Adventures of Caelereth

Alia still lie in bed in a room at the golden star inn of Elsreth. A week has passed since the battle with the demons. Sinen sits at her bedside waiting for her to stir. The party has been broken. Muargath killed and who knows about the rest. Sinen stands and leaves Alia to rest in peace, heading down to the tavern to try and enlist people to continue the quest.

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

It had been nearly a week since the fight with the demon things. Gashnum had escaped with his life, barely, and not much else. His good friend, Muargath, slaughtered. His dog and horse devoured by the demons. The company scattered into the wilderness, pursued into the night by the foul beasts.

Gashnum had spent the week hiding, and working his way back to Elsreth through the wilderness.. On the morning of the sixth day he makes his way into the Golden Star inn, just as the sun rises over the crests of the hills to the east.

**********

The door of the Golden Star swings open, revealing a ragged man. His cloak is torn and dirty, two nearly-empty packs are slung across his left shoulder. In his right hand is clutched a spear, covered in dried blood. A dirty felt hat sits on the top of his head, dirty brown hair spilling down over his forhead from beneath it.

He walks with a limp, and a jagged cut runs across his brow, crusted with dried dirt and blood. He looks about him for a moment or two until he spots an empty table. With a grunt he sets off towards it and with much effort eases himself into a seat. He drops his spear, and packs onto the floor, before he lays his head down on the table to sleep, he sees a figure coming down the stairs. Of course, it was none other than Sinen. Before he could say anything, Gashnum slumps onto the table, fast asleep.

The warrior who acts out of honour cannot fail. His duty is hounour itself. Even his death - if it is honourable - is a reward and can be no failure, for it has come through duty. Seek honour as you act, therefore, and you will know no fear.
-From the 183rd Ritual of Devotion

A stranger came to the city.  Many people looked oddly at him for his appearance, but he merely tipped his iron helm to them.  He was dressed in ragged clothing: a leather tunic worn white, a pair of torn trouser, a holey cloak, and a battered iron helmet.  Yet at his side was a sword with a jeweled hilt.  It was in a plain leather scabbard, but it was attached to a belt with some unidentifable symbol, at least to the people around her:  a small flame, the flame of Junakin.  On his hand, the only one visible was a beautiful golden ring.

For this was, indeed, Lord Robert Junakin, head of the Executing House of Strata.  Yet he was dressed now as he had most of his life.  He was Bobbo the Beggar, a lonely traveler.

He went into the inn and was reminded of the Thirsty Herald.  He sighed in thought.  Sitting down at a table, he order a glass of wine.

Looking about, he saw a fellow in most terrible condition come and slump down on the table asleep.  I know what that's like he thought Best to let him rest.

His wine arrived and he sipped it quietly.  Observing the small comings and goings of the Golden Star.

Tell me which is better:  to die defending your country or to live and watch your homeland die?
Ralai, King of Adylius

"A bird may sing upon the wing,
And a flower make no sound,
A frog may hop and people stop
To watch the fish swim 'round,
But I won't stop to watch them hop
And you shall know why
I'm off to see my love
The Lady Lorelai-"

Saekti's voice drifted off into a gentle hum, she couldn't remember the next verse anyway. She made her way into town heading for an inn she saw up ahead, The Golden Star. Where they would have food unless she had unnaturally bad luck. Even though her stomach prodded her foward, her steps possessed a lightness usually reserved for the very young. Fate had been kind to this young woman, her eyes remained unclouded by visions of strife.

Upon entering the inn, Saekti immediated ordered whatever today's meal was, payed the waitress and then cast about for a place to sit. The place was fairly empty; one of the patrons appeared to be sleeping and the others didn't appear to want company. Saekti took a seat at an empty table (in plain sight, she couldn't for the life of her figure out why people wanted to frustrate the waitress by hiding in corners) and waited for her meal to arrive.

"It is good to have an end to journey towards; but it is the journey that matters in the end." - Ursula Le Guin

 "No pessimist ever discovered the secret of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted land, or opened a new doorway for the human spirit."
-Helen Keller  

Kim looked up at The Golden Star. She was unsure of what had brought her here but it must be important for there was something deep in her stomach.

Opening the door she walked in. Kim pulled back her hood and looks around. There were 3 other humans in the a man in his late thirties early fourties Kim assumed who was passed out. A young lady about the same age as her and a man also about the same age as her drinking wine. She felt something coil in her stomach but shook her head. She was a Dark Priestess she was not supposed to have feelings like that. There was also an elf walking down the stairs but she hardly cast him a glance. Instead she questioned a waitress for food and paid her before sitting at a table at the side to drink her Ale.  

