortable as his knees came up to the tabletop.  Radaroc thought to rearrage himself to a more comfortable position, but decided it would probably prove
fruitless.

He then turned to Shaint, "Any particular reason we came to this place?"

Atrii smiled at the large troll as he rubbed his neck. "I don't think I like the city much." Atrii looked around the party, everyone seemed fine... but where was Gararion. "Ummm... where's Gararion?

Shaint looked at Radaroc and shook his head slightly "Not particulalry I just needed time to think on this whole insadent some things have been running through my mind lately and they do not help on me being a leader for this Party"

Shaint sratched his jaw in a thinking manner and ex-haled deeply "Radaroc now i have no doubt you have been away from your home-land for quite some time but have you ever felt feelings of compassion for someone else?"

Qui Qui was forgiven by Lord Bobbo for his breach of conduct and his tongue.  He bowed to Lord Bobbo, took one last look at Oscar's body and then turned away.  He then turned back and noticed Lord Bobbo with his arm around Lady Lucirina they both seemed to be giving their farewells to his uncle.  Then surprisingly Lady Lucirina wriggled out of Lord Bobbo's arms and walked away.  

Qui kept a sly look where she headed, first she headed to one man, then after some conversation, she headed to Valach. She talked to him, and then he led her to a far corner.  Qui was curious.  He slowly walked toward their position, checking some of his men, the wounded and such.  In the background he could hear his men building the funeral pyre for Oscar.  

Finally he was close enough to see what they were doing.  He was teaching her how to throw the knives he gave her!  He wondered why she did not ask him, and then recalled she did, up on the wall, and then he recalled his words to her.  No wonder she asked Valach. Well there is no one better than myself with the Sophronian throwing knives, than Valach.  He then remembered he had one of her knives.  He had taken it away from her mouth, when he gave her the breath of life and then kissed her.  He could still taste her lips, and smell the scent of wildflowers in her hair.  He was just about to go over where the two were when he heard the Tristan call his name.

He turned, disappointed, but walked quickly back to the Tristan. "Sire?" He asked.

"Qui, we must break camp.  Gather your troops and tell them to gather everything they can find.  Once all is readied, we will light the funeral pyre honoring Oscar and then we head to Thalambath's Tears.  I fear our presence and this unusual storm are related somehow.  We must go back to our fortress and make plans for the attack upon Strata."  He looked around and then said. "I see Lord Bobbo, where is Lady Lucirnia?"

"She is eager to know the art of the Sophronian throwing knives, Vahaz has her off in a corner talking with her."

"Well that will have to wait until we get to the Tears.  He will be needed to gather his squads of men and their gear."

"Yes Sire. Anything else?"

"No, go do as I say, quickly, the sun goes down soon.  And the Pyre must be lit just as it disappears below the southern horizon."

Qui hurried off, giving orders to his men.  He went to Lord Bobbo and told him.  "Lord Bobbo, the Tristan wants us to break camp and get ready to leave.  We leave at dusk, right before we honor Oscar and light his pyre.  There are only three bowmen who are given the priviledge of shooting the sacred arrows.  The Tristan will be one, I will be the other, I would be pleased if you would be the last. I know you cannot because of your honorable disfigurement, but you can have one pull the bow in your stead.  I can recommend several very good bowmen... Or, and I do not know this, but maybe you do, Lady Lucirina could do it if she so desired. Normally a woman would not be allowed to shoot the sacred arrow, but since I am Oscar's only living relative, I can override the tradition.  You think about it.  I must go and see to my men and the preperations of leaving this place"

He strode over to where Lady Lucirina and Valach were.  He walked up to them, Valach noticed him, and stood at attention. Qui asked them quietly. "What is going on here?" he addressed Valach, seemingly ignoring Lady Lucirnina.

"Milady asked for some instruction on the art of the Sophronian throwing knives.  I was about to give her, her first lesson.  She mentioned that you did not have the time, though you were the ones who gave them to her." Valach replied visably sweating.

"Ah, yes I do recall saying that to Milady when she surprised me upon the wall.  Well the lessons will have to wait.  We have orders to break camp and be ready to move to the Tears as soon as dusk falls, and Oscar's pyre is lit."

"Yes Sir.  I will begin preperations immediately." He bowed to Lady Lucirina, "I am sorry Milady, but duty calls.  We shall begin after we have settled at the Tears."  Valach rushed off, glad to be out of Qui's presence and even Lady Lucirina's, her eyes were not as warm as they had been this morning.

Qui turned his attention to Lady Lucirina. He slyly smiled and whispered to her. "A lady must never go around undressed." He then handed her back the throwing knife he had taken from her mouth.  He then turned his back to her and began to walk away.  Turning his head he said. "By the way Milady, Lord Bobbo may want to speak with you.  I asked him as a favor and honor to Oscar to do something.  As he physically cannot, I asked him if maybe you would."

Qui walked away wondering if he was playing the wrong tune.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Edited by: Oscar Lotus at: 3/3/03 6:11:35 pm

Valach was explaining Lucirina about the importance of balance and precition when using the throwing knifes when Qui arrived and ordered him to break camp.
Lucirina twitched her long ears in irritation over the interruption but she knew she couldn't protest, this was not her army nor her men.
She folded her arms over her chest as she waited for Qui to finish giving his order to Valach and as he did she gave him a short nod.

"One will wait for the time milord will train me again."

Qui moved closer and handed her the knife he had taken from her mouth as she was rescued from the sand covered tent and whispered something to her.
"A lady must never go around undressed."
Frowning and laying her ears back as a angry horse would she grabbed the knife and without caring if he was looking or not she lifted her dress to place it back in the sheat strapped to her left tigh, then let it fall back to its normal position.
As he walked away he turned to look at her and say something else that involved Bobbo.
"By the way Milady, Lord Bobbo may want to speak with you. I asked him as a favor and honor to Oscar to do something. As he physically cannot, I asked him if maybe you would."
Lucirna nodded shortly and turned as to go, then remembered something and spoke to him, her voice flat and cold, emotionless.

"One needs a pair of boots, does Milord Qui think it is possible to find one in the camp that may fit One?"

She looked at his back as she spoke, her eyes as cold as her voice, it seemed that she did not care what the answer was, as if nothing and no one mattered to her anymore.
A cold smirk came to her lips as she turned around to leave him once more, her cold voice reaching his ears.

"Twice has Milord crossed the limits of frienship.... One hopes Milord does not atempt to do so again. If not One will be forced to use Ones adquired skills on Milord.
Take this as a friendly warning Milord Qui, do not make One anger, or Ones song will be the last thing Milord will hear, One has not take the name Nightbird for nothing."

She fell silent as she walked away from him, straight and proud as a adelmir tree, she moved in the direction where she last saw Bobbo without looking back.
If Qui had eyes that could see the soul and heart of the elf they would be the image of two small birds trapped in a cage, a cage made of ice, flying against the bars and trying to get free, yet held back by the chilling cold.

Gararion sat alone at the table near the fire waiting for someone to take his order for a while now but was joined with a male bringing him a drink.

Without waiting for no repsonse to his first question he sat down and dropped the tankard of the ale beside Gararion, spilling some of it on the table, slowly being soaked up by the dirty table cloth but still left a puddle of ale behind.

Gararion looked at the ale then frowned as the man asked him why he wasn't drinking.  

What was he to say if he didn't want to be rude to this man.  He never drank any drink that may bring ill to his mind.

Puxhing the tankard through the puddle of ale on the table over to the man named Grunk leaving a trail of the ale in its path, Gararion poke.

"Sorry sir but I do not drink ale or wine much anymore.  I only drink on special occassions."

Gararion continued to talk as was thinking wether if he should just yell his order out at the barman or what.

"I come from Ximax, following the compass within myself.  So I must thank you for your offer but I need no guide."

Gararion then saw Shaint walk within the bar.

"But that elf there is with me and he might be willing to hire you my friend so your offer may still not of waste."

Radaroc cast a side-long glance at Shaint,  the elf seemed slightly overwelmed with emotions of all sorts.  "Well...compassion for others certainly, I feel compassion for that drunk's family if he has any," he said nodded his head toward a man passed out in his chair, a few theives rifling throught his pockets, "but as for a deeper caring or love for I can name my father, perhaps Derm.  I hope to one day meet a lovely lady troll have children, but not now, not yet.  There is much I still want to see and know of the world.  
  If you want some insight onto your own female troubles, I'll say this: Ms. Keelin is tough, strong, has a sword and knows how to use it.  Give it time, if it's ment to be it'll happen have faith in that."  With that he turned to a waitress and motioned for a pint of ale.

Shaint's head shot up as Radaroc was coming to an end, "Wha, who said it was Keelin?!?!?!........" Shaint then dropped his head 'gah' "I can't help it Radaroc i've never felt like this about someone before, suppose your right not now, not yet.... Shaint shrugged slightly before speaking again,

"I just don't know anymore....maybe I should just forget all of it.....that is if I can what he really wanted to say was something as "DAMNED THIS ALL TO HELL I CAN'T TAKE IT ANYMORE!!!!"

Qui Lucirina's last words to him rang in his head as one tolls a bell.
"Twice has Milord crossed the limits of frienship.... One hopes Milord does not atempt to do so again. If not One will be forced to use Ones adquired skills on Milord.
Take this as a friendly warning Milord Qui, do not make One anger, or Ones song will be the last thing Milord will hear, One has not take the name Nightbird for nothing."

Qui hung his head in shame. This is not at all what I expected.  Oh, how I wish Oscar was here.  I could talk to him.  He walked over to where his men were finishing up the pyre.  They were raising Oscar's body up when one of them slipped in the sand, almost dropping Oscar.  Qui immediately reached out and grabbed Oscar's shoulders and bore him up to the top of the pyre.  Qui looked at him. How peaceful he looks.  He bowed his head and cried softly into Oscar's bosom. How I will miss you, uncle.  How I wish you were here to help me understand these feelings I have.  Your words of wisdom will be greatly missed.

He dried his eyes, climbed down the pyre and finished the preperations of moving out.  He looked and saw that the time was very short now.  He walked up to the Tristan, "Sire, the men are ready, the prye is built, and the sun is almost below the horizon."

The Tristan nodded. "Yes Qui, I saw you say your last goodbye's to Oscar.  I know that you are his only heir so I bestow upon you the title I would give to Oscar, Shiek.

Qui was stunned.  To have the title of Shiek would put him on par with what the men in the north call Royalty.  "Sire, I... I do not know what to say. Yes I do, I do not deserve such a title, Oscar did, but not I.  I... I have done things, thought of things that would dishonor Oscar and you."

The Tristan put his hands upon Qui and looked him straight in the eyes. "Do you think I do not know what turmoil surges through your body?  Do you think I have grown blind?  Or have no heart?  Do you think I am so old that I have forgotten the pangs of youthful love?"

Qui's eyes widened.  The Tristan continued. "Though I am not your uncle, and though your love is for someone who seems to be in love with someone else, I will tell you what I think Oscar would tell you.  Let her go.  If it is in Seyella's plan then nothing you do or say will change it, whether it be for you or against you.  

I dare not say that you should forsake her, but be kind to her, show her the respect that is her due and you will have honor and give honor to her intended, Lord Bobbo and to her.  Remember, she is hurting too.  I saw how she felt for your uncle.  Lord Bobbo is also hurting.  I look at their faces and see the guilt they have placed upon themselves.  I hope I have helped you, my son."

Qui had tears running down his face by the time the Tristan was finished. How foolish I have been!  How petty!  How blind!  "Yes, Sire, you have helped me.  Helped me as much or more than Oscar."

"Those words I said unto you were not mine, but Oscars. They were said to me by him a long long time ago, when I was just about your age, and Oscar was just about mine. But I thank you for your kind words, Qui.  Now we should get together and light the arrows, send Oscar to his final resting place, and then move on to the Tears.  Have you found the third person?"

Qui told the Tristan what he asked Lord Bobbo and then how he thought that maybe Lady Lucirina would do it in his stead.  The Tristan thought and then said. "It was an honorable thing you asked, however the way you presented it to Lady Lucirina was not honorable."

"I know that now Sire, I will rectify that now."

Qui went in search for Lady Lucirina.  He found her standing next to Lord Bobbo.  He walked up to both of them and stood there quietly awaiting them to notice him.  His thoughts were still muddled about Lady Lucirina, but they were becoming clearer the more he thought about the Tristan's advice and words of wisdom, no, not the Tristan's, but Oscars.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Grunk

Well lada dee, thought Grunk.  A man who does not drink.  Must be a fop.  "Where in Coor's name is Ximax?" Grunk asked picking up the tankard of ale that was refused by the man.  "You know around here matey, what you just did could be taken as a sign of dishrespect.  But I say what the Coor.  If you don't want to drink with me, its your loss, not mine.  And no, I do not associate myself with elves, thank you."

Grunk got up and sauntered away.  He went to the bar, motioned for Boris to come over and whispered something into his ear.  Boris nodded, went into the kitchen behind the bar, found a scrub of a boy, told him something and the boy scurried out of the back door losing himself quickly into the shadows as night approached.  

The boy welcomed the shadows, they were his friend.  He quickly found the right opening in the road, opened the grate and slid into the sewers.  He then headed for Damien's throne room.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Keelin stared hard at her surroundings, trying to figure out where she was. I probably should've payed a bit more attention to where the others were going... The shifting darkness set her nerves on edge and she moved quietly, listening for a tell-tale ring of footsteps. She heard nothing, but this did not ease her mind. I find myself in one of the worst positions a traveler can be in. Lost and alone at night. Lovely.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Damien was enjoying the company with Nahor when one of the secret walls opened up and in walked, rather breathlessly, Nob.  One of Damien's men tried to stop him but Damien waved him away.  "Nob, my boy.  What brings you here?  And why are you running?"

"Milord, I was coming here with a message from you from Boris and along the way I saw this pretty young thing stumbling along the city in the dark.  She seemed to be lost."

Damien's eyes lighted up.  "A pretty young lady, you mean?"

"Yes, Milord, I did not get real close to her, but from her size and shape I think she may be an elf."

"An elf?  Oh I must have her.  I have never had an elfish woman before.  Have you Nahor?"

Nahor nodded no.  Damien looked around, all that was there were Og, Poh, and Erwen.  "You three go find the girl and bring her here.  Og, you take charge.  Let Nob take you to where she is.  Hurry now!"

Nob called out. "But the message from Boris."

"You can tell me after you bring me back the girl."

"Yes, Milord."  They all left.  Nahor asked. "Why send three men to capture one girl?

"In my experience with women, Nahor.  They are not all as weak as they pretend or we think they are.  Also I am not sure about Elven women.  They may fight, so to cover all my bets..."

"You send more than enough to do the job."

"A lesson some should learn." Damien replied.
************************************************************************
Nob, led the three men out of the sewers right to Merchants row.  Motioning for them to be quiet, he skulked around the street looking for the girl he had seen moments ago.  She had moved farther down the street, but was heading for a more despicable part of town.  Nob, gave a low whistle.  Og, Poh, and Erwen silently followed the whistle.  Nob pointed out the girl.  Og, gave a slow whistle, motioned for the other two to go around the block and get in front of her.  He waited until he heard them whistle that they were ready.  He whistled back.  And then advanced upon the unsuspecting girl.

Og, walked up silently behind her.  I could do this by myself.  I did not need Poh, and Erwin, but Damien ordered them to come.  He was just about to grab her when she came into the light of one of the torches.  He saw her features, and a low whistle escaped his lips.  She turned and saw him.  He advanced.  "Hey there little lady.  You sure do look fine.  What are you doing out here in the dark?  You looking for a good time?"  Damn, Damien is going to like this one.  I wonder if he will pass her around once he is through with her.  I wouldn't throw her out of bed for eating oysters, that's for sure.

Poh, and Erwin heard the whistle and came toward the girl from the other direction.  She was now cut off.  Nob stood in the shadows...waiting.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Gararion listened to the remarks of Grunk.  It seemed that he disliked the denail of the drink he offered.

When Gararion heard that this man did not associate himself with elves Gararion waited till Grunk had left the table and then let out a small laugh joined with a smirk.  What feelings does this man have against us I must wonder.  This may prove enjoyable to play with such a human mind like this one.

But there was a hidden reason for these next few actions...he wanted to teach this human to respect his kind for he had experiances with to many who didn't.  As Gararion thought about what he would do his hand rubbed the aged scar accross his neck and then moved his hand through his long silver hair where his left ear should've been.  He slowly removed his hand and the hair fell back in place, covering the missing left ear from discovery.

Gararion then saw Grunk whisper hidden words to the barman, even hidden t his own elven ears.  The barman in return went behind the bar, surely to deal with what Grunk had said to him.

What could this man could've said to this barman I wonder.  I must find out for it may prove to bring ill to our cause here.

Gararion stood and walked into Grunk direction.

"I wish to show no disrespect to you kind sir.  Let us share another drink on my behalf."

Gararion looked in the direction of the barman and spoke again.

"Please bring us another of this brown," he looked to Grunk "as you call it sir and one of your finest wines please.

May we sit once again and we can talk about what you may be avaiable to offer me."

Gararion waited for a reasponse from Grunk.

Shaint's elven ears soon tuned into the sound of Gararions voice he looked around and soon found the figure of his Magi friend he heard the sound of a man speaking and Gararion said something about Shaint, he payed no attention untill the foolish man spoke of  'not assosiating himself with elves'.

This struck a Nerve in Shaint's mind and his fists soon cracked as he made two fists he then looked back to Radaroc and washed out all past feelings he spoke "Radaroc you want a toy? or how about soem meat?" Shaint growled under his breath and slipped one of the silver blade daggers the handles dressed in elven runes and a blood red stone in the handle, from it's hidden hilt,

"On me" Shaint could stand for alot of things but disrespecting his race was not one of them he was about to lunge from his seat and slit the mans throat....but held himself back this man probabaly had information the way he spoke wasn't normal......

Atrii stood alone in the large city of Strata he looked around, there is Radaroc, Shaint, Gararion and Raoneth. But where is Keelin? Atrii stood looking around in all directions for the elf but she could not be seen. He was about to go out in search of her before deciding he should tell the others about it... he moved quickly into the bar and stood beside Shaint.

"Have you seen Keelin, she seems to have disappeared Shaint." His elven friend appeared quite angry at the time but thought it best to say somehting.

Shaint was still ina f small fury but began to calm when Atrii approached him "Keelin has gone missing.... is all he heard and then turned his head to Atrii "Atrii In my heart I believe Keelin can tak-care of herself I can't save her al the time and i dont think she likes it when I do so leave her be she is smart enough to find where we are if she want's to".

Atrii nodded knowingly. "I know Shaint, I just thought that you would like to know... I still have a feeling though." He looked up to Shaint with a blank face then turned and walked to a table near the door and sat, he removed his pipe from one of his pockets and lit it up. He glared at his companions watching them very closely as he plunged himself into deep thought.

"Radaroc you want a toy? Or how about some meat?"   At this Radaroc turned and glanced at the man Shaint was indicating.  "Hmmm... just then the waitress came by with his ale, he put a couple of coppers on the table.  Taking a draught from the tankard, "He seems a little on the scarwny.  Wha'd he do to you?"  
Then Atrii came up with news that Keelin wasn't around.  He became alert after that, but he had just said that she could take care of herself, Aww, it's not worth saying anything about it, I'm sure she's fine.

Grunk  Grunk heard his name called out.  He turned and looked and it was that fop that had refused his hospitality, now he seems to want it?  He is even offering to buy Grunk a drink.  Grunk looks at the stranger, bewildered. "How come you want to buy Grunk a drink now?  When before you could not even be bothered.  Said you did not drink.  I think you have something up sleeve.  Let me see your face?  Why hide behind cowl?"

Grunk did not wait for an answer,  He just continued on. "No, I do not think so, mister.  You have elven friends and that big one over there, he does not fool anyone.  A troll in city.  The authorities would be interested in knowing that a troll is here.  Why he here, anyway?  Troll's never come this far south.  Troll's hate desert.  So do elves.  Why elves here?  They did not come on ship.  I know, I work the docks.  So they came from desert, why?  Oohh Grunk's head hurt, too much thinking.  I go now."

Grunk headed to the back of the Anchor where there were a flight of stairs leading upward.  Then he stopped, turned around and ordered a half barrel of Brown, paid for it with his last two silvers, grabbed the half barrel and put it on his shoulder.  He then stumbled his way up to his room.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

"Hey there little lady. You sure do look fine. What are you doing out here in the dark? You looking for a good time?"

Keelin turned, expecting to see some drunk or another. The man behind her didn't appear drunk, but then, some people didn't. Seeing two more men advancing from the shadows out of the corner of her eye changed her veiw of the situation. Damn.

She unsheathed her sword and mentally called them all some very uncomplimentary terms. She spun around a slashed at one of the men behind her. They were either very stupid or hadn't been expecting any oppostion. Her blade cut a thin line through his throat.  

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Shaint had heard everything and Grunk began to walk back up to his room....he leaned forward to radaroc and spoke "Radaroc stay put this man has information and i'm going to get it...then.......well we can kill him or something of the sort" Shaint stood up slowly and threw a black cloack around his body and pulling up the hood around his face,

Shaint's feet moved quickly but silently up the stairs after Grunk who was now on the verge of opening his room's door Shaint spun his dagger in his hand it was one sided so he wielded it to backward the blade facing him, he stayed in the shadows he wasn't going to kill the man....however he was deftenatly going to scare him out of his wits.

Shaint arched his right foot and became ready to pounce the dim light flickered and soon went out....'oh great.....hmm I can see in the ark but not that well....

Garararion watched as Shaint made his way up the stairs.

Gararion whispered a few words.  He now was invisable but he left behind a illusion of himself sitting at the table still basking in the low dim light of the flickering flame.

Gararion followed SHaint up the stairs and when reached the top saw a slight flicker of steel before the light seemed to flicker out.

Gararion eyes adjusted quickly to the darkness and he prepared himself for any actions that Shaint may take.  He would not have any blood shed within this place.  He had seen enough death in the last few days with this group.

Why do these people hold death with such honor?  What forces this thought into their minds?

Shaint's mind rushed with ideas and oppertunities he then swirled his dagger and sheethed it quickly with no noise he jumped backward and landed on the ground he left on his cloak and looked around he sat down and thought

"hmm Atrii, Radaroc, Gararion I have an idea...and oddly enough it doesent involve blood, well because I believe Grunk...who is the man you just saw walk up the stairs has information where going to need to get it.....without death now Atrii your the only human here so you go and talk to him about getting hired for a job,

Tell him your a wanderer but has never been around these parts you can ask him to take you through the city then along the way undoubtfully you will go threw an ally.....this is where we get our information all of us here will basically surround the man and get the information....well maybe.....I don't know.....Gararion care to make some high improvments?"

Atrii still sat, gazing at the group. Shaint had gone upstairs, the ranger was unsure what the elf was doing but Atrii had his own conflict inside his mind. They were the same visions that he had experienced for the past 10 or so years, always the same but he could make nothing of them. He wrote them down though, hoping one day he would understand them.

Suddenly a pain surged through his body, closing his eyes he tried to discover where this pain originated from, he could not tell... but someone he cared about was in danger, but Atrii was helpless he simply sat, paralyzed.

Gararion watched Shaint fall leave Grunk alone in the darkness, sleathing his dagger.

As Shaint decened once again down the stair and sat at the table Gararion followed, still hidden by his spell.

Not wanting to reveal himself to early Gararion listened to the words of Shaint and positioned himself behind his own illusionary self sitting at the table so his voice would seem to come from the illusion.

"Do what your young mind leads you to think is the right thing to do.  I will remain watching your actions as an owl watches a mouse on a moonlite night."

Shaint nodded and spoke "Fine, be it so however be plenty sure to swoop on the mouse if you feel the time is right" Shaint leaned back in his chair Atrii closed his eyes an dthen didn't move "Atrii?"....Shaint then leaned forward looking at his friend "Atrii???"

They quickly moved to another inn. He didn't catch the name, but that didn't really matter to Raoneth anymore. There was trouble in all inns lately...
And, sure enough, after a short while Shaint moved up the stairs and Raoneth could feel something strange about Gararion.
It's not life magic... I wonder what...
The human allso seemed to be feeling something, writing something down before clenching his fists and looking very consentrated.
Suddenly Gararion spoke, but there was something wrong, "Do what your young mind leads you to think is the right thing to do. I will remain watching your actions as an owl watches a mouse on a moonlite night.", he was adressing Shaint, being to absorbed in the human, Raoneth hadn't noticed him being back.
Shaint nodded "Fine, be it so however be plenty sure to swoop on the mouse if you feel the time is right" Shaint leaned back in his chair, seemingly happy with his response, then he saw Atrii, "Atrii?"....Shaint then leaned forward looking at his friend "Atrii???".
I think I might have to trust the human, Shaint is too close... I don't think this "Gararion" can be trusted. I just knew he seemed too reasonable for an elf. He might indeed "swoop down" on us when we least expect it.
Raoneth sighed.

Edited by: Raoneth at: 3/6/03 2:25:21 pm

Og had crept up behind the young elven girl and Poh and Erwen had cut off her escape from up the street.  Og, pounced, he saw the sliver of light upon the blade.  Too late Og thought as he tried to backpeddle.  The blade swung and cut his throat.  He tried to scream, but nothing but blood bubbles came forth from the wound.  He placed his hands upon his throat to try and stop the blood, but it came forth with a vengence.

Poh and Erwen saw the small but deadly sword in the young girls hands.  They saw her swing at Og, but saw Og jump back.  They did not know he was bleeding to death.  Poh motioned Erwen to split up, they both pulled daggars.  Poh sneered. "So you want to play it the hard way.  Fine.  We play it the hard way."

Both men slowly advanced upon the elven girl.  They both had their daggars at the ready.  Poh, took off his cloak and wrapped it around his right arm and hand, his daggar in his left hand.

Nob silently watched, and when he saw the sword in the elven girls hands, he began to advance too.  But still hidden within the shadows of the buildings in the street.  Og had not moved, but Nob could see that he had his hands upon his throat.  Nob moved closer to Og, while keeping his eye upon the ensuing battle between Poh and Erwen and their prey.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Atrii heard a voice that sounded like Shaint. "Atrii... Atrii?" The ranger was jolted from the darkness that consumed his mind, he looked around sweat dripping down his forhead, his fists clenched, looking at Shaint.

"Yes Shaint?"

Shaint lead his eyes around the dim tavern and then Atrii gave a response "yes Shaint? Shaint looked at Atrii and soon noticed his fists where clenched and a sweat was running down his face "Atrii, come I need to speak with you Shaint was very oddly in his actions and such ever sense they intered the city,

He didn't quite care what happend to him....or his party for the most part he wasn't sure why he lead up the party to begin with....A sigh came from his mouth as he stood slowly up from his chair the black cloak draped across his body he removed it and held it in his right hand firmly,

His appearance had changed from since he had met everyone he was just pure changing, he went from the clothes of light colored shades to black, blood reds and greys his sword enchanted with a great power of Wind wich made it glow a blue shade and blew a breeze through the room never did glow anymore,

His blue and green colored eyes grew dimmer and he wasn't as happy or cheerfull as he was oir should have been was he even an elf at all....or had he just been from his elven ways for so long that he was just on the edge of being an elf...... Shaint leaned in the corner in the shadows and Waited for Atrii just what was he going to tell him

Bobbo  Bobbo was thinking over the request of Qui's after Qui left but his eyes never left Qui.  He had accepted Qui's answer of why he seemed to be kissing his beloved, but a nagging feeling came over him telling him that Qui was not being entirely truthful.  But this request.  How could he refuse?  He truely honored Oscar.  Found him to be an honorable man.  He felt honored to be even asked by Qui to take part in such a sacred ritual.

He saw Qui walk up to another man and when Qui addressed him, the man moved and Bobbo's eyes widened.  Standing next to the man was Lucirina.  Why was she there?  And with another man?  When she had shrugged away from him, he felt...what? Angry, confused, he did not know.  At a time when he was trying to console her, she pushed him away.  He needed consoling himself.  He felt guilty about Oscar.  Maybe he should have stayed and helped.  He would never know.  And now instead of being by his side, Lucirinia was with another man!  First Qui and now another.  Maybe he did not know her as well as he thought?  Or maybe he was just jumping to conclusions?  After all, she said she loved him.

The man Bobbo did not know, left suddenly.  Qui and her talked some but by the body posture of Lucirinia it seemed to Bobbo that she was angry.  Qui left and went over to the funeral pyre.  Lucirinia came his way.  She stopped next to him.

"What or maybe I should ask why did you leave me?" Bobbo asked coldly not looking at her.

He kept his eyes upon Qui who after climbing the pyre, came down and went over to the Tristan, Bobbo was waiting for Lucirnia's reply when Qui came over and stood silently a discreet distance away from them both.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Gararion seeing that the others were occuping themselves slowly positioned himself in a manner so his transition through illusion to reality once again could hardly be noticed unless one was watching closely.

As Gararion waved his hand he was seen standing up from his chair, the illusion of himself now gone.  He made his way over to the barman.

"Sir I think I will put a hold on that Brown.  But maybe still a fine wine may be in order as it feels my stay will be lengthened within this establishment."

"So you want to play it the hard way. Fine. We play it the hard way."

Yes I suppose we shall.

Keelin struck out at the hand holding the dagger, hoping to knock it away. Her blade glanced off the sharp metal and slid down toward the man's hand. Keelin twisted her blade again and took of two of the man's fingers. She took advantage of his preoccupation and kicked him in the stomach before turning to face the third man.  

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Lucirina turned and faced Bobbo, her eyes as cold as his voice had been.
"What or maybe I should ask why did you leave me?"
She stopped and stood looking at him for a second, in her eyes a weak spark of worry for him, but then they grew distant once more as she heard the coldness in his voice.

"One has One's own way of mourning One's dead... If Milord Bobbo does not like it too bad for him."

He could easily read in her eyes that she disliked being questioned about her actions and the laid back ears showed that she still was irritated about what happened with Qui, maybe if Bobbo had not spoken so harshly to her she would not have retreated into her coldness once more, but the moment he had to break the ice was gone once more.
As she turned she spotted Qui and the look in her eyes became even more cold as she crossed her arms over her chest and looked at him, green eyes sparkling like cold, hard gems.

Atrii slowly rose from his seat by the door and made his way to Shaint as he stood in a corner in the shadows. What does Shaint need to tell me? I hope it is nothing bad as everything has been unfortunate for us thus far.

"Is something wrong Shaint?"

"Atrii, your little flashes of horror filled dreams seem to keep happening very often just be careful for now my friend....maybe you should relax where in this big city just have a drink or go walking it's quite cool in the night"

Shaint finished and walked past Atrii he didn't want to tell this to anyone else because he did not want to worry anybody further, Shaint walked out the doors of the Tavern and stood on the dock that lead into the Tavern((I think it has a dock correct me if I'm wrong)) he stood on the very edge and crossed his arms,

A breeze came through the air and blew Shaint's black clothing tight across his front and flicked his hair in the wind Shaint reached with his right hand to his left ear wich had a notch where it was missing it looked like it was supposed to be there but ofcourse anybody knew that notches where not just ordinary they had to be taken in battle,

Shaint stroked the tip of his finger across his ear's ridge and closed his eyes inhaling threw his nose deeply lightly he sang to himself and anyone in his fairly close vacinity



carrying on with his unkown tune he began to hum instead of sing it was the first song that he had ever really sang around people....

Edited by: Shaint at: 3/7/03 7:49:16 am

Atrii nodded to Shaint. "I will do that, thank you. I'll find you after I've thought for a bit." Atrii turned towards the door to find a figure from his past that he couldn't remember, lately he had been in some of his visions but his name and how Atrii knew him was not found. Atrii froze as the figure looked away from Atrii and seemed to dissolve into the air. A hallucination...Atrii shook his head then made his way to the door, hopefully noone noticed Atrii do this, would most likely appear very odd.

He made his way out of the door and turned to his right making his way through the streets of Strata.

Bobbo Bobbo half listened to what Lucirinia had said.

"One has One's own way of mourning One's dead... If Milord Bobbo does not like it too bad for him."

He tilted his head back down toward her and noticed her demeanor had changed even more.  She had crossed her arms in front of her chest and was glaring at something behind him.  He looked behind him and saw Qui standing a discreet distance away from them.  He then addressed Lucirina. "Why are you so angry with Qui?  What has he done?  It does not matter, now.  You can tell me later, Qui has asked me to a favor for him and an honor to Oscar. I believe that is why he is here now.  To find out the answer.  I will let him ask it of you."

Bobbo motioned for Qui to come.  Qui came and with head low he quietly said "With your permission Lord Bobbo, I would like to speak with Lady Lucirinia."

"I know what you want to ask.  I was about to ask her myself, but since you are here, go do so."

"Thank you, Milord."

Qui then turned to Lady Lucirinia, bowed upon his left knee, looked up at her.  Her coldness in her eyes were almost more than what Qui could bear, a trickle of a tear rolled down upon his cheeks. I caused this.  I am ashamed. I will make it right, I hope.  "Lady Lucirinia, first I must apologize for my behavior these past few hours.  I have been blaming everyone else for my uncle's death and not bearing some of the resposibilty myself.  I...I also did not take into account how yours and Lord Bobbo's feelings toward my uncle and his untimely death would affect you both.  I saw how much you both cared for him, yet I cared not.  

Then as if Oscar was talking to me from the grave he reminded me of some words of wisdom he had given me... and the Tristan long ago.  The Tristan just told me those words and after hearing them I have come to realize my error.

There is a sacred burial ritual in which I asked Lord Bobbo to perform with the Tristan and myself.  I asked him because of his families stature and his right as the heir of the Junakin house.  However he cannot physically draw a bow.  So I asked him if you, Lady Lucirinia would do it in his stead.  If you do not then I will ask one of my bowmen to do it.  But I would be honored and Oscar I am sure would be pleased if you would join the Tristan and myself in lighting the sacred arrows and shooting them into the pyre onto which my uncle's body rests.  The ritual must be performed as the sun's embrace of the land leaves, which is just about now.  I know Milady that this is sudden, but I need an answer.  I know my words have not been kind to thee, neither has my actions.  So if thou declines, I understand.  But please if you can draw a bow, please consider doing so.  And in so doing may the breaches between us be mended as we honor our friend, family and mentor."

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Nob Nob crept closer and soon he saw why Og was holding his throat.  Blood was pouring out of it like a sieve.  Og saw him and tried to motion him over.  Nob was about to go over when he noticed the elven girl knock Poh's daggar away, cutting his hand.  Poh's daggar fell the ground and she turned to face Erwen.  Her back was to him and now was the perfect time, he thought.

