Adventures of Caelereth

Outside the Thirsty Herald Oscar had quite a crowd.  It was around 11 bells at night.  He looked up.  Slivers of diamonds speared the black velvet of the sky, the moon, a globe hung on an invisible wire full and bright.  In the background he could hear the waves of the ocean lap gently against the shore behind the tavern.  

He longed to go and take a quick swim.  Oscar loved the ocean.  His family were shipbuilders from Avennoria and he had been around the ocean all of his life.  He loved the smell of the fresh salt air, the feel of the wind blowing in his face, the rough texture of the ropes in his hands as he hauled up and down the mainsail of any ship he may be on.

Underneath the ocean, where most do not go, he saw the beauty of Ava there and of Bavaras, the God of the sea.  He remembered the first time he saw the bright colors of the many and varied sea life swimming in the ocean.  He recalled as a boy, how he would swim many depths down to collect oysters, looking for that elusive rainbow pearl.

But then reality overtook his musings and he was now an middle aged man helping a young man regain his rightful throne, choosing as had many others of his family for over two centuries to put back a Drafas on the throne of Strata.  He was willing, even to the point of dying himself, to defeat their respective enemy.  

A man, a family; who first through hiring assasins, tried to murder all of the Royal family.  Seyella, goddess of Destiny, was on their side that night when the vaunted and myth laden "Templars of the Black Pearl" stalked the streets of Strata and the halls, corridors and bedrooms of the Royal household and their extended families.  Much wailing was heard the following morning when the dead were found.  

Strata was then easily overrun by her enemies and the four ruling houses were set up.  But even then the family, the man, planned for their eventual demise.  Oh, he was a crafty one, he was.  He did not destroy the institution, he just made sure one of his own ruled the house and since he ruled the House of Justice, he could falsely imprison anyone he wanted, could trump up charges, kill with impunity and no one could stop him or his family.  Until the people had enough.  

A rumor began spreading that a Drafas heir was alive and was coming back to regain his throne.  It gave the common people hope and to the criminal underground and especially the family, now ruled by Troas V, now called Troas the Scarred but not to his face, nightmares.  He was so called because of a scar that ran down his right cheek beginning just under his right eye and ending at his jaw line.  A scar that marred a handsome face.  A scar that the owner vowed vengence upon the person who had put it there.

A young Elven woman had caught his eye.  She was talking with her hands.  It seemed she was a mute and that started Oscar thinking.  She may be of use to the Resistance.  The only one of the group who seemed to understand her was a dwarf by the name of GrakanIronhand.  He stood as close as he could to Grakanand asked him.  "Who is she?" he asked.

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

Edited by: Oscar Lotus at: 12/3/02 12:44:44 am

Shaint looked to oscar coming in the way of them Shaint moved from his way looking to gararion and atrii an dback to oscar We now leave sometime soon.......  

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Gararion still stood, his face cloaked within the shadows of his hood.  He moved only his eyes from member to member watching their movements.  

Ever since that night when he was taken within the Uarná'ésh-dél Gararion new his live would change.  He now felt more power flowing within his viens.  He could feel the slightest displacement of air easier than he could ever before.  Though this may be a gift he also knew it was a barren.  He knew he was only given this chance because he was chosen by whomever it may have been that night.  

Still unclear his mind ever pondering, thumbing through the knowledge that he had learned throughout his life, kept deep within his mind, safe from tampering with.  He constantly wondered what lies ahead of him...and who this pressence within him was and its reason for chosing him.  He only knew what his teacher and friend told him as he described it as his compass and to trust it for it was his only bearing to the path that had been chosen for him.  Gararion hoped that this path would be a path that lend insight to the mysterories that troubled his mind.

Gararion looked at the group once again, shifting his eyes from one figure to the next, his head remaining perfectly still.  The only movement visable about him was the cloak he wore flowing in the cool and refreshing ocean breeze.  Gararion thought to himself.

How can such a gathering of races succeed at a given task.  Surely this would not work.  But if this is the path that has been chosen for me then I shall follow it till I am shown a new path.  Surely there is meaning to this...meaning that I have yet to discover.....or learn...