An old man was walking outside of the Golden Star Inn,when suddenly he wanted an ale very badly.He walked into the Golden Star,chose a desolate table,and ordered 2 ales,and then overpayed the waitress 30 san.He began mumbling to himself and paid no attention to anything around him as he lit a pipe and some strange incense rocks on a metal plate he pulled out of his coat.

The poorest smart people can be sold as slaves, but the stupidest rich people will buy them.

Bobbo sat and watched as more and more people began to come into the inn.  He also heard the footsteps of one coming down the stairs.  The fellow on the table still slept soundly.

A woman who seemed to float along on her feet came into the inn and sat not far from him.  Her grace was beautiful, and it seemed that every movement was calculated precisely as she walked.

Another woman walked into the room.  She was rather mysterious-looking.  She took a short glance at Bobbo and ordered from the waitress.

Then an older fellow walked into the inn.  He ordered something and handed what looked to be a sizable bit of money to the waitress.  The fellow sat down and lit a pipe and put some rocks out on a plate and lit them as well.  Bobbo found this very strange, but did not say anything.

He sat back in his chair and relaxed, paying no mind to anyone in the room.  Yet one eye always caught the guy who had fallen asleep.  Knowing what he must do, he sat down his empty glass and walked over to the man.

"Sir!" he said to the man, "Sir! Are you alright?  Do you need anything, food or a drink perhaps.  Seems like you had a rough time out there.  Don't worry, I'll try and help you."

Turning to a waitress he ordered a nice meal and a mug of water.  He slipped the woman a gold coin with a Truban style head upon it.  She looked at it in wonder and said (quite clearly so everyone could hear), "You come from Truban?"

"Yes," replied Bobbo, "I am a native of Strata.  Now, please get the stuff I ordered and another like that may be forthcoming."

She hurriedly dashed off faster than she had ever before and grabbed food and water for the man on the table.  Bobbo smiled at her and took another Truban gold coin out of his purse and handed it to her.  She smiled back and looked at the coins in much excitement as she went about her duties.

"Now, fellow," said Bobbo to the fainted man, "eat and drink.  It is on me.  Please do not decline, it is nothing."

Truly this did seem strange for a beggar to possess two gold coins.  Even more strange, the vagrant said that it was nothing.  Bobbo thought of others' thoughts, but, as always, did not care.

Truban? Where's Truban? I don't think I've been there yet... Saekti was making a mental note to try wandering in that direction in the near future when the waitress brought her meal. Saekti thanked her enthusiasticly and dug in which meant she either had an abnormally large appetite for such a small person or she hadn't eaten in days.

Once her stomach had stopped its insistant grumbling Saekti took a moment to actually breathe and look around. Someone was helping the sleeping man, which was good. It probably wouldn't have been nice to leave him there. Saekti herself had been considering doing something, but such acts had been discouraged by a rather unpleasant incident in a tavern a few towns back... Suffice it to say that it was best to let sleeping drunks lie.

Although it was rather odd that one dressed as a beggar would have that much money on him... Well, it probably didn't matter anyways.

Another few patrons had come in. One was an older man who, between his pip and incense, had enough smoke about him to make Saekti wonder how he could breathe at all. Another was a young woman, darkly clothed, who's demeanor seemed apathetic at best.  

"It is good to have an end to journey towards; but it is the journey that matters in the end." - Ursula Le Guin

"No pessimist ever discovered the secret of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted land, or opened a new doorway for the human spirit."
-Helen Keller

Kim watched the man go over to the drunk one and took in his clothes.
He looks like a normal beggar but how can he have such gold coins Kim thought to her self. unless he stole them
Kim drunk from her drink it wasn't any of her business where he got his money from. Unless she was paid to make it her business she would leave him in peace. Her feelings that had cover over her before had disappeared as she went in to a mild meditation. Something she had learnt a while back that helped when feelings over rode her proffesional instincts.

arriving from upstairs in the tavern, Sinen looks around. Several people catch his eye, but one over all others, Gashnum. Another was by him at the moment. One who appeared to be a beggar at first glance, but the money he produced told Sinen otherwise. Many would think him a thief, but Sinen is sure that is not the case. Walking over to Gashnum and the man he orders a glass of wine and food, sits down beside Gashnum, and says, "I see you are alive Gashnum, though quite tired I am sure." Looking at the other man, "My name is Sinen. You appear to be a common beggar, but your money pouch says otherwise. Some here may call you a thief, but I believe there is rich blood in you, am I correct?"

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

He smirked when Sinen said that some thought he was a thief.  