He took his own daggar, flipped it around so that the heavy pommel was the weapon and threw it with prefect accuracy.  It hit her right at the base of her neck.  She crumpled like a fallen ox.  Nob then hissed. "Erwen pick her up, and go to Damien's.  I and Og and Poh will soon follow."

Erwen nodded in reply, kicked her sword in the shadows, picked up the unconsious girl, flung her over his left shoulder and began to trot slowly down the street until he came to an secret entrance to underground of the city.  Nob walked up to Og, after retrieving his daggar, he looked at Og, saw that he was close to death, slowly nodded his head.  Og's eyes widened in horror as his mind comprehended what Nob was going to do.  Then he resigned himself to the fact and nodded yes.  

Nob said. "Sorry Og, but rules are rules, besides you are almost dead anyway.  You know Damien will make sure your family is taken care of.  We take care of our own."  Nob then plunged the daggar into Og's chest.  Og fell pulling the daggar out of his body as he did so because Nob would not let go of the handle.  Poh walked over, he was bleeding also from his hand.  Nob took a look and said as he bandaged the fingers. "Well Poh, its only your little fingers.  At least you will live."

"Yeah, but Og didn't.  I wonder how Damien will think of his treasure now?"

"Probably will punish her, but at the same time admire her.  We should get out of here."

"Agreed.  lets go." said Poh walking quickly to where Erwen had disappeared just moments ago.
************************************************************************
Damien was still talking with Nahor when Erwen appeared with the girl draped over his shoulder.  Damien motioned for Erwen to place the girl on the carpeted floor in front of him.  Erwen did so.  "Where are Og, Poh and Nob?" Damien asked.

"The girl put up a fight.  She had a sword, she cut Og and Poh, and was coming after me, when Nob knocked her out from behind."

Damien looked at the unconcious girl, his right eyebrow rose a little as he heard what she had done.  Then Nob and Poh came in.  Damien looked up and Nob slowly shook his head.  Damien could see the bandaged hand of Poh.  He ordered. "Get Poh an apothecary!"

He bent down and began searching her body for more weapons.  He muttered to her and himself. "So there is more to you than what meets the eye.  And what meets my eye is very nice... very nice indeed."

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

As Bobbo looked down on her  she could once more feel the more warm side of her personality struggle to get free from it's icy prison, yet she did not let it surface once more, holding her emotion under control with her iron will.
As Bobbo turned and spotted Qui to only ask her about her cold demeanor against him she just looked at Bobbo.

"Maybe One will explain later."

She saw Bobbo wave Qui over and just in concideration for Oscar she did not show hostility against him, yet her eyes remained as cold as ever.
But as he sank to his knee in front of her and she saw a tear roll down his cheek something twitched inside her heart, compassion maybe, and the ice that covered her eyes grew thin enough so he could see the emotions hidden there as he spoke.

"Lady Lucirinia, first I must apologize for my behavior these past few hours. I have been blaming everyone else for my uncle's death and not bearing some of the resposibilty myself. I...I also did not take into account how yours and Lord Bobbo's feelings toward my uncle and his untimely death would affect you both. I saw how much you both cared for him, yet I cared not.

Then as if Oscar was talking to me from the grave he reminded me of some words of wisdom he had given me... and the Tristan long ago. The Tristan just told me those words and after hearing them I have come to realize my error.

There is a sacred burial ritual in which I asked Lord Bobbo to perform with the Tristan and myself. I asked him because of his families stature and his right as the heir of the Junakin house. However he cannot physically draw a bow. So I asked him if you, Lady Lucirinia would do it in his stead. If you do not then I will ask one of my bowmen to do it. But I would be honored and Oscar I am sure would be pleased if you would join the Tristan and myself in lighting the sacred arrows and shooting them into the pyre onto which my uncle's body rests. The ritual must be performed as the sun's embrace of the land leaves, which is just about now. I know Milady that this is sudden, but I need an answer. I know my words have not been kind to thee, neither has my actions. So if thou declines, I understand. But please if you can draw a bow, please consider doing so. And in so doing may the breaches between us be mended as we honor our friend, family and mentor."

The eyes of the elf grew wide, after the way she had spoken to him and the way she had treated him this was the thing she least expected him to ask her, the thin ice covering them slowly cracked enough to let a small tear roll down her cheek as she looked to Bobbo that nodded to her.
Kneeling in front of Qui so she was almost at the same level as him, she bowed her own head as in shame as she spoke.

"One feels honored to be astked to perform such a mission, and One accepts, not with pleasure for this is no moment for rejoice, but with warmth in One's heart for being concidered worthy enough to such a task.
Let the fire burn away One's anger and Milord's mistakes and let the new day bring new hope."

Standing up once more she stood beside Bobbo yet kept her distance, as if she did not want anyone at her side for the moment, the ice in her eyes still remaining, even if it was now diminished.

Qui  Qui was surprised to say the least when Lady Lucirinia knelt down, and eye to eye she talked to him.  He could see a slight tear run down her cheek.  She accepted and was honored that she was asked to shoot the flaming arrow.  Qui rose. "Milord Tristan, we have three." he said loudly.  Soon the Tristan with three bowmen came.  The Tristan ordered everyone except himself, Lord Bobbo, Lady Lucirinia and Qui out of the fortress.  After all of the men left, with their gear.  Qui bent down and with the wood given to him by the men from the broken tents he started a fire.

A bow was handed to the three.  Qui then took out three arrows from his quiver and wrapped the shafts in cloth.  He then gave the Tristan, Lady Lucirinia and took one himself.

The Tristan bowed his head, motioning to the others to do the same.  And then just when the sun's last rays were over the land, he touched his arrow to the flame, Qui did his and Lady Lucirinia did hers.  And then like as if they knew, were of one mind they let loose their arrows and each arrow stuck in the pyre.  Soon the pyre caught on fire and flames began to engulf it.

Qui turned to them all and said. "It is finished.  Oscar can now finish his journey.  From the sky he came and to the sky he returns."

The Tristan then put his signet ring in the fire then with metal tongs he pulled it out.  He burned his signet into each of the bows. "You may keep the bow as a memorial to Oscar." he said.  

Qui silently nodded his thanks to all.  Suddenly a voice was heard.  "Look now to the future my friends.  You have done well in honoring Oscar.  I Thalambath now honor you.  The bows upon which you carry will never run out of arrows, will shoot as fast as you can pull the string.  May it bring destruction upon the heads of those who follow Coor's path."

The walls of the fortress shook and trembled.  Qui looked at his bow and it was now completely silver.  The Tristan looked at his and it had turned to gold.  Qui looked at Lady Lucirinia's bow and it had turned to silver, with gold bands around the shaft.

"We should leave and head toward the Tears." said the Tristan.  He then bowed reverently to the fortress. "Thalambath, you honor us.  We thank thee."

A deep rumble was heard.  Then the Tristan and Qui put out the fire and prepared to leave.  Qui looked at Lord Bobbo and Lucirinia wondering what they were thinking.  He held both of their horses.  Lord Bobbo got upon his horse and waited for Lucirinia.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Lucirina recived the bow and tensed the string, waiting for the moment when the Tristan gave the order to release the arrows, yet no order came, a silent voice in her mind told her the exact moment when she should release the string, letting the arrow fly into the pyre.
The flames lifted to the sky as the pyre burned Oscars' body to dust, releasing his spirit from the flesh, a prayer to Queprur came to the lips of the elf, begging her to be mercyfull with the soul of her departed friend.
As Qui turned to them all and said. "It is finished. Oscar can now finish his journey. From the sky he came and to the sky he returns." she nodded slowly and the colness of her eyes was diminished once more as the deep sorrow she was feeling for the death of her friend.
In silence she watched as the Tristan then put his signet ring in the fire then with metal tongs he pulled it out and burned his signet into each of the bows. "You may keep the bow as a memorial to Oscar." , bowing her head slowly at this magnificent gift, her fingers caressing the wood... it felt strange, cold to the touch, and it was more hevy than any other bow she had carried.
Great was the suprise when a thundering voice spoke to her and the ones that were carrying the bows.
"Look now to the future my friends. You have done well in honoring Oscar. I Thalambath now honor you. The bows upon which you carry will never run out of arrows, will shoot as fast as you can pull the string. May it bring destruction upon the heads of those who follow Coor's path."
She looked down to her bow and saw that it had turned from a simple wooden bow to one made of the most precious silver and gold, her eyes grew wide as she looked around but there was no one in sight she could thank for such a gift, so she just bowed her head and smiled, thanking whoever gifted her in such a way with her heart.
As ther broke camp to head toward the Tears she was confronted with a hard decition, she had to choose if she wanted to share mount with Bobbo, yet her heart was still doubting how responsable he really was for the death of the old man, blaming both him and herself.
Looking around she spotted the man known as Valach and took a quick decition. Ignoring both Bobbo and Qui she strode over to Valach and placed a hand on his arm.

"May One share mount with Milord?"

Valach
Once more he was disturbed by the elven woman that requested to be called Nightbird, he was about to refuse her once more when he spotted the cold eyes , something in them said that he should not refuse her, besides it was very long since he had last felt a woman close to him.
Nodding in silence and averting the eyes of both Qui and Bobbo he picked her up and placed her in front of him in the saddle before mounting his horse.
The lithe figure of the elf and the soft scent coming from her made him dizzy yet he managed to keep his head cold enough to spur his horse and make it gallop out of the fortress.

Shaint's eyes opened up and they where two great spheres of mystery what 'really' was hidden in the body of Shaint maybe he had not been telling them all about himself.....what was he before he started the journey where did he come from? why does he have no-one tribe.......

And every single one of his companions followed him even while being the youngest of the party....., It was becoming dark and the sun was beginning to set over the waters where Shaint stood his gaze and mind where both lost in the great water.

Shaint suddenly dropped to a knee clenching his fore-head "NO!" nothing was happening to him on the docks however in his mind it was recalling a painful memory....

Flames roar all around trees scorched and falling down people ran out of flames on fire and burning to death limbs missing, there blood bubling from the heat of the flame great screams and shouts of agony from burning alive,

In the center of all this destruction was a boy he was an elf and the red flames shadowed on his face half his face a dim red the other black from the night His eyes turning and seeing all of this filled with horror, just then 2 tall men dressed in black armor wielding a bastard-sword they yelled at the boy

"ANOTHER ONE, KILL HIM!" The boys head snapped twords them and he took off running in the opposit directiong dodging falling debree branches, Trees, Arrows not mentioning the Burning bodies to those who's skin is charred and yell in agony,

UMPH!!! THUD!! the boy collided with something and fell down he stood up and it was a girl she spoke to the boy like they knew eachother "Shaint, lets get out of here!" Shaint was apparantly the boys name and he pulled the girl up with a hand still holding onto it he began to run the girl following.

Shaint looked over his shoulder as the two men came closer and closer he clenched his teeth and suddenly stopped, infront of him a cliff Shaint looked around looking for a possible solution to where they where trapped he turned and began to run when an "AHHHHHHHH" came from behind him

"Lorienna!!" Shaint rushed to the cliifs edge and extended a hand just Barely catching her "SHAINT HELP ME!!" Shaint's fore-arm tensed up as veins became viewable form the stress of an arm his teeth clenched as the girl allmost climbed up on the cliffs edge,

The two men came behind Shaint and one hit him in the head with the blunt handle knocking him unconcious.

Shaint arose form the knee in a cold sweat "I'm a mercenary! why in C'oors name am I with a party! Shaint ran off into the city of Strata he was going to get some answers!

Shaint took the human to the side and talked to him, Raoneth pretended to look at them, but paid very close attention to what happened in the corner of his sight.
The feeling reminded him of what he'd felt when he fought the demon in the desert. But there was nothing demonic about it. No burning sickness, no screeching pain, just... floating of some kind. He saw an almost unnoticeable twitch in Gararion's body as the feeling faded away.
Then Gararion got up and walked over to the bar.
   Meanwhile Shaint had started talking. This might be interesting Raoneth jumped down and hid under a table near them, he didn't hear them well because of all the noise.
"...happening very often ... be careful for ... my friend....maybe ... relax where in this big city ... walking it's quite cool in the night" He could only make out fragments of what Shaint said. The human said something and walked towards the door, stopped a moment, then he went outside.
 Raoneth snuck out after him, it was quite cool, he opened his cloak and let the slight breeze chill him off. The human only seemed to be out for a walk. Maybe this was the only thing the conversation was about... a small walk. But why didn't Shaint join him? I'd better let him know I'm here. He'll never trust me if I just pop out after sneaking after him for hours.
"uh, sir..." Raoneth's voice was too low to notice, "hrm..." he coughed to clear his voice, "sir... may I, er, join you on your walk. I don't think it's wise to walk these streets alone."

Edited by: Raoneth at: 3/9/03 6:17:19 pm

"I'm a mercenary! why in C'oors name am I with a party! then Shaint ran out of the tavern and out onto the streets of Strata.

Great, leave the troll with the angry villigers. Radaroc thought to himself.  The other patrons of the tavern were beginning to give him threatening looks.  And after that Grunk person went around talking about "trolls" everyone will find out soon. Rising quickly from his seat he walked out of the barroom.  

Once outside he took a deep breath of the dry night air.  He looked down the street to see the still running figure of Shaint.  OK, not gonna follow him tonight, he's got his own demons to take care of.  Across the street was a tall 3 story building, one wall had collapsed and a large dune had moved in to cover most of that side.  A good a place as any to keep an eye out for people.  Using hands and legs he half-ran half-loped up the sand dune.  At the roof it was flat except for where it sloped to meet the dune.  Looking out over quiet city he saw Shaint still running and Atrii quietly walking down one of roads Raoneth silently catching up to him.

Bobbo Bobbo's eyes widened, glared, then turned cold.  He had been awaiting Luci to give him her arm so he could pick her up and put her on his mount.  But she declined and went and climbed aboard a stranger's mount,no, not a stranger, the same man she had been talking to before they did the burial ritual.  He looked down at Qui who was staring at his bow.  It had turned into silver.  Bobbo noticed Luci's bow had turned silver with gold bands about it.  The Tristan even looked awed at his bow, his bow had turned to gold.  Bobbo, fascinated as he was, became angry.  He asked rather tersely, "Who is that man that Lucirnia is riding with?"

Qui looked up. "What man?" he asked.

Bobbo pointed. "That one."

Qui looked and saw Lucirnia sitting in front of Valach.  He wondered if Lucirina knew what she was doing? Valach was a hard man, a good man when it came to warfare, but he was a man, and the men have not had female companionship for a while.  Well, she can take care of herself, besides he knows what would happen to him if he took advantage of her.  "That man's name is Valach.  He is one of my Captains.  He is also the only one, besides myself, that can teach Lady Lucirina how to throw those Sophronian throwing knives I gave her as a gift."

"Why does she ride with him and not me?"

"That Milord I do not know.  Why do you not ask her yourself?"

"I think I shall." Lord Bobbo urged his horse forward when suddenly Valach spurred his horse forward out of the fortress.  Bobbo spurred his horse to catch them.

The Tristan rode up. "Qui it is time to go."

"Yes Sire I know.  I was just thinking about these gifts and Thalambath."

"Yes, I too was wondering about them both.  But those things must wait until we arrive at the Tears."

"Yes, Sire."  Qui jumped on his horse and they both galloped out of the fortress.  The doors to the fortress mysteriously closed shut behind them.  Qui thought he heard a voice say to him. "You shall see Oscar again, someday."   Qui called out to the Tristan. "Did you say something?"

The Tristan nodded no, and continued until he was at the head of the caravan.  Qui followed, looking around for Lord Bobbo and Valach with Lady Lucirina.  "I pray that nothing happens." he muttered.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

OOC-it is about 19 bells(9:OO P.M.) During the summer that is about the time the sun sets here.  So I am using that as a guide.*

Damien liked what he saw and felt as he searched the elf's body.  "You are going to make me a very very happy man. I think.  I will be the envy of all my friends.  To have an elven woman in his harem." He muttered, "and such a well formed one, at that." he smiled as he thought of the pleasures she would afford him.

Nahor thought. This girl, looks like the one from the Thirsty Herald, but I cannot be sure.  If it is, then Damien is inviting trouble.  For surely her friends will come looking for her.  But that poses some questions and some interesting possibilities to make some money.  If the ones from the Herald are here.  Then Troas will want to know, and he will pay for that information.  Nahor smiled inwardly. I will stick around for a while, at least until after Nahor meets with his informant, the guard, in a couple of hours.  If what the guard tells him is true, then that party of the Herald is here and Troas will pay to know it, and I will be the one he pays.  Let Damien have his fun.  I just want to get rich!  

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Atrii looked around the streets of Strata. His cloak draped over his eyes. He walked aimlessly, trying to figure some things out inside his own head.He turned a corner to find a piece of clothe on the ground. He slowly bent down and looked it over, it was that of Keelin's shirt. He looked around then back at the ground, many footprints, pressing hard, then some flat spots, possibly someone was on the ground. Keelin has been taken!

Shaint was wandering around his arms at his side people eyed him over suspiciously and he lifted an eyebrow to many of them 'people look as if they have never seen an elf before.... Shaint's ears twitched as a large fat man stoo dbehind him letting out a loud belly chuckle,

"You stupid elf, get outa thishh city!" Shaint's eyes shimmered over his attidtude turned to a little annoyed "Go away you damn drunkard "HEY who do you thinkshh you arshh?!" "Just go away you have had to much to DRINK!"

The large man charged after Shaint which he easily jumped back avoiding but upon doing so the man hit the ground with a THUD!! and Shaint hit his back into a figure snapping around he scowled "I don't want any!..... Shaint stopped himself as he looked carefully under the shadows,

"Atrii..it's........ Shaint cut himself off again as he noticed a piece of cloth Atrii had just picked form the ground Shaint's ace turned into shock.....then anger "Keelin...?!....no.....Atrii we have to find her! if anything happens to her i'm going to be driven over the edges of insanity!"

Keelin's head felt a bit fuzzy/ There was something moving over her shoulder and then... HEY! Keelin opened her eyes and kicked out at a barely perceived figure. Her vision spun and her head throbbed.WTF do you think you're doing?! Keelin screamed at him inside her head while struggling to get to her feet.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Lucirina grabbed the mane of the horse firmly as Valach spured it and made it rear up and gallop out of the fortress, the wind making her long hair whip out behind her like a chesnut and purple banner, her eyes watering slightly yet a smile came to her lips, she liked the speed and thrill of the ride.
As she felt the warm body of Valach behind her and saw the scarred hands holding the reigns she frowned shlightly, if he tried anything funny he would soon have one of the throwing knifes inbedded in his stomach. She would not have choosen him to share a mouth if it wasn't for the fact that there were no more horses.
Suddenly she heard a voice yelling at Valach, demanding him to stop. The man obediantly pulled the reins of his mount and soon they came to a stand.
Bobbo rode up to the sides of the two and glared at Lucirina.
"What do you think you are doing? Why did you decide to share mount with him instead of me? Answer me Lucirina!"
The elf could feel rage boiling in her ears at his words, her green eyes growing even more cold and distant as she answered him with a icy voice.

"One does not recall to have wedded with you Bobbo, Milord does not own me, as he does not own the flying birds on the sky.
One is free to do whatever One wants, One is still of the free people."

Bobbo only grew more angry and impatient with this answer, moving his horse closer to Valach's and glared at her, his eyes almost as cold as hers was.
"I may not have wedded with you, but you said you loved me...I love you Luciria, I care for you more than anything."
His eyes grew pleading.
"Please..come ride with me."
However Lucirina continued glaring at him and as she spoke her eyes was made of ice.

"If it had been One trapped inside the tent with you Milord, would you also let one drown in the sand?
Maybe..."

Her voice grew weak for a second as she lowered her eyes.

"maybe it would not have been much of a loss. One is worth much less than Lord Oscar was. One should have been the one drowning in sand, that way much pain could have been averted.
One is not much... only a useless bird.
A Nightbird."

Her head snapped up and she grabbed the reins and pulled them free from Valach's hands before he could realize what was happening, her heals digging into the horse as she spurred it forward once more, Valach barely had time enough to cast his arms around her waist to avoid falling off the horse, leaving Bobbo behind in a cloud of sand.

While Damien was searching, slowly, searching the young elven girl she woke up.  She struck out and kicked Damien in the shin.  He hobbled back a bit but then grabbed her around the waist.  She fought back like a caged tiger, but she made no sound.  Damien was curious about this.  "Hey little lady, calm yourself.  Your working yourself all up for nothing.  There is no where for you to go and if you keep on fighting me your going to loose your clothes.  Not that I would mind, and neither would my friends, but I think you would be a little embarrassed.  The time for you to loose your clothes is not yet, first I want to get to know you a bit better.  Now you can either sit down and enjoy some wine and food or I can tie you to the chair and force feed you.  What do you say?"

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

The human didn't notice him, he was distracted by something else. He knelt with a piece of cloth in his hand, a strange expression on his face. Definitely not happy.
Raoneth stopped and looked at the piece of cloth, "erm, wha...", he was interrupted by some noise coming from behind him, yelling followed by the sound of something landing flat on the ground.
Shaint?
Indeed, the elf had spotted them and was coming towards them now, "Keelin? ...no... Atrii we have to find her! if anything happens to her I'm going to be driven over the edges of insanity!"
It's a piece of cloth... it's a big city, there's lots of pieces of cloth here...
Raoneth sighed, there were also a lot of criminals, and it did look like a piece of Keelin's shirt.
"well... if it is hers, let's hope she's only been kidnapped."

Atrii turned quickly to Shaint. "Calm down, you will not do any good to Keelin unless you calm down and are able to think properly." The ranger held Shaint in place with his hands on his shoulders. "I know how you feel about her Shaint, and we will find her, I promise."

Atrii turned and looked at the footprints. "Judging by the prints that I see, move you're standing on some of them! Now they go in this direction. Let's go."

Keelin glared. How the Hell did I get here?! Who are you?! She signed at him, for the moment too angry to realize he couldn't understand a word she wasn't saying.  

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Shaint's eyes narrowed as his head foun dthe answers he was looking for now I know why i'm here......my love for Keelin is what keeps me here..... Shaint looked at Atrii "Atrii if we find who kidnapped Keelin assuming tha is what has happend here.....i'm going to brutally slit there throat....and slace them from naval to nose..... Shaint followed Atrii and held his hands at his sides un-knowingly

but ready for a draw of knife and pierce threw the throat.

Valach Valach was a little overwhelmed by the actions of the woman who rode his horse.  First she told off Lord Bobbo, now she rides like the wind.  Of course he did not mind her female scent and her hair with its scent of wildflowers gave him thoughts he had not thought of in quite a while.  And when he grabbed her waist to help him from falling off, it was nice indeed.  Each movement of the horse made his hands move up and down her waist, and he was enjoying what he was feeling.  Though in the back of his mind, he knew he was playing a very dangerous game. But so was she!

Finally his good senses returned and he yelled into her ear. "Milady, we really should slow down.  For several reasons, one we do not want to get to far ahead of the rest of the caravan, and two the horse will not be able to continue with both us riding him.  He will soon become quite tired and we have a long journey ahead of us."

Qui Qui saw Valach and Lady Lucirina streak out from behind the caravan and ride into the night until they were out of sight.  He turned around trying to see Lord Bobbo.  But he could not see him. Where are they going in such a hurry?  Valach knows better.  But it seemed that Lucirina had the reins.  I wonder what had happened?

He looked at the Tristan with questioning eyes.  The Tristan quietly said. "Let her be.  I believe she has demons inside that she must face and defeat."

"Yes, Sire, but with Valach?"

"Valach is a hard man, but an honorable one, at least as far as I know.  And I have known the man for over ten years.  Her reasons are her own.  To go after her as your heart desires you too, would just invite trouble, besides she must conquer her demons before she can be of any good to anyone, whether it be Lord Bobbo or any one she chooses.  I am not sure about elves, but that is how I have come to understand women.  And I suspect that elven women are no different, when it comes to matters of the heart.  After all are we all not Ava's creatures?"

"Yes, Sire.  We are and your words of wisdom I will heed.  Still..."

"I know it is hard."

Qui's heart knitted a little bit closer to the Tristan.  As if Oscar was there instead of the Tristan.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Damien saw the girl do some strange things with her hands and fingers but she spoke no word.  He motioned to the chair and sat down himself, poured himself and the girl a glass of wine, and took a drink.  He pondered why she would not speak, not even yell.

As Damien watched her, he finally saw that the movements of her hands had some purpose, not just flinging them around.  He assumed she was talking, speaking with her hands. That type of communication would come in handy for a band of thieves.  Of course only if they could see one another.  That would be the only drawback.

He smiled at her and said. "My name is Damien and this is my domain."  He waved his hand over the place. "I think you cannot speak as we do, but I believe you are talking to me with your hands, am I correct?" he asked her watching her hands closely.

Nahor watched closely too and it was her movements that told him his assumptions were correct.  He rose and silently, quietly left the scene before him.  Damien was to preoccupied with his new toy to notice his disapperance, and Troas will pay dearly for this infomation.  The party from the Herald was in Strata.  Which meant that the Resistance was not too far behind.  Or that they will finally find out the Resistance's spy here in Strata.

Nahor opened the secret entrance into the city and after looking around to see if he was being followed or not, closed the entrance and began making his way toward Troas's house.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Lucirina could feel tears streaming down her cheeks, tears caused not only by the speed of the ride but also by the feeling of loss he had in her chest, a feeling that she was loosing more than she could afford.
She didn't even notice that Valach had his hands around her waist and that soon they had left the caravan behind, in fact she didn't even remember there was a caravan before Valach yelled in her ear making her wince in pain... these humans never understood that the long ears of an elf were a lot more sensitive than those things they insisted in calling ears.
But she heard his words and somewhere in her tormented mind she knew he was right.
Pulling the reins with such a suddenness and so hard that the horse almost sat down on its haunches to stop she brought it to a halt.
Looking back at Valach she spoke with that icy voice of hers, ears laid back and frowning slightly.

"Milord can let One go.... now."

Valach did as she said and she jumped off the horse and sat on a neby dune, hugging her knees to her chest and looking into the thin air, as if she was trying to spot something invisible there, ignoring everything around her, including Valach, as she waited for the caravan to catch up with them.

Bobbo
As Lucirina rode away her words rang in the ears of Bobbo, once and once more until they finally made sense to him, she blamed him, she blamed him for the death of Oscar...and in some strange way she did also blame herself, wishing she was the one that died.
To stunned to follow after her he sat in the saddle staring after the sand cloud that marked the path the elf was taking until he could see it no more.

Soon the Tristan and Qui both caught up with Bobbo and he turned to look at them, his eyes watery.
"She blames me and she blames herself...She dosn't want to let me close because she thinks I did it on purpose.
I never ment Oscar to die...believe me.
She thinks she would be better of dead, that she is worthless."
Frowning he remembered the last words she spoke before she rode away, they made no sense to him so he turned to the Tristan and asked if he may know the meaning of her words...the reason why she called herself a Nightbird.

Edited by: Lucirina Telor Vevan at: 3/12/03 9:06:28 pm

Keelin nodded warily. This one was going to take a bit of work. He wasn't as stupid as those thugs in the alley. And presumably, he could fight better. Wouldn't have lived long otherwise. Keelin made a gesture as if she were writing and looked questioningly at Damien. I want my questions answered...

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Tristan  Lord Bobbo rode up and said some words that the Tristan had already guessed at.  Then Bobbo asked if the Tristan knew what she meant about being a NIghtbird.  The Tristan thought long and hard, trying to remember if he ever heard of such a bird or maybe a saying.  He then remembered a tale told to him by Oscar.  He looked at Bobbo, "I am not familiar with the term Nightbird or its meaning, however I recall Oscar telling me something about a bird that flys the night in the forests and meadows of Southern Sarvonia.  He told me of an old wives tale or maybe it is an elven belief, I cannot recall, however what he said was, that is is believed the Nightbird are the souls of evil, dead bards returned by Queprur to live out their lives... Their is a saying too... let me think... I think it goes like this, You bring as much joy as a Nightbird singing.  The meaning as I recall is not what you would think.  The meaning is, You bring misery and sorrow wherever you go.

The Tristan paused as he thought upon the words and what Lord Bobbo had just told him.  "It seems that Lady Lucirna has the thought of herself that no matter what she does or says, she believes that it is her destiny to bring sorrow upon those she cares for.  It may be the reason why she thinks she blames you and somewhat herself concerning Oscar's death."

Qui was silent as he listened to Lord Bobbo and the Tristan.  He spoke up. "But she is not at fault! Neither are you Lord Bobbo, I know that now.  Oscar's death was already in Seyella's hands since the day he was born.  He believed in Destiny. In fate!  I recall him saying many times that we will follow our destiny, no matter what our choices may be.  They are choices already known we would make by Seyella.  Choices freely chosen by us, but already known by the Goddess of Destiny.  If somehow one of us could convince Lady Lucirna that Oscar's death was not caused by her or by anyone, but that it was his destiny, his time to depart this life and go on to the other, then maybe she would, could heal."

"That my son, is a task sometimes greater than trying to win your kingdom back. It takes time, patience, and lots and lots of love."  The Tristan sad sadly, and then continued, "And it takes willingness upon the person who feels such guilt to learn to forgive themselves.  That is one thing, no one can do for her or him."

The Tristan looked at Lord Bobbo when he said those last words.  They rode on in silence; each one consumed with their own thoughts.  

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Damien watched the young girl make a motion with her hands.  He stared at her hands and watched them again.  Finally he smiled, took a drink and then ordered Nob, "Get me some paper, a quill pen and some ink.  I think this young one wants to write something."

Nob, got the required items, placed them in Damiens hands. "Do you think Damien that she had her tongue cut out?  Maybe she was punished for something?" he asked as he looked at the girl strangely.

"I am not sure Nob, but she sure is a fiesty one.  Maybe we will get the answers soon enough."

Damien placed the paper, pen and ink on a table and motioned to the young girl to take them.  He smiled, "Go ahead and write.  I think that is what you want.  But wouldn't you like to have some wine and some food first?"  He moved the glass of wine closer to her, looked more closely into her eyes.  "You have very pretty eyes, young one.  What is your name?"

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Gararion had now joined the group and caught the last few words that came from Shaints mouth.

Gararion lowered his head as he knew what was going through Shaints mind, thoughts and ideas that would only prove harmful to him in the end.  For anger and fear are great weapons for the enemy to manipulate and combine with the feeling of love that Shaint had for this young elven women, Shaint would be at a major disadvantage.

Gararion stood beside then men and out of the corner of his eyes spotted the sparkle of metal.  He silently made his way in the direction of his sighting and knelt down, placing his hand within the shadows.  He soon felt the pomel of a sword, as he ulled it out he soon discovered that it was the swprd of Keelin.

He remained knelt for a moment as he thought what to do.  He slowly losened the belt that tied his robes at the waist and opened the the robes slightly.  Now rising to stand he placed the sword within his robes and as he stood now tightened the belt and fixed his robes in a position where they hid the sword from sight.

He now made his way back over to the group....and waited....

While Raoneth was thinking Atrii had tried to calm Shaint down, he then turned and talked, "Judging by the prints that I see, move you're standing on some of them! Now they go in this direction. Let's go.", Shaint seemed desperate, "Atrii if we find who kidnapped Keelin assuming that is what has happened here... I'm going to brutally slit their throat.. and slice them from navel to nose..."
Nice try, then, human...
Suddenly Raoneth got that strange feeling again, this time near Shaint, he turned quickly.
Gararion was back, and Raoneth could sense something going on between him and Shaint.
Baithag! He must be controlling his mind or something.
The feeling faded and Gararion moved over to the side of the street, Raoneth frowned while studying his every move.
He picked something up, Raoneth could see a glimpse of metal. Gararion hid whatever it was he had and started walking back to the group.
Raoneth was scared, he didn't deny such feelings from himself, yet he got an increasing feeling of being prepared. He could feel the strange feeling again, but this time it came from himself.

Sand blew away from underneath Raoneth as if blown away by a slight breeze.

He was ready.

Edited by: Raoneth at: 3/13/03 10:04:48 pm

Bobbo heard the words of the Tristin and nodded distantly. He bowed his head silently and rode with his mind filled with his own thoughts.

"There is nothing I can do," muttered Bobbo under his breath, "What good is it to be a nobleman when you can't help those you care most about?"

Very well then he thought I shall do my duty. I shall not fail my people at least.

Looking up towards their direction of travel, Bobbo's face was emotionless, neither sad nor happy, afraid or confused. Nothing. His mind was strictly set on achieving his objective, reclaiming the Tristin's and his own kingdom.

He paid no heed to any and his mind was upon business matters, just as his face. Looking out over the men, he estimated their total fighting power, seeing how powerful they could be. His mind thought not of Lucirina, Oscar, or Qui.

Radaroc looked out over the quiet city.  When he saw Gararion heading down an street he was very curious as the mage had left on his own so recently.  He squinted his eyes and saw under the moonlight most of he companions had gather on that same street.   Dashing down from the roof he quickly menuvered through the roads and streets of Strata.  

When he came upon them that had all gathered, Shaint was clenching a small piece of cloth.  "What's that?  What's going on?"

Keelin stuck out her tongue at Nob and scribbled I'm mute not deaf, idiot. and flashed the paper in his face. Then she set it back down and wrote down her questions:

Where am I?
How did I get here?
Who are you?
What do you want?

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Valach The sun had set, the moon was full and bright upon the desert, almost as bright as day.  The stars filled the sky like a billion diamonds thrown up by a giant and got stuck in the fabric of the night.  Valach thought Anyother time with a beautiful woman this night would be a night filled with wonders.  But...

His thoughts trailed off as he watched Lady Lucirina sit on the sand dune.  He got off the horse, and pulled the reins and walked slowly up to Lady Lucirina. He stood there awhile, thinking of what to say.  Then he just sat down next to her, looked at the sky, and remarked. "Have ever seen such a more perfect night?  You can see constellations of the gods in the stars.  Do you know some of the southern constellations?"  He asked, just trying to make some small talk.  He knew that shortly the caravan will catch up to them.  But in the meantime, he was curious about this lady.  Why she chose him?  Why she was crying?  What he could do or say to help her.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Nob jumped back as the young elven girl stuck her tongue out.  then she handed the paper to Damien.  Damien read it.
I'm mute not deaf, idiot.
Where am I?
How did I get here?
Who are you?
What do you want?

Damien warmly laughed, then he took a sip of wine, popped a grape into his mouth and took another look at the paper. "It seems I was correct Nob, she can talk, just not with her mouth, but with her hands.  She also seems to be very intelligent."  Damien looked at her spearing some meat with a daggar and eating it.  He again offered the young girl the glass of wine and some food.  "Here you eat and drink and I will answer you questions."