Shaint had looked at both Gararion and Artii then moved is sight to Oscar and spoked.

Gararion was pleased to hear his words as it seemed that they would depart the tavern soon.  Gararion figured that Shaint had decided it would be best to travel through the night.  They would finally move on...closer to the end of the path that had been chosen for him.

NahorA dark cloaked figure sat atop a building facing the courtyard of the Thirsty Herald.  He sat motionless, his small, dark beady eyes taking in all that he could see.  Though he was too far away to hear anything he was quite curious about the crowd that had gathered about a fire in the middle of the courtyard.  He knew the Herald was a busy place, but at this hour of the night, and outside?  

Nahor could only see shadows and shapes but from some of those shapes he could tell that at least one of those down there was a troll, for he was the largest being down there.  Nahor assumed it was a he, for he had never heard of a she troll going around by herself.  But what really peaked his curiousity was that no one was fighting!!!  A troll, amidst probably elves, humans, maybe even dwarves and no fighting? That is strange indeed.  Maybe strange enough to report back to his superiors?  Information that could possibly make him a rich man?  Who knew?  He had been watching the Herald for over a month now and all he saw were beings coming and going, fights, he liked the one between the giant and the humans.  But the giant had been defeated, and the humans had long left.  But there had been other fights and distractions to keep his job not too boring.  When he saw that young elven woman run in from the desert, when the dwarf authorities tried to find Robert Junakin, he wondered about that.  Especially when the dwarf came out empty handed.  He knew that Troas was looking for Robert and some one tipped Troas that Robert was staying at the Herald.  It was probably a false tip by some low life who wanted the reward.  Troas would surely have his tongue, literaly, by now.

He was not about to make the same mistake.  So he just sat there and watched.

Oscar Oscar smiled and faced the young elven woman. "Hello, my name is Oscar Lotus.  I am the owner of this establishment."  Oscar made a low bow and then straightened up.  "It is a pleasure to meet you.  May I ask what your name is and what brings you here in this hour of the night.  I have several rooms available, if you desire one."

As Oscar waited for her reply Shaint sidled up next to him and said "It is time to go."  Oscar nodded and whispered.  "Do you have all the personel you need?  Do you remember the password to Hashish?"

Oscar stood there waiting for both replies.  He looked around with his eyes, his head not moving.  I am not too sure about this crowd in my courtyard.  I may have to do something.  It is good that Shaint is ready to go.  Then this crowd will thin out some.  Hopefully the rest will leave.  Or I could open the inn long enough to offer the rest rooms for the night.  We shall see.

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

"Grakan Ironhammer." he replyed to Keelin as Oscar approached him and asked who the elf was.
"She says 'er name is Keelin." Grakan muttered."A sword for hire."
"How she gets many hirers though I dont know."
Grakan fell silent as an Elf approached. He fell silent as Oscar dealt with this newcomer.
Grakan discretely signed to Keelin "What are you doing here then?"

---

"There is nothing so sure in the world as the glimmer of gold.

And the treachery of elves."

Shaint now with a serious look his sharp jaw shadowed by the darkness of night hisskin darkened greyish and blue of color, he looked to oscar solidly and nodded "Yes oscar",

Shaint was in clothing medium in weight of a pair of Leather leggings with more than a few plates about them of old greyish color worn little by the immense garins of sand they had seen or branches through wich he hopped threw within war, for a young elf he had seen war to many times before...

his upper body in a black velvet looking shirt that widens slightly at the wrist ontop of that upon his chest was a blacker colored chestplate on his back was a set of shoulder plates and a dark colored cape hanging from them, "Oscar i will try my best to not let you down i'm not sure what everyone else thinks......but......that is just my vow to you"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Edited by: Shaint at: 12/3/02 8:12:02 pm

Gandoria glanced around the tavern, Grikkit was asleep next to him, the goblins eyes closed yet it was a simple light sleep. The ogre waved his hand above the goblin, and fast as a bolt he was awake and sitting up.