"You are a very insightful fellow, good sir," he said to him, taking a seat.

He continued softly, "I see there it is no use hiding the truth.  I will not hide who I am from you, though I trust you will keep my identity secret.  I am Lord Robert Junakin of the Executing House of Strata in Truban."

He smiled at the fellow.  "That's our little secret now," he said.

"Now that you know my name, I trust I can hear yours," he said to Sinen.

Looking at Gashnum, he said, "You know this fellow?  He needs a lot of food and rest, he has gotten himself in complete fatigue."

Tell me which is better:  to die defending your country or to live and watch your homeland die?
Ralai, King of Adylius

"Well, yes I know him. He was part of my group of adventurers. We were broken up when we were attacked by demons. I, my friend, am Sinen Darkchild of the Elven Kind, as some have called me though I prefer just Sinen. By the way, you wouldn't per chance be interested in a quest of sorts. It could prove quite interesting. I must find a new party to continue on as soon as my other companion awakens. I'm afraid she overdid herself in that last battle and has been out for a week now."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

Kims sharp ears penned in on the converstation the two men were having.
So he is a lord that is interesting
As the two continued her ears became more interested

Quote:

---

"By the way, you wouldn't per chance be interested in a quest of sorts. It could prove quite interesting."

---

A quest? Kim thought to her self Quests mean money which is what I need.
Business had been bad over he time here and only occasionly she got work. Maybe this would bring her some money in.
Calling over the barmaid she ordered another ale and some soup.  

§hændru looked up in amazment.Truban?He had been there before, and vaguely recognized the beggar.He began to get up,pipe in hand,and walk towards this...beggar character.

The poorest smart people can be sold as slaves, but the stupidest rich people will buy them.

"A quest you say?  What sort of quest?  I am always willing to help.  That is why I am traveling you see," Bobbo said, his voice calm and controlled.

He noticed that others in the room had taken note of him and this Sinen fellow.  He noticed an older fellow with a pipe walking towards them.  He brushed a black strand of hair with a little gray upon it off his face.

The sight of his gray hair reminded him that he was not as young as he had once been.  The beginnings of a beard formed on his chin.  It was, as his hair, black tinged with gray.  Truth be told, he was beginning to feel a little weak at times.  Yet he held himself with an air that flaunted his age and used it to his image's advantage.  He thought to himself silently that he probably looked better as an older man than a younger.

Tell me which is better:  to die defending your country or to live and watch your homeland die?
Ralai, King of Adylius

"Details, I will give in full later on, but it is a quest to find an artifact known as the Fire Gem."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

Quote:

---

"Details, I will give in full later on, but it is a quest to find an artifact known as the Fire Gem."

---

Kim choaked loudly on her ale.
"The fire gem is nothing more than a myth." She said loudly.

Hearing Kim's statement Sinen looked to the female.

"A myth based on fact. The Fire Gem is real. If you are interested you are more than welcome to come along as well. I will fill both of you in on details in a moment and offer proof of this artifact's existance. My name is Sinen if you've not already gathered that."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

" 'Some lies are truth, and some truths lie.' Pardon my intrusion but, what is this Fire Gem you speak of?" This was a tale Saekti had not yet heard, though it appeared many of the others had. An adventure! How exciting. Perhaps I should see if I can tag along. But first to learn of this Gem.

"It is good to have an end to journey towards; but it is the journey that matters in the end." - Ursula Le Guin

"No pessimist ever discovered the secret of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted land, or opened a new doorway for the human spirit."
-Helen Keller

Kim looked at the elf with some distrust. Her soul told her not to trust him but her heart was to attached to what he said about the Fire Gem. She would see his proof.
"Show me his proof then Sinen and I will judge wether this is nothing but a wild chase. The Fire gem story extends to most corners of the world" Kim turned towards the other female in the room. "I am suprised you have not heard it's story. But I will not spoil the suprise. If this elf thinks that he knows where it be then I can not and will not contradict him." Kim could not understand what her mouth was doing this was not a way to introduce herself to people what was wrong with her.
Unconsiously Kim was feeling the pendant on her necklace. Still unaware of the power it had over her soul.

Edited by: Kim Sandrage  at: 1/15/04 14:02

"Fire gem?"  said Bobbo, scratching his beard in thought.

He suddenly remembered the wicked fire druids that had captured Oscar, Lucirina, and himself in Thambalath long ago before Troas was overthrown.  He did not want anything to do with the druids again.

He leaned close to Sinen and whispered into his ear so no one else could hear, "This is not connected in any way to the fire druids, is it?  I had a rather bad experience with their order."