He leaned back, glanced at the paper and replied. "I already answered you first question, you are in my palace.  How you got here?  Well it seems that my men spied you wandering around the streets of a very bad section of town and when they tried to help, you attacked them.  Fortunately they were able to subdue you and bring you here out of harms way. Unfotunately, you fatally injured one of them, for that there must be some repercussion, but we will talk of that later.  

Um...lets see, oh yes, I already told you who I am.  My name is Damien, Damien Scar, I am the King of Thieves of Strata."  Damien rose up and bowed to her, the men that had slowly gathered in the room, they had heard of Damiens newest conquest and had come to take a look see.  The hooted, clapped and whistled as Damien bowed, smiled, turned around and then sat back down.

He glanced again at the paper and a sly smile broke over his face and his dark eyes gleamed in the torch light. "What do I want?  Well..."  Some more hooting, laughter and clapping accompanied his statement by the men and some women who had now entered the room.  They were all dressed in dark clothing, daggars or knives were stuck in belts, most wore earings in their ears, some in their noses.  And rings and bracelets adorned the women.  As well as some of the men.

Damien raised his hands to quiet the crowd down.  "What I want young one...is you.  I have a fancy for the unusual, unique and beautiful.  And I usually get what I want."

He leaned back and smiled, sipped more wine, leaned forward and gave her back her paper. "Now that I have answered your questions, please have the courtesy of answering mine. "What is your name?  And what brings you to our fair city?"
************************************************************************
Nahor Nahor reached Troas's house and knocked on the door.  Soon a servant openend the door, peered out and asked, "Yes, what do you want?"

"My name is Nahor, I have needs to speak with Troas."

"Lord Troas is busy at the moment.  He asked not to be disturbed." The nasaly voice behind the door replied.

"He will want to know what I know.  Tell him that the Resistance is here in Strata."

"He already knows that the spies for the Resistance are everywhere in the city."

"Not the spies, you ignorant, pompus fool.  But the Resistance itself."

There was a pause, then the door swung open. "Come in, I will tell the Lord."

Nahor stepped into the lighted hallway, closed the door behind him and waited as he saw the servant disappear into an anterior room.  Shortly he came back out and beckoned Nahor to follow him.  Nahor gathered his cloak about him and followed the servant.  He took him to a room, opened the door, motioned Nahor through.  Nahor walked through and the door was shut behind him.

Nahor found himself in a well lit dining room.  Many guests were eating at a well furnished table.  He recognized some of the guests; they were the lords and ladies of the city, and some important merchants.  At the head of the table sat Troas. He clapped his hands.  The small talk stopped and all turned their eyes upon him.  "Friends we have a visitor.  This man is... well his name is unimportant, but he says his information is vital enough to disturb our dinner."

All eyes turned upon Nahor.  "Well friend what say you?" asked Troas.  

Nahor looked at the floor, then as if he had gathered strength from it, he raised his head.  "Milord, I did not mean to disturb you or your guests and would not have done so if I thought this was not important enough to do so.  But I have information concerning the Resistance."

There was a murmur heard, and some eyebrows raised, especially by one man; he sat farther down the table, his rainment was not quite as elaborate as the the lords and ladies, but it sufficed enough to be considered richly made.  He had a small dark goatee, large wide dark eyes, and hair.  His ample frame filled the chair upon which he sat and he had a friendly smile and air about him.  His name was Hashish, and he was one of Strata's very important merchants.

"Resistance? What kind of information?" asked Troas.

"That they are here.  Here in Strata."

"You mean the whole Resistance is here in Strata?"

"No, Milord. The ones I was sent to watch from the Herald.  They are here.  If you recall Milord I told you that I thought one was a magician of sorts and the other was unmistakably a troll."

At the mention of a troll a woman screamed and fainted.  "Sir, you scare my guests.  I think we should continue our conversation in the other room.  Ladies why do you not talk amongst yourselves and help Lady Irene, recover while we men will adjourn to another room and listen to what this man has to say.  I assure you no harm will come to us.  And we will be back together to continue our night of revelry."

Troas rose, the rest of the men around the table, and followed Troas into another room.  Troas motioned for Nahor to go before him.  Nahor quickly walked into the room, walked to the far side and waited as the rest of the men and lastly Troas walked in, closed the door, asked for some wine to be poured for his guests, and for those who smoked to have pipes and tobaccoo brought in.  After it was all delivered the servants departed.  Nahor took one glass, downed it quickly and then took another.  He stared at the red pool inside the crystal thinking. I will pay for this.  Troas will skin me alive.  But he asked and I will not back down for anything.

After the men got their wine, settled in chairs around a large oval table, smoke began to fill the air.  Troas sat down, "Now tell us all again what you know.  Before you interrupted us the discussion around the table was the strange storm that hit us today, and its aftermath and how we were going to repair the damage."

A man spoke; his clothing revealed to Nahor he must be some lord of some house.  "Do you believe the Resistance had something to do with that strange sand storm?"

Nahor swirled the wine in his glass, thinking. "Milords, it is a possibility.  I heard that those who came from the Herald had asked permission to enter the city, when the guard was asking what their buisness was, that is when the storm hit.  I believe one of the group is a magician of sorts."

A low murmur spread throughout the men.  Troas asked. "And this buisness of a troll?"

"Yes, Milord.  One of the party members is a troll."

Another man asked. "How many are in this party and what do they look like?"

"I saw one elf, no two elves, one female, two males, one the magican and the other dressed like a ranger, and one troll.  There may have been others but that is all that I have seen."

"How do you know they are here in Strata?" asked Troas.

"A certain man of your acquaintance, Milord. A man who carries much weight of Strata upon his shoulders, has captured one of them."

Troas raised an eyebrow. So Damien has one captured.  Probably the female.  That would be my guess.  "I see," said Troas.  "Continue."

Hashish sat there listening.  His mind was in turmoil as Nahor continued with what he knew.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Lucirina was staring off to the distance, still ignoring everything around her, tears dry on her cheek and her eyes glassy by tears she is trying to keep back.
As Valach moves closer and then takes a seat by her in the sand a hand inmediatly strays to her forearm grabbing the knife concealed under the long and flowing sleeves of her dress.
"Have ever seen such a more perfect night? You can see constellations of the gods in the stars. Do you know some of the southern constellations?"
As he started talking she slowly moved her hand away and almost reluctantly rised her head to look at the night sky, the black velvet was covered with small diamonds that glowed and blinked faintly. They were the same stars as she had seen for almost half a century ago, when she was young and foolish, believing that nothing in her world could crumble to dust as it did. A voice rang trough her memory, a call from easier and more careless time.
*I give you the stars Lucirina... They are all yours my love.*
A voice she had been trying to forget in vain for over 50 years came back to haunt her along with the glowing diamonds that were on the sky above her.
She closes her eyes to let the painful memories fade away as she sighed deeply and answered Valach' question.

"One only knows the constelation One was born under.
If milord wants he may show me the others."

Opening her eyes and looking at Valach as she talked, more to break the silence and forget bad memories than to actually know about the constelations she spoke to the man sitting by her side, her eyes still glassy with unshed tears yet not a single drop rolled down her cheeks, she had too much control to actually let that happen, even when her soul was begging for relief.

OOC: Ack. Sorry.

I don't suffer from insanity... I enjoy every minute of it!

Edited by: SketchesofInsanity at: 3/15/03 4:08:08 am

How you got here? Well it seems that my men spied you wandering around the streets of a very bad section of town and when they tried to help, you attacked them. Fortunately they were able to subdue you and bring you here out of harms way.

That was helping? Excuse me, but I'd have been better off on my own!

"What I want young one...is you. I have a fancy for the unusual, unique and beautiful. And I usually get what I want."

"Now that I have answered your questions, please have the courtesy of answering mine. What is your name? And what brings you to our fair city?"

Keelin glanced around the room, her gaze calculating her odds. @#%$. She put hand to the hilt of her sword, only to find it wasn't there. She cursed again. Oh well...

My name is for me to know, and my buisness is my own.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Atrii watched as Gararion wandered away from him and Shaint, he bent low to the ground and seemed to pick something up, he stuffed in quickly inside his robe, concealing it from view, however Atrii had already seen the glint. The metal of a sword and he knew... it was Keelin's.
The ranger observed the ground and followed the tracks, they began to grow faint and forced the ranger to put a little effort into his tracking. He looked up and saw the tracks curve and then through a small opening lead underground.
"This way." Atrii spoke sternly before leading them into the underground depths where their companion Keelin had been taken.

Raoneth focused on what happened inside him, he knew he'd felt it before but he didn't know what it was. Only that he didn't have very much control over it. It brought back faint memories, someone named Harardam, maybe he could help him? No. he was gone.
Then, in the midst of the chaos of thoughts and impressions it dawned on him.

Gararion is a windmage

The fact that at first seemed insignificant to him had taken on a new importance.

Gararion followed Atrii as they walked.  Wondering what he would say when confronted about the sword.  Hopefully he wouldn't be.

Grarion also wondered what had become of their little quest they were on, surely if it was inportant they shouldn't be wasting time following the path of love one had for a female for that path surely leads to danger and hurt.

Many thoughts wondered through Gararion's head, thoughts about al the party members, more of thoughts about the silent members.  Those who seemed to be there but did not involve themselves within the matters.

Valach  Valach heard Lady Lucirina call herself 'One' many times and it intrigued him why she would call herself that.  He heard her say the only constellation she knew of was the one she had been born under.  He looked at her, her beauty shone even under the moonlight.  It glistened in her hair, but her demeanor chased the beauty away.  He pointed a group of stars.  "That group that looks like a flat diamond, that is the constellation of Eyesha, I am sure you have heard of her.  She is one of the Wind Gods, and all Elves know of her."  He paused, let his hand fall down.  "What constellation were you born under?" he asked casually.
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Qui Qui rode up a little farther from the rest, his eyes searching the landscape for the silohette of a horse with two riders upon it.  His thoughts were upon Lady Lucirina.  Why did she touch his heart so?  Why did she come at this time, seemingly betrothed to a lost Lord of Strata's house of Administration.  Why did Oscar have to die?  He knew the answers, but they were just not enough.  "Seyella, please tell me?" he cried out softly as he rode.

Suddenly he saw the figure of a horse, but no riders were upon it.  It was standing next to a sand dune.  Qui spurred his horse forward.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Damien's eyes never left the young elven girl.  She mesmerized him.  Every little movement of her delicate hands, her bright eyes, and soft pale skin and her hair.  He desired her more and more each passing moment.  Even her fiestyness endeared him to her.  A wild cat in bed, she would be.  But such passion, ah, now that I would give a kings ransom to enveloped in.

She wrote many things back to him.  He just looked at her answers and then flung the paper back into her face.  "I have been kind to you.  I answered your questions.  I give you the best of my wine and food and you throw it all back in my face, as if it were garbage meant for the rats.  You will not even tell me your name.  Is this how you show your appreciation?"  He tinkered with his wine goblet, then slammed it down upon the table.  "I will ask you once more.  Please sit down, stop looking for ways to escape, there are none, drink, eat, and tell me your name and why you have come to our fair city.  Or..."  he let the veiled threat hang in the air.
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Small beady looking eyes watched as the strangers began to enter the underground entrance.  She even saw one of her own kind, well not really, but a cousin and she was curious.  Why were these strangers coming down into the sewers?  The one big human, nice looking for a human male, seemed to be following the tracks made by Lord Damien's men.  Though the tracks were an hour old the human followed them like as if they were brand new.  However, she knew once Darien's men walked in the water the tracks would disappear.  No man could track another through water.  But just in case she would keep an eye on them, maybe have some fun with them.  Her brownie kindred looked kind of cute.
************************************************************************
Troas Troas listened, as well as the others to Nahor's story.  There was much murmuring and discussion after he stopped speaking.  Then a Lord Fatish said. "Lord Troas, we should seek these...these traitors out."

"Ah, I agree, Lord Fatish, but how?  In the most undesirable parts of the city, would they hide.  Even a troll, though admitedly would be most unusual, would be accepted as long as he does not cause any trouble." replied Troas.

"Cause trouble, that is it," cried Lord Fatish, "If we tell the town criers that it was this group of people who caused the storm, and the destruction of their homes and buisnessness, and offer a generous reward, we could flush out those traitors in no time.  What do you all think?"

There was much nodding of heads around the table.  Lord Ichor said. "It sounds like a good plan to me."

Troas thought a moment, and then went into action. "Lord Ichor, since you are the Lord of Justice at this moment I leave it up to you.  You merchants of the city, post flyers around the market place when it opens in the morning.  You Lord Fatish, since you control all of the taverns and inns in the city, you post flyers up in all of them.  Including down by the waterfront.  If they are down there, then a reward of say, Twenty thousand pieces of silver, should be enough."

"Twenty thousand pieces of silver!, why for that kind of money, I would face Coor himself." Lord Fatish replied.

Troas laughed as did most of the men around the table.  Lord Fatish could hardly move, much less fight.  He delighted himself too much in pastries, and fine wine.  "I am glad you said that, for each one of you will donate a thousand pieces of sliver toward the reward."

Lord Fatish's jaw dropped. "But... but Lord Troas... that is almost a months reciepts from my buisnessess."

"You do not think they are worth it?  How much would they be worth to you if the Resistance takes over the city, and your head is upon one of those poles surrounding the city, instead of Resistance spies."  Troas said with venom in his voice.

Lord Fatish swallowed hard.  "I will pay."

"Then it is settled.  You can all go back to the ladies.  I must speak with Nahor privately and then I will join you."

The assembly broke up, and they all walked out of the room, except Troas and Nahor.  The last to leave was Hashish.  His mind was in a whirl.  He needed to excuse himself and get his own network of spies looking for the strangers.  But what do I use as an excuse? he thought as he walked out and closed the door behind him.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Lucirina smiles slightly as she lets her gaze follow his pointing finger, the small group of stars he pointed out was the one she knew the best, the flat diamond shape easily recognized on the sky.
As Valach let his hand fall down that soft smile still was on her lips. "What constellation were you born under?" he asked her, and a soft giggle came to her lips.

"Milord just pointed it out."

She said in a rather soft voice, amusement hidden under a thin cape of ice that she managed to hold on to.
It seems that not even the deep doubts she was having about herself and Bobbo, nor the memory of the love she once lost was enough to dampen her sense of humor.

"One is hardly a turtle dove but still one carries the sign of the dove in Ones soul and heart.
Strange thing it is Milord Valach, that one carries the name of a bird and was born under the stars of another bird.
Often have I prayed to Eyasha to give me the inner peace... that I lack."

She grows silent once more, as if she had already said too much, her eyes looking up at the stars, at the four stars that somehow pointed out her path.
her long ears twitched slightly as she heard a horse approach,  with a soft sigh she got to her feet and brushed the sand of her dress.

"The caravan has caught up with us Milord Valach."

She said simply as she turned to the direction where she could hear the sand being kicked up by a horse approaching in gallop.

Atrii looked at the prints still, they easier to track but then disappeared as the floor of the cavern turned to complete water. "Damnit," the ranger said silently before bending very close to the water trying to see if their was anything that could give him an indication of the prints under the water.

No one answered his questions, Ach, not important.  Odd that we're heading down toward the sewers though.  I wonder what's in there?  He hunched over as he followed Atrii inside the cavern.  He sword pomel scraped against the ceiling, groaning with frustration he ducked lower and unsheathed it.  Quickly wrapping one hand in a scrap of his cloak he held it across his chest.  
"Dammit!"
Radaroc looked up to Atrii, "What is it?"

Shaint's dark eyes filled with Anger scanned the room the scowl on the elves face enough to penetrate many a mans soul, Shaint's right hand slipped  behind him and drew his sword from the left side 'shingg' emitted from the swords tip dragging quickly from the case,

The sword spun and Shaint's right hand grasped the sword handle tightly "Atrii, av'a blessed you with talent of tracking......but the simple way of common man's sences may have left you some...your eyes tell me that you are mislead on how to find where they have went now.... Shaint paused to turn his head "three passage ways are there?, then.....take one under your feet and wander the path

Shaints ears twitched as he heard very slight noises his elven ears tuned in but could not grasp what the voices where saying...they sounded lighter than whispers a table away.....however Shaint had figures it had to be one of two passage ways.....

Keelin sat, but did not touch food nor drink. There was fire in her eyes that she hardly tried to hide as she handed over her answer.

I am not here to play games, sir, nor to be your toy. My name is Keelin, I am a mercenary. I sell my sword and nothing else. That is all you or your brethren need to know.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

"The floor has turned to water, the tracks have disappeared." He moved forward to where the tunnel split three ways. He listened carefully and heard voices but couldn't tell for sure where they came from. He bent low to the ground and rubbed his hand over the floor engulfed by the water, he grinned as he found indents that could only be their prints. "This way."

Valach Valach was surprised when Lady Lucirina stated that the she was born under the star constellation of Eyasha. Those born under that constellation, were more blessed than anyother, at least he so believed.

Valach heard her laugh, he turned his head and looked at her. Her laughter was like tinkling bells, full of joy, yet with a hint of mystery and mischief.  He was glad.  Then suddenly she arose and said the caravan had arrived.  Valach had not heard nor seen anything.  He arose too and looked and then he saw faintly the figure of a man riding a horse.  He watched as the horse and rider came closer.  He recognized the rider. "Qui" he muttered, as he went and gathered his mount.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Leetah Leetah watched hidden in the crevice of the wall, as the good looking human put his hand in the water and then said this way.  She was amazed.  She smiled, she looked scornfully at the elf who drew his sword and muttered some words.  Elves, they think they know it all.  Well I think we have some surprises for them.  The troll she did not worry about.  He was too big to go anywhere except in the main sewer.  There was another, he dressed more refined than the others, and his manner was...mystical.  A magician!  Damien needs to know, she thought.

Leetah sent one of her people to tell Damien as she kept an eye on the intruders. Lets see if we can have some fun, with these big people.  The tunnels usually had lit torches interspersed along the main tunnel.  With a quick word to her little army they scattered like lice in a wind,  Then as if on cue, they put out the torches, one by one, until all was in the dark.  round one, Lettah thought smiling to herself.
************************************************************************
Finally the girl sat down, wrote something and handed it back to Damien.  Damien smiled as he read it. "Keelin, a name that trips off the tongue, like a song.  I like it very much.  You say you are a mercenary.  Good I can use mercenaries?  How much do you ask for payment?  I saw you reach for your weapon.  Did you loose it in the streets?  Maybe my men can find it for you?"

Damien chuckled as he read the last part of the writing. "So that is the only thing you sell.  Well, that is good.  For I do not plan on buying you.  I already have you.  I plan on showering you with gifts, and eventually with...love."  He clapped his hands.  "But first the gifts."  An elderly woman came in.  Damien looked at her, Eshar, this is Keelin.  Look and see if you can find something more appropriate for her to wear, I see a black silk or maybe satin adorned with silver embroidery.  Yes, I think that will look exquisite on her.  Go now."

There was much catcalling, and whistling and some started chanting, "Take it off, take it off." and others were chanting, "Damien, Damien."  Even the women in the group laughed and chanted heartily along.  They had all been in the same situation as Keelin, one time or another, it was sort of like an induction into the clan of thieves.  Men did not have to strip, and put on different clothes, they had to kill, or do someother deed that Lord Damien required of them to enter into the Thieves clan.

"Yes, Milord." Eshar said, looking at the young lady.  She put her hands upon her shoulders, then felt her waist.  She remarked.  "She is quite skinny, but I believe I can find something to your liking, Milord.  I shall return shortly."

"You are a treasure Eshar,"  Suddenly a small figure walked through, a crack.  The crack was about head high to Damien.  The figure rang a small bell.  Damien turned his head, saw the small rat brownie and motioned him over.  The rat brownie, looked at the elven girl and then walked up Damien's shoulder and whispered into his ear.

Damien's expression changed after listening to the brownie. The brownie stepped away.  "Tell Leetah to welcome our guests with... The thousand stings of confusion."

The brownie smiled, and replied. "I believe that is what she anticipated."  He then left back through the crack in the wall.

Damien glanced over at Keelin.  He frowned, then smiled.  He raised his glass.  "My fellow thieves, it seems Keelin here, has some friends who are searching for her, they have even found the secret entrance to our catacombs.  I think we should have some fun.  What say ye?"

A huge shout arose from the melee of people, sounds of knives and daggars being drawn and sharpened filled the room.  Damien laughed, "You know what to do.  We will help our friends the rat brownies give our unexpected visitors a warm welcome, The thousand stings of confusion."

Much laughter accompanied his statement, and then some disappeared through hidden, secret doors.  Damien looked at Keelin.  "The game is afoot."

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

As they continued down the path that Atrii lead them on Gararion remained silent, watching the actions of the young elf Shaint.

This elf is truly has a dangerous young mind, for such quick and harsh actions lead to many dangers that he wont be able to overcome with anger.  Many dangers need to be thought out and one can not even dream about using ones mind if it is in a fit of rage like he has shown so many times.

Gararion closed his eyes and lowered his head shaking it, not in shame but in fear for this young elf.

As he opened his eyes the light that filled the sewers from the spread out torches were gone now.  Gararion looked behind thm from the direction they came from and could see the torches fading, one after another.  For an instance he saw a shadow amoung the light, but it soon was hidden within complete darkness as the torch near it blew out and then the one followed like a chain effect, almost as if a strong breeze blew through the sewer ways blowing them out.

Gararion stopped for a moment and remained slient.  Now only his senses would be able to protect him now.  But he didn't use sight or his hearing...he was tring to sense the essence of another, an essence that couldn't hid itself from a well trained mage.

Lucirina hugged herself slightly as she heard the name spoke by Valach.
Qui, why did he not leave her mind in peace? Why did he always come back to haunt her even when she decided not to let him any closer?
She was still very confused about her feelings toward Bobbo, she still blamed him for the death of Oscar, as she blamed herself and somehow she knew she was pushing him away.
But Qui... his lips had felt so soft against hers after he gave her the breath of life... and... the knifes.
A hand strayed to touch the knife strapped to her forearm. People didn't just give that kind of gifts to total strangers.
Shaking her head slightly to clear her thougts she stood on the dune and waited for the lone rider to reach her and Valach, once more letting a icy cold cover her feelings and her features.

Keelin bristled at the jeers and glared about like a caged hawk.

"My fellow thieves, it seems Keelin here, has some friends who are searching for her, they have even found the secret entrance to our catacombs. I think we should have some fun. What say ye?"

Hope flared within her, then died abruptly. They'll never make it all the way down here... She thought, I'm not worth the death of one of them. They shouldn't have come. I'm not worth it, please, everyone turn back!

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Qui  Qui rode up and saw Valach taking hold of his mounts reins and Lady Lucirina stood upon the dune waiting for his arrivial.  Qui rode up and stopped.  He looked down at Lady Lucirina, her features were like they were before, but in the moonlight they were quite beautiful.  "Milady, I am pleased to see thee.  The Tristan, Lord Bobbo and the rest are not far behind.  I rode ahead when I saw you go ahead of us.  I did not want you to come to any harm.  But I should have realized that with Valach, you were in no danger.  He is an excellent fighter, and knows the dangers of the desert, even the night holds danger for those who do not know.  I assume you will ride back with Valach, or do you wish to ride with me?"

Qui thought he knew the answer, but still a flutter of hope rose in his chest as he waited her answer.  While waiting he raised his voice a little and spoke with Valach.  "Valach, I am thankful that you have watched over Lady Lucirina.  Though I think that she can take care of herself very well.  Lord Bobbo and the Tristan thank you as well."

"It has been no trouble at all, Milord.  Lady Lucirnia has excellent horsemanship.  I just kind of went along for the ride," Valach said as he mounted his horse and headed toward Qui and Lady Lucirnia.

Qui chuckled. "Yes, I know, I saw."  He smiled down at Lady Lucirina.  "What is your answer, Milady?"
************************************************************************
Tristan The Tristan watched Lord Bobbo out of the corner of his eye as they rode together in silence.  Finally he had to say something. "Milord Bobbo, forgive me for intruding upon your thoughts, but I must say this.  You must learn to forgive yourself.  You did not cause Oscar to die, nor did Qui or Lady Lucirina.  A terrible sandstorm, one which I have never seen or felt in my lifetime, took Oscar's life.  Oscar knew the risks of fighting for the Resistance.  Just as you and I know that we could die also.  We are not immortal.  When our time comes, it comes and no power on this land can stop it.  Oscar knew this.  Did you see the smile he had upon his face.  It was a smile of contentment, he died knowing he had done all he could.  He did not die with resentment in his heart, but love.  Love for those he cared about.  Only when you can forgive yourself can you mend the broken fences between your soul and...others that mean much to you."

He stopped speaking.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Hundreds of brownies stood in line with their arrows in hand.  They waited as their fellow brownies dipped their arrow heads in the pot of seething Krakenweed.  Once they dipped their arrow heads they headed out toward their own secret crevices.

Leetah watched as the torches went out, then she had a dozen or so of her fellow brownies push in a brick lever.  A sound could be heard in the darkness; sound of brick grating against brick.  A wall appeared where no wall was blocking the direction of where the smart human was following Damiens men's tracks through the water.  How he did this peeked Leetah's curiosity but it did not matter, wall now blocked his way and another wall disappeared creating a fourth tunnel, and soon the sound of rushing water, and rats could be heard heading down the main tunnel, and the other two remaining ones.  Only one tunnel was dry.  Leetah wondered how long before they would find that one, or would they drown, eaten by the rats or be washed out to the ocean.  If they did find the dry one then more surprises awaiting them. round two she thought.
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Easha came back with a black silk skirt and top.  She stood there and watched the people disappear.  She looked at Damien curiously. "Are they not going to stay and watch, Milord?" she asked.

"No, Easha, it seems our young lady has friends who search for her this very moment.  Though I have no doubt that Leetah and her warriors will be more than enough for them, I sent the others to help out.  I guess I and you will be the only one who gets to watch."

He turned his lustful eyes upon Keelin.  "A sight I cannot wait to see."  He waved to Easha to come forward and show Keelin his gift.  "Keelin, I would most appreciate if you would put these on.  They are made of the finest silk.  Do not be concerned with changing, I will allow Easha, to use this...table cloth to hold in front of you while you change.  Normally you would have to change without this bit of modesty and in front of all of the others.  But I am in a generous mood."  He lustfully laughed as he drank the last drop of wine in his glass and then refilled it and drank more.

Easha came down, took the table cloth, put the silk skirt, which was short and top which was short as well down at Keelin's feet.  She held up the table cloth and whispered. "Do as he says, Milady.  He can be awfully mean if he does not get his way." Easha then pulled down her bodice and showed Keelin the scars upon her chest where normally her breasts should have been.  "I once angered him." She said, with a slight tear falling down her face. And I am the one who gave birth to him.  Can you imagine what he would do to one whom he does not care about?"

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Edited by: Damien Scar at: 3/19/03 6:35:25 pm

Atrii heard grating noises echo down the tunnels and running water could be heard, he also heard foul noises that he could not tell what they were from. They came to an area where four tunnels appeared, all looking completely identical. He reached down and tried to find the tracks, but he couldn't the water had completely worn them away, he now had to use other tactics. He walked to one tunnel, he felt the edges and looked it over, it had just slid into place seconds ago. This was not the correct tunnel, he moved to the next one in hopes of finding their companion.

Keelin bit her tongue and hid her thoughts behind hooded eyes as she changed. Her mind reeled with a flurry of useless thoughts that she quickly shoved away. One kept coming back though. I told him not to try and save me anymore.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Lucirina slowly unfolded her arms and looked down the dune toward Qui that had stopped his horse at the foot of it.
She sighed slightly, the icy coat covering her face slowly melting away. She realized that after all those years of loneliness, after her encounter with Bobbo had broken her mechanism of defence, she was no longer able to stay completely cold and indifferent, her heart craved the company it  had been denied for too long.
Slowly walking down the dune she lowered her head slightly so a few stray locks of her hair danced like shadows over her features under the silvery light of the moon.

"One knows One is safe with Milord Valach, that is why One choose to ride with him."

She turned and gave Valach a slight smile, the kind of smile friends give eachother, no hidden promises nor intentions, just a smile.
She then turned towards Qui as he asked with who she wanted to ride, once more she felt torn between two wishes, to stay with Valach would maybe create more confusion because she was not stupid, she knew what she inspired in men.
But riding with Qui would maybe drive her even more away from Bobbo, something she was not completely sure would be a bad thing.
Her green eyes glinted slightly in the moonlight as she lifted her chin and looked at Qui.

"One will ride with you Milord Qui.
One is afraid one already forced Milord Valach's horse too much when One galloped into the night, One does not want him to end up without a mount."

Once more she turned to smile at Valach before moving closer to Qui's horse.
Moving swiftly, as she always did, and placing a foot in one of the stirrups while grabbing the front of the saddle she easily swung herself up into the front of him, her hands reaching to grab a small tuft of the horses mane, just so she didn't have to hold his arms to stay in place.
In silence she waited for him to spur the horse and ride away, almost hoping he would ask her to get off once more.

Edited by: Lucirina Telor Vevan at: 3/20/03 10:14:11 pm

Valach  Valach returned Lady Lucirnia's smile, and then began to urge his horse forward.  He lowered his hand to help her up, when she decided to ride with Qui.  Valach put his hand back upon the reins.  "Milady, it was a pleasure and I am glad that you felt safe to ride with me.  Milord, I leave the lady in your capable hands."  Valach then kicked his horses's flanks and rode away.

Qui Qui was not prepared for Lady Lucirina's quick jump onto his horse.  His heart thumped loudly in his chest at her nearness, so loudly he thought she could hear.  But he kept his composure.  She rode in front of him, and again he could smell her scent and the way her hair fell upon her and him, it felt like fire burining down to his soul.  He did his best to ignore it, like a wound you would recieve in battle, and continue on.

He spurred his horse forward and they took off in slow lope.  Each movment sent her back and backside against him.  He breathed heavily, but did not say a word.  He was too afraid.  Too afraid of saying something stupid and make her angry with him again.  But somehow something told him that maybe silence may make her angry at him as well.  So he spoke.  "Milady, I know that I told you that I had not the time to teach how to use the Sophronian throwing knives I gave you.  But that was at the fortress.  When we reach the Tears, I would be proud, glad to teach you the art."  he said almost in a whisper, afraid of what she would say.  "However only if you want me to.  If you still want Valach to teach you, I understand.  He is very good and an able teacher.  There is none better than myself."

Qui felt like a fool when he sounded like he was bragging and was glad it was both night and that Lucirina could not see the brightness of his face, for he could feel the blood rush up to it and knew he was blushing.

He continued on and soon he saw the Caravan.  A part of him was hoping they would not, for then he would have to release her to go back to Lord Bobbo, her intended.  Another part of him was going to feel relieved, for then he would not have to bear the burning in his soul, that he felt at this moment.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Easha let the table cloth drop when she saw that Keelin had fully changed and stepped back.  A low whistle eminated from Damien's lips.  Keelin's black satin top, almost see through, just came a little below her chest showing Damien a very well formed stomache.  Her skirt, the hem which rode several inches above her knee showed off well muscular, yet shapely legs and thighs.  The skirt rode well low upon her hips and the triangle of her abdomen was enticing.

"By the gods, you are beautiful. You make diamonds and precious jewels pale by comparison."  Damien rose and walked around the table to stand before her and then he slowly walked around her, admiring every inch, every curve of her body and even the hollow of her neck.  He wanted to take her, now, right then, but he held back.

"I have been blessed beyond measure by just meeting you and seeing you.  I told you black was your color.  Here, look at yourself in this mirror."

He clapped his hands, and Easha ran quickly and with another servant girl they carried a full sized mirror with them and placed it in front of Keelin, while Damien stood behind Keelin admiring how he looked besides her.  "You shall be my queen.  Keelin, Queen of Thieves.  What say you Milady?"  Damien asked.
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The brownies quickly dipped their arrows and found their places high above the intruders, hidden amongst the many cracks in the wall.  They readied their bows, waiting for the word to shoot at the intruders.  

Leetah, knew that even the small amounts of Krakenweed that were upon the arrow tips would not be enough to kill a full grown human, much less a troll or even an elf.  But thousands of those pin pricks as the arrows embedded themselves in their skins would be enough to eventually drive enough poison into them to make them feel like they were being stung by a thousand bees, and eventually begin to feel the effects of the Krakenweed.  But most of all it would force these intruders to run, and run in the way that she choose, until they come to the room with no escape and then Damiens men would come and finish the task.  Whatever that is.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Keelin bit her tongue, using the pain to keep her face from betraying her thoughts. There was only a tiny sliver of hope left, and Keelin reached for it. She turned and picked up the sheet of paper, flipped it over and wrote:

"I will do anything you ask, if you let my friends leave unharmed."

A little voice in the back of her head screamed that she should die before submit to one such as he, but Keelin silenced it, shoving it as back along with her emotions and thoughts, walling them in where they could not betray her friends.  

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Lucirina smiled slightly in the darkness as Valach spurred his horse and rode away, leaving her alone with Qui.
As he spurred the horse to make it move she was almost thrown against him, feeling the warmth of his body trough the back of her dress, and she could also hear the thumping of his heart with her sensitive ears.
For a second she thought she had done wrong when she decided to share mount with him as they rode in silence, as if he was angry with her.
Then he broke the akward silence, his voice barely a whisper, but loud and clear enough for her to understand everything that was said.
"Milady, I know that I told you that I had not the time to teach how to use the Sophronian throwing knives I gave you. But that was at the fortress. When we reach the Tears, I would be proud, glad to teach you the art.
However only if you want me to. If you still want Valach to teach you, I understand. He is very good and an able teacher. There is none better than myself."
She smiled slightlyknowing that he could not see her face, and for a second she was thankfull for that fact.

"One would feel honored if Milord teached One to use the magnificent knifes he gave One.
One is sorry for loosing Ones temper like that, One made a mistake and One did not want to admit it."

Her voice soft in the darkness, no ice lining it, just her regular melodious voice. A hand moved in the darkness to place itself on top of one of his own. A gentle caress, barely a brush of her fingers against him before she once more moved her hand back to the mane of the horse.
The sound of hooves sinking in the sand in a slow yet constant rythm revealed to her the precense of the caravan and that they were approaching it.
A soft sigh escaped her lips as she knew she once more had to face Bobbo, and in her heart she knew that it could be the last time she could expect him to look at her with love. Too many things had been said, too many things had happened in too short time. She felt like her heart had been ripped to shreds for the second time in her life and was slowly mending once more, yet not as it used to be.
Maybe there was no space in this reconstructed heart for the love she once thought would last forever, the love Bobbo had shown her.
Bowing her head down slightly she steeled herself for the encounter with the man she thought she could love and that now did not have a place in her heart anymore.

Qui felt Luci's hand barely touch his.  It sent electric shocks thoughout his entire being.  Before he had time to react she placed her hand back upon the horse's mane.  Then she replied to him."One would feel honored if Milord teached One to use the magnificent knifes he gave One.
One is sorry for loosing Ones temper like that, One made a mistake and One did not want to admit it."