"Todays when we leave yeh?"
The ogre said to the Goblin
"I think so, wydyer think I ent had a drop to drink but water?"

Gandoria sat back looking slightly grim, and Grikkit went back to sleep.

IM GREEN AN'IM MEAN

Atrii stood next to Gararion and felt very annoyed with how slow this little task was beginning. Atrii believed that Gararion felt the same way as he stood their. Gararion seemed to be thinking of how this would turn out. Atrii turned away from the mage so he would not stare.
He relaxed his shoulders and felt weak standing waiting for something to happen before he fell asleep standing.

Radaroc looked up.  He had felt someone or something watching, he didn't know where or how but something was there in the darkness.
Get a hold of yerself Rad.  This is not the time to be imagning things. he told himself but he still could not shake the feeling.  He looked over the crowd assembled and saw Atri with his shoulders slumped.  He walked up next to him,
"There is something out there." he muttered out of the corner of his mouth quietly, gazing out of the courtyard, "Do you feel it?  Something is watching us and it does not wish us good fortune." Slowly Radaroc's hand moved to his sword pommel, it did not do to be unprepared

In the begining I was weak.  Now I have purpose stay me from my path and the Gods themselves cannot save you.

Shaints right ear slightly flickered as it often did in a serious conflict just as this but it was different and then his lft one twitched, Shaint heard something like the roucghness of the roof getting grained against the bottom of  someones worn boot he looked to his hands and tighted to red strapping gauntlets he had put on witha silver colored backing for cover cut off at the fingers,

and glanced up into the sky stars like diamonds shimmering over but his ears stopped twithing and he glanced off and grabbed the tip of a knife secretly burried in his guantlet making what looked like an ordinay scratch he saw a darker spot in the sky that made the taverns roof look like it had a slight bump in it, he spoke in a hard whisper "Oscar...Have you allways had a bump of dark color on your roof of the tavern??"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Atrii looked up at his new companion Radaroc.
"I know what you mean," Atrii confessed to the troll."I have felt a blanket of darkness grip this party. It's grip is getting tighter the closer we get to beginning our journey."
Atrii looked down at his feet and kicked up some dust from the ground.
"What do you make of it?"Atrii asked the troll looking up into the enormous creatures friendly face.

Radaroc looked down at the lightly built human, "Aye, something is wrong...or out of place.  To me it seems that we are about to go through some perilous times.  But this "blanket of darkness" you talk about, what do you mean by that?  Is it these "authorities" I have heard about as they do not seem to be liked."  Once again the troll felt someone was watching them, but he decided to simply stay watchful and be ready rather then to openly begin to search for them.

In the begining I was weak.  Now I have purpose stay me from my path and the Gods themselves cannot save you.

Edited by: Radaroc at: 12/4/02 3:33:32 am

"I am not sure what the blanket of darkness is..." Atrii trailed off slowly as he felt a cold chill shoot up his spine. The ranger shook it off and continued."I just feel that something that is waiting for us out there...somewhere...wherever we may travel during this journey..." Atrii once again trailed off as the cold chill seemed to clamp his heart.
Pain surged through his vains, Atrii silently gasped for air. The chill lifted from his heart and went back through his spine and vacated his body.
What will occur here... what was that cold chill?

a chilly wind moved throughout the sky and blue Shaints cape but the hump in the roof moved slightly as if it was the form of clothing and Shaintremoved his hand from where his dagger was and grasped his sword with utmost force and removing it with a light !sling! sound "things duth scare me.......But we are not alone!"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Radaroc heard Shaint's sword ring as it was unsheathed.  He pulled his own sword from it's scarab that hung across his back.  Holding it loosely in a two-handed grip he looked back to Atri, "On that point I agree with you but I do believe we have company, so I suggest that you loosen that sword in it's sheath as I expect you'll find a use for it soon."  Radaroc followed Shaint's gaze and saw a unusual shape on the roof.  
Shaint is waiting, but for what?  Oh well, He thought. since he's the leader I'll wait for him to make the first move.

In the begining I was weak.  Now I have purpose stay me from my path and the Gods themselves cannot save you.