It seemed as though many people were taking an interest in Sinen's quest, and it seemed there would be a full-blown debate about to start soon.  Bobbo was never one for fairy tales, but he always was interested in helping people out.  Perhaps this Sinen fellow and his fire gem were important, as they seemed by the obvious interest of all who heard.

Bobbo sat back down quietly and listened.

Tell me which is better:  to die defending your country or to live and watch your homeland die?
Ralai, King of Adylius

Fredrick stood out side the building. As he went to open the door he heard a female talking about the..... Fredrick was shocked that was something he had not heard of in a long time. Opening the door he walked in and looked around. A group of people all looking at the elf except one who was obvoiusly intoxicated.
He nodded at everyone and made his way to a seat close but not to close to the group and listened in on the conversation.

When what you believe is a silly old man sitting down to tell you his tale it would be best to listen for you may learn something about yourself in his story.

Kim looked at the man who had entered and nodded her head in return. Turning back to the men she stood up and walked over to them."May I join you?" Kim looked at them, realising she had not told them her name she smiled. "My apologizes but I have realised I forgot to introduce my self. My name is Kim Sandrage a Dark Priest from the Kasumarii." Her early viciousness had left her and now she was once again calm.

Edited by: Kim Sandrage  at: 1/15/04 15:15

"Well, Kim, I believe I've mentioned my name already, but if not it is Sinen. Now, this Fire Gem was created many years ago by eight powerful mages of fire. To make a long story short, a man leading an army assulted the keep of the mages to lay hands upon the gem for his greedy self. The eight mages sealed the gem in a chamber with eight seals. The act consumed their life energy and facing oblivious death they transformed into the eight spirit dragons to guard the gem and to remove the seals for one worthy of such an artifact. This is my proof of the tale's truth." An orb of light seperates from Sinen's chest and hovers above the table before changing into a brilliant, many hued dragon measuring not bigger than an ale mug. "While he is only in an extremely reduced size form this is one of the eight spirit dragons, one of the eight keys to the fire gem."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

Kim stared at the dragon it was the most beautiful thing she had ever seen, intoxicating. Reaching her hand out she longed to touch it and feel her body with that light.

Fredrick watched as the female put her hand towards the dragon. However he could feel something inside telling him that the dragon would not react nicely to being touched.
He thanked god that he was quick on him feet, Jumping up quickly he pulled the girl away from it causing them both to tumble to the ground.
She looked at him in suprise.
"Don't touch the dragon, It doesn't feel safe."
he looked in to the girls eyes they looked on the front so much like his beloved however there was ice in them ice from years of pain and suffering.
"Are you okay?" Fredrick asked softly.

When what you believe is a silly old man sitting down to tell you his tale it would be best to listen for you may learn something about yourself in his story.

Bobbo listened with interest to Sinen's story.  It seemed a little farfetched, but Bobbo remembered that his own life story could be considered the same.  

When Sinen brought forth the dragon, Bobbo was startled.  He peered at it curiously.

"So," he said to Sinen, "the key to getting into the Fire Gem's location is to find these dragons.  Is that what you are saying?"

"Also," said Bobbo, raising his arm to the table and pulling his ring off his right ring finger, "this ring may be in some way related to this Fire Gem.  I have heard that it too was made by fire mages.  It has the ability to shoot fire on a call from its wearer.  It is a family heirloom now.  I got it from my father."

He displayed the ring to Sinen, but was reluctant to let the man touch it, as he was with all people.

"Yes, the key to the fire gem is these dragons. My good sir, trust me, this dragon is not dangerous. At least not unless you are my enemy. That ring, Bobbo, may very well be connected somehow. We shall have to see."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

"are you okay?"
Kim looked up at the old man. She felt a bit shaken unsure what  had just happened.
"Im fine."
She saw him looking at her and felt her face colour slightly.
The man helped her up and she turned towards Sinen and the others.
"My apologies I do not know what came over me. How far would we have to travel?"

§hændru walked over to Sinen just then,and stared at him with an icy stare.
"What do ye be knowin' about The Fire Gem lad?"

The poorest smart people can be sold as slaves, but the stupidest rich people will buy them.

"Huh, I always thought dragons were... bigger..." Saekti put in as she stared at it.

"And I do believe he was just telling us what he knew. There's no call to be so rude," Saekti turn a disapproving frown on Shaendru, before flicking her attention back to Sinen and smiled. "So you're looking for people to help you find this Fire Gem? Might a traveler find a place in this quest you propose?"  