Qui did not hear nor feel the anger in her voice.  Instead it was the voice of an goddess.  He swallowed hard, "Milady, I am the one who is honored.  I shall teach you all that I know.  As far as one loosing one's temper and not willing to admit it.  We are all guilty of that, at one time or another.  Our strength comes when we are willing to admit it, ask forgiveness, and move on.  At least that is what Oscar used to tell me."

They rode on in silence for awhile then Qui heard the sound of the Caravan.  "The Caravan is quite near.  Does Milady wish to ride with Lord Bobbo, or continue with me?  Or maybe we can scare up a mount of your own.  Maybe that might be the best for all concerned.  Not that I...I want you to leave my company.  I...I am..."  Qui stopped talking realizing he was stumbling and stammering over his words.  He felt like such a fool.  He was commander of all of the forces of the Resistance, and yet here he was speaking as if he were a school boy, instead of a man.
************************************************************************
The Tristan was waiting for Lord Bobbo's reply when he first saw Valach ride into the Caravan and take his place, but he did not have Lady Lucirina with him.  Then shortly thereafter, Qui's horse came into view and Lady Lucirina was with him. The Tristan glanced at Lord Bobbo out of the corner of his eye trying to guage the man's demeanor.  If Lord Bobbo did disapprove of his lady riding with Qui, he could not tell in the darkness.  He rode up farther and met Qui and Lady Lucirina.

"Milady I am glad that no harm befell you."  He gave Qui a questioning look.  Qui gave him a slight nod.  The Tristan smiled.  "The sun should be rising soon, and the Tears will be seen shortly.  There we can all get some needed rest.  There is a private pool of water that Milady can use to bathe in.  Us men have other pools to bathe in and of course there are ones for the animals.  We have much to discuss once we have rested.  I for one am curious about that explosion, and then the sandstorm.  I wonder if it was caused by our enemies.  I also would like to hear from you Milady your impressions of your capturer's.  We did not have a chance to talk before that tragic storm hit us."

He slowly rode the rest of the way back with them to the Caravan.  

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Damien's eyes narrowed as he read the writing on the paper Keelin gave him.  "You would be willing to be my Queen, my wife, if I allow your friends to go unharmed?"

Damien put his hands upon her shoulders.  He slipped the top off of her shoulders and gently kissed her shoulders and neck.  His hands slowly caressed her back, his thumbs kneading gently her bare back bone, the tips of his fingers, barely touching the small of her back where her skirt rode low upon her hips.

He murmured in her ear as he nibbled it.  "I shall think about it."  He then stopped kissing and caressing her.  Went to his chair, poured himself another glass of wine, watching Keelin with curiosity and a suspicious eye.  "Why don't you now sit down and eat and drink something." he said pointing to the glass of wine he had poured earlier for her, that she did not touch nor the food.

"You know of course, that I could have you without this concession, but I would much prefer a willing lover than one I have to force."

He paused, drank some more wine, watching Keelin, trying to see what was beyond the obvious and wondering she would be willing, or was she stalling for time?

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Lucirina closed her eyes as she heard his voice once more, a bit trembling at the beginning as he swallowed hard, but slowly growing more confindent.
"Milady, I am the one who is honored. I shall teach you all that I know. As far as one loosing one's temper and not willing to admit it. We are all guilty of that, at one time or another. Our strength comes when we are willing to admit it, ask forgiveness, and move on. At least that is what Oscar used to tell me."
Slowly she nodded, her long hair dancing around her shoulders sending a wave of wild flower scent toward Qui.

"Milord Oscar is.... was a very wise man. One did not know him as well as Milord did but what I knew of him was enough to see what kind of man he was.
One will miss him very much."

The last words were barely a whisper, the feeling of guilt flowing into her once more, making her bow her head almost as in shame. As they rode towards the caravan she could hear him speak once more, almost stumbling over his own words as he spoke.
"The Caravan is quite near. Does Milady wish to ride with Lord Bobbo, or continue with me? Or maybe we can scare up a mount of your own. Maybe that might be the best for all concerned. Not that I...I want you to leave my company. I...I am..."
She sighed deeply, she still couldn't decide what she was going to do concerning Bobbo.
They rode in silence until they reached the caravane, she gave Bobbo a short glance and the expression on his face was enough to make her cringe slightly in the saddle, her hand moving to grab Qui's hand for a second, as if seeking courage from him.
As the Tristin turned and spoke to her listened carefully
"The sun should be rising soon, and the Tears will be seen shortly. There we can all get some needed rest. There is a private pool of water that Milady can use to bathe in. Us men have other pools to bathe in and of course there are ones for the animals. We have much to discuss once we have rested. I for one am curious about that explosion, and then the sandstorm. I wonder if it was caused by our enemies. I also would like to hear from you Milady your impressions of your capturer's. We did not have a chance to talk before that tragic storm hit us."
She smiled at the words of the pool. She could feel relief washing trough her, she had not felt the cooling touch of water since she was in the tavern and she was looking forward to bathing and washing the sand off her skin.
She then turned and smiled at the Tristan.

"One is not too certain about One's captor, most of the time One was along with the red haired witch that One killed in battle.
But one thing comes to Ones mind, One had the impression that the other red haired witch was more powerful than she appeared."

While she spoke she gently put pressure on Qui's hand, holding it as if it was a lifewire that was keeping her from drowning.

Shaint:The elven warrior tried to pierce the gloom with his keen eyes but saw nothing.  However what he heard and felt was another matter entirely, the water which had been at his ankles was now at mid-shin and continuing to rise, the air of the tunnel was filled with the noise of small scrabbling feet, splashes, and angry squeaks that sounded like rats.  
A growing wave of fear swept over him as what was happening dawed on him.  He turned to Atrii, "Atrii! It's a Trap we gotta get out of this tunnel before we drown" by now the water was past his thighs.

Radaroc:  As he listened to Shaint he was about to agree, "GAHH!!  he grabbed at his hand which was trailing in the water, and attached to it was a large rat with it's teeth deep in his palm.  Whipping his had away the rat flew to the wall with a sickening crunch.  "Guys! Apparently the rats don't want us here either one just bit me!"  but even as he spoke more rats began biting at his legs.  "Atrii! Do you remember the where those other tunnels went or even where they are?"  He cocked his head toward the wall, he thought he heard a small laugh, Hmm..someone is watching us.

Atrii stood in the rising water, observing the surrounding area. He turned very casually and looked at everyone. "Let's go!" He exploded out down the tunnel the way they came. They made it to the end and Atrii led them to the side. Here the water still covered the ground but only a small portion of their feet were under the water. He looked around, there were two tunnels that they hadn't gone down yet. He moved to each one slowly, he looked down them and listened carefully while he felt the edges of the tunnel. He selected the tunnel on the far right side from the tunnel that was slowly filling with water and rats.

"I hope this is the right way."

Tristan  "Another red haired witch, did you say? How do you know she is a witch?  Did those ladies show the same power as the Fire Druid?  How did we miss them?"

The Tristan fired so many questions at once.  Qui cleared his throat loudly.  Suddenly the Tristan realized he had not given Lady Lucirina a chance to answer or Lord Bobbo.

"Forgive me, Milord and Milady, It is just that I never knew that women could become fire druids.  Even when the fire druids were quite plentiful, until my grandfather rooted out their evil practices and groves of worship and killed most of them, they would not teach a woman.  For fear of and this is no disrespect to you Milady, but they feared women could not hold onto their emotions as well as a man.  Especially when it came to that time for women.  They seem to be most...um.. disagreeable."

Qui was glad it was night for it hid his smile, and he was sure the Tristan was glad for it as well.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Leetah  Leetah watched with growing curiosity as the trapped men ran away from the rats.  She gave a low chuckle, and was startled when the troll put his head close to the wall. Can he hear me, she thought  She pulled back a little and motioned for her fellow brownies to push another brick lever.  They pushed it in and another grating noise was heard farther up the tunnel Atrii had chosen.  Then she motioned to another brownie to give the signal.  The brownie lit a small torch.

Suddenly hundreds of small tiny arrows filled the tunnel and headed toward the unsuspecting intruders.  As soon as the first volley was let go, the torch went out again.

In the distance sound of scrabbling feet and screeches were again heard as the water in this tunnel began to rise as well.
round three, part one Leetah thought a smile coming to her lips.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Gararion followed the other member of the party, running with ease through the water filled tunnels.  Gararion wondered why he seemed to have such ease within this water as he looked down to his feet, they were abve the water, still dry.

What magic is this, surely I have never felt this energy flow within me, but on the same note I feel no new energy within...what other surprises may come with my new found strength?

As they stopped Gararion whirled around, with the grace of the winds themselves, and threw his hands in the direction of the tunnel in which they had just came through.  Over the sound of harsh winds ripping through the rushing waters, holding them back momentarily, one could hear the sound of many rats being tossed and thrown into the sewer walls, each with their own sickening squel of pain.

Gararion waited momentarily until the other continued down the path.

Raoneth's defence weakened only for a second.
Gararion is a windmage and I can feel what he's doing... I can also feel what other lifemagic users are doing.

Is it possible that I have a talent for wind magic too?
He followed the others, deep in thought. Looking down, as he tended to when he was thinking, he saw the sand getting brushed away from beneath him.
This could prove interesting, indeed. I just wish I had someone to discuss it with... If only I could trust Gararion.
He awoke from his thoughts when he felt water. They'd gone deep in to the sewers, the water was above his feet and the pipes were lined with torches. A bad sign
"The floor has turned to water, the tracks have disappeared.", Atrii said, understandably dissapointed. He brushed away some mud, a slight smile crept up the side of his chin, then he grinned, "This way."
Raoneth heard something, he was sure of it. He allso noticed the halls ahead were getting darker. He was quite sure it wasn't a trick of the mind. They kept walking.

He heard something again... sounded like rats. Over by the wall, by the torch. Suddenly the torch was out.
Raoneth closed his eyes, he could still see the tunnel getting darker and darker.

And then, more water rushed in.
Raoneth now had water up to his throat. But he wasn't wet for some reason. The water just brushed off. The water rose more, and he stood inside his bubble, in to the water over his head, but still breathing.
He looked up, he could see a sort of hole through the water,  the air seemed to be getting sucked down through the water and around him.
Raoneth controlled a laugh.
He stopped abruptly.
While he was marvelling over his newly discovered abilities, the others were starting to panic, "Atrii! It's a Trap we gotta get out of this tunnel before we drown", Shaint shouted and the troll immediately started moving, "GAHH!!", "Guys! Apparently the rats don't want us here either one just bit me!". Raoneth could notice the rats flowing around him, but they seemed to avoid him. There must be hundreds of them... It would probably be quite unwise to do anything to disturb them
As he consentrated on other things, he felt the air around him weaken. He consentrated, it picked up again. This wasn't like lifemagic, he started feeling tired again.
That is probably what happened yesterday.
"Atrii! Do you remember the where those other tunnels went or even where they are?", the troll yelled, it looked like Atrii pointed the way. It was difficult to see from under the water.

There was a small moment of silence, Raoneth was struck for a moment.
We're in a trap
How does one escape a trap?
By the most obvious route?
He heard a flame being lit a small second before he heard the sound of hundreds of strings being released.
A volley of little arrows filled the roof of the tunell.
He stood still for a millisecond more before he moved quickly to the oposite direction of the rest of the party. The arrows splashed down around him and he felt a sense of doom, What is the purpose of this? The arrows are too small to hurt anyone but me.
The first volley had landed, the less sharply strung arrows sailed down in front of him together with the ones that had hit the roof and wall above him. He grabbed one before he felt water dripping down on his head.
Not more
He had to consentrate again as the water went even higher. His eyes were getting used to the darkness. He'd allways had exellent vision in darkness for some reason.

He backed away slowly, while studying the arrow, smelling it.I know this. It's plant poison, probably Krakenweed or some other lakeweed.
Whomever it is doing this, they don't mind wasting good poison, that's for sure.

Edited by: Raoneth at: 3/25/03 10:05:51 pm

Lucirina avareted Bobbo's eyes and answered the Tristan's questions, her memory clear about what happened when they were captured, she shivered at the memory of what Issrah did to a poor guard that only was doing his duty.

"One saw the witch known as Issrah burn a guard to crisp by throwing a fireball at him in front of One's own eyes.
As for the name of her master... it was Malok.
As for the name of the other witch One does not know, but she was clad in the same gardments as the one called Issrah.
As how they escaped One does not know, but the body of Issrah was by the southern wall, with a dagger deep in her back...a gift from a little Nightbird."

Lucirina smirked, it was not often she did so, and it was almost scaring to see how much her features changed, they became hard and almost cruel, the silvery light of the moon fading away giving her green eyes a glassy look.
But soon the smirk was reeplaced by her usual soft smile and soon she bursted into laughter at the Tristan's coment about women.

"One is not completely certain if all women are like Milord say during their time.
But One must agree that when that time comes to One it is better to not cross One, anger comes quicker and from words to agression the way is very short."

She tilted her head and chuckled slightly.
It seemed she was not planning on changing horse, she looked very confortable sharing horse with Qui and as she laughed she leaned back against him.

Edited by: Lucirina Telor Vevan at: 3/26/03 1:59:36 am

Keelin sat down and stared blankly at a wall, sipping at the wine. Whatever glimmers of hope had been left had flickered out at the thought that her friends might die coming to save her. I'm not worth it. Go back.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Tristan The Tristan's eyes narrowed as he listened to the gruesome story told by Lady Lucirnia.  "Then this Malok has broken all the rules of the Fire Druids.  His end will be much worse, for I fear the god of fire will avenge himself upon him."

Then Lady Lucirnia laughed and her voice was so light and silvery.  I can see now how Qui and Lord Bobbo and most men could easily fall under her spell.  She probably has no idea what she does to men.  The Tristan thought as they rode on.
************************************************************************
Qui also listened carefully and could feel Lucirina body change when she told about Issrah and what she did.  Qui looked down upon the top of her head. Luci put a knife in the back of a female fire druid!  

Then she laughed and said something about how it would be from words to aggression if someone bothered her during her time of women.  Qui had heard of this peculiar phenomenon, but since he had been around men most of his adult life, he had never experienced it, nor after what Luci had just said did he want to.

Lucirina leaned back against him and her heat from her body felt like a hot poker against his own.  It seemed she was going to be content riding with him.  That made him glad, yet also very confused.  He thought for sure she would ride with Lord Bobbo.  For she was his intended, was she not?

Qui spoke up. "Sire if this other woman is a fire druid as well as this Malok.  Then Troas has some considerable power at his command.  I suggest once we reach the Tears, that we send a scouting party out to search for these fire druids.  Another thought has also occured to me, Oscar had mentioned in his letter to me that he was going to send a party of merc's to help him deliver our last supplies of weapons and such from Hashish in Strata.  Surely they must have recieved those items and are now back at the Herald.  Should I send some men to retrieve them?"  Qui asked.

His arms went naturally around Lady Lucirina when she leaned back against him and he liked the feeling.

The Tristan thought awhile, "If the fire druids are as powerful as I think they are, a small group of men will not kill them."

"Sire I was not thinking of killing them, I was more thinking along the lines of finding out their base of operations.  We have men here of the Shendar tribe.  They know the desert better than any living soul.  If anyone can find these fire druids surely they can."

"You may be right, Qui." Replied the Tristan.  He looked up and saw the sky beginning to brighten far to the south. "The sun will be up and soon we will see the canyon that leads to the Tears.  We will discuss your ideas there once we have refreshed ourselves."

"As you say Sire." Qui answered back.  Qui looked at Lord Bobbo. He had not said a word.  His face was serene, but it was like set in stone.  Qui wondered if Lord Bobbo had plans for him.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Damien was pleased as Keelin finally sat down and drank with him.  He smiled at her.  He spoke softly. "Keelin I can imagine what your thoughts are.  You are concerned about your friends.  I promised you Keelin if you willingly became my Queen and share my bedchamber than your friends will not die.  I always keep my promises."
************************************************************************
Leetah motioned again, and again a small torch was lit, and the air was again filled with hundreds of poisoned arrows aimed at the intruders.  During that brief flash of light, Leetah saw something that made her eyes widen.  One man was actually walking on water, and her cute little brownie was somehow engulfed in a bubble of air.  What kind of magic is this?  She had heard of her cousins being able to use life magic, but this bubble was nothing of the sort.  She was very very curious.

Then the light went out and all was plunged back into total darkness.  Leetah sent word to a scout to tell Damien how the battle fared.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Keelin refocused her eyes to look at him. She nodded slightly. I will do as you ask, she thought, but I will make you sorely regret asking.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Gararion waited in the darkness, htough his mind wasn't dark at all.  He could sense many of the feelings that ran through the others mind, he could sense the cár'árll that ran within them, shifting with their emotions and every thought.

One essence stuck out amoung all other though, one that he had sensed before but now seemed to become active, like one had lite a torch within ones mind.  Gararion foolwed his senses and within the moment of light from a torch being lite in the distance could see what his sense led him towards.  Truly his ability with Oh'mód'hál had help in his discovery.  Within a small bubble of air the small brownie rested.  But Gararion could sense that these new found powers were something new to the small one.  But Gararion knew just how the little one felt, for he too was experiancing new powers that came with his contact with the Tear of Avá within Ximax.  Gararion felt as if it would be his place to help this young brownie to control his new powers, like he had done with many others at Ximax.

As Gararion thought about he felt a pin prick in the rear of his neck.  With a raise of his hand the air before him begin to twist, creating a shield that threw all of the small toothpic arrows toward the celling.  Gararion then removed the arrow from his neck examining it closely, then within he could feel himself weaken slightly.  Poison, turly we have entered a place unwelcomed.

Leetah  Leetah saw the strange cloaked human wave his hand and then suddenly a bunch of arrows meant for the human came back at the archers.  Leetah quickly ducked back into her hole,unfortunately some were not as quick.  She watched with anger growing as several of her brownies, screamed and fell into the tunnel, making small splashes in the water as they fell, like small stones being dropped into the water.

She ordered another volley of arrows.  Soon the air was thick with the arrows.  And then small stones were slung by another division of her brownies.  Leetah could not understand how they could see so well in total darkness. Her species lived underground all their lives and had huge eyes to take in all available light.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

The ride to the Tears was quiet.  Most of the men were tired and dusty.  Each one thinking their own thoughts.  Qui was tired as well, but the feel of Lucirina riding in front of him was a feeling he was more than willing, even eager to have.  He glance once over at Lord Bobbo.

Lord Bobbo nodded once and then rode stonily on.  Qui was not sure what to make of it.

Soon they crested a huge sanddune, more like a sand mountain, and looked upon a valley, and in the midst of that valley spread an oasis.  Palm trees swayed gently in the wind, and the leaves turned toward the rising southern sun.  The three pools of water that made up the tears glistened like small sapphires in the light.

He leaned close to Lucirina's ear, her wildflower scent he had been smelling most of the night, was extremely strong.  He wondered how she kept that smell in this dirty dusty desert. It really did not matter, just as long as she smelled like that, it made him quite happy. "There are the Tears.  So called because it was said they were made when Thalambath came to this country after the War of the Chosen and cried for the loss of his wife.  His Tears created the three pools of water.  As we get closer you will see that each seperate pool looks like a tear.  He must have loved his wife very much.  Much like I..."

He stopped in midsentence.  Aware of what he was about to say.  He knew that to leave his thoughts hanging were not good so he quickly stammered. "Much... Much like I would feel about my wife, that is if and when I have one."

He leaned back and let out his breath slowly.  He had better choose his words more carefully in the future.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

The brownie rushed into Damien's palace.  Damien saw him and waved him forward.  The brownie took a glance at Keelin, then walked up to Damien. "Lord Damien is it safe to talk freely?"

"Do not fear.  Keelin is going to be my Queen.  You can say whatever you wish." he said, toasting Keelin.

"I see, well Leetah has told me to tell you that the battle goes well."

Damien smiled, "That is good news.  I am sure my men will be ready by the time they reach the end of their confusion."

Suddenly another brownie rushed in. "My Lord Damien, Leetah has sent me to tell you that more than 50 brothers have fallen.  She said that there is a strange man, who waves his hands and our arrows came back at us."  He said breathlessly.

Damien slammed his glass down, shattering it into pieces.  He glared at Keelin. "So, you did not tell me that one of your friends was a sorcerer.  That changes things.  I was going to let your friends live on your account.  But I did not expect my people to die.  I was just having some fun with them."

Damien paced the floor, he drew his sword and began twirling it around in a circle in his right hand.  He then lifted his head. "I will not kill all of them, for your sake, Keelin.  For I promised it, and I keep my promises.  But honor demands that this sorcerer must pay for his deeds."  He turned to the brownies.  "Tell Leetah and tell my men, that none is to be killed except the sorcerer.  If the sorcerer can be captured, so much the better.  I would like to meet this...this impudent man."

"Yes Milord." they both chimed in and scattered back to where they came from.

Damien continued to pace the floor, thinking.  Every once in a while he would look at Keelin, start to say something but would stop before a sound came out of his mouth.  
************************************************************************
The city of Strata welcomed the sun.  The citizens came out and began to rebuild their damaged homes and buisnesses.  As several of them were helping each other out suddenly the town crier began to tell of the news

Hear Ye Hear Ye  Last nights storm was caused by a sorcerer and his friends who used the storm to gain entrance into the city.  He travels with one human, two elves, one female, and a troll.  A reward of twenty thousand pieces of silver to the one or ones, who capture, or kill these intruders.  They are reputed to be workers for the Resistance.  Any information should be given to the guards of the city. Troas and the ruling houses promises to help those who need it.  Just go to the building and housing ruling house, put in your report and they will give you some money to help.  Troas says that he can't pay for everything, but he will pay some.

The people began a great murmuring and shouts of "Lets kill those who did this to our city."  A woman cried, "My son, was killed in that storm.  He was no more than 3yrs old."  Another voice yelled, "The apothecary has been up all night tending the wounded.  I was for the Resistance, once, but not anymore.  If Troas and the ruling houses are willing to help, with money, then I am all for him."

A huge roar came out from the crowd.  One pair of dark eyes were not smiling, his face grim. Troas is smart. He uses this storm to make the people hate the Resistance, and more than that the Tristan.  Hashish walked away from the crowd.  I must find them before the city does.  Where could they be?  A troll is not going to be hard to miss.

Troas stood and listened to the people.  He smiled and so did Nahor who was standing next to him, with a bit more weight around his waist.  Troas paid him well for his information.  Nahor whispered. "Troas, I believe that I know where these men may be."

Troas answered, "I know. You told me.  They are in Damien's domain.  I do not much care.  I now have the city on my side.  Damien will take care of those meddlers, and if not, well I am sure my guards can.  I must go now and make plans.  Why don't you go and find out if Damien does have things under control."

Nahor bowed. "As Milord wishes."  Nahor then slipped away and was soon out of sight.  Troas headed back to his house, he needed to talk to his new partner, Rhas.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Lucirina had actually fallen asleep in the saddle while leaning against Qui, the soft movements of the horse rocking her to deeper into the arms of her dreams, that for once did not turn into horrible nightmares. It seems she was quite tired.
But as soon as she felt Qui shift in the saddle and the warm breath against her sensitive ears she awoke.
She opened her eyes and let them fall down on the oasis, the three pools glittering softy in the light, and the green of vegetation, a green she had missed for much too long.
"There are the Tears. So called because it was said they were made when Thalambath came to this country after the War of the Chosen and cried for the loss of his wife. His Tears created the three pools of water. As we get closer you will see that each seperate pool looks like a tear. He must have loved his wife very much. Much like I..."
She felt her heart freeze in her chest as he stopped in the middle of a sentance, leaving unspoken promises hanging in the air between them. The seconds of silence were charged with the feeling one have just before a lightning is about to hit the ground.
Lucirina bowed her head and waited in silence, not sure if he wanted him to continue.
"Much... Much like I would feel about my wife, that is if and when I have one."
She swallowed deeply and nodded.

"It must be wonderful to be loved like she was. One can only hope One is worthy of finding such love one day."

Her voice was soft, barely a whisper. But as he leaned back she let out a small sigh, her mind wandering once more.
Soon they would reach the oasis and she could dismount, and she remembered the words of the Tristan, maybe she could get a bath there. Smiling slightly she looked over at the Tears once more, a song forming in her head.

Keelin thought furiously. This was not working the way it was supposed to! I had not planned for this happening... Keelin watched her already unstable plan starting to crumble. There has to be something I haven't thought of yet... There has to be.  

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Radaroc
AHH!! Radaroc yelled as a wave of tiny pin pricks washed over his body.  He then relized with surprise that most had not even pentrated his skin.  Then his left arm began to numb.  Wiping at it, as it was too dark to see, he brushed of a few arrows that had hit his softer wrist.

With a whisling sound he heard more tiny arrows heading toward them.  But then it stopped and was followed by a few clicks then screams and splashes.  

"Let's see if we can figure out what to do about whoever...whatever is attacking us."he said.  

Wading forward a little bit he began to run his hands through the water trying to find a body.  

Shaint  
As the arrows began to fly he heard the troll yell out in surprise.  Some arrows also hit him but his leather armor stopped most but a few that hit his wrist.  Quickly slapping them off he felt a light numbing sensation.  

"Show yourselves cowards!  Trying to keep me from Keelin are you!"  

Unsheathing his sword, he cocked his head listening for the slightest sound.

While his sight had been taken from him he still had his ears.  Just then there was the whistle of incoming arrows but as if they suddenly changed direction it stopped...or changed slightly.  Then came a few clinks of steel hitting stone then came a few screams and splashes soon followed.  "Let's see if we can figure out what to do about whoever...whatever is attacking us."  Following the trolls reasoning he waded forward.  Quite suddenly he felt something small and soft.  Lifting it up he felt a human like body but on a such smaller scale....brownies!

"Everyone it's browines, a bunch of...of..Rat Brownies, that's it.  Hey! Raoneth talk some sense into them tell them we don't want to hurt them!"

Atrii shook his head as he dodged the arrows. He looked to Shaint. "They will not listen, they are part of the guild that we are infiltrating they are protecting there lair. We are merely intruders." He looked frantically around trying to find a way out of this and closer to Keelin. He bent to the ground and found a small piece of clothing at the mouth of another cave, he ran down it a few paces and could faintly see light at the end. "This way now! Let's go!"

Qui Qui heard Lady Lucirna's reply and his eyes widened.  He softly said, "Milady, does not Lord Bobbo love you like that and you the same? Or have I misunderstood?"

Qui held his breath; not knowing whether he wanted to hear her reply.  For if she did confirm that she loved Lord Bobbo, then his dreams would be crushed, but deep inside he knew he would still love her, even if it was from afar.  And if she said differently, then what...? a small voice inside his head asked him.  He answered back, I am not sure...Certainly I would try to win her heart... but how?  I have never loved a woman, like I love this one.

Qui absentmindedly stroked Lady Lucirina's hair and nape of her neck as his mind debated with his heart.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Damien stopped pacing the floor, he sheathed his sword and walked behind Keelin.  He bowed his head and breathed in her scent. It was so feminine  he thought as he slowly rubbed her shoulders, slipping the fabric off of them and kissing her shoulders and nape of her neck.  His hands ran up and down her arms.  He whispered into her ear. "I cannot wait until our wedding night.  We shall fill the night with love.  You are so beautiful, such creamy skin, so soft, for a warrior."

His hands roamed back up her arms and headed toward her chest  He ached to touch them, but he stopped himself and controlled his emotions, though it was very difficult indeed.  He strolled back around the table, sat down, and drank in Keelin's beauty with his eyes as he downed another glass of wine.
************************************************************************
Leetah recieved the report back from Damien.  "How in Coors name am I supposed to kill a sorcerer!!" she shouted to no one in particular.  She motioned to her commanders to continue the attack.  Another torch briefly lit and stones and hundreds of arrows filled the tunnel again, and then the torch went out.  She heard some yelling, and then she heard someone say, "Rat Brownies"  So they know who we are.  So much the better.

She was told that one was leading the others up the last tunnel.  She smiled and ordered another wall to close behind them.  Again a grating sound was heard in the darkness and a wall closed off the intruders escape. The water stopped rising.  Then soft clicks could be heard as openings in the side walls opened and sharpened iron spears, interspersed every couple of feet began to close in behind the intruders, forcing them forward.  Let's see how this sorcerer does against raw steel.  she grinned maliciously.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Edited by: Damien Scar at: 3/29/03 9:33:13 pm

As he studied the arrow he saw the tunnel light up again a short moment, then the arrows filled the roof again. He paced backwards a few small steps before time stood still for a moment.
An arrow was heading straight towards his head.
It seemed an eternety but the moment after he was hurled backwards by an explosion of air in front of him. He landed in the roof with his back first, with a thump that crushed the air out of him. He turned in mid air on the way down but blacked out before he hit the water.

He came back as he heard his name "Raoneth talk some sense into them tell them we don't want to hurt them!" he heard it faintly, partly because his ears were below water. He turned around swiftly in the water, and started coughing up water from his lungs. Coughing and gagging. The water tasted like worse that he'd ever imagined sour-water to taste.
He heard Atrii's voice when he'd gotten out most of it, "This way now! Let's go!" He hesitated a second before he saw the path being closed again.
Hardly a surprise.
Luckily the water had stopped rising. Raoneth tried to create the bubble again, but he just couldn't. He had to keep treading the water. He was incredibly tired and dizzy, his back ached and he felt a series of stings and priccles coming from the left side of his stomach.
It's Krakenweed.

Edited by: Raoneth at: 3/29/03 10:40:58 pm

[/b]"Everyone it's browines, a bunch of...of..Rat Brownies, that's it. Hey! Raoneth talk some sense into them tell them we don't want to hurt them!"

Radaroc turned his head to Shaint, Rat Brown he thought, What on Sorren do they wan...ah! Of course they must be with those who took Keelin  

"This way now! Let's go!"

He then looked over to Atrii he saw his faint silhouette against the soft glow of a torch down another tunnel.  With that faint light he then saw Raoneth treding water, barely keeping his head above the water.  Reaching down he picked up the drenched brownie and placed him in the breast pocket of his vest.  More arrows and rocks flew at them and as the pricked his skin he felt more and more dorwsy.  "Derm! Do something!"  

The shapeshifter quickly became a small weasel and began to crawl up the wall when a spear popped out near its head.  Derm was startled but determined to help his master he moved even faster.  Soon he found a small crevice in the wall filled with Rat Brownies.  He threw him self at them clawing and biting but more than a few shot him with the poisened arrows.  The little body not being able take anymore punishment shifted back to his natural misty blue state and headed after his master in case he needed him.

Soon Radaroc caught up to Atrii with Shaint close behind.  "Atrii do you think it's much farther?"

The brownies were startled when all of a sudden a small mammal made its way to them and attacked them.  Many brethren and sisters were clawed and eaten.  The brownies fought back, shooting as fast as they could.  Then they went wide eyed when the mammal turned something blue and left.

They stood there petrified.  One ran and told Leetah.  Leetah was outraged.  "I do not care if Damien told us to keep these... these big ones alive.  They will all die!"  She shouted.  Then she gave more orders.  As she tried to figure out what that thing was that attacked her warriors.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Lucirina closed her eyes and a long sigh escaped her lips.
For a moment she seemed even smaller than she was, her shoulders sinking as she started to speak with a soft voice.

"Unfortunatly things do not always turn out the way One want them to.
One was certain that Bobbo was the man One loved, he shattered Ones shield of silence with tender care when One was certain One would pass the centuries alone.
One knows Bobbo loves One.
But...

She hesitated, growing completely silent for several minutes, her hands grasping the front of the saddle with enough strenght to leave her knuckles white and bloodless.
As she spoke again her voice was slightly cracked, as if she was fighting back tears.

"One remembers the moments One was trapped under the tent.... One remembers the feeling of sand crushing One.
Then a voice..One heard a voice calling One's name.
Then.. the terrible warmth og sand entering Ones mouth, eyes and nose, drowning One, stealing Ones life.
One imagines what Oscar must have felt, and One knows that Bobbo was with him in the tent.... and he did nothing to help him, he left him to die.
One wonders if he would have done the same if One was in the tent with him.... One cannot love someone One does not trust."

She grew silent, a silence where her breath was barely audible. The silence of a heart breaking and dreams shattering.

Bobbo looked up from his sombre ride as they approached the Tears. He gazed down at them and suddenly realized how extremely parched he was. Reaching into his saddle he pulled out a small canteen. He opened it up and put it to his lips, letting the warm, clear water run down his throat. He sighed in contentment and handed the canteen to a soldier who rode near him who looked parched, but did not have a canteen to drink.

The man thanked Bobbo kindly saying, "Surely, my lord, this honor is not due me."

"You're thirsty, that I can see. Drink. Before we reclaim Strata I am no greater than any of you," he said, "We are all men struggling to bring back our lord, the Tristin, to power."

The man slowly brought the canteen to his lips and gulped a mouthful down. He was visibly better after the drink, seeming to be very much refreshed. The man handed the canteen back to Bobbo, who sealed it and attached it to his saddle.

"What is your name friend?" asked Bobbo to the soldier.

"I am Kasmark, Kasmark Dayes, my lord," said the man cautiously.

"Why are you so cautious?" asked Bobbo, "Am I not merely a man like you?"

"Yes, my lord," said Kasmark, "But you are also the head of a major house in our society. You are one of our leaders."

"Yes, that is so," said Bobbo, "But I will not allow people to treat me like a shrewd dictator. Do not talk to me like any word you say will make me cross. I am very slow to anger, Kasmark. Just because I am a noble, that does not mean that I will not do my share of the work involved to reclaim Strata from the wicked ones."

"My lord, you are remarkable!" said Kasmark amazed, "You are truly as just as the Tristin himself. We are in good hands with the two of you leading us."

"Yes, but what is the leader without the soldier?" said Bobbo, "Can a general win a war alone? Can a captain secure a city without his sentries? No. Therefore, I will not neglect to honor you, the bravest of our citizens, for your deeds. For it is the soldiers who win the war, not the general."

Kasmark was speechless before this amazingly wise speech. He looked about, deep in thought over Lord Robert's words.

Bobbo smiled at the man. "Tell you what, my friend Kasmark, you may, if you choose, become my personal assistant. An advisor and trusted servant."

Kasmark's mouth gaped open. "Surely, my lord, I am not worthy of this honor. Surely someone else would be better, perhaps Captain Qui."

"No," said Bobbo, "You will do fine, Kasmark."

Kasmark squirmed around a bit uncomfortable, "Very well then, Lord Junakin. I shall do as you ask."

Bobbo smiled. "Good!" he said, "I was looking for someone that I could trust and confide in to fill this position."

"I can only do my best, my lord," said Kasmark.