"What are you doing here then?"

Searching for someone, Keelin signed back, a little reluctantly. Noticing everyone's attention being drawn to the roof, Keelin followed the elf Shaint's gaze upwards to an odd lump aparently perched on the roof.

"On that point I agree with you but I do believe we have company, so I suggest that you loosen that sword in it's sheath as I expect you'll find a use for it soon."

Keelin slowly moved her hand to the hilt of her scimitar, narrowing her eyes in an attempt to discern what, exactly, was on the roof.

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

"dont let whoever that is away!" Shaint swung his sword shifting him highly into the air and onto the roof  "Run or get caught but by ava's name your not getting away!" Shaint held his sword in his right hand loosley swinging it round in a circle once then gripping it "By the winds of ava.......Feel my wrath if you run!"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

The activity of the party seemed to pick up slightly...though for the worse.  

Gararion decides he shall ready himself...Shaint wanted to see that he could fight so if the time comes that he needs to then he will.

Gararion holds his staff firmly, the fire seeming to burn more brightly now.  Gararion walks to the side of the Tavern and far enough out so he can see all three sides of it clearly, leaving the rest of his companions in the front of the tavern.  He holds his staff out, pointing it towards the tavern as it looked liked.  Gararion begins to concentrate and gathers a enough air to create a stunning effect if so disired.  

Not movig his staff nor his arm he waits....

Oscar Oscar was about to reply to Grakan when Shaint whispered something about a bump on his roof.  Oscar looked at his roof.  "There is no bump on my roof?" Oscar replied.  Then he followed Shaint's eyes.  "Shaint your eyes must be better than mine to see that roof.  That roof is almost 40 peds away.  What is it that you see?"

Then Shaint drew his sword and began shouting oaths,  Radaroc did the same, as did Atri, and even Gararion seemed strange.  The young Elven woman, Keelin even began to draw her scimitar.  Oscar peered at the roof as best as he could but could not see anything, except darkness.

"Woah, are you sure there is something or someone upon that roof, Shaint?  You are stirring up alot of people.  I would dislike the notion that you go off half cocked.  Fearing things that go bump in the night.  But who knows you may be correct.  All I know is that I cannot see anything.  Let's just hope you are wrong."


Nahor  Nahor saw movement around the fire and could hear a loud voice, but could not discern what it was saying.  He froze.  Could this person have seen him?  Impossible!  Maybe whoever it is can see a dark shape, but not see him.  If I slip off of the roof? No that would not be good.  For if whoever did see my shape would know it was gone once I left.  I have to think of something else.  Fool that I am, I should have known better.  The moon was too bright this night to be on top of the roof.  But who would have guessed that whoever saw my shape had such good eyes.  I have to think of something, quickly!

Nahor looked around, he was half-lying, half-sitting upon the roof. But he was not a master thief for no reason at all.  There had been other times he had been caught upon a roof and he knew how to get out of this predictament as well.  What bothered him, was not only who had saw him, who or they had suspicions and that was not good news.  

With a deft movement Nahor slipped out of his cloak, leaving it where it was, looking like it was with a live warm body within it.  He then slipped down the other side of the roof, jumped to the ground and without hardly making any prints in the sand, sprinted off toward his horse, jumped on and galloped away into the night.  His destination only known to him and those who waited for him.  

He laughed to himself as he rode away as he thought that even if whoever climbed the roof all they would find is an empty cloak.  He however did not consider the possibility that whoever may be a mage or have a mage in his company who could track his movements.  Magicians to Nahor were a joke, someone who was good at sleight of hand, things he was good at.  But a real person, who has magical abilities?  No such creature!!

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

((OOC:Awwwwwwwwwww Oscar i wanted to catch him hehe))

Shaint saw a slight cave in of the clothing and grabbed at it quickly only to bring up a black cloak He frowned at it and threw it to the ground on wich his party stood "GARARION! did you se anything?! this man had to have been a master thief or somehwat of the sort to escape even with one minor flaw!"