"It is good to have an end to journey towards; but it is the journey that matters in the end." - Ursula Le Guin

"No pessimist ever discovered the secret of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted land, or opened a new doorway for the human spirit."
-Helen Keller

§hændru turned to Saekti"I wasn't here for his tale obviously,and the Fire Gem ain't nothin' ya want'a be lookin' fer."

The poorest smart people can be sold as slaves, but the stupidest rich people will buy them.

Lookin at the man who had just approached, "I know enough about the fire gem to tell you we must find it before a terrible evil of which the presence I've felt of late gets a hold of it." Turning to Saekti, "Dragons are bigger, usually. However a spirit dragons true form is nothing but energy thus it can take a draconic form at any size necessary. Obviously, so small he is quite harmless, but at full size a powerful ally. You are quite welcome on my quest. All of you are quite welcome."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

"So,ya wouldn't mind if an ald sea dog like meself joined your quest,eh?"The old man said with a misty look in his eye.

The poorest smart people can be sold as slaves, but the stupidest rich people will buy them.

Evil? thought Bobbo Wherever evil doth go, I will always be there to stop it.

"Then you have my sword," said Bobbo, drawing it forth and placing it on the table in front of him.  He bowed slightly to Sinen and resheathed the sword.

If anyone had noticed, the sword was of great quality and very rich with gems and gold and silver.  It was of great value and strength.

Tell me which is better:  to die defending your country or to live and watch your homeland die?
Ralai, King of Adylius

"And a fine sword it is. We don't have much time, but we must find all spirit dragons first. Also, I cannot leave until my friend upstairs awakens."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

"What happened to her?" Kim asked, and guestering to the man passed out on the table, "And to your friend here?"  

"I also would like to help. I may be on my last legs but theres still some life left in this body and my horse and one last journey would do us good"

When what you believe is a silly old man sitting down to tell you his tale it would be best to listen for you may learn something about yourself in his story.

"Both she and this man here were among my  group when we were attacked by demons. I don't even know what happened to everyone. He just got here not to long ago, but she exhausted herself using her powers to protect the others. She's been out for almost a week I'm afraid."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

§hændru was silent now,looking out the window,lost in memories.They shouldn't be looking for the fire gem,but He could not stop Sinen.It did,after all,heal all wounds.
"The Fire Gem,it heals all wounds.Does it heal regret,shame,revenge,possibly,dissapointment?"

The poorest smart people can be sold as slaves, but the stupidest rich people will buy them.

"Well, as I said, any who wishes to join is welcome.§hændru, sad to say the Fire Gem has its limits. Exactly what they are I do not entirely know. I hope you can understand, I must get to it before 'He' does. Alas, I may have said too much already in the presence of unwanted listeners. What I will say here is that the Fire Gem is as dangerous as it is helpful, and evil seeks to clutch it for its own designs."

Sinen stares over to the tavern's fireplace and watches the flames dance.

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

Kims face turned serious. "I will help you for I can  help protect you from the shadows, though I have a disguise that helps when enemies are around. They think you weaker."  

"You have my help,Mister Sinen.I might also need the help of this,Fire Gem,and of course,I will do all in my power to stop 'Him' from getting it.Let luck be with ye."

§hændru once again lit his pipe and Incense rocks,and was silent again.

The poorest smart people can be sold as slaves, but the stupidest rich people will buy them.

"A week? She must've used a lot of her power. Will she be fit to travel even when she does awake?" Saekti sounded doubtful. If I'd slept for a week I wouldn't want to go anywhere when I woke up...

"It is good to have an end to journey towards; but it is the journey that matters in the end." - Ursula Le Guin

"No pessimist ever discovered the secret of the stars, or sailed to an uncharted land, or opened a new doorway for the human spirit."
-Helen Keller

About the time Saekti finished her question an elven lady slowly decends the stairs. At the bottom she looks around before slowly walking over to Sinen. She speaks quietly saying, "Sinen, I think we should be heading out tomorrow at dawn. I shall be ready then." Sinen nods to the lady and turns to the people around him. "This is my dear friend Alia Locktear."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

Kim stood and bowed slightly.
"Please to meet you Alia, my name is Kim. Are you feeling well?"

*Dray had lost the others after the encounter with the demons...Dray himself had not seem the best of that encounter...Dray had been chasing a demon back towards the others, but another jumped out at him from nowhere and sent him flying into the forest...Dray landed hard and found it hard to get to his feet...He managed to make it up with the help of the tree only to see the demon with its glowing red eyes and evil grin approaching him. Dray readied his swords not knowing if he could best this last demon. Dray tried to call on the magic inside him, but he could not feel its power begin to tingle inside him at all.*

"Curses...if always fails me when i need it most....Come on Dray you gotta survive this..this thing will show you no mercy...so you must not show it any at all...it is evil pure and simple...destroy it."