Kasmark was a tall man, a native of Strata. His thick brown hair was short cut over his head. His blue eyes were mysterious and unreadable. He was a bit unsure of himself, but was right handy with a sword. He carried a one-and-a-half grip sword, one that could either be wielded with one hand or two.

Bobbo looked up over the procession and nodded. All was going according to plan. He did not look in the direction of Lucirina and Qui, whether consciously or unconsciously.

'... Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again.' (Gandalf)

'I wish it need not have happened in my time,' said Frodo.

'So do I,' said Gandalf, 'and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us . . .'

The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
The Tales of Middle Earth RPG (I'm the owner)
The Lords of Middle Earth (I'm the ent mod)
Adventures of Sorren (I'm just a player)
The Fellowship of the Ring (I'm just a member)

Raoneth could feel a big hand picking him up by the waist before he blacked out again.

Qui Qui listened to Lady Lucirina's reply to his question.  He thought, I was helping dig out Oscar and Lord Bobbo but then I too went and left and helped out Luci.  Was my intentions selfish, as well?  Could I have saved my Uncle? he asked himself.  He thought over those past events.  Finally he replied. "Milady, I do not think Lord Bobbo was being selfish, or did he not think of Oscar. He acted on instinct.  His first instinct was survival, then upon the one whom he loved.  I understand, for I did the same."  The last few words trailed off into a whisper.

He went silent as tears trickled down his face.  He shook his head and then replied in a stronger voice.  "Do not blame Lord Bobbo.  I recall Oscar telling me, 'we must all make choices in our lives and whatever choice we make, whether it turn out bad or good, we must learn to accept the consequences of those choices and move on.  Oscar's death was tragic, but I do not think it was anyone's persons fault. It was the storm.  And such an unusual storm it was.  I have been through many a sandstorm, but this one, followed by such a bright flash in the middle of the desert, had to have been caused by something or someone else other than nature itself.  A cause I plan on discovering as soon as I have rested and have taught you the skill of using those knives I gave you."

As they rode along, suddenly what had seemed to be just mounds of sand, came alive and warriors popped out, they raised their swords and began shouting.  More shouts could be heard from the tops of the palm trees surrounding the Oasis, and Qui could see the guards, archers, hidden in the trees.  He smiled and pointed to a sand like net covering to Luci, "This net camaflouges our camp."

Soon the net was seperated by some guards and inside small children and women were seen.  The children half naked, were splashing in a pool of water.  The women raised their heads and began running and babbling in their language to the some of the men warriors who rode along with the Tristan.

A very beautiful, dark haired and eyed woman strode up to meet Qui.  Her eyes peered at Lady Luci, she smiled and waited for Qui to stop.

Qui saw Sari, and slowed his horse down and stopped.  He jumped of his horse, and lent his hand to help Lady Lucirina down.  He did not say a word.

Tristan  The Tristan was happy.  He rode close to Lord Bobbo's horse.  "Milord, welcome to my makeshift home."

He raised his voice as more and more women, children, and men gathered around the weary warriors.  "Listen to me, my people and give thanks to Ava.  We have found an heir to the Junakin House.  Lord Bobbo!"

A deafening cheer rose up from the crowd and many gathered around Lord Bobbo's horse and looked at him, then went upon their knees, bowing their heads to the ground.  

"Rise my people, and help us get the dust off of our feet.  We are tired, and hungry."  

Lady servants ran up to the Tristan and to Lord Bobbo.  The Tristan got off his horse and motioned for Bobbo to do the same.  "These women here will serve you, Milord.  They will bathe you, feed you, and wash your clothes.  Once you have been taken care of, then they will take you to my tent and we can feast and talk."

He looked over at Qui and Lady Luci and saw Sari there.  He smiled.  He did not say a word but waited for Lord Bobbo to dismount.  I wonder how Qui is going to get out of this one? he thought.  

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Leetah  Leetah watched the on going battle between her warriors and the big people.  She had lost eye contact with the little brownie that had been with the group and that worried her.  She had seen him, then he suddenly was not there.  She had been sending some warriors over to capture him, but he just seemed to have disappeared.  Then that creature, whatever it was, attacked.  Her warriors fought it off but it changed blue and left.  That was another concern of hers.  These big ones, have many powers at their command.  she thought.

She had no doubt that her warriors would do their job, but would Damien's men do theirs?

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Lucirina listened to Qui's words and once more fell silent, maybe he was right, maybe she was being unfair with Bobbo.

"Perhaps Milord is right Qui, Perhaps One is not acting as one should with Bobbo.
But Ones heart is confused.. and a confused heart does not know what is best for it."

She snapped after breath as she heard his words about him saving what he loved... could it be... had she lost one love to find another.
No, better not think about it, better stay as far away from love as possible. It had only brought her pain so far.
She nodded as Qui continues speaking, listening without replying and thinking of the many choises she had made in her life. How many of them had been wrong?
Loving Anathus and then watching him die had broken her bonds with her family and her people, sending her wandering across the lands, far away from her homelands. It had also dragged her into a deep well of silence where no songs were born, rendering her flute useless as depriving her of the gift given to her by Avá.
And now, she knew the love of Bobbo has helped her out of the loneliness where she had chained herself. Now she did not know what to do at all with the feelings she had for him.
Maybe she would have time to think better at the Tears.
In silence she sat in front of Qui lost in her own memories and was startled when the sand seemed to come alive and warriors with long swords emerged from the yellow grains and started shouting. She almost fell off the saddle but in the last instant she grabbed good hold of it and managed to stay seated.
"This net camaflouges our camp."
She smiled widely and nodded, seeing the net of security that surrounded the oasis. The smile growing wider as she spotted the children playing in one of the pools and her long ears picked up their laughter, it has been very long since she had heard such a joyful sound.
As they came closer to the camp  she looked around and spotted the woman standing close to them and looking at Qui, her heart froze in her chest. Had he been lying to her?
As the horse stopped she accepted Qui's hand with almost mechanical movements and jumped off the horse, keeping her eyes low as she stood by Qui, so much smaller than him, and even half a head smaller than the black haired woman, waiting for any of them to say something.

Bobbo had rode in silence by the Tristin when the open nothingness opened up and revealed a camp. He was quite startled. There were many warriors, women, and children in the place.

The Tristin then announced Bobbo's arrival. They suddenly cheered out in great joy. Bobbo was quite startled and watched their faces with a smiling face.

He heard the Tristin mention the women serving him. "If you don't mind, my lord, I would decline the offer," said Bobbo, "I have always taken care of myself and I plan to continue it. You know what I mean right?"

With all the people around him cheering for him, he felt he had to say something. He cleared his throat quickly and the crowd hushed. Bobbo felt a little intimidated, but that was no problem.

"Greetings, my people!" he shouted, "I am Robert Junakin, son of Richard Junakin, head of the Junakin house. As I know you all have suffered by the rule of Troas, I have suffered as well. My father and mother were killed and my nobility was stricken from me, all because of Troas! Therefore I return to fight with you!"

The people seemed to enjoy this very much, but did not say anything. Bobbo smiled at them all and dismounted his horse. He handed the reins to a man who seemed to be the stablehand. He turned to the Tristin and said, "My lord, might I suggest that after we have freshened up we tell the people what has happened."

Bobbo deliberately ignored Lucirina riding with Qui. He had decided that it was none of his business what she did. He also knew that the sight of him would only bring pain to Lucirina. He knew that their love could not be forever until Lucirina changed her mentality.

'... Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again.' (Gandalf)

'I wish it need not have happened in my time,' said Frodo.

'So do I,' said Gandalf, 'and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us . . .'

The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
The Tales of Middle Earth RPG (I'm the owner)
The Lords of Middle Earth (I'm the ent mod)
Adventures of Sorren (I'm just a player)
The Fellowship of the Ring (I'm just a member)

Gararion waited standing still deflecting off the small brownie sized arrows with his shield.

"Please tell me companions that we are not going to stand here and wait for our fate!"

Atrii looked at Gararion then back at the way that he wished to travel, the light was beginning fade. "No! This way now!" The ranger took off sprinting down the tunnel towards the light and their only way out.

Shaint was beginning to get annoyed he didn't meen to but his feelings for Keelin and the feeling of not getting any closer to where they where headed did not help, wet, and arrow that hurt when they penetrated his thick shirt only made his more angry, He wanted to yell but had no idea what at so he frowned and clenched his teeth arrow hitting him in all sorts of various places most not penitrating his leather pants and vest.

But those that came through his shirt hurt like a slice form parchment small but painful, Shaint wielded his ssword tightly in his right hand and ran after Atrii "The damn bastard who took Keelin is gonna pay!"

Qui Qui helped Luci down and she stood there next to him.  "Sari, this is Lady Lucirina, she will be our guest for awhile.  Please show her where she can bathe and get refreshed."  He turned to Lucirina and smiled at her. "Milady this is Sari, she takes care of my needs and she will take care of yours as well.  Please go with her and she will show you where you can bathe and refresh yourself.  I will go and do the same."

Sari nodded. "Yes, Master Qui.  Sari will do as you wish. Please to meet Master Qui's woman, " she said. "Lady Lucirina if you will follow me."

Qui quickly interrupted. "Sari, Lady Lucirina is not my woman, she is a guest, a warrior and a bard.  She is Elven."

Sari looked curiously at Lucirina, especially at her ears.  She then nodded. "As you wish Master Qui. Please follow me Milady." she said as she turned around and began walking away, twisting her head around looking to see if Lucirina was following.
************************************************************************
Tristan "Milord Bobbo, your wish will be honored.  However if you have any need they will be at your beck and call."

Bobbo made a speech, the crowd was silent listening to the horrors of Troas once more.  Then when he told them he came to fight with him and put their beloved Tristan back on his rightful throne.  They once again began shouting and dancing.  Two servant girls walked up to Bobbo. The smaller of the two said,  My name is Mari. Please Milord, we show you were you can bathe, in private, as you wish.  While you bathe, we will wash your clothes for you."  They both bowed respectfully.

The Tristan had several women around him and men were taking their horses to be led away, fed and watered.  The Tristan smiled at Bobbo, Qui, and Lucirina.  "My friends, go do and bathe, get refreshed and then meet me in my tent.  It it the largest one here.  The women will show you when you are ready."  He then allowed several women to lead him away to his own tent.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Fifty of Damiens men waited in the shadows of the tunnels.  Some female, with their knives and short swords drawn.  They could hear the battle and confusion going on in front of them and knew that Leetah was driving the intruders right into their waiting arms.  

They all tensed as they heard footsteps coming their way.  They had all heard of the troll with these intruders and were curious.  Many had never seen a real live troll before.  

There were reports that there was also a magician amongst the group.  That made some of them nervous, all except Throm, he was a magician too.  He felt he could handle any magician.  His specialty, water magic!
************************************************************************
Damien was silent as he drank, eyed Keelin and waited for reports on the battle.  "Milday Keelin, while we await the arrival of your friends let us engage in some conversation, shall we?  Why are you and your friends here?  Are you just visiting, or do you have other intentions.  I hear from my sources that our beloved leader." he spat at the words. "Troas has declared a bounty upon your heads.  Now Troas and I have never been the best of friends, but we tolorate each other.  I take care of the Underworld of the city, he takes care of the upperworld, and we both agree, not to acknowledge each other.  A strange arrangement, agreed.  But we find it mutually beneficial."

He took a another sip of wine, cocked his head and smiled. "However if what the reports say are true.  That you and your friends are part of a spying expedition for the Tristan, well maybe you and your friends and I and my companions can come to some sort of...arrangement ourselves.  But first your friends need to know some humility and respect!  Not to barge into a man's castle and tear it up!"

He clapped his hand, and a brownie came running out.  Damien whispered into his ear, the brownie nodded and ran out.
************************************************************************
Leetah Leetah was watching, and ordering at the same time when a brownie came and told her something that made her blood boil. She lashed out at the poor brownie runner. "What? Now he wants me not to kill them, but just capture them!"

"No, he specifically said to stop all aggression."

"What about his men?"

He told me to tell them that once the intruders are in sight, to allow the intruders into the main palace.

"Is he crazy?  Has that funny eared girl done something to his wits?"

"I do not know.  I am just reporting."

Leetah sighed, then fuming ordered all fighting to cease and withdraw into the tunnels.  Soon no more arrows or stones filled the air and torches were mysteriously lit along the pathway the intruders were heading.
************************************************************************
The brownie ran to Throm and told him what Damien had said. Throm was upset.  He wanted to test his skills against this magcian.  Well maybe later on, he thought.  He then sent word to the others, Damien's message.  Then when they all departed, he opened the secret door that led to Damiens inner sanctum.  Torches were lit to show the way.  He then, like his companions slipped away into the shadows.  But he smiled as he thought about Damiens plan.  was brilliant.  Of course those who did not know Damien as he did, would think of it as crazy, or unwise.  But when the whole plan unfolded, they will know just how smart the man really is.
************************************************************************
Troas Troas was in his upper room.  The globe was filled with the beauty of Rhas and she was speaking.  "Troas, your plan was good, but it had one flaw."

"What is that?" he asked, fascinated by her red hair that seemd to have a life of its own as it floated around her face.

"Why not get rid of two stones at once." she replied, giving him a brilliant smile.

"What do you mean?" he asked again mesmerized by the smile and her voice.

"You have your people looking for the spies, why not root out your thorn in the flesh as well, I am talking about Damien Scar!"

Troas thought a bit. "Damien and I do not see eye to eye, that is for certain.  But he does keep the more...shall we say, unseemly elements of the city under some control.  I allow his companions to do what they do, just as long as they do not cause too much of a problem.  Besides, Damien has helped me in the past to get rid of some problems.  I am not sure I want to dissolve our arrangement just yet."

Rhas despised this man.  He thought only of the present, and did not see the future.  "Troas, dear.  Do you not see the danger Damien and his so called companions pose to you and your city?  Think!  What would happen if the spies were sent here to find Damien and make an arrangement with him and his companions with the Tristan!  Then you would have a fight not only on the outside, but from within."

Troas's eyes widened as he thought of that scenario.  Then he shook his head.  "I think Milady you give Damien too much credit.  My guards and forces are more than enough to handle him and his cohorts."

"Really?  Then how come your much vaunted men can not find the spy or spies for the Tristan that have been in the city for decades now?" she almost spit out the questions.

"You need not worry.  I will find them, and their heads will adorn the posts around the city!  Besides I will take care of Strata, you my dear must take care of the Tristan.  Malok, you and your sister have been searching for him, and as yet have not found him or killed him, either. By the way where is your sister?" he asked.

Troas shrinked back from the globe as he saw the transformation of Rhas; her eyes and hair turned to fire, and then she spoke, each word had flame attached to it as it came out of her mouth.  "I have plans for him and his followers.  I also have plans for one little elven witch who will regret the day she was born!  You take care of your end, I will take care of mine!  And never mention my sister again, understood!"

Troas swallowed hard and nodded.  The globe went dark.  Troas trembling stumbled over to his chair and fell into it.  He reached over with shaking hands and poured himself a glass of wine, spilling most of it.  He drank clumsily, sweat pouring off of his forehead. Who is this elven witch? No, matter.  From the look of Rhas, her life upon this land is short... very short indeed.

He sat there until he calmed down and thought about Rhas's proposal.  He then sent for one of his servants.  One came immediately.  He wrote out some instructions and handed them to the servant.  "See that the town crier's get this message out to all of the city."

"Yes Sire."  The servant left as Troas poured himself another drink, his hands still trembling a little.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Shaint stopped dead in his tracks as he plucked an arrow from his vest torches began to light again and the pathway was clear "companions, There not foolish so they must be doing something, hmm...Atrii come on Shaint walked past Atrii he kept infront of him slightly leading down the now lite path.[/b]

"Companions, They're not foolish so they must be doing something, hmm...Atrii come on!" called Shaint.

"Hey!", called Radaroc, "What about me?"  Not waiting for a reply he set off after the two fighters.  

Atrii nodded and pursued Shaint, this little brownies were quite intelligent and had a very large advantage as the companions had no way to go. The ranger and Shaint made it down the tunnel, towards the light.

Troas knows we're here? That can't be good... Keelin took the now rather scribbled on parchment and flipped it over.

"Spies for the Tristan?... And where did he hear this rumor?"

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Gararion watched trying to figure some other way out of this event when all of a sudden the arrows stopped pelting his shield and he could once again see as torches now lite the tunnels they traveled within.  Gararion's first reaction was to study his envirment, peering through the twisting winds of his shield trying to spot any sign of a brownie hiding within the the shadows that the torches still casted here and there.  Seeing no sign he let his shield fall, causing a light cool breeze to fill the tavern.

Gararion now stood still.  

Why would our enimies halt their actons when it seemed they had us surely where they wanted us to be....strange indeed these little ones.

Gararion remained still, grouping himself and his thoughts as he tried to think of any thing that these small brownies had planned for them.  As he done this though he felt a another magical pressence which stood near.  He could sense the essence of motion and tranquilty but also feirce currents, and with this he knew it was one how had knowledge of the waters.  Had he been the one who caused the water to rise?  No he hadn't sensed any magical essence that flowed in the water currents.  What was this humans purpose Gararion wondered.

As he remained still he eventually began walking, still above the water that remained in the sewers.  He followed his compainions in silience, attempting to piece a puzzle together within his very mind.

Lucirinas' heart reasumed its beating after Qui's words about who Sari was and why she was waiting for him... she was not his wife, and he had not lied to her after all.
She nodded at Qui and turned to look at Sari, waiting for her to show the way, after all she was nothing but a guest in this camp and among this people, she didn't want to seem imposing.
The dark haired one nodded at her master and turned to Lucirna, saying something that left her quite shocked and without words. "Yes, Master Qui. Sari will do as you wish. Please to meet Master Qui's woman, Lady Lucirina if you will follow me."
She opened her mouth to protest but this time Qui was faster than she was and clarified the fact that the elf was not his woman, that she was a bard and a warrior. And his guest.
Lucirina practically cringed as she could feel the dark eyes of the desert woman on her, tilting her head slightly so the long chesnut locks hid her ears slightly, she could never get used to be scrutinized like so, as if she was some sort of a rare animal.
Soon, but not soon enough, the woman known as Sari turned and started to lead her somewhere, glancing over her shoulder as to see if Lucirina was following. And she was, only the light flicking of her long ears could evidence that she was not paying attention to what was said by the woman, it was picking up another and deeper voice.
As she walked behind Sari a whisper came to her lips, a soft sound that roomed all the pain and doubt in the creation of Avá. Two words that seemed both sweet and bitter in the mouth of the bard that walked with her head hanging low.

"What now?"

Sari Sari led Lucirina to a plain looking tent set a little apart from the others.  She opened the tent flaps.  Inside it was a little cooler, rooms were inset with cloth walls.  "This room to the right is Master Qui's, I shall give you the room next to his.  My room is on the other side of the tent.  If you follow me I will show you where you can bathe."  Sari said as she pointed out the rooms.

She walked toward the back of the tent, opened another flap that revealed a room with a series of hollowed out tree pipes that spilled water into a deep pool of water.  "You may bathe her.  Once you are in the water call for me and I will come get your clothes and wash them.  I will give you some clothes to wear until your clothes are dry."

She went to a wooden chest, opened it, and began pulling out outfits. The outfits were light, almost see through pants and tops except where they would cover a woman's private parts then the cloth was heavier and darker.  They were all of different pastel colors. "You may choose whatever you wish among these."  Sari looked at Lucirina, sizing her up.  "I believe most should fit you just fine."

She turned to leave, then asked, "Do you have any questions, or can I get you something for you before I begin bathing you.  Master Qui usually likes a nice glass of wine."  She winked at Lucirina, then smiled, "But he prefers to bathe by himself.  Though I have offered to wash him.  Maybe he will take your offer, if you wish."

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Damien read the paper that Keelin gave him.  He smiled at her. "Ahh, my lovely queen to be.  The secrets I know I will reveal only to you...in time.  However to say about this particular rumor as you call it, though I think it is true, I have a friend of mine named Nahor who has contacts and eyes everywhere.  Places you could not even imagine, even far away places, like towns and little villages, and even taverns."

He watched Keelin's face for any sign of recognition.

"Anyway his story was confirmed by Troas's proclamation of the reward of a certain group of travellers of twenty five thousand pieces of silver."  He paused as he took another drink, his eyes never leaving her face.  Though the costume she wore, showed off more of her assets, he had to keep his concentration upon the task at hand.  He continued.  "Interesting thing is, that this group is reportedly travelling with a troll!  A troll of all beings!  A troll is not hard to miss and I have been told that a troll is one of those searching for you.  So being an intelligent man, I just put two and two together and..."

He let his deductions hang in the air and continued to watch Keelin's face. Such a lovely face.  Full lips, and swelling...I cannot wait until our wedding night.  He smiled, poured her another glass of wine and himself.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Bobbo heard the Tristin's reply to his request for privacy. Bobbo had grabbed the saddlebags off his horse as it had been taken away as he had been doing for a long time. He had dug through the sand to find his tent before they left and grabbed his bags from the fallen tent. He opened the bag and pulled out his old outfit: the leather tunic, plain ragged trousers, old thin boots, and the battered iron helmet.

"This is my old outfit. My 'disguise' I guess you would call it now. It also must be washed, if you would be so kind," he said to the women, "Please, lead the way."

'... Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again.' (Gandalf)

'I wish it need not have happened in my time,' said Frodo.

'So do I,' said Gandalf, 'and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us . . .'

The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
The Tales of Middle Earth RPG (I'm the owner)
The Lords of Middle Earth (I'm the ent mod)
Adventures of Sorren (I'm just a player)
The Fellowship of the Ring (I'm just a member)

Lucirina followd Sari to the tent and as she walked inside she let her green eyes move all around it, she was amazed to find that the tent was dividen in several rooms with the help of cloth walls, something she had never seen before. In silence she nodded as Sari pointed out the rooms, wich ones were hers and her master Qui's. She was about to ask why she did not have the room next to her master's but stayed in silence, she did not know the ways of her people and she didn't want to seem intruding.
Still looking around the tent she followed Sari to the back of the tent and was pleasently suprised when she saw the pool, a smile came to her lips as she thought of letting herself sink into the water and wash off the sand from the travle trough the desert. She nodded at Sari with that soft smile on her lips still.

"One is very grateful of Milady Sari for reciving One in such fine manners... One does not want to seem rude but One is used to wash Ones own clothes."

The voice of the elf was soft and melodious as ever as she spoke to Sari, then followed her with green eyes as she went to a chest and took out what to her looked like clothes made with whisps of smoke, so thin and transparent that they seemed almost ethereal
"You may choose whatever you wish among these.I believe most should fit you just fine."
Lucirina's eyes widen as she realized she was to wear those clothes, a soft blush crept over her cheeks as she imagined herself in the clothings, so different from the one she was wearing. She swallowed as she tried to force the image into the back of her mind as Sari turned to leave, only to hear another question that made her blush even more deeply.

"One.. No... thank you....
And.. One would rather prefer to bathe alone too if it dosn't bother Milady."

She then turned her back on Sari and waited until she could no longer hear the steps of the other woman before letting out a deep sigh.
Shaking her head slightly as she did not understand the behavior of the woman she moved over to the clothings left by Sari and that she was supposed to wear.
The light fabric felt soft in her hands as she sorted out the ones too large to fit her and finally settled for a soft pastel green one, the thicker fabric being of a darker green.
Having done this she walked over to the pool and undressed herself, leaving the throwing knifes neatly settled on top of her clothings.
The water felt like a cool caress as she sank into the pool, the sand from the travle that was trapped in her hair and on her skin dissapearing. A sigh of relief escaped her lips as she washed herself free of sweat and sand. Soon a soft humming was escaping her lips, a slow melody without words floated in the air around her as she let the worries and sadness of the last days dissapear in the water.

"Ahh, my lovely queen to be. The secrets I know I will reveal only to you...in time. However to say about this particular rumor as you call it, though I think it is true, I have a friend of mine named Nahor who has contacts and eyes everywhere. Places you could not even imagine, even far away places, like towns and little villages, and even taverns."

Taverns? He can't mean... Yes he can. There was someone watching us at the Thirsty Herald. Damn! Troas has known we were coming the whole time!

"Interesting thing is, that this group is reportedly travelling with a troll! A troll of all beings! A troll is not hard to miss and I have been told that a troll is one of those searching for you. So being an intelligent man, I just put two and two together and..."

We should've done something to disguise Radaroc... although, how you disguise someone that big...

"I will agree that a party traveling with a troll is not exactly common, but that alone does not mean we are the same group. Has Troas given the bounty hunters more to go by, or does he simply with them to capture every group of travelers with a troll in their midst?"  

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Mari Mari took the offered clothes.  "I will wash these along with your others as soon as I show you where you can bathe.  Please follow me."  She said walking toward another tent.  She opened the flap waiting for Lord Bobbo enter.  "This is your tent, at the back behind another flap is a pool of water whithin which you can bathe in private.  You can leave your clothes outside and I will fetch them and wash them as well.  There are robes with which you can dress yourself in, until your clothes are dry.  In this heat, it does not take long."
************************************************************************
Qui Qui had seen to his men and then went to his tent.  He heard noise in the room next to his an assumed that Lady Lucirina was in there.  He picked out a clean pair of white pants and shirt and flung them over his shoulder.  He then headed toward the pool.  He opened the flap and to his pleasant surprise, Lucirina was in the pool bathing.  His heart stopped beating, she was beautiful, and her song was pleasant to the ears.  Just like it was when he had first saw her.  Then he quickly turned around, through the corners of his mouth, "I...I am sorry Lady Lucirina.  I thought that the pool was empty. I had heard some noise in your room and assumed that you had already taken your bath and was doing something in your room."  Then he chuckled lowly. "Well, I suppose I am not that sorry, it was nice to hear you sing, much like the first time I saw you and you had every man, including myself, mesmerized.  I will leave you now if you wish, or I could wash your back?"  Now what in Ava's name possesed him to say that? he thought.  She must think I have become some sort of cad or something.   He stammered, "I apologize for even asking you that, Milady.  It was...crude to say the least.  I will leave you now."

Qui made a hasty departure out of the pool area, and ran into Sari.  Sari gave him a quzzical look, Qui's face turned bright red.  "I thought the pool was empty.  I had heard noises in her room and...  Oh, Coor!"  He quickly began walking toward his room.  Sari said quietly. "I was in her room, making her bed and lighting some incense."  She laughed low and shook her head.  She pulled back the flap slightly not looking in to the pool area, and asked. "Milady, your room is ready whenever you are."  She then let the flap close and went and started to prepare a meal for Milady and her Master.  She chuckled to herself. In all the time I have been with him, he never walked into the pool area when I was bathing, though there were times I wish he would have.   She thought as she began cutting up some fruit.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Damien laughed as he read her question. "So you admit that you are travelling with spies."  He walked up and behind her, lowered his head next to Keelin's neck, nuzzled it and then whispered into her ear.  "Trolls are not common, indeed.  But one travelling with two elves, one your self, a ranger, a magician, and a brownie.  Well you are a smart woman, you tell me?"

He then raised back up, walked back in front of her and then clapped his hands once again.  Several servants ran out from a room.  "Clean up this place.  Our guest should be arriving soon.  Make sure we have plenty of wine and food.  I am sure they are probably very tired, hungry and thirsty by now."

Suddenly Nahor walked in. He quickly motioned for Damien to come over.  Damien looked quzzically at him.  "I do not go over there, you come over here." he demanded.

Nahor sighed and walked over to Damien, keeping a watchful eye upon Keelin.  He bent low and whispered into Damien's ear, "Milord Damien, you should know that Troas has the town criers telling the citizens that you and your cohorts are in league with the Resistance.  His guards have already arrested several dozen of your people already."

Damien sat still, he did not move for what seemed like an eternity.  Nahor had seen this before and quickly stepped back.  Then Damien exploded; he threw his glass at the wall, shattering it into pieces. He stood up and overturned the table, food and wine and glasses flew everywhere, one of the servants was hit in the head with a leg of lamb.  His eyes burned, and the corners of his mouth became cruelly crooked.  He glared at Keelin, drew his sword and... then he suddenly stopped.  He took a deep breath, sheathed his sword, and began pacing the floor, kicking the food, or furniture that was in his way.

He paced up and down and across the room, muttering to himself.  Nahor went and returned the table upright, and the chairs.  He motioned to the servants to bring more wine and food.  He knew that once Damien stopped pacing he would return to drink.  It was when he paced, that was when Damien would think, and that was when he became the most dangerous.  In Nahor's opinion, Damien was the smartest man he knew, even Troas paled in comparison, though Troas would never admit it.  Nahor had witnessed Damien's brilliance, and his cruelty many times.  It seemed that both traits complimented each other in Damien.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Lucirina heard someone entering the room and thoufgt it was Sari that came to get her clothes to wash them. Turning around she started speaking

"One has not ....QUI!!! ..... AVA!!! "

As she spotted Qui she let out a startled shriek before letting herself sink deeply into the water, only her eves and nose over the water, long hair floating like seaweed around her in the pool.  
"I...I am sorry Lady Lucirina. I thought that the pool was empty. I had heard some noise in your room and assumed that you had already taken your bath and was doing something in your room."
She nodded in the water as he stood with his back to her, but soon enough she stared at him as he continued talking, telling her how her song mezmerized him and then asking if he should share bath with her.
If one could decide when to die Lucirina would have died there and then, sinking herself into the water and drowning did not sound like a bad idea at the moment.
She was reliefed when he stammering asked her to forgive him and then leaving the pool and her alone once more.
Lucirina let herself sink under the surface of the water and let out a loud scream. This was one of the most embarrasing things that had ever happened to her in the last decade.
The flaps of the pool room opened making her look out of the water once more only to hear the soft voice of Sari.
"Milady, your room is ready whenever you are."
Deciding she didn't want to make the bath last longer after the incident and after hearing Sari's words she got out of the pool and dried herself as best she could before putting on the clothes she had choosen previously, blushing slightly as she noticed that most of herself could be seen trough the thin fabric.
As fast as she could she washed her own clothes and hanged them to dry before picking up her knifes and rushing out of the pool room toward the room that had been given to her, head kept low as to hide the furious blushing.
The room smelt softly of incense and Lucirina sighed as she was alone once more, feeling her cheeks burning furiously with the blush she sat down on the bed and reached for a bone comb that were by it and started untangling her long chesnut locks.

Keelin cocked her head to one side, calming her nerves and thinking.

"It would seem Troas believes your... arrangement... has outlived its usefulness."

I don't suffer from insanity... I enjoy every minute of it!

Qui was in his room muttering to himself about how stupid he was when he heard noise in Lady Lucirina's room.  He stopped and listened closely.  There was no humming or singing coming from the room.  He sat down, thinking about what the previous events; her song, then her shriek, her glistening upper torso before she sank into the water.  He smiled when he thought of that.  She was very beautiful.  He wondered if she had ever been with a man?

He shook his head from those thoughts though they lingered in the back of his mind as he walked out of his room, his clothes still flung over his back.  He paused at Lady Lucirina's room, "Milady are you in there?" He asked a little timidly.

Sari who had been preparing some fruit spoke.  "Yes Master Qui she is in there.  I saw her leave the pool area a few moments ago.  She seemed..."

"Seemed what? Qui interrupted.

"I am not sure, she had her head low and was walking very quickly to her room."

I embarrassed her. Qui thought.  He gently talked to the flap of Lucirina's room.  "I did not mean to embarrass you Milady.  I pray you will forgive me."

His cheeks felt like they were on fire, he did not look at Sari as he left and went into the pool.  He quickly stripped, then sank himself down into the water.  His hands floated gently over the water as he thought that just minutes ago, she had been in here.  He thought of the water as her, and began caressing the water.  Then feeling foolish, he dunked his head completely under and tried to drown his feelings.  I am a fool!  he thought, yet a part of him could not help but remember...her.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Lucirina tensed up as she heard Qui standing outside the flaps that separated her room from the rest of the tent. She did not wish to see him at this precise instant, the blush still burning brightly on her cheeks.
She could hear Sari tell Qui that she was indeed in there and that she had seemed strange when she rushed to her room.
She sighed as she saw the flaps were not opened, instead the soft voice of Qui reached her ears.
"I did not mean to embarrass you Milady. I pray you will forgive me."
She closed her eyes as she searched for the answer in her heart, and she smiled as she knew she already had forgiven him, it was nothing but an accident that could have happened to anyone. But not many men would have done what he did, turned and walked away, leaving her be.
She rised as to say something but her long ears already told her he was not standing outside her room anymore.
Standing in the middle of the room, her long, wet hair still tangled she took a decition. Picking up the bone comb and walking out of her room she nodded at Sari with a smile before walking into Qui's room, taking a seat on the bed with her back against the door just in case he was not dressed when he came back. Lifting the comb and letting it run trough the wet locks she waited for him to come back from his bath.

Shaint lead the way following the now lit torches he looked behind him and kept walking he did not relize he had been walking so quickly he was anxious yet enraged at finding Keelin and killing the people who had taken her, But Shaint had left his companions behind him and stepping through the lit torches and tunnels shadows he stepped into a lit hallway into a large room he stopped and looked around....was this it....

Shaint checked himselfpulling tightly on his leather armor and clenching his fist tightly around his swords handle veins burst through his skin like mountains from the earth as he looked into a room....

it was an enormous brick cavern.. it has stone floors, tables and chairs all around. Except where one man was. that floor was like a huge dais, upon which black carpet was covering it. A large chair , but rather unadorned. The table upon which the man and.. a woman was to the left of the large chair. It was a table that was set with a clean table cloth, the finest dishes, wine and food....

Shaint's eyes fixed around the room ore carefully servents of both genders seemed to wait on te man hand and foot but his eyes kept drawing to the woman at the table with the man...
Suddenly his eyes shot open wide and he clenched his teeth flinching Keelin....!

Shaint's breathing encreased and the fire of the nine hells boiled his blood, Shaint made his way quickly into the large brick room just barely inside but enough to be seen by a careful eye however his loud breathing would give away his position if sight did-not, however Shaints sight made him more furious as he sa carefully what Keelin was dressed in...

"You bastard!!!, You will forever regret the day you hath layed your eyes on my love!! Shaint was not being romantic or anything of the sort he was going to take back Keelin and kill the people who took her....many probably thought for revenge but in Shaint's mind an act of love....

"You bastard!!!, You will forever regret the day you hath layed your eyes on my love!!

Radaroc heard Shaint yell soon after he had run ahead.  Aww hell, now he's gonna go kill everything. he mused.
Following the elf's lead he ran the last bit of the corridor.  There was a giant brick cavern.  A few servents were moving around, one  women saw him and screamed and fainted, others rushed to help her but gawked as they saw his tall form in the opening.  Chairs and tables strewn all over, one larger one filled with food, drink, a man, and one familar elf maid.   He quickly came over his surprise and saw a large upraised section on the floor, covered in jet black carpet, upon it stood a throne fit for a king.  But what king would live in the sewers?  