Shaint  swung his sword and gripped the handle with to hands the blade of the sword wide at the center o fhis face began to glow and Shaint sheethed it "OSCAR! deiciting ourselves into thinking we can catch him now is just hurting ourselves more sheeth your swords and lower your staff gararion.........by ava's name his gone"

Shaint jumped from the roof making a seriese of turns with his body he landed on two feet grains of blueish colored dust from the night stirring up aroun dhim like crystal dust for a moment and then fading back down to the earth

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

((OOC from now on I'm goin to put all signing in bold))

searching for someone Keelin replied, a little relunctantly it seemed. Grakan was about to sign back asking who when his attention was distracted by Shaint saying that there was someone on the roof.
Indeed there looked to be a shape away from the normal structure of teh roof. Grakan held his axe ready and moved forward in front of Keelin almost instintively.
"Action already!" Grakan leered staring to teh roof.
The intruder must have been scared off, Grakan noticed a small droop in the form, but then it came back again.
"Someone knows we are here... I suggest we make a move..." he said aloud.
Then he approached Shaint as the Elf nimbly jumped off of the roof and whispered. "I dont think you are telling us everything about this mission, Elf. I will let it go for now, but I need to know if you have enimies."

---

"There is nothing so sure in the world as the glimmer of gold.

And the treachery of elves."

Shaint looked to Grakan then at everyone in his group truly a bunch of great men and a woman that caught Shaints eye, He began to speak "Let us Leave for now...everything will be found that needs be later" Shaint turned on a heel to Oscar and kneeled before arrising and walking slowly in the direction that the long journey would take this group of companions into it....and perhaps not ever let them go,

Turning on a heel again he stood as strait as a Soldier's General Waiting for his fellow men

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Atrii smiled and nodded to Radaroc then his face became very concentrated and serious as he marched forward to Shaint and nodded to him.
He awaited for the rest of his companions to follow.

((OOC:The necklaces is just something i had an idea for to symbolise us as one group make up your own medallion and color jewel in OOC I probably forgot some people))

Shaint nodded to Atrii soledly and awaited his other companions "Come all we Will Leave This Night" Shaint looked back to atrii and dropped a leather bag with Necklaces of Silver Mithrill Each with a Signifacant medallion representing Them,

Grakan
Gararion
Atrii
Radaroc
Keelin
Shaint- a eye open with a shimmering Red jewel for the eye color

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Gararion did not see anything from where he stood.  When Shaint yelled down at him Gararion assumed that Shaint figured the answer was no as he got down off the roof and told the party to put their weapons away.

Who was this figure Shaint saw?  I saw no one with my own eyes and can only go by the word of others...others who I do not fully understand yet.  Can their word be trusted?

Gararion walked over to Shaint ad threw a bag down that revealed necklaces of silver mithrill each with a signifacant medallion representing each member of the party.

Gararion loked at the one which seemed to be for him.  Hanging off from a mithril chain was a clear crystal dragon claw.  Grasped within its claws was a perfectly round Uruyant gem.  Gararion looked at Shaint.

"What is this for?

He usually did not like accepting things as it drew ties with each other but he assumed that the pressence within himself wanted this to happen for if it didn't why would it lead him here?

Shaint looked to Gararion and spoke to him and answerd unto his question "Gararion Brother In Quest we are the last hope for the resistance.....we are the new fighters for the resistance and as of now most likely the strongest it i sjust a way to signify ourselves as helpers and symbolise our Group for example You Gararion powerful and honorable such as....a Hawk thus you rmedallion"

"Mine i seem to look deeper into things than really need be thus an Eye...we are all on our path of Fate when we accepted this shipment it is not what has happend but What will happen and what we do that counts" you are of knowledge so i hope you understand what i speak"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Atrii bent down to the bag of medallions and picked up one that seemed to pull Atrii towards it. Atrii grasped it in the palm of his hand and surveyed it. It had a link of hands around the outside with a fire burning in the centre. Atrii slung it around his neck and clasped it in his hand. Atrii felt the fire on the medallion begin to burn in his heart feeling closer to his companions now than ever.