*Dray feels a inner fire well up inside him and surprises himself and the demon when he mount a charge and forces both blades into the chest of the demon. Dray rips the blades out quickly and spins around slicing the demon again twice across the torso. The demon swings at Dray knocking him over as it falls and Dray slumps against the tree where he fell fading from conscience.*

****************************Current time************************

*Dray wanders into Elsreth a complete wreck...his wounds have makshift bandages on them and are bloodsoaked as it is..He is covered in mud and dirt and he reaks of death..Golden Star Inn he seems up ahead and staggers towards the door "Sinnen said to meet here should we get separated..." Dray gets to the door and pushes it open and stumbled into the room catching himself on a table...Dray leans on tables making his way towards the bar and once he makes it there asks the bartender*

"Dray:Sinen Darkchild....."

*Dray gets the name out before he collaspes to the floor from loss of blood and exertion*

The difference between a brave man and a coward....is facing your fear instead of running away

Sinen's ears pick up the faltering voice that speaks his name, and obviously does Alia as they both turn to see Dray collapse to the floor. Alia calmly walks to him and kneels beside him. She begins to move her hands in a graceful pattern best compared to someone who is weaving something. After a few moments Dray's body begins to give off a faint white glow. Anyone close enough to see can notice each and every wound on Dray's body slowly closing itself and disappearing, leaving only a very faint scar. Beyond the sight of anyone even Dray's blood volume returns to normal at a quickened rate. Only exhaustion remains for the man called Dray. Sinen gets up and walks over beside Alia as she stands up, finished with the healing.

SINEN
"let's take him upstairs to rest."

With Alia's help Sinen moves the man upstairs to the room Alia had recently rested in.

ALIA
"I'll stay with him until he awakens. It should be shortly."

Sinen nods to Alia then returns downstairs. After sitting down he looks at each of the people he recently had met. Then goes back to staring into the dnacing fire of the taverns hearth

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

"Amazing," said Bobbo at the sight of Alia's healing, "I have always been fascinated with those who have the gift of magic, if indeed that is what she has done.  Then again, I cannot really tell, but it is a gift."

Bobbo reaches into his pocket and pulls a gold coin out.  "For this fellow on the ground," he said, tossing it to the innkeep carelessly.  He pulled another one out.  "This one's for me," he said, tossing it to join its twin.  The innkeeper gave him a key and told him which room he was to stay in.

"If no one minds, I would like to retire," he said, "for I have traveled long this day, and I need to recover my strength."

Without waiting for an answer, he walked upstairs and went into his room.  He spent a few hours sitting up, humming and reading a book that was in the room that detailed the tale of the Fire Gem.  As the night grew on, he slipped into bed and let himself slip into slumber.

Tell me which is better:  to die defending your country or to live and watch your homeland die?
Ralai, King of Adylius

"That sounds like a mighty fine idea.I already paid fer a room,so I'll just go turn in for tonight.Oh,and if yee's to come in,the doors unlocked,but it will smell strongly of Myrrh and pipe."

With this,the old man walked up the stairs into his room.

The poorest smart people can be sold as slaves, but the stupidest rich people will buy them.

Kim shook her head. This girl was powerfull. Turning to look at Sinen and Fredrick she smiled softly.
"Now the others have gone please tell me what is in store for us. I can tell no human or elf could of done this to your friends. Something more powerful more evil."
Turning to Fredrick she spoke to him briefly;
"I can see in your eyes you feel the same."
Looking in the shadows she waited for the replies.

"It was a week ago exactly this same hour when we made camp on our way to this very village. We were attacked by Chasm Demons. I'd feared it was to happen, but I'd never expected the outcome. I don't know what happened to the entire party. Gashnum and Dray have made it here. Muargath was slaughtered by them. Of the rest, I've no clue."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

Kims eyes flashed and she licked her lips.
"Chasm Demons..... But I was told they were gone."
Standing up she looked in to the fire. She felt something in the stomach. Fear?? She wasn't afraid of much but Chasm Demons they were powered by something evil.
"I will still come along. My abilities may help." kim held out her hand and shadows swept round one of the mugs of beer and lifted it up.
That is a hint of what I can do. Will you accept me?"

Fredricks eyes opened wide in shock. He saw magic occasionaly on his travels. But nothing like this it sent shivers down is spine. The shadows yelled out silently of pain and agony.
Fredrick stood up and walked backwards.
''I.....I.... should be going now'' Fredrick gave the man at the bar some money and took one last look at Kim and ran upstairs as if the hounds of hell were after him.  