Radaroc look to see Shaint quivering with pent-up fury.  "Whaooo Shaint, don't kill him yet.  Keelin seems fine but if you want answers your going to have to keep him alive."

With his sword sheathed he walked out and past Shaint, ignoring the raging elf. He looked at Damien. "I am sure we can end this conflict without bloodshed." He looked the man over. "I am Atrii Redwood, I have given you my name, would you like to do the same?" Shaint needed to calm down or they would all be killed, including Keelin. Despite Atrii promising the leave her to Shaint as he cared for her more he still cared and would not let her die because of his friend's foolishness.

"Thank you very much, my lady," said Bobbo as he entered the tent and walked into the bathing area. Right about then he realized how stupid it must have sounded for a lord to address a servant as "my lady." Oh, well he thought What can I say? I am still learning.

He stripped off his dirt-encrusted fine clothing. The fine white silk shirt seemed a brown rag. The soft black trousers were scratched and battered. The cloak was caked in mud. Dropping all this off and throwing them outside the pool flap into the main tent, he went into the steaming pool of water and began brushing aside all the sand and dirt all over his body.

As he relaxed in the steaming water, he let his mind cease thinking. His mind seemed an empty void of nothingness as he lavished in the soothing liquid. Of course, soon he began to become extremely hot, with the extreme temperatures and the steaming water. So he got out reluctantly, dried himself, and donned a light white robe, quite relieved that it was so light.

He came back into his room and collapsed on the bed, napping contentedly. His mind was at peace after his bath and blankness of mind. He slept for a good while, letting all his fatigue melt away. His face was in a jovial smile as he rested.

'... Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again.' (Gandalf)

'I wish it need not have happened in my time,' said Frodo.

'So do I,' said Gandalf, 'and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us . . .'

The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
The Tales of Middle Earth RPG (I'm the owner)
The Lords of Middle Earth (I'm the ent mod)
Adventures of Sorren (I'm just a player)
The Fellowship of the Ring (I'm just a member)

Qui eventually ran out of air and came bursting up to the surface of the water.  He quickly bathed, put on the pair of white cotton pants and shirt.  He looked at himself in the looking glass; dark glittering eyes, an oval square bearded jawed face, a mouthful of white teeth stared back at him.  Taking a knife, some soap, he shaved his beard off.  He did not like a beard, but he kept a slight mustache.  After washing his face, he put on some liquid musk incense, and then walked out of the pool area.

He went to his room, opened up and the flap, and almost ran into Lady Lucirnia's back.  He stopped suddenly, "Am I in the wrong room?" he asked, pleased to see her, yet a little hesitant about why she was in his room.

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Damien had been pacing the floor lost in thought when suddenly a young elf walked in and yelled. "You bastard!!!, You will forever regret the day you hath layed your eyes on my love!!

Damien looked up and smiled, so the game is afoot. Damien watched a troll come in afterwards, trying to calm down the young elf, that amused Damien even more.  He stood there calmly, his right hand lying gently upon his hip, the left upon the pommel of his sword.  Soon another man, this one a ranger by the look of him came in and he too tried to calm they young elf down.  Damien's eyes widend a bit, becoming more amused at the scene unfolding before him.  He thought,only one more to go, the mage.

Damien strolled over to the upright table, took four glasses, poured some wine into them, looked up and said in a deadly calm, "Gentlemen, welcome to my home.  I have some wine for you, some food, if you are hungry and chairs to rest your weary feet.  Please come and join us, my Queen to be and I would cherish your company, however before you do partake of this repast, I must ask that you remove your weapons.  You can give them to my servants and they will take good care of them. Of course they will be returned when you leave."

Damien motioned to his servants, who rushed up to the three and waited a little hesitantly for the men to give them their weapons.

Damien took a sip of wine, smiled and then said, "Please do give your weapons to my servants, otherwise you will not be able to partake of this wonderful food and wine.  If you put up a fight, I would have to kill you all, sadly, since I do want to meet you all."

Suddenly dozens of theives came into the room from all over the place, surrounding the three, all brandishing weapons.

Damien smiled, "Even you, young elf with temper, as you look around you can see the odds are against you.  I mean you no harm.  I mean what I say, you can leave with your weapons after we have had our little chat.  Your friends seem a bit more wise than you, I would listen to their words.  Come, lay down your weapons, and join Keelin and I at our table while we wait for your magician friend, I am sure he is not far behind.  I hope your brownie friend is also well."

Damien stood there calmly wating, glancing at Keelin and then back to his guests.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Lucirina stopped combing her hair and took a deep breath before tuning around and facing Qui as he entered his room.

"Milord is not in the wrong room. It is One that decided to come and have a small talk with Milord."

She laid the comb down on the bed beside her and let her emerald gaze meet Qui's eyes, she seemed almost afraid of what she was going to say but she started talking with a soft voice nevertheless.

"One is sorry for all the inconvenients One has caused. One was not certain about what was happening, or to be more exact One preffered to stay oblivious to what One was making Milord feel.
But it seems that something has changed in Ones own heart....and this has One very confused.
One... does not know what One is feeling for... you."

This was the first time she actually used the word "you" to adress to Qui, and it seems she didn't use it too often. Lowering her head and averting his eyes she picked up the comb and stood up once more.

"One has taken enough of Milord's time... One should go now."

She turned away and walked toward the exit of his room, as she moved he could see some strange dark shadows under the thin fabric that covered her back and shoulders, almost completely hidden by the streaming long locks.
Dark shadows like scars hiding under the clothes.

Shaint frowned and tywirled his sword back into his sheeth with a loud 'shing!' Shaint was starting to calm a little he was still mad but not furious the only thing that kept him from being calm was when damien stated his 'queen to be was Keelin' but he soon quickly smirked,

...he had forgoten that he had allways fought more skillfully when he was calm....just stronger when he was mad and with thieves skill is a better status to have 'besides if anyone try's to remove my sword from it's sheeth they will be blown into a very hard brick wall' Shaint thought and un-did his sword and holding it out

after all a rogue also has many traits such as assasination...one skill he was good at next to swordsmanship.

"if where just going to introduce ourselves, I am Shaint.....and no offence intended I believe your 'queen to be' is my wife Shaint was calming but not 'to' calm the last part was a combination of sarcasm, what he wanted for the future, and just a plain lie.

Shaint slipped his hands into his pockets and took a few steps forward looking around he approached the table with the glasses of wine and picked one up "I trust you so i shall not smell or test my wine...but as you know a large troll that is seemingly in your 'castle' would put a rather large hole in your 'kingdom' and what good is a 'kingdom' with no king

Shaint smiled at Damien before tipping the full glass of wine into his mouth lowering the glass and wiping his lip "Drink if you wish companions it is up to you while where here I plan to enjoy myself" Shaint walked away to look around the large room where they all where thinking yes how enjoyable a king of thieves corpse burning in the fire of the nine hells a blood boiling as it quickly gushed from his neck...

Shaint just kept smiling more he was now calm he knew he would get his chance Damien played nice but he would make a mistake sometime....

Atrii smiled a bit. He moved to the table and took up a glass of wine, he moved beside Keelin and put his hand on her chin. "Are you ok?" he whispered softly, he knew the answer and could tell that she was upset about them once again trying to save her when clearly she could take care of herself, but never-the-less Atrii spoke with great concern for the elf.

Gararion followed the others in slience and when they all seemed to rush foward he waited, even walked slower then usual as he wanted to make sure he wasn't walking into some trap.  Though he joined these men he wouldn't join them in death, not today, and not for some mans foolish quest for love.

As he came toward the the large opened area he noticed that his compainions wer surronded by many thieves who all brandished weapons in thier hands.  Gararion remained out of site of them for amoment thinking his course of actions.  Surely he would be able to lay waste to most of them but there was no way of determine his compainions position within the mass and keep them from harm from his attack.  With this he slowly made his entrance within the brick cavern.  As he did he stood behind the mass of people, his staff and spell book burning with the same blue fire as it did any other time.  Remaining silent he heard a man ask for his friends to hand their weapons over to his men.  This worried Gararion, not so as losing his items but the harm they would cause to another.  If any one placed a hand on either his staff or book they would feel the deep burning they would cause, an enchantment that was placed on them by a friend who now passed on.  He wouldn't want harm to come to these people, though he could remove the pain, he wondered what to do.

Keelin pulled away and stared off to one side. She couln't look at them or she'd give in to whatever mad escape plan they had thought up and they would all die. There had to something... Keelin glanced at the paper she held clenched on one hand. She smoothed it out and wrote carefully.

"Troas knows we're in the city."

She tore off the part she had written on and placed it in Atrii's hand, closing his fingers around it, never realizing the message she had unwittingly left on the other side.

"I will do anything you ask, if you let my friends leave unharmed."

Her agreement was written on the back of the slip. An insignificant line of scrawled letters that kept her here. She had, after all, given her word.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Damien smiled, "Even you, young elf with temper, as you look around you can see the odds are against you. I mean you no harm. I mean what I say, you can leave with your weapons after we have had our little chat. Your friends seem a bit more wise than you, I would listen to their words. Come, lay down your weapons, and join Keelin and I at our table while we wait for your magician friend, I am sure he is not far behind. I hope your brownie friend is also well."


"Raoneth's fine, unconscience but he'll be ok I'm sure." Radaroc replied.  
Wants my sword eh? Alright.  he turned to the frightened servants,
"Here ya go." the troll said as he unslung the great weapon.  He gave it a light toss and two servants caught it but stumbled back a few steps under it's weight.  Striding to the table he picked up the glass, dwarfed in his large claws.  
"So," he downed the wine in one gulp, "What do you want?  You must have some reason for keeping us alive this long."  

Glancing at the table he saw large t-bone steak,  "Ahhh, food!  haven't eaten since morning."  Pulling out his belt knife he deftly cut out a small piece, spearing it on the knife he chewed on it thoughtfully.  "Oh ho, my compliments to your cook."  
With that he sat down and continued on the meal.

Atrii looked at the paper, then slowly flipped it over to hand it back he found more writing on the opposite side.
It read:
"I will do anything you ask, if you let my friends leave unharmed."

He gave the paper back and bent down to one knee beside the elf. "I know you care about our safety, and I know you hate it when we always think you can't handle it yourself, I know you can." He paused and looked into Keelin eyes. "I won't let any of the people I care about die, I will protect them all, even if I must die." He looked at her more waiting for her to write something, or for a sign. He could understand some signs now after spending quite a long time with Keelin.

"One is sorry for all the inconvenients One has caused. One was not certain about what was happening, or to be more exact One preffered to stay oblivious to what One was making Milord feel.
But it seems that something has changed in Ones own heart....and this has One very confused.
One... does not know what One is feeling for... you."

Qui took a deep breath and did not realize he was holding it when Lucirina said she was taking up his time and was going to leave.  He reached out for her arms, "Milady...Lucirina...I...I to am confused, I do not know what I am feeling.  All I know is that when you are near me, my heart beats faster, I become tongue tied, and I cannot think of anything more I would rather do than be by your side, listening to your sweet voice, smelling that special smell that only you seem to have, the smell of wildflowers, even here in the desert, it seems to permeate throughout your whole being.  Oscar once told me that when I meet that one, that special one that I care more about than myself, then..."  Qui's voice trailed off, he could feel the blood begining to rush to his head and color his cheeks.
************************************************************************
The Tristan had bathed, was dressed and was sitting at his table.  He waved over a servant, "Go, and find Lord Bobbo, Master Qui and Lady Lucirina and ask them to join me."

"Yes Sire." the servant bowed and then rushed out of the Tristan's tent.  He quickly found Lord Bobbo's tent.  Mari was washing clothes. "Mari, please tell Lord Bobbo that the the Tristan requests his audience with him in his tent."

"He is still bathing."

"Well just tell him through the flap."

"Ok," she said.  She took a dry pair of pants and shirt with her went into the tent, and pulled back slightly the flap to the pool area.  "Lord Bobbo, this is Mari, the Tristan requests your audience as soon as possible.  I have washed your clothes.  I will leave them out here for you to get dressed.  I have also polished and sharpened your sword for you."

The servant then ran quickly to Master Qui's tent, he knocked and Sari came to the door, "Please Sari tell Master Qui and Lady Lucirina that the Tristan requests their audience as soon as possible."

Sari nodded, "I will tell them."

Sari walked back into the tent and went to Lady Lucirina's room, she was not there.  She then heard some voices coming from Master Qui's room.  She walked over, and gently knocked on the pole, Qui, said outloud, "Yes, what is it."

"Master Qui, you and Lady Lucirina's presence are being requested by the Tristan as soon as you both can come."

Qui, looked at Lucirina, "We shall talk some more later, perhaps."    He then replied back to Sari. "Thank you Sari for the message.  Lady Lucirina and I will be there momentarily."

He opened the flap to show Sari that nothing unseemly had been or was going on between them.  "Milday, I am happy to know that you forgave me for my intrusion, and you have not caused any inconvience at all.  It has and will be my pleasure to have you as my guest." he said allowing Lucirina to leave under his arm if she chose to do so.  

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Damien almost choked on his wine when he heard the young elf, say that Keelin was his wife.  He looked at Keelin, especially her hands, her left hand, and saw no ring.  His left brow lifted a little, "Your wife?  I see no ring upon her finger, however the case may be.  She has consented to be mine.  But we can talk about that later.

Suddenly the ranger came up and talked to Keelin, Damien kept an eye on the two, but then he almost lost his composure when the troll came up, grabbed the wine, gulped it down, and speared a piece of meat and began to eat it.  He asked why Damien had left them alive, and then complimented his cook.  "I will tell my cook you appreciate her food. More wine," Damien asked pouring another glass.

Soon a cloaked figure came out of the myriad of secret entrances and walked up to Damien, Throm whispered into Damien's ear, "Milord, the mage is in this room, I can feel his presence, as I am sure he can feel mine.  Somehow he just has not revealed himself, I know not why.  But if he is planning something, I assure you Milord I can counter."

Damien nodded and waved him away, the cloaked character, melded into the shadows of the cavern.  Damien smiled once more and looked at the troll, "So the brownie's name is Raoneth, what may I ask are the rest of your names?  Including your magician friend who hides in the shadows.  Please come out and join your friends.  We all have much to talk about. I assure you no harm will come to you."

Several of the thieves began looking around, trying to find where this magician Damien was speaking about was hiding.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Lucirina felt Qui holding her back and she stopped, her ears twitching as she heard his words, a deep crimson blush creeping over her cheeks as she heard his words. Her heart racing in her chest as she listened to him.

"One also feels the same when One is close to you Qui, that One cannot beathe because One's heart takes up all the space in One's chest...
Yet one wishes to sing with all One's soul because of all the joy that is filling One's heart."

She bows her head and looks into the ground, as to hide the blush coloring her cheeks and the smile on her lips.
She lifts her head once more and looks at him, her eyes shining softly like two emeralds.

"Qui... One... I...."

She did not say more because a knock interrupted her, the voice of Sari cut into her thoughts and sendered her silent as Qui answered Sari.
"We shall talk some more later, perhaps. Thank you Sari for the message. Lady Lucirina and I will be there momentarily."
She smiled and nodded at Qui as he opened the flap of the room and let her out. Sighing internally she walked over to her room and readied herself to meet the Tristan. Working her long hair into one single thick braid that hanged down her back and straightening her clothes before she walked out of the room and waited for Qui to come so they could go together to the Tristin's tent.

Shaint, looked to Damien and replied "well your smart, she isn't my wife as a matter of fact she is not even my love, well yes she is however she has yet to show so, but the fact still remains that I love here and I'm here to get her back even if I die trying....."

Shaint became silent as he saw Atrii and Keelin, "but then again......maybe it's not worth it if.....I died then she would no doubt choose someone else.....and it's not Shaint looked an eye to Damien "...however.....what is the point of dieing to save someone you love so much that it hurt's to even have her under the eyes of a man like you....when even if I didn't die someone else....might......love her also.....and....she....might.....love him ........

Shaint was caught stareing at Atrii, however as normally he would be filled with hatred....he was calm he began to think.....'Keelin can choose.....Atrii....the kind loving ranger on one hand......and me......the....rogue....on the other..... Shaint's eyes allmost seemed to glaze over as he walked slowly past Damien and his companions and sat down in the shadowy entrance of a hallway just staring at the wall infront of him.....

Shaint was mumbling about love, when he turned and sat in the entrance to the chamber.Radaroc looked up from the food."Uhh, Shaint? You alright?"  

He dashed over to his dazed friend.  The troll grabbed the muscled elf by his shoulders and shook him lightly,  he looked him in the eyes and said in a soft cool voice,  "Not the time nor place for daydreaming buddy.  Keelin?  Remember? Elf lady that you like?  We're in a bit of jam we can't have you out of the fight.  Get your wits together and do something!"

Qui quickly buckled his sword on and then proceeded out of his room, Lucirina was waiting for him.  He smiled at her, "Shall we go?" he asked holding out his arm.

Sari pulled back the tent door opening and waited for them to leave the tent. "Master Qui, I had prepared some fruit and sweetmeats for you, I shall deliver them to the Tristan's servants so they do not go to waste."

"That is excellent Sari. I know how much the Tristan likes your cooking."

Qui looked at Lucirina, "I hope you do not take this the wrong way, but do you know how to cook?"

Oscar Lotus
A beer in the belly is never a bad thing.

Gararion could sense the presence of another mage within the cavern.  He could sense the mage was moving around.  But then it dawned upon him, it was the same essence he felt earlier in the tunnels.  With that he placed his hand in a small pouch at his side, then placed his fingers over his eyes.  With this he whispered "miés'efér vaí"

With this done he moved past the thieves and into the open, blinking as he switched his eyesight so he could see heat produced by people, even those hidden behind walls and in shadows.

"It seems you know of me which has me at a disadvantage sir.  Care to share your own name with us?"

Damien was quite confused as he listened to the young elf's remarks. This boy needs help. he thought.  Then he noticed the troll going over and talking with the young elf.There is actually a genuine caring between these strange bedfellows, was his next thought as he looked at the ranger and Keelin in a different light.  There was a time, when I would have given all of my treasure for such devotion.  Damien quickly downed a glass of wine, poured another glass, and tried to forget his momentarily weakness.  A voice out of the shadows revealed itself to him, and asked who he was.

Damien looked up and saw a man, dressed in a cloak, with a staff and a book that had a strange blue glow about it.  One of the servants stepped up to the man to take the staff and book.
Damian quickly said, Yurik, no need to take the man's staff or his book.  I do not think they will cause any harm, but I have a suspicion they would not leave his person, no matter how hard you tried to take it away from him.  Unless he was dead."

Damien waved the mage to his table, "Come and join me and your friends.  Welcome to my palace, My name is Damien Scar, and yours is?" he asked politely.

Throm came out of the shadows and stood slightly behind and to the left of Damien.  He wanted to see this magician, whose power he could feel, problem was, and that really disturbed him, he could not tell how powerful the man was and that concerned him, no, more like worried him.  For he knew that if a mage could hide his true power from another, than that mage was a dangerous adversary indeed, and he was afraid for his life if he could not counter this mage's spells.  Damien would have him killed on the spot, and no amount of magic can ward of dozens upon dozens of enraged killers with swords, and arrows at their beckon and call.

Nahor on the other hand, slipped farther back into the shadows, he did not like the way things were shaping up.  He felt behind him and made sure his back was against the secret panel.  A quick escape if any trouble started.

You can think about it, even plan on it but don't try it.

Shaint looked up with a smile unseen and unheard he spoke to Radaroc "You don't think I'm that, affraid of Keelin taking to Atrii do you?, if the man thinks i'm weak, mad, sad, and confused he should not take me as serious as indeed he should...even you my companions have even seen me and my sword together in a full fight....but when I find the right moment to kill this man....you shall"

Said Shaint "no one takes 'all' of my weapons theres to many to take and to time consuming to find" Shaint pointed at oncoming and passing by Servants that wouldent be noticed and came through his path "You see these servent's?, as soon as the time comes I'm going to slit one of there throats take there clothing and throw on my hooded cloak...

How I kill the man will go from there" Shaint went back to staring at the wall once more but in his head smiling and yet angry at the same time.

Radaroc just gaped at what Shaint had just said.  He then noticed the elf's expression, he had total lost it!  Radaroc grabbed Shaint by the shoulders and stood him up.  He turned to Damien and Atrii, "Umm can we talk privatly for a second, you to Gararion."

Gararion sensed the movement of the mage once again and looked about, trying to see his body, the heat his body produced from within the shadows he hid himself in.  Hoping the spell he cast would reveal some hint of his location.

As he did this Damien anounced his name.

"I must decline your offer sir as I do not drink any intoxicating liquids for ones mind must always remain clear.  Also I had ate before within a small tavern in this city, and I have no need for additional food now.  I hope you can understand this Sir.  And you may call me Gararion."

As he said this the Radaroc spoke up saying they need to speak in private.  Gararion waited for Damien repsonse but he knew they wouldn't be in private no matter where they spoke in this cavern.

He slowly rose to his feet and looked away from Keelin back to Radaroc. He moved up beside Damien and took a wine glass from the table and quickly gulped it down. He waited for Damien's and Gararion's response first to this matter as Radaroc requested that they all speak together privately.

Bobbo heard the voice of Mari coming to him and telling him the Tristan requested his presence. I had thought he requested it earlier after I had finished bathing thought Bobbo to himself.

"Thank you much," said Bobbo, "I'll get moving then."

Putting on his black trousers and the linen shirt, he again looked like a lord. He ran his hands through his wet hair trying to untangle the long shoulderlength mass. He eventually got the hair to some semblance of straightness.

He picked up his sword belt with Avenger on it. He smiled at the beautiful blade and scabbard and buckled it around his waist. He took a piece of black cloth and wrapped it around the stub of his left hand, acting as a bandage or glove almost. He looked at his face in a mirror and discovered he had grown a beard, it being quite a while since he had shaved. He took out his knife and trimmed it down to a small goatee, thinking it a good style for him.

Bobbo emerged from the tent and walked in the direction of the Tristan's tent, figuring that the largest one was the Tristan's. He knocked on the pole on the tent and said, "My lord, it is Lord Junakin. You summoned me, my lord?"

'... Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again.' (Gandalf)

'I wish it need not have happened in my time,' said Frodo.

'So do I,' said Gandalf, 'and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us . . .'

The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
The Tales of Middle Earth RPG (I'm the owner)
The Lords of Middle Earth (I'm the ent mod)
Adventures of Sorren (I'm just a player)
The Fellowship of the Ring (I'm just a member)

Keelin tilted her head back and let her thoughts drift. It didn't appear anyone was going anywhere so it was probably safe enough.

We're all in a sewer. A sewer filled with theives and rat brownies... It wasn't a promising thought.

And even if anyone did get out of here alive and well, Troas has the whole town looking for us. Another unpromising thought.

I really wish I had my sword.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Damien: "Yes I suppose a bit of privacy would be good for such...negotiations."[/b] he replied with a smirk.  
Privacy?! In a den of theives?  Ah, but some semblance of such wouldn't be unreasonable.  Such...loyalty amoung this band, such a group would be formidable indeed if one of them were in peril. with that thought he waved them to a small space where the servants rested.  

Radaroc: Radaroc nodded thanks to Damien and strided to the room carrying the still grinning Shaint.  "Come on then I need to talk to all of you." he waved to the others, "You too Keelin."

Raoneth woke up inside a room, he seemed to be a lot further off the ground than he used to be, "Come on then I need to talk to all of you.", a voice boomed above him before a gigantic arm swung up in front of him "You too Keelin.". He looked around, he was in the breast pocket of the troll, in a room. In the room there was a man, he had dark hair and more than a hint of authority. He had a slight smile at the side of his mouth. He's just going to let us go? That doesn't make sense... he's not even saying he'll keep the girl.
Maybe I'm just being paranoid.

Keelin glanced at Damien, but he said nothing to negate Radaroc's request. She stood and followed them.  

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Atrii follwed Radaroc and Damien, walking alongside Keelin who Radaroc had now asked to speak with as well.

(OOC:Short post... sorry...)

Gararion stood still for several moments.  This is not wise.  One should never grouop themselves when confronted with such dangers.  One can always cause more damge from many different directions if they cover a span of groud, but this group wanted so much to group within a corner.  Folls they are!  Even if they were to believe that Damien was to be trusted he couldn't trust one who dwelled in sewers amoung thieves and the such.

With that he stood still, looking in the direction of Keelin.  With that he spoke to her, thorugh each other minds, so no one else could hear what he had to say.

"Keelin I have something of yours, I'll wait till the time I find it proper to present it though...."

Keelin glanced at him, surprised. I didn't know Gararion could do that...

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Shaint forced his way from Radarocs grasp and landed on the floor of stone now everyone was in a group accept for Gararion the mage...."Not suprising.... he thought and then crossed his arms "Radaroc would you mind turning around and slamming about half of the thieves against a wall with your enomasly large.....limbs giving a comotion enough so That I may slit Damiens throat and impale him on my blades? he said calmly and silently enough fo no one to hear but the group.

May you rest peacfully my friend, for your ressurection soon shall come.

Suddenly he could feel his headache getting several times worse for a small moment,
Gararion is tossing his stuff around again, I see
Before it was doubled again when shaint approached the troll "Radaroc would you mind turning around and slamming about half of the thieves against a wall with your enomasly large.....limbs giving a comotion enough so That I may slit Damiens throat and impale him on my blades?"
Kill, kill, kill, drool over Keelin, kill kill... simple mind. But it might just be the way to get out us of here.
"erm, would you mind letting me out of your pocket before you do that?"

Leetah: She looked down at the companions gathered in the small room.  When she heard the elf threaten her master she gasped, but quickly silenced herself.  The thought that someone would actually try to go after, reputablely one of the most powerful men in Strata boggled her mind.  Then she saw the cute brownie pop up from the big trolls chest pocket and ask to be let down.  She turned the the young male rat brownie awaiting her orders.  "Quick go tell Damien that they are plotting again....wait no," suddenly revalation! With Damien out of the way...we...I would rule the dark side of Strata!  She grabbed the young  brownie and looked him in the eyes, "Tell him that they are talking of surrender." the right side of her mouth quirked up in a little smirk as the runner went to her "master".  

Radaroc: Radaroc looked increduosly at Shaint, "Riiiiight," He heard Raoneth pipe up from his pocket asking to be put down, "Sure." he scooped the brownie from his pocket and set him on the ground.  Then he turned to Atrii, "Slap Shaint will you? I don't want to hurt him.  He's lost it, I mean he should know he can't impale him," he looke the elf leader close in the eye, "...BECAUSE HE TOOK OUR WEAPONS!!"  

Edited by: Radaroc at: 5/2/03 11:22:16 pm

Double Post  

Edited by: Atrii Redwood at: 5/3/03 4:05:24 am

Atrii grinned at Radaroc. "Gladly, he is going to end up getting us all killed!" Atrii moved over to Shaint and grabbed his shoulder turning him so he could look at him straight eye-to-eye. "If you do not stop this you will kill us all, including Keelin, which I guarantee you do not want that to happen do you Shaint?" He questioned the raging elf trying to reach into his heart where he knew he could accomplish what he hoped, getting him to calm down or they would die.

I know I wouldn't. I prefer living, thank you!

Keelin leaned up against a wall. Although, how much longer any of us is going to live even if Shaint doesn't try and murder Damien is in question.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Shaint quirked an eyebrow at Radaroc and Atrii "I'm not helpless i'm a loner, you should know I carry more than one weapon all of wich are hidden Shaint quickly pinpointed the spots on his body where he concieled weapons secretly "And they must be fairly hidden considering none of you even got a glimpse of them this whole t

Shaint twirled a dagger a silver blade and a plain dark-wood handle with elven runes carved all in spots over it the blade, "Listen to me Atrii, i'm not mad anymore sure the bastard has enraged me but simply put I've relised just how much weakness comes from being angry, That wich carries a blade must live by the blade and with honor or thou shalt perish by ones own foolish mistakes"

Shaint smirked his eyes the cheerful blue-green again "someone do something..." Shaint paused and frowned seriously "I just want Damien"

May you rest peacfully my friend, for your ressurection soon shall come.

Atrii nodded and patted his friend on the shoulder. "Very well friend." He turned and walked back to Radaroc and leaned close. "He has hidden weapons, he says to have calmed down but I am not sure, I believe there is more anger that he has yet to release."

"Riiiiight," the troll's voice boomed above his head. Appareantly directed at Shaint. Raoneth could feel his hair being blown forward, and little particles of spit hurling by.
Then the troll spoke again, in Raoneth's direction "Sure." and he was lifted down. Raoneth looked around while he could hear the conversation going on above him "Slap Shaint will you? I don't want to hurt him. He's lost it, I mean he should know he can't impale him," the troll paused "...BECAUSE HE TOOK OUR WEAPONS!!". Little stones were rolling down the side of the tunnel. And he could swear he felt a tremble. smart... let him think we're on the defensive
Raoneth walked close to the walls, and studied them. There were hints of hidden entrances and there was a hollow sound when he knocked at them. that must have been where the little arrows came from. And that means that there's either humans with blowpipes... or small creatures with bows. Inside them.
He took out a piece of paper from his pocket and wrote as big as he could "we're being watched" and walked back to the people arguing and nudged the closest one, the human, with his foot. "psst" he held up the paper, rolled together to avoid the creatures behind the walls seing it.
"He has hidden weapons, he says to have calmed down but I am not sure, I believe there is more anger that he has yet to release." the human said before noticing Raoneth.
We're going in, aren't we... this could get ugly.

"Come right in, Lord Robert," said the Tristan inside his large tent. The tent flap opened and Bobbo came walking in, looking like a lord again after bathing and trimming his beard.

Bobbo bowed deeply to the Tristan and said, "Good day, my lord." The Tristan nodded at him, gesturing for him to have a seat with him at the large dining table in the tent.

"Thank you, my lord," said Bobbo, sitting down next to the Tristin on the cushions lying around the low table.

"I am glad that you have arrived first, for I would speak with you in private," said the Tristin, reclining on the cushions.

"Yes, my lord, what is it that you want to talk about?" asked Bobbo.

"Lord Robert," began the Tristin, "scouts have reported an increased amount of activity in Strata near Troas's fortress. We believe that there is trouble. That fire druid fellow, the sandstorm, and that cloud all bring me to the conclusion that something major is happening; and it seems centered around Troas and Strata."

"Yes, my lord, there is trouble coming," said Robert.

"Yes," muttered the Tristin and then spoke clearly, "That is why I have decided that we must move on Strata no later than tomorrow."

"My lord," said Robert, surprised, "will the men be rested by then?"

"They will march if I command it," said the Tristin. "They are good men."

Robert thought for a moment and then said, "You are right, we do not have time to waste."

"I thought you might say that," said the Tristin, "I just wanted your opinion on the matter. Now, if Qui and Lady Lucirina arrive, we may eat."

'... Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again.' (Gandalf)

'I wish it need not have happened in my time,' said Frodo.

'So do I,' said Gandalf, 'and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us . . .'

The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
The Tales of Middle Earth RPG (I'm the owner)
The Lords of Middle Earth (I'm the ent mod)
Adventures of Sorren (I'm just a player)
The Fellowship of the Ring (I'm just a member)

Atrii heard a soft 'psst' come from Raoneth. The ranger looked over and carefully took the paper that the brownie was handing him. He opened and read carefully, his face went pale and looked around. He stopped for a moment carefully surveying the surroundings and bent down close to Raoneth. "Do you know where?"

Gararion stood back alone and made his way to Damien.  In a low voice he spoke to Damien "Care if I join you?"

The man's face went pale and looked around. He stopped for a moment carefully surveying the surroundings and bent down close to Raoneth. "Do you know where?"
"um, there's room behind the walls... So, er, someone or something must be watching us. That was probably why he wasn't reluctant to let us go."

Atrii nodded to Raoneth. "Thank you, you have saved us from a great deal of possible danger." He held out his hand and carefully scooped up Raoneth into his hands and walked over towards Radaroc. "Raoneth tells me, that we are being watched." The ranger spoke quietly making sure not to draw any attention at all to their conversation.

Damien: The crime lord watched as the adventurers walked into the small room for their "private" conversation.  He glanced admiringly at Keelin, Ah, such beauty.  She is indeed worthy to be my Queen.  Then the elven wizard walked up and mentioned something of a lost item.  Soon a runner from Leetah arrived, "Mi'lord, the lady wishes me to tell you that the troll's group speaks of.., he gulped, "surrender." with a wave of his hand he dissmissed the brownie.

A smile crept onto Damien's face, "So," he muttered quietly,"they have come to fear me as they properly should."

Radaroc: Looking at Atrii and then to Raoneth he whispered to them, "You know where?  Or a general area."

Lucirina blinked several times as to understand what the question was about... if she knew to cook?.. what kind of question was that?
She shrugged and shaked her heat, if there was something she had not been worried to learn in her long travlles were the art of cooking.

"One is sorry to say so Qui, but One has as much skill in the kitchen as a one handed orc."

She didn't seem ashamed of this fact, but what was there to expect, she had not been living among people for a long time, and she rarely did care what was regular for a woman to do.
Qui rubbed his chin and looked at the smaller woman for a moment before shrugging and smiling.
"I guess that is something you can learn with time."
He offered her his arm  and waiting for her to take it.
Lucirina nodded slightly and bowing her head trying to hide her blushing cheeks she slid her small arm into his as they stepped out of the tent and walked the short distance between his tent and the one of the Tristan.
Qui opened the flaps of the tent and let Lucirina in. She was still slightly self concious about the clothings she was using but she managed to bow at the Tristan before heading for the table and taking a seat, avoiding to even look at Bobbo.
Qui bowed to the Tristan and then to Bobbo before walking and after doubting a moment, took seat beside Lucirina.
"So Lord Robert... I hope you have been well tended to."
He nooded at Bobbo before turning towards the Tristan.
"What will we do now Milord? What are your orders?"

Robert saw Lucirina walk in. She bowed to the Tristin and did not even look at Robert. He saw that she was wearing some thin robe from the baths.

"Good day, Lucirina," said Robert pleasantly.

Then Qui came in and bowed to the Tristin and Robert. He sat down beside Lucirina, who was not sitting by Robert. He is beginning to hang around her too much for my liking thought Robert.

"Yes, Sir Qui, I was treated quite nicely," said Robert neutrally.

The Tristin watched Robert and seemed to see through him to what Robert was thinking. Robert shivered involuntarily, though the Tristin's look was one of compassion.