When what you believe is a silly old man sitting down to tell you his tale it would be best to listen for you may learn something about yourself in his story.

"Yours skill would be most useful Kim." Sinen gazes deep into the fire and before long his sight is overtaken by visions of the past, of him as a young child trying to protect his sister. Visions of the man who took her away. Visions of the day his mother left to follow her research and never returned and then his father leaving to find her and also never coming back. Visions of his trials to master the sword. Visons of his life searching for his family, and the adventure at Rimmerins Ring. The image of Kala pops into his head for a fleeting second then fades and the fire is all he sees again.

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

Kim saw in Sinens eyes deep pain.Putting a hand on his shoulder she sat next to him.
"I see it in your eyes. A pain so deep it will never be hidden." Looking in to the fire the normally cold hearted woman felt herself softening to this elf.  

Barely hearing Kim's words, Sinen stands and walks outside. Wandering down the main street, he glances up to the stars. He feels compelled almost as if someone was calling him to go down a narrow alley to his left. Without thinking he turns down this alley. At the end it turns right. As Sinen comes around the corner, a cloaked man stands before him, face hooded from view, all his clothing pitch black. The man speaks in a raspy voice, "Turn away from you quest now if you wish to live. I will kill anyone who dare stop me from recieving the Fire Gem. If you still wish to pursue me and this artifact then go ahead, but I warn you, I will not be interfered with." The figure vanishes leaving Sinen alone in the dark alley.

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

Kim looked at Sinen and shook her head. It was time she got some sleep.
Walking upstairs she took one last look in to the fire and a shadow pasted over her face. Something was coming and something told her it would test her largely.  

*Dray awakens and feels the soft bed underhim...he slowly opens his eyes and sees he is lying in a bed*

How did I get here...? What happened.....ok lets see I was fighting chasm demons...I got spearated....injured....but I found my way to Elsreth.  To the inn...and thats all I remember

*Dray sits up slowly and looks over himself..his wounds are healed and he is only a little bit sore a tender to show for the fight. He looks around and sees Alia sitting in a chair in the room apparently watching over him*

"Dray:Hello there...I take it Sinen is here somewhere?"

The difference between a brave man and a coward....is facing your fear instead of running away

Alia looks over at Dray and smiles. She stands and says, "He is here somewhere. I'm glad to see your awake, but you should rest. I don't think I will be sleeping for a while. I've already slept for a week. You'll find your wounds healed. Sorry I can't do anything for fatigue and sore muscles."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

From the alley Sinen calmly walks back to the tavern. After getting which room was who's from the inn keeper he goes up to each room, knocks on the door hard three times and shouts "meet me downstairs as soon as possible." He then goes back to the room where Alia and Dray are. As he steps inside he closes the door, looks to each person and says, "It's almost time to set out now. We have very little time."

-----------------------------------

Elsewhere, in a dark cavern two hooded figures meet. The taller and stronger of the two speaks gruffly, "Go to Alvang and end that elf and his party's pursuit. I am not going to have him in my way."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

*Dray stands up and stretches a little as Sinen walks in and sits down. He looks over and nods his head*

"Dray:I'll be ready..some healing and well needed rest have done wonders for me...still I am not sure how I even made it here after that fight...it was on pure will alone...thats all I can say...somebody does not want us after this gem my friend...and frankly I have a problem with killing people yes, but those who are evil need to be disposed of...and demons...oh you bet they need to be taken away from this world...We just better be on our guard...what has happened to the rest of the group...and have you gathered more help...cause I would bet we could use it in the near future"

The difference between a brave man and a coward....is facing your fear instead of running away

§hændru,however,was already waiting outside the inn for his fellow companions. He was reading what looked to be an ancient book whose bindings were not holding together very well,and the front was full of Stitches. His coat that was nothing but patches was glistened in the morning dew.

The poorest smart people can be sold as slaves, but the stupidest rich people will buy them.

As the sun rose early in the morning, Bobbo had awoken and quickly set about preparing for the journey. He had quickly grabbed his stuff from the room and left the key to the innkeep. He spent a little time then wandering around the town looking for supplies.

Eventually he returned to the inn and got a cup of coffee from the waiter.  The supplies he had bought were as follows:  many large packs of cheese and bread, a large pack of fruit, three hundred peds of rope, cantines for each person who would be traveling, a new cloak for himself, and a small knife engraved with the village's name and some other symbols for a souvenier.  He also purchased two horses, one for his use and one to carry the supplies.