The Tristin turned from Robert and spoke to Qui in answer to his question. "Yes, I do have orders, Qui," said the Tristin. "We are very short on time. I think you will agree that things have been going strangely. What with that Malok guy at Thambalath, this wierd storm, and the strange clouds. I feel that something major is happening and I believe that it will center around Strata. Troas must be planning something. Therefore I think it best if we move as quickly as we may."

The Tristin waited for Qui's reply.

'... Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again.' (Gandalf)

'I wish it need not have happened in my time,' said Frodo.

'So do I,' said Gandalf, 'and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us . . .'

The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
The Tales of Middle Earth RPG (I'm the owner)
The Lords of Middle Earth (I'm the ent mod)
Adventures of Sorren (I'm just a player)
The Fellowship of the Ring (I'm just a member)

Qui
Qui nodded at the Tristin and got to his feet.
"Then with your permission I will go and prepare the troops inmediatly, there is no time to loose."
The Tristin nodded at Qui, giving his permission inmediatly. Qui bowed at the Tristin and then at Bobbo before turning to Lucirina and giving her a soft and loving smile that seemed to last forever before turning around and marching out of the tent with firm steps.

Lucirina
The elf listened in silence as the planning of breaking camp went on, very careful to not look up from the table, she did not wish to meet Bobbo's eyes.
As Qui once more grew silent she looked up and returned both the smile and the glance he gave her, feeling her heart flutter wildy inside her chest and a soft crimson colour coming to her cheeks.
As he turned away she looked at the Tristin and smiled at him, wanting to share her happiness with someone.
Her eyes moved, almost involuntary, and soon rested on the eyes of Bobbo.

Qui turned and smiled at Lucirina and walked away. Lucirina smiled and blushed and smiled at the Tristin, then her gaze shifted to Robert.

Robert saw clearly in her eyes what he had thought was true. He smirked and nodded at her. He said in a calm, steady voice, "So, you have made your choice. You are a good actor, my lady."

Robert turned to the Tristin and said, "My lord, I have business to attend to, if you will excuse me."

The Tristin nodded and Robert left. As he left the tent, Robert's face contorted in rage as he returned to his tent. The people, seeing his demeanor, parted a way for him to walk through them.

In his tent, Robert striped off his lordly clothes and put on his worn leather tunic, torn trousers, and the battered iron helmet, feeling to be seen as a beggar again. Reaching into his saddlebags, he took out the ring of the Junakin house that he had not worn in a while and put it on his finger.

Robert took a piece of gray cloth and wrapped it around the adorned hilt and scabbard of Avenger, concealing its richness and beauty. Robert was again Bobbo the Beggar, and though he no longer wore his kingly attire, he seemed more a lord in this outfitting than before, for he was comfortable and used to such an outfit and he stood as tall and prideful as a king.

Bobbo left the tent and walked to the Tristin's tent and sat down on a bucket nearby, his saddlebags resting on his shoulders. He picked up a bit of wheat and chewed on its stem. He waited for the Tristin and the rest.

Tristin After Robert had left the tent, the Tristin sighed. "Aye, it is as I feared," said he.

The Tristin turned to Lucirina and said, "You are in a mess now, aren't you? And so is Lord Robert and Sir Qui. Aye, but there is a way out of this mess. For it you must search your heart, I am afraid."

The Tristin stood and walked over to Lucirina. He knelt down beside her sitting form and put a hand on her shoulder reassuringly. "Yes," said he, "You must understand yourself to understand your love."

'... Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again.' (Gandalf)

'I wish it need not have happened in my time,' said Frodo.

'So do I,' said Gandalf, 'and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us . . .'

The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
The Tales of Middle Earth RPG (I'm the owner)
The Lords of Middle Earth (I'm the ent mod)
Adventures of Sorren (I'm just a player)
The Fellowship of the Ring (I'm just a member)

Shaint stayed quite and listened his ears twitching while picking up the slight sounds of the room...he then heard Damien say something.....he couldent make out anything accept for perhaps 'Atlast....Suren....'

Shaint frowned in seriousness and looked at keelin and into her eyes.....Shaint then turned his head to Atrii "psst, Atrii I believe that Damien believes we are going to surrender....why don't we play along? it would give us a chance for a suprising attack"

OCC: Ok anyone who finds this too easy tell me and it'll be changed.

Damien: "Surreder, eh'."  he turned to the small doorway, "Come out, enough "privacy".  If you surrender and swear fealty too me and me alone I shall return your weapons to you!", he chuckled softly, The troll and wizard will be of tremendous help to my operations.  He nodded to the soldiers standing about the room, they all put their hands to their hilts.

Radaroc: He winked to his companions, "I don't see anyway out, he has those brownies and all those soldiers!  I....give up."

All this winking and blinking is going to give us away. Keelin thought, annoyed. At least we're doing something now though. All the sitting and waiting gets on my nerves.

She rubbed her arms vigourously, trying to take out the chill. It's a wonder anyone can survive down here. It's all damp and cold.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Atrii nodded to Shaint then looked over ot Keelin then back up to Damien. "Radaroc is right..." Atrii lowered his head as his hair drooped down in front of his face shielding his mischievious grin.

(OCC: Cool pic Keelin )

Shaint secretly slipped his Dagger back into there hidden sheeths and fell on his knees infront of Damien...

"Damien, Thine body is at your disposal" Shaint said as he then arose with a firm frowning mouth...

(OCC: The plot doth thicken )

Damien: Damien nodded his aknowledgement as the troll and Atrii surrendered.  He raised his hand lightly flicking his hand forward.  The servants walked down the hall to gather the adventurers weapons.  The crime-lord let a malicious grin creep upon his face as the elf fell on his knees.  "Indeed," he confirmed, extending his hand to be kissed.

Radaroc: His lips turned to a feral grin as he saw Shaint come so close to the man.  His pride makes him blind to foes so close to him.  His fall will come soon.

Leetah: She ordered her archers to the murder holes of every doorway.  Not until things had been finished with her would any leave this room alive.  The power would soon be hers.

(OOC: Fear the elf who want's to hang your head on his wall as a trophy )

As Damien awaited Shaint's full surrender by kissing his hand the weapons came and where thrown near each person wich they belonged to, accept for the large radaroc's whos was lugged out and dropped on the floor followed by the collapsing of the servants who carried it under it's weight...

Shaint didn't even do so mutch as to motion his eyes to his weapon for he was going to keep this plan secure untill the end.....

Shaint kneeled closer to Damien and got close to the flesh of his hand lightly shaint moved his hand to grip Damien's but then cuffed his locking with Damien's tightly, squeezing the underworld king's bones Shaint's eyes lit aflame as he snapped his own wrist with Damien's hand in his and a loud pop was heard....

(OOC: I'm not going to control Damien because I don't want to take controll in this whole post but I just had in mind that Shaint just dis-socketed a few of his fingers and Damien would be calling his guards now lol.......Or if you want I could just kill him and then his guard arrive.....

But I kinda had my heart set on a huge flaming battle between Shaint and Damien((wich then I WOULD control Damien)) but  whatever)

"Thank you, you have saved us from a great deal of possible danger.", the man said before scooping up Raoneth and moving to the troll. He could hear the troll's voice thundering behind him,  but something else had caught Raoneth's attention. One of Damien's men was talking to Damien, looking nervously at the side of the tunnel. He's gotten a message... Damn.
He could see a small hole in the roof of the tunnel... straight above him.
"Come out, enough "privacy". If you surrender and swear fealty too me and me alone I shall return your weapons to you!", Damien shouted suddenly. What kind of fool is he? His men seemed as surprised as Raoneth. The troll, on the other hand, just winked and shouted back "I don't see anyway out, he has those brownies and all those soldiers! I....give up." Raoneth looked at the human, "Radaroc is right..." the human said, quickly bowing his head down so his hair could hide a mischievious grin. Shaint also seemed to want to give an impression of surrendering as he knelt down before Damien. "Damien, Thine body is at your disposal"
Raoneth surpressed a small laugh before he looked around for a place to hide, not to close to the ground.
Raoneth had always been the one for being on the back row.

He saw Shaint gripping Damien's hand and heard a small crackling sound before Damien's face changed. Raoneth jumped quickly as he could feel the human's musckles tightening. He consentrated and... lifted himself upwards as he jumped, he crashed his head in the roof above the hole, but still managed to hold on to the edge.

Damien: His face and neck muscles bulged as his middle and ring fingers were twisted from their sockets.  Whipping his hand back he launched a vicious kick, with his heavy boots, to Shaint's face.  Snapping his hand up and down the bones settled back into the sockets with sick cracks.  Meanwhile his other hand reached for his sword, pulling it free.  "GUARDS, SIEZE THEM!!!" The men in the room advanced on the companions, a few of the servants pulled long daggers from hidden places and also came on. (OCC: There are 9 guys total 6 guards 3 servants.)

Leetah: Five armed and armored men came barreling down the passege ways toword their master's call.  Five arrows streaked from high on the wall.  Three hit the mark, right through the eye slits.  Two missed but each scratched open skin, soon those men too were dead.  No one would spoil this, she would side with who showed himself the better.

Radaroc: Radaroc dove into a roll for the swords.  In the process he knocked the feet out from under a guard with two short swords. Radaroc grabbed his flamberg in his right hand and grabbed Shaint's and Atrii's with the other.  He rose quickly and swung his sword behind him, the man with two swords had not expected such a blind swing, and leaped away and missed the blow, but Radaroc spun and stepped forword and brough his sword around on a backswing.  The great sword swished through his neck and his headless body toppled to the ground.  With an underhand through he tossed the two swords in his left at Atrii's feet.

Keelin's eyes widened and she backed into the wall so she wouldn't be in the way. I really wish I had my sword.  She growled softly, but didn't move.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Atrii quickly dropped to the ground, seizing his sword and Shaint's. "Shaint!" Atrii yelled to the elf and tossed the elves sword to him. He then turned back to Keelin who simply stood without any weapon Atrii ran towards her. One guard jumped in front of him slashing wildly at his head. Atrii ducked easily avoiding the first attack and a second came this time aimed at his feet. The ranger leapt over the feeble attempt and slashed his sword through the guard sending him falling to the ground.

He reached behind his back under his cloak and pulled a concealed sword that he kept under his shirt. "Keelin, here!" He handed his sword to her and then turned back to the attacking guards.

((OOC: ooooOOOOOooo this could get enteresting!))

Shaint felt the slamming foot of Damien into his gut as he stumbled backward but quickly tihtened his muscles and balancing himself "SHAINT!" is all that he heard and then Shaint turned his eye to face the oncoming sword and sheeth,

Shaint frowned and his eyes lit up with death and destruction he threw out his left arm and worked it on the sword sheeth spinning it and then attatching it to his back, with his right hand he slid the blade out slowly with a silingggg and the fire from the torch nearby glared off his blade.....

"Damien, now you die for all the act's you've caused and especially for kidnapping Keelin, if anybody is going to kill your poor soul it's going to be me!"

Damien: smirked evilly and unsheethed a sword "GUARDS, guaaards!" more guard rushed inward from all the hallways and Damien's grin just got bigger and bigger...((7 more guards just to creat more blood ))

Shaint: Shaint gripped his sword tightly and turned his head to Keelin....when he did a long blade sliced him across the left side, luckilly getting caught up in his cloak....this sprung Shaint back into action as he grabbed the fighting arm of the servant and forced his forehead into the servants face dazing him and then slicing his own dagger through his neck...


Shaint closed his eyes in blinking and a saying flashed through his mind...."...smooth as water, and quick as wind, fight as these and thou shalt win...." Shaint's eyes shot open and gleamed over Shaint threw his feet down one after another running at Damien also while de-tatching his cloak and dropping it behind him,

Shaint approached and swung his blade overhead at Damiens face, but was blocked by sparks flying from two guards sword blocking Shaint's, one stabbed his sword at Shaint side and another slashed at his back...Shaint gritted his teeth and flung his sword behind his back deflecting the back blow and then spun quickly creating sparks from his sword against the guard and also slicing the flesh of his bicep.

the guard did nothing but flinch and scratch his arm they both attacked again and Shaint made a quick and costly move dropping to his hand's on the stone floor the two swords came under his leather armor slicing it and making it fall off, but figured better than his heart and lungs....the sword both deflected eachother and Shaint  swung his feet spinning him up on his feet followed by swinging his sword into the baack of one guards knees...

and then un-sheethed a hidded dager with his other hand and stabbing it into the other guards meeting of his neck and shoulders the blood squirting out like someone squeezing a leatherskin full of water or wine, Shaint had to move back from Damien as he found that the guards where getting thicker and just a little more formational.......

Shaint now stood next to Atrii who had a guard sword over his head and tip jabbing for the center of his back....

"ATRII!!, SPIN NOW!"

Keelin caught it and twirled it once experimentally. Not quite what I'm used to, but it'll do.

She waited a moment, then saw a man with his back to her. She grinned ferally, took a few steps foward and plunged the sword through his back. She braced herself and let the sword pull itself free as the man fell. That was surprisingly easy.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Atrii spun to the side and raising his sword meeting the guards swords create a loud *crash* of steel against steel. Atrii grinned and it seemed that the guard knew he would die soon enough. They both pulled their swords away and stared eachother down for a minute.

Atrii finally lunged forward connecting with three slashes. One to the guards left leg then his shoulder and finally driving his sword into the guards gut. "Ugh..." is all that came from his mouth as the guards scream was muffled. Atrii turned to find Keelin driving a sword into one of the guards backs, from behind her another guard came up. They always attack from behind... cowards!

Atrii ran towards Keelin with all of his speed. "Keelin!" He didn't think he was going to make it, he raised his sword up in two, behind his head and threw it. Flying through the air planting itself in the guards back.

Keelin heard someone shout for her and then something flashed by her head. She turned and saw a guard behind her impaled on someones sword. She pulled it out, glanced around, and tossed it back to Atrii, with a look that said, 'Thank you, but that was really stupid of you.'

There was another shout behind her and she spun, bringing the sword up in time to parry the attack. The guard looked surprised that she had turned.

You stupid twit. What'd y' think ' sword was for? Decoration?

He drew back and attacked again, but she knocked his sword aside and drew a neat little line through his throat.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Shaint threw his arms over his left shoulder as a guard came rushing at him an axe drawn "Foolish...just like your king!"

Shaint sheethed his sword and ran at the guard he began to swing the giant axe but because of it's slowness Shaint tackled him to the floor and slit his neck with a wrist-blade

Shaint jumped up and un-sheethed his sword holding it wide side facing his face and gripping it with both hands he tensed up and gritted his teeth all of a sudden his sword burst into blue flames as did Shaint his hair flew around like in strong winds.

all of a sudden the flames shot down through shaint's body and two his feet filling the room in icey blue color and strong winds rushing throewout the room the torches extinguished and two guards running into the room with there sword werent ready and there swords stabbed themselves....Shaint's eyes lit up...

and all of it stopped Shaint yelled and charged twords Damien "I SAID YOU DIE DAMIEN!!! AND BEFORE YOU DO YOU, SHALL! APOLOGIZE!!!!!" Shaint was met by three guards wich one he elbowed in the face breaking his nose and the other two just knocking completly down.

Shaint approached damien and slung his blade from the bottom right upwards meeting Damiens own sword and taking a chip out of it along with numerous sparks, Shaint came back like a wolf on the trail of blood with a slash to his head and then a jab to his stomach....

Keelin stopped, rubbing at her eyes. What's t' big idea blindin' me like that?! She looked up at a dagger arcing towards her face, and threw up an arm to sheild her eyes. There was a sharp pain in her left forearm and she hissed involuntarily. She dropped her arm to her side and glared at her opponent, ignoring the blood spattering her tunic and pants. Her blade flashed out and flicked the dagger out of the man's hand. Her next attack took off his head.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

After another moment of consentration he managed to push himself up, in to the hole.
 He could hear the sounds of combat getting louder below him as he turned to look straight in to two huge, round eyes. He ghasped, a brownie sat straight in front of him, holding a small bow, a small heap of arrows lay beside him. He seemed every bit as shocked as Raoneth. A split second they sat still, staring at each other before the other brownie launched his hand at the arrows. The very same instant the arrows flew away down through the hole in different directions and Raoneth drew the small dagger he'd been given the day before. I hope no one gets hurt by those arrows...
The other brownie looked at him with even rounder eyes than before. This time he was shocked for sure. "er... put down the bow, please" Raoneth had always had a habit of not knowing when to be polite. But the round eyed brownie dropped his bow and put his hands before him, showing him both the palm and the top of his hands. "uh, right. Now, what have you heard and what is it you told Damien..." He spoke with a low voice, because he began to notice sounds of hundreds of small creatures around him. "I don't wish to hurt you" he added quickly. The other brownie didn't seem to believe him, but he answered, a little too loudly for Raoneth. "Is the wierdest thing, mate. Me personally hears what you're saying, but I think me lady Leetah told our man to tell master Damien that you was speaking surrender..." Raoneth scratched his head with his left hand at this wierd dialect the round-eyed brownie was using. "Right... um. You saw what I did to your arrows, right?" The brownies eyes widened again and he nodded. I hate making threats but... "I could easily do that with your... er... heart too. See? So... go away and don't do anything I don't like or... I'm coming for you." The other brownie actually looked nervous. "Good?" The other brownie seemed to be thinking, his hand led subconchiously to the left side of his chest. "Es good enough!" he squeaked before running away like a scared rat.
 Raoneth turned around and looked down the hole, he could still hear scratching sounds around him, but it seemed to him a risk he had to take. He could see many people getting killed down in the room, the rest of his party were swinging their weapons around, killing as many as possible. Raoneth felt his stomach stir and got an acid taste in his throat. All this killing. Even letting someone live in torment is more honorable than killing them.

Atrii grabbed his sword after Keelin tossed it back to him. She gave him a look that sort of said to him thank you, but also that he was stupid at the same time. Keelin turned to parry an attack and the ranger shook his head for a moment before turning to meet a slash from a guard. He pushed the guards sword forward knocking his hands in the arm exposing the guards gut. Atrii jolted forward trying to pierce the guards flesh but the guard parried and jumped to the left bringing the hilt of his sword into Atrii's face sending the ranger toppling to the ground.

Wiping blood from his face Atrii rose meeting yet another attack from the guard. He slashed multiple times trying to get the upper hand on the guard and was looking to soon send the guard falling lifelessly to the ground, but from behind another guard came slashing. Atrii turned and blocked the attack then swing back to block another attack from the other guard. He jumped backwards dropping his sword, flipping with his hands supporting himself on the ground he kicked both guards directly in the face sending them both falling backwards. Atrii pulled back grabbing another sword from a fallen guard and then bringing up his own sword he awaited for the two guards to rise.

Shaint and Damien's duel began to get heated as both there sword clashed in sparks and the sound of steel against steel rang through the air Damiens sword came slicing to the left side of Shaint but Shaint's own sword swung from the right and met it in a small flame and sparks.

Shaint's face dripped with slight sweat under the heat of the fighting air and the persistant clashing of weapons Damiens face stood in the same grim smirk as a stab came from Damien and strait into Shaint's shoulder dropping him to one knee,

"Gahhhh!" shaint emitted in a burst of pain as damine looked down at him eyes lit up "Alast, you bow to me and i get the respect I deserve from such a wasteless creature" Shaint arose from the groun quickly the sword driven deaper he stood above damien with but a few inches and dove at him.

Shaint's sword was dropped and shaint had pulled out damien's now covered in blood from Shaint, Shaint began swinging his fists into Damien's face as they rolled arund on the ground, Shaint drew a dagger and sliced up damiens arm laying it open from his wrist to the middle of his fore-arm.

Shaint was thrown off and into a brick wall his shoulder in great pain wich he chose to ignore, he wasn't through yet he was going to kill damien for the act of kidnapping Keelin from him, he wasn't going to live with himself knowing he let her go alone....

Two men came at him, one carrying a large axe the other a spear.  "Ok boys," he said jovially, beckoning them to come closer, "First one to die loses."

With that he charged ahead his arms holding his sword out behind him.  The men looked at each other and nodded.  The axeman rolled to one side while the spear man crouched and planted the butt of his pole arm in on the ground to impale the oncoming giant.  Caught by surprise Radaroc tried to slow down, the axeman came on swinging his weapon as Radaroc tried to throw up a hasty block, his flamberge was knocked from his hands.

Up the troll lept his huge calves carrying him almost to the ceiling.  The man with the spear looked up to see Radaroc falling toward him clawed hands clenched together and ready to swing.  He tried to move or put his weapon in line but he was too late.  Radaroc swung his hands foreward and with a vicious crunch the man's head lolled lifelessly to one side.  Gathering him self up the troll stood facing the axeman, "Ya don't live with elves without learning some of the arts martial."

Graden looked for cover or something to free him from this great beast who sought to kill him.  He saw one of the passegeways leading to the sewers.  He turned and ran to the door, brownie arrows cut him down.

"Oh not them again." Gathering up his sword he called to the others, "Brownies at the doors don't go out!"  He glanced about the room to see where he was needed.

With each metal clang or heavy thud, Adara winced and drew into a tighter ball. She had been thrown down there, where ever that was, hour ago and each minute blended into the next. She had landed on the floor at an odd angle, and a healer's experience told her that her ankle was broken. She would have made a makeshift setting for it if her hands weren't tied behind her back. New bruises were just beginning to form over the already collected, and each movement pressed against one. Never one to tolerate pain, this left Adara in a rather unpleasent circumstance. She had finally settled in the least painful position she could manage, curled up in fetus position on the floor, her knees tucked under her chin. The floor was damp and covored in muck that had attached itself to her clothing and skin upon contact. It felt foul and smelled even worse. After weeks without a bath, she was sure she smelled much worse.

A particularly loud shout rang out, the words muffled, and Adara let out a quiet whimper. What was going on up there? A fight, surely, but who was winning? And who did she want to win? She loathed her captor, but what if those he fought were worse than he? The thought did little to cheer her. She closed her eyes against already running tears, wishing the sounds away.

A sharp poke in her side caused her to sit upright with a gasp. Her ankle yelled at her in protest, but she ignored it. Above her the sounds of battle continued. Adara blinked, confused. She didn't see anyone. Another poke drew her attention to her left hip, where the pain was coming from. Was that...a brownie?

It was, and it was poking her sharply with one of its tiny arrow. Seeing that it had her attention did little to ease the scowl on its features, and it pointed to the far side of the room sternly. It clearly wanted her to leave. Adara shook her head. She couldn't, the door was locked, she had heard it click herself! The brownie just glared and pointed.

She sighed and forced herself to her knees. Crawling to the door in skirts was difficult, but she certainly couldn't walk. Once more she tried to break free of the ropes that tied her hands, only to feel them cut into her already broken skin. She winced, and, just to show the brownie that the door was locked, she used her mouth to turn the knob.

The door opened, and Adara, caught off guard, toppled over and through. Behind her the brownie snickered and she blushed under the caked dirt on her cheeks. Slowly she hobbled up the stairs and toward the fight. She certainly couldn't participate, but they sounded occupied enough. Perhaps she could slip out without anyone noticing.

Edited by: Adara Remine at: 5/20/03 11:45:39 pm

Gararion stood in silence watching as the battle began, being no art of it he thought would be the best plan.  He hadn't the chance to gain a moment with Damien to speak of matters he wished to so he knew he would need to take actions to bring his own actions into play.  

With that in thought Gararion moved to leave the sewers when he heard the the trollish word boom during the fight.  "Brownies at the doors don't go out!"  Gararion halted and begun the begining stages of a spell but stopped when he sensed the pressence of another person within the room, one who seemed inocent.  He felt oblidged to protect this person now, for he would not allow the foolish actions of his friends take this person's life.

Gararion moved in the direction of where he sensed the person when a two gaurds moved to attack him.

"You rather not recieve your passage to Coór by my hands for you stand greater a chance with others then myself young ones."

The two looked at each other then laughed at each other as they approached.  Gararion not wishing to harm them for he would not take a life today if possible pointed his staff at the man closest to him, sending his gently toward the wall.

"Now be out of my way before I show you true power, power of which you've never seen the likes of before!"

The two men left him, chooses to take the wizards advice and attacking the other poeple.

Gararion then made his way to where he felt the pressence the greatest.  He searched then found it what he had been looking for.  A human female hobbled at the top of a set of stairs.  Gararion knelt down to the female, positioning the sword of keelin that he still possessed in a fashion that it would notharm in under his wizard garmet.

"Are you alright mam?"

Gararion kept an eye on the battle that waged on before them, if any man came near he would take care of them the only way he knew how.

Atrii watched as the two guards rose to their feet holding up their swords. The ranger grinned back to them wielding two long swords of his own. "Bring it on..."

The two guards rushed forward slashing at Atrii. Jumping over one attack and bending backwards to dodge some attacks proved harder than Atrii anticipated. He took up his swords and began slashing back to the them. One guard on his left and the other on the right. They attacked together forcing Atrii to move his head on a swivel keeping an eye on each opponent. He  slashed, crossing his swords and tangling up the two guards. He released his swords and ran up the side of the wall, he appeared to run up until leaping backwards kicking each of the guards in the face.

He scrambled over, retrieving his swords and observed the room to see how everyone else was doing.

With her arms tied behind her back and one ankle swollen and useless, ascent up the stairs was a long and difficult process. She couldn't hop up without her arms for balance, though she had tried, and using her knees was a physical impossibility; the stairs were too steep. She had resorted to lifting her still usable leg up on step, kneeling, bringing her other knee to the same stair, then straightening her good leg and repeating the process. She was so preoccupied with her task that she didn't notice the old elf's approach.

Are you alright, mam?

Surprised at the sound she gasped and toppled forward, hitting the floor with a loud "thud". She was lucky she had been on the last step anyway. Blushing furiously at her clumsiness she raised her head and studied the elf from the floor. Thank goodness he's kneeling, or I wouldn't be able to get a proper look at him. A sense of relief swept over her as she noted his sword hanging by his side and not pointed at her throat.

Before she could stop herself she started giggling, then sobbing. All the emotions she had pent up for the last few days were released in a bizarre mix of joy and pain. He wasn't going to hurt her, at least not right then, and she was fathoms closer to escape than she had been yesterday. Oh, she was hysterical and she knew it, but at the moment she truly didn't care.

"Would you mind untieing me?" she managed through bursts. "Please?"

After hearing the plee for help within the burst of emotion Gararion drew Keelin's sword from under his garmet and slowly moved it to the ropes.  With slow motion, not to frieghten the female which seemed crazed after what ever ordeal she had been put through and not to harm her, he finally parted each of the ropes the binded her from her, tossing each aside.

Gararion studied the wounds on the females hands, wanting to heal them with his magic but knowing he should save his strength in order to get out of here.

He turned to face the battle that waged on, wanting to interfer, but deciding against it for know and returned his partial attention back to the female.

"What has happened to you?  Where have you come from?"

Her hands freed, Adara stretched them forward, easing out the cramps that had formed. As she did so her tears eased and her sanity returned somewhat.

"Thank you," she said, standing. Keeping her weight off of her injured foot, she leaned against the wall for support. "I'm Adara Remine, a healer."

Calling upon her title reminded her of the bag of herbs she had tied around her waist. She had been allowed to keep it, for some reason or another, and for that she was thankful. It had taken years to collect some of the herbs she had stored, and it would have been more than a task to have to start from scratch.

"I left Bardavos a few weeks ago to find more challanging work. Treating the sniffles gets old after a few years," she said, untying the bag and looking inside. "A man approached me saying he had a job for me, healing soldiers. I agreed, and the next thing I know I'm whacked upside the head and being carted around like a rag doll."

Where are they? she wondered as she searched through her bag. Oh, here we go... She drew out a small bundle of easeschath leaves and her small dagger. "He's got quite a temper," she commented softly accompanied by a shiver, and nodded at one of the bruises on her arms. With the flat edge of her dagger she bruised two of the leaves. The sash around her waist was shortened as she cut off two peices of fabric.

"So what are you all doing here?" Adara asked, wrapping her wrists with the fabric and securing the leaves in place.  

Shaint looked about a new girl entered the room an Gararion immediatly tended to her, Shaint with his one good arm grabbed his sword tightly and Ran back at Damien who was breathing heavily, as sweat poored down his face the world around him seemed to stop Shaint began looking him over carefully and noticed a sweatdrop just on the edge of his brow.....

it was soon to roll into his eye....as he thought it did so and Damine lashed out a hand to his eye it stinging from the salt and water unexpectadly dripping into it Shaint took full advantage of the situation and slung his sword to the side where Damine was blind slicing clean across his bicep and slicing a vein blood squirting from the now allmost severed limb.

his bone was showing and it was a gruesom sight even for Shaint who had seen many of injuries before,

DAMIEN:As the bead of sweat rolled into his eye Damien grasped his eye in what he thought was mild pain...untill he felt a mass feeling of pain throughout his body and his right arm dangled liflessly at his side as he squinted both his eyes he saw it in red color the thick blood drenching his fore-arm and shirt in blood,

Damiens smirk turned to a scowl and he extended his sword swinging it in a circular motion and colliding with the elves sword sparks flew and blood dripped a'cross the ground as eachothers blade came close to both persons body Damien had thought he would have the advantage over the elf because of his loss of limb but now with his own gone and with more damage then the elves it was equal.....

SHAINT: Shaint parried attack after attack dodging and then jabbing and thrusting, cutting and slashing most to no prevail but to slice clothing, a blade came from his right side and sliced Shaint open but not into any true organs he felt pain and spun the blade of his longsword removing a guards head cleanly.

Shaint's sword burst into a light blue aura and the room got cooler, Shaint leaped at Damien throwing his sword down south-eatwardly to damiens legs, blocked by the wide side of amiens sword Shaint slid the blade down and then slashed to his right making a slice into Damiens upper thigh.

With each slash came a wind through the room and burst near damien and Shaint.....Shaint had spoke of the power of him and his sword fighting as one, one must only wonder if this was what he ment to talk about and was this the only extent to it.....

Keelin suddenly seemed to notice that her arm was bleeding profusely. "She blinked at it, surprised, then recollected the sharp pain she had felt. Oh... so that's what happened...

She looked down at her clothes and glowered. This was rediculous, but in a choice between being almost indecent and bleeding to death, well...

She ripped a strip out of her skirt and tied it around her left forearm, just above the cut. Now she'd just have to remember to loosen it later.

Keelin backed to the wall again, she didn't need any more holes in her. Besides, she hadn't been wearing that much to begin with and she didn't know how many more bandages she could make out of it. She leaned up against the wall, her sword trailing on the ground, and watched.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Atrii turned frantically around in the room. He caught a glimpse of Keelin, she stood next to the wall with a piece of her clothing wrapped around a blood spot on her arm. She's been hurt![/b] Atrii yelled in his mind, he turned back towards the guards that he had knocked down, he now assumed they would be getting up.

As the ranger turned steel cut through his flesh in his gut. "Ugh..." A muffled grunt emitted from his lips as the sword slid from his gut. Atrii plunged down to the ground as everything seemed to fade. His eyes began to close and the last he saw was that of Keelin standing, wounded by the stone w

The elves explaination would have to wait; before them the fighters were being struck down one by one. One was passed out on the floor, bleeding from a stomach wound. She was tempted to heal the girl first, as it would be easier, but the elf seemed to be able to manage, while the man had collapsed.

She winced and hobbled over to the wounded man. He was unconcious, thank heavens. It would make her job that much easier. She would have waited until the battle was over and she could prepare more properly, had the wound been anywhere but the stomach.

From experience she knew that while head wounds looked the worst, they only bleeded a lot. Stomach wounds were the worst: internal cuts and bleeding poisoned the entire body, as well as made it near impossible to digest or function.

She just prayed that this man, whoever he was, hadn't suffered damage to that extent.

She forced a blush from her cheeks as she opened the front of his shirt, extracting material that had entered the wound. He moaned and she winced. The blow was fatal only if he bled to death;it had missed any vital organs. Nearby was one of Damien's flasks of alcohal, she poured its contents on the mans stomach as a make shift cleanser. From the bag around her waist she drew out a premade paste, carried in a small stone container.

Adara made soft "shh"ing sounds as she applied the Miyu Bean paste to his stomach. It took affect after a few moments, and while she waited she prepared her tools. This man needed to be stitched back together, but she couldn't risk trapping infected blood in his system. Carefully she pressed yahrle ointment into the wound, it was hardly powerful enough to stop all the bleeding, but it would cleanse most of the infection.

Now came the worst part. Her needle was threaded and with steady hands she pierced his flesh. He was numb, but he would most definatly feel the after effects. Slowly, carefully, she sewed the wound together. At the end of the incision she looped the thread around her finger, then twirled it until it knotted. An extra knot for security, then the thread was cut. She patted on another bit of Yarhle paste on top of her work, to hold off the bleeding from the needle holes. To keep the ointment in place and undisturbed she wrapped his stomach and back with another peice of her attire. As soon as she could, she would give him some painkilling tea.

Adara knew that the moment he woke he would go jumping to his feet again, it was the nature of fighters. Any movement like that would tear the wound open again, destroying her work. So instead of rushing off to help the others, she stayed kneeling by her patient. If they wanted her help, they could come to her.

Keelin rubbed at her eyes and wondered if she'd lost more blood than she thought. Nope, there was a lady sewing up Atrii's stomach.

Where did she come form? Oh well, thank whatever diety sent her.

She glanced up and noticed an opportunistic guard approaching the healer from behind.

Well, well. Cowardly bastards, aren't they? She took a few short steps foward and nudged him with her blade. The surprise on his face only lasted a moment and then his lifeblood was leaking out over the floor. Idiot. She retreated back to her spot by the wall, hoping this would all end soon.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Gararion watched as the female left his protection and made her way into the midst of the battle that waged on before him.  Allowing his eyes to follow her he saw what he had least expected, she seemed to be a healer.  Why would such a person hide a healer away in such a manner as this Damien seemed to have done.  

Gararion watched as the female begun her healer ways, not based on magic like his own but on herbal ways.  Gararion looked around, rembering the words that came from the Trolls mouth and made his way towards the door, raises a shield of air before him as he saw the small brownie arrows coming for him as he stood there, looking back on the people he once called compainions.  Would they meet again, or would their fates be sealed by the foolish choices they made here.  Would they live to see the light of day or would their last sight be of this doomed sewer that they may soon call their grave?

*sticks out tounge*
NAAAAAA!
 

Edited by: Radaroc at: 5/26/03 5:35:40 pm

((OK, Damien loses his head..note....i'm not a 'sugar coted' type guy so blood will end up everywhere as well as guts and burnt flesh.....oh and i'm gruesom so....hehe ))

Shaint's eyes shot to Keelin her arm bleeding, then to Atrii his stomach had been slashed and he had fell to the ground....the new woman began to what looked as if a healing procedure....

Shaint frowned in hate and the fuel raging the nine hells he focuesed it all on Damien and the thief kings body would just about burst to flames form the very sight..."My love, My FRIEND'S?! You bastard! the evilness of C'oor himself shine through your ways, and now rage,hatred,and light flow through mine...