When he had finished his coffee, he went up stairs to see what everyone was doing and saw Sinen knocking on the door to what had been Bobbo's room and saying, "Meet me downstairs . . . (etc., etc.)"

He chuckled at Sinen and said, "No need to wake me, master Sinen.  I have lived in places where if I did not wake with the sun, I would not wake at all, if you take my meaning.  No, I have been awake long and have purchased provisions and supplies for our journey.  Don't worry about paying me back.  I don't need it."

He smiled at the elven man and went back down to the commonroom to await him.

Tell me which is better:  to die defending your country or to live and watch your homeland die?
Ralai, King of Adylius

Leaving Dray to get ready, Sinen heads down to the tavern entrance followed by Alia. There he watches silently as everyone gathers.  

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

Kim stood downstairs in the tavern waiting. She had changed over night and underneath her black cloak she was wearing her mothers dress. Her features were more deffined as the cloak was not yet done up so people could see what she was wearing.

Seeing the others enter she smiled and looked towards the fire that had died overnight but the inn keeper had not yet relit it.
"We leave soon?" Kim questioned Sinen. "Where is our next location?"

Edited by: Kim Sandrage  at: 3/7/04 18:21

"Yes Kim, we leave soon. We're just waiting for everyone to gather. Our next location will be the town of Alvang at the center of the Ancythrian Sea. This town's docks contains a ship which I've hired to carry us to the island."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

Kim nodded and looked at the rest of the group then back at Sinen.
"So were just waiting for your friend I do believe."
Kims eyes studied the group she would be traveling  with. An old captain, a begger or not an elf and a a young female and another man. A small group. If they ran in to the same sort of trouble, she would be able to handle herself but would the others.
"Sinen will this be all of us?"

"Let us away!" said Bobbo with a smile.

Tell me which is better:  to die defending your country or to live and watch your homeland die?
Ralai, King of Adylius

Sinen looks around to each of his new companions before speaking. "We will head to harbor and catch a ship which I have already taken the time to hire. We make for the Island in the center of the sea which this town lies upon. There we are seeking a Spirit Dragon or a clue as to where one may be. This journey has already taken on a high level of danger since I started, but over the night the danger has increased ten fold. Any who wish to turn away now I understand. If not then follow me to the docks and we leave at once."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

"I have already made a commitment and will not back down.  Regardless of the danger.  My own life is not worth so much that I would worry over losing it.  Come, the road is waiting," replied Bobbo to Sinen's warning.

He walked out the door and began walking toward the edge of the village, humming a traveling song as he went.

Tell me which is better:  to die defending your country or to live and watch your homeland die?
Ralai, King of Adylius

"Aye Mister Sinen.My flute is your's."
With this,§hændru bowed and walked off with Bobbo.

The poorest smart people can be sold as slaves, but the stupidest rich people will buy them.

*Dray had left the room feeling a lot better than he had in days. He got dressed and headed downstairs and was sitting at a table waiting for Sinen. Not to long afterwards Sinen appeared and gathered those he had to follow him and he spoke to them of the danger.*

Dray:Sinen is right we already have had demons thrown at us...do not take this lightly much danger lies ahead. But I for one will not let some demons detour me from helping my friend.

*Dray slings his pack over his shoulder and heads towards the docks with Sinen*

The difference between a brave man and a coward....is facing your fear instead of running away

Kim nodded,
"I am with you to"
Following the rest out towards the docks, she looked around. Something didn't feel right, her assasin senses were alerting her. Quickening her pace she stepped in to line with Sinen
"Sinen I must tell you we are being followed. Im not sure where abouts but there is someone"

Sinen looks right at Kim not even slowing his stride. "I know."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

"Do you know who or" Kim shivered slightly at the thought "what it is?"
Turning to the others she beckoned them nearer.
"Keep your wits about you sirs. There are persons already following us."

"Aye,people already followin' us,eh?Sounds like a bit o' fun to get rid of them then."
     The sailor chuckled slightly,not concerned if he was being followed or spied,and took out a pipe and began to smoke from it.

The poorest smart people can be sold as slaves, but the stupidest rich people will buy them.

"He who follows us is after what we are after. He is the very reason we must find it first. Be careful what you say. He has hears and eyes everywhere."

 Fools rush into battle blindly, but who is really the fool? The fool or the fool who follows him.

"Yes, I know of the secret way of which you speak, for I am quite familiar with secrecy.  I will not speak of anything of any importance without careful preparation to insure no eavesdroppers," said Bobbo to Sinen.

Bobbo loosened his sword in his scabbard, just to be safe.

Tell me which is better:  to die defending your country or to live and watch your homeland die?
Ralai, King of Adylius