Shaint finished and gripped his sword with both hand's Damien's sword came from the side and Shaint parried the attack pinting his sword downwards the swords clashed and Shaint slid his own sword up flinging Damiens sword from his hand and into the air, the look on Damien's face turned from an evil grin to horror as he looked around for his guards to come to his aid.

'lo and behold his guards where falling just as he was now, Damien fell to his knees not able to stand any longer and blood drenching his body, his eyes looking up at Shaint "Dear, elven warrior please duth spare my life, and you shall be free to go unharmed just please, in Ava's name don't fight me anymore!"

Shaint's eyes looked down upon the sorry excuse for a man before speaking "You sorry excuse for a living being, what happend to honor? 'it is better to lay dead at a mans feet then kneel and plead', You have no right to speak of Av'a Now rise to your feet as you will Die, as your pleads have no affect on my feelings twords your demon-like soul!"

Shaint used his one good arm to heave Damien off his knees and to his feet pushing him backwards he stumbled strait into a torch the flames catching on his clothing and burning his flesh, the stench of blood boiling and charring skin filled the air, Shaint spun quickly extending his blade, it's razor edge penetrating the muscle and vein of Damien's neck...

Damien's throat burst with blood as it oozed from it's veins and squirted about his gargeling like screams filled the surrounding air as the flames engulfed his whole body falling to the ground in a heap of firey flesh and bone, blood surrounding the whole area from both parties.

Shaint's eyes peered down upon the burning corpse of the now fallen Damien... "Burn in the firey hells, and may you never be in comfort!" said Shaint before stumbling twords Keelin before dropping to a knee the elves eyes last saw Keelin as his whole body fell in a shallow pool of blood with a slight smile...

Keelin's eyes went wide and she dropped to her knees next to Shaint. Idiot! What are you trying to do to do, get yourself killed?! She thought at him angrily. She tried to stop the blood with another stip out of what was left of her skirt, but only managed to get a blood-soaked peice of silk. She glanced up and across the room at the healer pleadingly.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Adara closed her eyes against the sight of the decapitated Damien, spilling blood. He was cruel, but his death was disturbing to see. As the blood ran across the floor in her direction the jumped to her feet to avoid getting covored.

Stepping around the stream of blood she looked at the body itself, and nearly fainted. She hated corpses, though the actual death rarely bugged her. Beside the corpse laid the murderer and an elf who seemed to be his lover. Adara met her gaze and nodded.

She mumbled a prayer to Queprur as she stepped around the puddles of blood and made her way to the unconcious man. She knelt by his side and assesed the damage. "Blood loss, exhastion,  stab to the shoulder, sliced right side...here." Her examination complete she handed her shawl to the elf girl and gave her a reassuring smile. "Nothing that can't be fixed."

The slice to the side was just a flesh wound and she quickly slathered some yahrle on it before wrapping it with a bandage made from her sash. The shoulder was what the real problem; if it had hit deep enough there was a chance he could loose the arm. She pulled the material away from the cut and slowly and breathed a sigh of relief; it was deep, but it lacking in any permenant damage. Using the same process as with the other man, she stitched up his shoulder and wrapped it.

"He'll be fine after some rest and a cup of Miyu tea," she told the elf with a smile. "I'm Adara Remine."

Atrii's eyes widened and slowly rose, aching once again from the pains that he had endured during the battle. He attempted to rise before clapsing back down, holding his gut. He rolled over looking to Shaint lying there, motionless in a pile of blood that came from the decapitated corpse of Damien. Beside him, a healer, he heard the name Adara but then everything faded for a moment. He then looked over to see Keelin leaning over Shaint. His face darkened as he slipped down into a pool of his own blood.

Keelin smiled gratefully, and then glanced over her shoulder, alarmed. I don't think he should be doing that... She glanced back at Shaint and Adara for a moment then stood up and walked over to make sure Atrii hadn't hurt himself more. Why can't males have the sense to sit still when they're injured?

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Damien's head fell to the ground and the servants and the last guards looked at each other eyes wide, mouths gaping, they ran straight to the nearest passageway, two were cut down by arrows but the guard's leather jerkin protected him and he fled from the room.  

Leetah: Adon had let that healer from the room Damien had kept here in, Gods only know what reason.  He troops had run the rest of the theives guild from the sewers and the only thing left were these adventurers.  Two options kill them all cleanly but she worried about the attempt of that.  Their wizard had moved away, but he had protected him from the arrows and memory of the fifty-something that had been killed by their own arrows was fresh in her mind.  

She then saw Damien fall, he head lieing a few feet from his body.  Then the elven warrior fell as had the human, "Might as well speed them on their way." she muttered to herself,  signaling for a runner she sent the messege for Hael, the only rat brownie in Strata who knew any of the brownies signature Life Magic.  From high in the ceiling eight small ropes snaked down.  She, Hael, and six guards landed, ironically enough, right on the dais of Damien's throne.  In a high pircing voice she issued her commands, "OK, yew' surface folk!  I now rule these sewers and I want you all out!  Now to get ye gone as soon as possible, I've brought Hael.  He knows Life Magic and will help the elf and the human.  Once he's done yer' all better cle With that she nodded and glared at the companions.

Two of the armed brownies followed Hael as he walked first up to the human he crawled up onto the man's chest and spread his fingers out over the rangers gut.  Every living being the room felt slightly weaker as the wound was mended in minutes.  He crawled down and walked slowly around the deeper pools of blood.  Doing the same to Shaint only much shorter time span on each of the more major wounds.  With his work done he turned to Adara and complemented her in a soft voice, "You have a deft hand with the needle and you are skilled with poultices.  As healer to healer you have my admiration." with a light smile he made his way back to Leetah.  The brownies stood there, Leetah's eyes and body told everyone that she would make sure these people left her new throne room personally.

Radaroc: He was slightly astonished at the brownies apperance.  He nodded his thanks to them and went toward the others.

He felt footsteps come towards him. He could tell through the vibrations in the ground. He forced his head to turn to see Keelin. A slight smile came across his face. "I'm glad you are alright Keelin, you are very special." He coughed, blood poured from his mouth. "I, on the other hand, am a complete idiot." He laughed lightly.

Keelin rolled her eyes. 'Special, nothin'. I'm just a mercenary.' She watched the rat brownie in surprise as he healed the gash in Atrii's stomach. She offered him a hand up when the brownie moved on.  

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Adara smiled from her spot next to the man. Everyone else looked to be in decent condition, there was no need for her to stick around. Friendly though they seemed, they had required her assistance. Now that their warriors were healed, perhaps  they would have a change of heart.

She stood and a sharp pain in her ankle reminded her of the shattered bone, forgotten in the urgency of the situation. Wincing, she made a mental note to find some wood for a support the moment she found an exit.

She would have liked to thank the elf who had untied her, but he seemed to have disappeared.

Shaint's eyes soon lifted open the sight he saw was blood all around him...

He had remembered the pain he had that caused him to pass out along with loss of blood..but it had sent away. Shaint slowly sat up looking around six brownies had come down fromt he cieling and into Damien's throne....

Shaint slowly stood and turned his head to gaze about the room he moved his hand over his side and gently touched his shoulder..'by av'as name....what happend to make my wounds heal...and so quick like....' he thought and grabbed his sword from the ground and rubbed it against the backside of his back removing the wet blood on the blade.

Shaint sheethed his sword and he put his thumbs inside his belt  glancing arond still in astonishment...

He saw Keelin trying to help Atrii up and the new woman stood but winced at pain...

Shaint walked to the woman who was nearby and nodded his head with a slight smile his blue-green eyes filled once again with joyfull thought's as well as serious he slowly looked her over before talking... "I am Shaint Urowyn Inyearo...rogue of the elves and warrior for the thrill.....otherwise known as just Shaint, i noticed your wincing....can I help?"

Atrii took Keelin's gentle hand and pulled himself up. "Thank you," he glanced around the room. "Is everyone else ok? What about you?" Atrii asked, he remembered the blood soaked bandages that she had been constantly tearing from her now incredibly small dress.

"I'm Adara Remine, healer from Bardavos."

Adara wasn't sure whether to scold him for standing or to accept his offer of help. But then, he probably knew his limits better than she did. And if he wanted to help...well, she could use some.

"If you wouldn't mind, could I lean on you?" she asked, gesturing to her foot. "I broke my ankle, and it'd be nice not to have to support myself on it."

'I'm fine. Just a scratch.' She glanced around to the others, who seemed to be picking themselves up out of various sprawled positions. She noticed Shaint helping the healer woman and felt a faint twinge of something close to anger that surprised her. She shoved it away firmly, scolding herself for being foolish and forgetting how the woman had helped them.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

He now stood alongside Keelin glancing around. "Seems Shaint and I got the worst of this battle... well aside from Damien and his men." The ranger grinned a bit, corspes of the followers of Damien littered the ground. Atrii continued looking around trying to see if everyone was ok.

"Keelin, do you see Gararion?"

Shaint looks at the womans anckle as she gestured it was hurt cringing i knowing just what the pain must feel like...

"ofcourse, I was going to carry you so you wouldent have to walk at all but that will work well" Shaint said with a smile throwing his arm under her's ducking slightly because of a small height difference...

Adara smiled and wrapped her arm around his neck. Slowly she eased the weight off of her injured foot and against his side. "Thank you," she said.

Her gaze drifted across the room and she saw that the others were picking themselves up as well. "Let's see how they are doing, shall we?"

Keelin glanced down at the blood staining her feet for a moment. Damn. Doesn't look like I'm going to get m' clothes back. She heard Atrii's query and scanned the edges of the room for the elven mage. Sahe didn't see him and shook her head.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Gararion had made his way through the tunnels.  He had used his memory of the tunnel, for his mind wasn't set on finding Keelin and killing Damien like many of his other companions.

When he came to certain areas that had been blocked of by what seemed solid walls Gararion only spoke a few elven words which made the solid walls disperce momentarly allowing himself passage through them, returning to their normal state after he had passed them, solid brick walls.  He continued this action till he made his way back to the streets of Strata.  Knowing that their heads would still be wanted by the people who ran this city Gararion once again spoke a few words and walked within the open streets where citizens walked.  Few citizens made eye contact with Gararion for he had looked like a wealthy citizen, one he had seen within the tavern he had been in before, before his compainion entered and were asked to leave.  This made his travels within the streets uneventual.  He wondered how long it would be till his compainions would return from the sewers and cause havok once again.

Atrii stood beside Keelin scanning the area. Gararion was gone, that was obvious, but why had he left. "He has most likely gone back to the surface." Atrii began. "We may as well get going ourselves."

Shaint nodded slightly and walked gently over to Radaroc with the Lady he glanced his head up at Radaroc and then to the woman next to him she introduced her to radroc with a slight nod in his Direction "Radaroc, the not so small companion of mine....although he is quite nice, just a friendly giant" he then smiled at Radaroc and walked to Keelin and Atrii

His real concern at the moment... He shot a look to Atrii "This is Atrii, the ranger...I can't say much about him accept he keeps to himself unless talking to Keelin"...

Shaint made it a sarcastic sounding remark but..he was sort of serious twords Atrii about it, turning to Keelin and introducing her... "and this is Keelin, the only lady we have in the group however she can't talk so she could be a little hard to communicate with at first"...kindly turning back to Atrii for a moment Shaint gave him something other to do than talk to the girl Shaint had feelings for..."atrii, please help this miss" he said not even letting him decide he handed her over to Atrii and turned to Keelin,

Shaint smiled at Keelin he was still bruised all over...He spoke in elven to make sure no one understood however Keelin would...""Vanimle sila tiri"((your beauty shines bright)) Shaint smiled a little before walking over next to the throne where the brownies where standing.....he glanced down at them "I need my ladies clothes, so don't huff and puff or i'll just eat you, trust me i've at worse things then that"

Shaint picked up keelins clothes wich where folded and walked back to Keelin handing them over "these would look much better" He said as multiple little arrows struck him in the arm and back "GAh! Shaint emitted but not to loudly....it wasn't of pain it was more from being suprised....

Shaint looked over to the brownies in the chair and He grave them a glare before his sword burst into a light blue aura and made them cover there little eyes briefly, Shaint scratched them off his back and pulled them form his arm and sheething his sword.

"Come, Friends....now we leave"  

Radaroc nodded to the lady with the hurt ankle as he was introduced.  "Mam, its a pleasure." he greeted her.  Minutes later he heard Shaint threaten the brownies. Gods be praised he'll get us all killed!  The brownies released their arrows.  

Leetah: Her faced turned brillliant scarlet, "KILLLL THEMMM!!!!!  KILLL THEMMM ALLLLL!!!!"

Radaroc: "RUN!"  Small arrows from hundreds of holes streaked out at the companions.  He dashed toward Adara, Keelin, and Atrii.  "Time to leave!" an arrow stabbed deep into his back.  "ARRRGGGHHHHH" he jacknifed in pain as the poisen entered his blood stream. He scooped up Adara,  "Sorry 'bout  this but we really must be going.  Atrii if Keelin can't run in that dress," he then glanced at her, "or whats left of it, carry her!  And lets get going before those ticked of brownies kill us."  
He ran to the doorway, glanced over his shoulder and yelled, "Shaint cover us and keep them from following us."

"KILLLL THEMMM!!!!! KILLL THEMMM ALLLLL!!!!"

Temper, temper, lady. We're goin'!
Keelin took her clothes from Shaint and followed the others out the door. Gods, can't make up their mind: let them live, kill them off, let them live...bah.

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

"GAH!" Shaint followed the plan as he mumbled to himself and drew his sword arrows shot through his clothing and into his skin wich he found quite annoying and painfull Shaint frowned at picked up a limp body of a guard throwing it at the throne and sending it hauling backwards the brownies with it,

"DAMN THIS FIGHTING!" Shaint said as he grabbed a shield from one of the bodies and another from a different body blcoking both sides that where attacking Shaint ran twords the fallen throne where Leetah and the little brownies where he looked down at them, grabbed Leetah by her small head and scowled at the life mage.

"I hate, damned mage's hiding behind there powers" Shaint lifted a leg in the air and slammed it down on the brownie crushing could be heard aswell as blood seeping form under Shaint's heavy boot.

Shaint felt a painful prick in his finger and looked to Leetah she had stabbed him with a brownie shortsword "gah, in coo'rs name that hurt!" Shaint shouted and took off running dropping one shield and  he noticed Keelin was still un-attended two, he dropped the other shield and threw and arm around keeling lifting her off the ground and over his shoulder.

running out the whole party came to a stone wall....it had allmost looked like something had caved in....Shaint glanced up at Radaroc and nodded "Radaroc? be my guest giant friend"

They had come to a dead end now, a giant stone wall stood in there way. It appeared to have caved in, Atrii turned to face the constant barrage of arrows from the rat brownies.

The ranger strung up three arrows, pulling back his string he released them, sending three projectiles towards the attacking brownies. Muffled cries heard, swallowed by all the yelling of the brownies and the members of the party.

Atrii strung three more arrows and let them fly, killing another brownie or two in the process. "Find a way out soon." Atrii urged them. Reaching back into his quiver, nothing... arrows were gone. "I'm out of arrows, damnit."

Another arrow came zipping through the air planting itself in the rangers shoulder. "Ah!" He cried before pulling the arrow from his shoulder and stringing it on his own bow. He released the arrow back from where it came killing another brownie.

The stone, hard, unyeilding, eternal, smashable.  "Hold her." he told Atrii handing him Adara.  Taking two steps back he charged with his shoulder down.  CRUUUSHHHHH....thud  Radaroc broke through the piled stone, tripped and fell.  "I'm fine." he said, his eyes crossed.  He shook his great head, "Thanks Atrii.  Sorry 'bout all this handing back and forth...umm...healer, but we're in a bit of a rush."   THOCK  a small arrow stuck itself in a wooden support.  "Onward!" he cried and took off down the hall.

Shaint ran down the hall after his party, allmost forgetting he was carrying Keelin over his shoulder he aproached a half fallen wood beam Keelin's head headed strait for the jagged edge Shaint glanced up and spun,

"'eh sorry Keelin!" Shaint shouted as her head barely missed it he kept on running down the tunnel and saw what looked like another wall Shaint looked hin his left hand he was holding the screaming Leelah up his large hand((for an elf)) engulfing her body so she couldent do antyhing but scream "You c'oor spawned brownies" Shaint said wiht a glare,

Before shoving her in his pocket Shaint unsheathed his sword and sat keelin down it burst into a light blue aura and Shaint eyed it up "Ok, I used to be able to do this lets do it again!" Shaint ran directly at the wall and jumped in the air throwing his sword over-head he spun sidewayd and then once more his front facing the wall Shaint jammed his sword into a crack in the wall the hallways filled with a burst of air as the wall exploaded the way they wanted to go.

Shaint tossed his sword back in it's sheeth and grabbed Keelin "C'mon RUN!" Shaint said getting a wierd look from one or more of his companions....

Keelin glowered at what she could see, which was mostly just the brownies chasing after them. She clutched her clothes to her chest and ducked her head, glaring.

If we weren't in such a hurry...

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

[ooc: Since I haven't seen Lucirina for a while, I will just skip ahead]


Soon, the sun began to fall behind the horizon, while the Tristin mounted his horse and rode beside Bobbo, Lucirina, and Qui. They wanted to ride by night to avoid attention. In the gathering darkness, the Tristin could see the dark mood of Bobbo, as well as Lucirina.

Bobbo rode with his eyes firmly fixed on the ground in front of him. Around him were many soldiers riding along beside him. They were quite a numerous army, but Bobbo knew the strength of Troas' army, having served in it long ago. He knew that the Resistence would not stand for a day against the power of Troas.

At his side, the golden hilt of Avenger glitterred in the last light of the day. Then, all was darkness as the sun disappeared. A light breeze began to blow and sand began to fly at the feet of their horses.

They rode with great speed, trotting along quickly. They wanted to reach Strata as soon as possible. Each of the riders was prepared to give his life for the Tristin and Lord Robert's cause.

'... Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again.' (Gandalf)

'I wish it need not have happened in my time,' said Frodo.

'So do I,' said Gandalf, 'and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us . . .'

The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
The Tales of Middle Earth RPG (I'm the owner)
The Lords of Middle Earth (I'm the ent mod)
Adventures of Sorren (I'm just a player)
The Fellowship of the Ring (I'm just a member)

Atrii spun on his heel with Adara in his arms and began running down the hallway behind Radaroc and the rest of the party. Brownies chased them, constantly firing crude arrows at them. The odd arrow pierced Atrii's skin and the ranger grunted in pain and anger pushing himself to get back to the surface.

It would worry him later that he gave no thought to the bloodbath below. All he did was sit, still and emotionless and think.
Or perhaps "think" was the wrong word for it. He sat quietly and... delved. And the blood red reality below him became the perfect backdrop for his deeper thoughts. The kind of thoughts of whitch there are no words, only sensations.
A teardrop rolled over his cheek as he heard the word "demon" uttered below, and the backdrop became even bloodier. And then... It was still.

A stillness broken by faint sounds of hundreds of little creatures scattering by him. Brushing by his shoulder. But he was too deep in rememberance to care. Another bump, more violently this time. He jumped and looked around. The air was thick with the smell of rats. And he was bumped again.
He fell.
An anger welled up inside him. Directed mostly at himself. But he had to focus, if he was to die it would be only after proper consideration and deep thought. He didn't have time for that the few moments that were left of the fall.
He landed as if on a cushion of air, floated down and started running on top of the water. He was tired and his head hurt.
I hope this doesn't become a habit.
He slowed down. The whole area was filled with brownies and rats.
He went under water and flew as quick as he deemed safe towards the exit. The others have left me here... it figures. They found out that someone else could heal, I'll wager.
Inside the entrance of the cave he went over the water again to get some air. He was dizzy and couldn't tell if it was safe.
It was. Oddly enough. Rats and brownies ran past him as if he wasn't there. They seemed desperate.

Edited by: Raoneth at: 6/4/03 9:56 pm

Lucirina
The elf rode in complete silence, her eyes downcast... it was obvious that she was still fightling back the demons that the last words Bobbo had said to her had brought.
She could not help for what her heart was feeling.. she knew not of the ways of love despite having lived so many years. The lonelyness of being a hermit had not helped with her social skills either.
She wished Oscar was here.. the old man had been someone she could talk to about what she was feeling. But now she felt lost and confused.
Slowly she lifted her gaze to look at the man that held her heart in his hands, Qui.
A smile came to her lips as she felt the fluttery touch of butterflies in her stomach while she looked at him. Then, as if a invisible voice told her to do this, she slowly turned her head and let her gaze rest on Bobbo for an instant before once more letting her eyes return to the ground.

Qui
Qui smiled slightly back at Lucirina as she looked at him, a smile that turned stiff and cold as she turned her gaze to Bobbo.
He knew that he in some way had stole the little woman from the heir of the Junakin house, but she was not sorry. Lucirina had struk him light a lightning and he was not going to let her go... only the cold hands of Queprur could pry him away from the little elf that he now loved with all his heart.
Slowly seating his thoughts back to the misson ahead he rode up to the Tristan and spoke in a low voice.
"Milord, we are but a days march from Strata, I do fear someone or something might try to stop us from reaching there. The mage will most certainly attack us before we reach the gates of the city.
Do you have any plans how to confront his power since we now are far away from the protecting walls of Thambalath?"

Bobbo did not notice Lucirina's eyes grace him. His eyes were focused on the city away in the distance. He heard Qui speak, but did not bother to listen in. The Tristin replied to Qui, "I intend to attack, and if we are slain, then that is life. The entire fabrication of life means that it must have an end, and I would rather die fighting than to die an old man who lost everything."

Bobbo heard the Tristin and turned to him. Bobbo's garment choice was meant to make him fit in with the soldiers, though now he looked much poorer than the soldiers. Indeed, it looked like a lord had become a beggar again, but not in spirit.

"You have spoken truly, my lord," said Bobbo, "And I would rather die trying to recover my father's wealth and position than to die a homeless vagrant."

"Then we are one in mind," said the Tristin, "Come, Qui and Lord Junakin, let us draw our swords and gallop on the city."

The Tristin's hand went to the hilt at his belt. A sword more beautiful than ten Avengers came from it. The Tristin looked at the sword for a moment.

"Great Macil, sword of my father and his father, let us win back Strata," said the Tristin softly. He rose the sword up over his head and cried in a mighty voice, "Dagnir Coire!!!"

All the men in the army raised their swords over their heads and shouted with the momentum to disturb the mountains' stance, "DAGNIR COIRE!!!"

Bobbo was among these men. He held Avenger over his head. Its hiding cloth forsaken, the sword blazed in the sunlight beside its fellow, Macil.

Then the Tristin cried, "For Strata! CHARGE!!!!"

With that call, the army roared as all the men broke their horses into a gallop. Bobbo snarled as he rode, craving the blood of Troas's men. Beside Bobbo rode the Tristin, his face hardened for battle.

As the army reached the walls of the city, arrows began to fly at them from the walls. Bobbo suddenly heard an officer in the Tristin's army cry, "Fire!" and a huge volley of arrows came flying from behind Bobbo, sailing up into the chests of the men who had shot from the walls.

The horsemen were very close to the gate now. Suddenly the gate burst open and out poured dozens of horsed warriors, each with a great lance and a steel sword. Bobbo came at them on his horse. As the first warrior came close, Bobbo swung Avenger into the man's chest. The great and beautiful blade was also extremely powerful, as it went right through the man's steel armor and chopped into his chest. The man fell from his horse with a cry and Bobbo charged at his next victim.

'... Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again.' (Gandalf)

'I wish it need not have happened in my time,' said Frodo.

'So do I,' said Gandalf, 'and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us . . .'

The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
The Tales of Middle Earth RPG (I'm the owner)
The Lords of Middle Earth (I'm the ent mod)
Adventures of Sorren (I'm just a player)
The Fellowship of the Ring (I'm just a member)

Radaroc leading the way through the tunnels looked over his shoulder, "Almost there I can smell fresh air!"  With renewed hope he ran faster still, the stinging arrows continued to fall amoung the party.  Rounding a final bend he saw light.  Up a last slope and they were at the entrance from which they went into the sewers.  "Right, now what?"
**OOC: Should we make a new chapter?

As the battle progressed, Bobbo killed more and more men. He saw the tide begin to slow as he fought beside the Tristin. He turned to the Tristin and said, "How close are we, my lord?"

"We haven't met the half of their forces yet, that is, if they are the same as last I fought them," said the Tristin, "They're holding back. Something is happening in that city."

Rhas
The red-clad woman had entered the city a few days ago. She had watched quietly in the shadows, brooding over her anger and hatred. Anyone who looked at her cross-eyed was burnt to a crisp when no one was watching.

As Rhas walked the streets of Strata, she heard a great deal of commotion from outside the walls. Suddenly legions of soldiers rushed by her on the streets. The leader shoved her out of the way as the men marched past Rhas, saying, "Out of the way, woman."

Of course, in her already unstable state, Rhas was in no mood for such treatment. She could contain her anger no longer. She cried out as fire flew from her fingers at all the soldiers in sight. Screams filled the sky above the now empty streets of Strata. Then silence.

But Rhas was not finished. She used her magic to fly above the city into the sky. Looking down she hurled flame at any who wore the armor of Troas's soldiers.

Bobbo and the Tristin
Back in the battle, the arrows had stopped flying at them, and the soldiers were gone or dead. Everyone looked about trying to find why the sudden change.

Suddenly Bobbo saw great lights come down from the sky above Strata. He suddenly realized that it was flame, coming from a person clad all in red.

"My lord," said Bobbo to the Tristin, "Look!"

The Tristin turned to behold Rhas and gasped. "It is one of those fire women from Thambalath. I did not know Troas was in league with them. This changes everything."

The Tristin called in a great voice, "FULL BACK!!! RETREAT!!!"

The Tristin's men, or what was left of them, all turned and whether on horseback or no, they ran away from the walls of the city as fast as they could.

Bobbo turned and looked worriedly back at Rhas's form in the sky. Whatever the power she might have, Bobbo saw a sudden change of circumstance as the body began to fall.

Bobbo called to the Tristin, "My lord! The witch falls!"

The Tristin turned in surprise and saw Rhas's body disappear behind the buildings of Strata. He was extremely puzzled. Then his face changed to battle hardiness.

"It appears as though she was also an enemy of Troas. However, she has acted almost as an ally to us, though unintental I am sure. She must have greatly depleted Troas's army. Let us charge!" said the Tristin.

He order the army back to the city. Many of the soldiers were quite confused by now, but they would not disobey the Tristin.

Suddenly Bobbo realized there was no way into the city. The gates must surely be locked from the inside and they had no battering ram.

The army stopped in front of a gate, stuck.

"Curses!" said the Tristin, "There is no way in."

'... Always after a defeat and a respite, the Shadow takes another shape and grows again.' (Gandalf)

'I wish it need not have happened in my time,' said Frodo.

'So do I,' said Gandalf, 'and so do all who live to see such times. But that is not for them to decide. All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us . . .'

The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
The Tales of Middle Earth RPG (I'm the owner)
The Lords of Middle Earth (I'm the ent mod)
Adventures of Sorren (I'm just a player)
The Fellowship of the Ring (I'm just a member)

Keelin thumped Shaint on the shoulder. Okay, we're here. Put me down! She'd put up with it long enough. There was nothing wrong with her and she could walk perfectly well on her own!

There isn't enough time to do everything and too much time to do nothing.

Gararion stood in the ally way in which the entrance to the sewers were.  He could sense his friends approach coming near.  Soon they would be standing infront of him, sweat bearing on their foreheads, arrows following in their wake.  Gararion thought wether he wished to be their when they surfaced or would he reveal his presence further down on their journies?

Atrii ran and saw a shadowy figure at the end of the tunnel standing there. The vision was very faint and Atrii couldn't even try to distinguish who it was at the moment. "Keep going, we're almost there." He yelled this out to the whole party... no one in particular.

(OOC:Where is Adara?)

Gararion remained at the doorway.  After a moment of waiting he heard the first sign of people approaching the gate.  The sounds of people running through a tunnel, water playing at their ankles.  Then he heard the voice of Atrii yell that they were almost at the end.

Atrii, since meeting him back at the herald and talking over a warm meal it seemed they were getting along.  Though during the entire trip it seemed that this was not true, for they talk very little, hardly made contact at all.  Gararion made little converstation with many of his compainions, some far less then others.  Strange how such a small group seemed to become seperated far from each other in more ways then one.

OOC: I'm here. I just couldn't think of anything to post, so I didn't.

Adara winced as Atrii bounded towards the exit, her being carried as if she were a baby. Why were they in such a hurry? The arrows were a definate cause, but not enough to install this eagerness for escape. With each step she was jostled, her injured ankle complaining with every movement. Now that the others were healed--even though she certainly didn't approve of the two men running directly after a healing--her own wounds were demanding attention.

"Keep going, we're almost there."

Atrii's call released a sigh of relief. As soon as they left this Ava-forsaken sewer she could rest. However her gaze fell upon the shadowed figure at the end of the tunnel, and she stiffened in fear. No...not another fight...

Atrii continued to run with Adara in his arms. He looked down for a moment to see her eyes squint gesturing a feeling of pain. He slowed down a bit trying to make the run less bumpy and uncomfortable for the injured healer. "Don't worry Adara, we are almost at the end, there you can rest and regain your strength and give time for your ankle to heal."

Adara gave him a quick, small smile. "I'm fine, truely." It wasn't exactly a lie; as his gait slowed, the pain lessened. "Besides, you need rest more than I do."

Rest...it seemed little more than a luxary as she looked back to the figure.

Lucirina
Even when she had not recieved much training Lucirina had drawn one of the daggers from her wrist and was cutting down enemies with scaring accuracy.
As the arrows started falling like rain over the warriors she decided that she was too an easy target on the back of her horse and jumped down from it after slicing down a soldier. A quite wise decition, for as soon as she moved away gtom the animal 4 or 5 arrows imbedded themselves in the saddle where she had been seated not a instant ago.
Having both hands free she unsheated the other dagger and started to fight off soldiers.
She had the advantage of being small and quick as lightining, easily avoiding the oncoming sword strikes aimed at her.
Blood splattered her face as she dug one of the daggers deep into the stomach of a enemy. She didn't seem affected at all, only that far away look had returned to her eyes as she continued fighting like a wildcat, a scream of rage escaping her lips.

Qui
Qui fought alongside Bobbo and the Tristin before loosing sight of them during the battle, his own sharp sword causing much damage in the ranks of the enemy.
An arrow had hit his chest plate, not managing to go completely trough but deep enough to make blood pour out of the wound. He pulled the arrow out with a slight wince before he continued slashing his sword at the enemies.
His hear stopped in his chest as he saw the horse that Lucirina had been riding running away from the battlefield without its rider, tears burned in his eyes as he looked around trying to spot her. As he saw a soldier fall to the ground he spotted her. She was fighting like she was posessed by Coór himself, an unerthly scream escaping her lips.
For a moment he was wondering if this was actually the woman he had fallen for. Her face was a mask of anger, striped with blood from the men she had killed, and from her own he suddenly realized, a deep gash in her arm being the sourche of the crimsom flood. He was about to ride over to her when he heard the second from the Tristin  "Charge!".
He did as his leader told him and charged at the soldiers with renewed fury.
Neither Qui nor Lucirina knew that Rhas had been flyinf over them not a instant ago.

Shaint and the party approached the exit to the sewers, the light could be seen and they soon exited the sewers and where standing on sand Shaint glanced left and right then sat Keelin down he noted the gates of the city an dmany men behind them..

as soon as he noticed horses came flowing from the left and twords the gates yet they where still far off.....

Shaint sprinted to the gates and looked through "Bobbo??" He held a hand to block the bright rays of the sun to see clearly "What's happening and why are all the men behind you?!"

Bobbo saw Shaint through the gate. "Shaint," he said, "I had hoped to meet up with you and your group. There has been much change since last we met. The Tristin is here and we are riding in to take the city. Could you please open the gate?"

Bobbo turned to the Tristin and said, "This is the leader of the group Oscar sent for the weapons."

The Tristin nodded. "Then you have the weapons?" he said to Shaint, "They would be useful to get through the last remanent of Troas's forces."

'All we have to decide is what to do with the time that is given us.'
The Lord of the Ring: The Fellowship of the Ring (Chapter 2: The Shadow of the Past)
Adventures of Caelereth

Gararion's eyes followed Shaint's movenment.  It seemed he had taken no notice of a citizen standing in the middle of the street.  Shaint walk toward a gate and begun to speak to a man behind it.  After a moment of searching  his memory he figure out who it was, Bobbo.  What was going on he wondered...who were these men he was with.

Shaint nodded "I can open the gate but unfortunatly no we don't have the weapons we where just having a small war between a Thief king and his minions and then ran out being chased by brownies! but as you ride in I can Guarantee you the weapons by the time you shall need them"

Shaint glances over his shoulder to radaroc "RADAROC! TIME TO USE THAT SIZE YOU WHERE GIFTED WITH!"

Atrii and the rest of his friends had made it safely out of the sewers now. Shaint had gone to speak with Bobbo and Atrii lightly dropped to his knees and lay Adara onto the ground. "There, we made it." He looked at Adara and smiled for a moment then looked back to the sewers, then over to Shaint who had now requested Radaroc's strength.

"Our task is not done yet." Atrii said this to no one in particular. He just lay down beside Adara and looked up into the stars.

"And what 'task' would that be?"

Adara hadn't meant to ask, not really. Her thankfulness for their aid was great, but tainted with questions. Why had they been down there in the first place? Was she simply going from one evil to another?

The group certainly seemed friendly enough, but it was just a bit suspicious. Especially now that they had gotten out of the sewers, only to be met by an army of men. If she didn't know better, she'd say they were going to war.

Atrii's eyes opened wide. He hadn't meant to say it aloud, he wasn't sure if he should tell Adara everything about what they have been doing. He decided to tell her enough to put her mind to rest without giving her too much information.

"We were just meant to deliver supplies to this city, however Keelin was captured by those thieves and now here we are." Atrii smiled then looked back around at his other companions, he saw Gararion now with them. He hadn't spoke with him much during this entire journey, he thought they were good friends but this adventure has had them slowly drift apart.

Shaint glanced back at Radaroc and turned his body to Face him "Radaroc you big brute! c'mon get over here, I'm strong for an elf but not that strong c'mon!" Shaint said as he just shook his head and looked to Bobbo "my companions arent listening very well when I ask them to, but allways seem to dothings extremely well when they arent"

At a turn the rats and brownies suddenly turned another way. Not towards the exit. What the... They're guaranteed to know the way out, but that's not it...
He moved quickly on, worrying, this couldn't be good. When he reached the outside he saw a small army amassed outside of the gates.