I will not allow anything to happen to any of my companions on this journey. If something must happen, it must happen to me first

Gararion looked at the medallion that he had been given.  He held onto it and looked at Shaint.

"I know what you speak of my friend.  This path that we have taken is a path of fate for each of us."

Though for some of us is is more connected to our fate and destiny than others.  Some there path is not chosen by one self but by another...such as my path as been chosen by a pressence not yet known by even the greatests archmagi at Ximax.

Radaroc turned to Derm on his shoulder, "Get that cloak for me." The shapeshifter became a medium sized dog and retrieved the cloak.  Radaroc lifted it to his face and took deep whif. Turning to the party he said, "We can be sure of one thing there was someone there," he took another breath, "and he was human."  He looked at the the necklaces Shaint was holding out he looked closely at one, " 'Oho, perfect." Radaroc said grinning widely, one of the mithral necklaces had a steel medallion with an etching of a Great Wolverine with teeth bared and claws ready to strike.  He then placed it around his neck.  Derm still in dog form looked at the medallion and changed to a smaller wolverine and mimiced the same pose.  The troll looked down at him fondly and chuckled, "Right we'll get plenty of chances for that."  Radaroc then looked to each person in turn smiling, "With this ragtag band of irregulars we might just do something interesting on this trip"

In the begining I was weak.  Now I have purpose stay me from my path and the Gods themselves cannot save you.

Shaint looked to Gararion "Gararion and Atrii be carefull of the Troll and the dwarf......because of our threesome connection they shalt become suspicious..." Shaint gripped it tightly at his side begginning to get impatent with the others "Pardon me for this yelling" Shaint was yelling but unkown to him he was yelling in Styrash "IN AVA'S NAME GET OVER HERE OR THUS WE WILL DEPART!!"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Oscar watched as Shaint did almost the impossible.  Go up a roof almost 40 peds away, and then jump down from it, landing on his feet no less, when the roof was at least three stories high.  Higher than his own roof, which was why whoever was upon it could see into the courtyard.  He shook his head.  It seems that Shaint was right.  I have to be extra careful.  If Troas finds out I am here, all of the demons at Coor's command would not stop him from finding me.  I have changed my looks and that will help, it is an Ava's blessing that Troas never found out my name.

Then Oscar watched silently observing every thing that Shaint did; gauging him, watching for weaknesseses, strengths, character flaws.  He saw some; such as impatience, rushing into danger is the flaw of youth, but he will learn, if he lives long enough to do so? The unreasonable thinking that youth have, they think they are invulnerable, protected from death because they are young.  How many has Oscar met that felt and acted the same way?  Too many.  Too many that had fallen by his side.  He was heartened by the fact that Shaint had enough good sense not to go chase after whoever it was. He or it could have led him right into a trap and this adventureous elf would have led his friends and himself to a very short adventure... maybe.  Oscar was also heartened by the fact that Shaint also surrounded himself with those who seemed older and wiser than he and he seemed to heed their wisdom and advice.  Which hopefully Shaint would do.

Oscar watched Shaint give his team members medallions to wear.  Each medallion seemed to be perfect for each team member.  That immediately told Oscar something that maybe Shaint and the others did not know or recognize; Seyella, the goddess of Destiny, was involved and that made Oscar curious as to why a Goddess would be interested in them.  And if she was, was there another God or Goddess involved and what side was he or she on?

Oscar watched if the others; Keelin, Ciran, others, what medallions would they pick?  He also wondered if there was a medallion in there for Bobo, Lucirina, or even himself.  He did not think so as those medallions were given to those who were with Shaint.  Bobo, Lucirina and himself were going a different path.  But would their paths cross?  Certainly, as owner of the Innkeeper and Shaints employer they would, but would they cross when Oscar was not playing the part of innkeeper, but as spy?!  

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

Shaint's mouth closed ad he just relized what he did not only did he speak in Elven Styrash but he just lost his patients Shaint walked past gararion and Atrii with a slight frown and then past radaroc and Grakan Into the Tavern and strait to the bathroom he looked to a bucket of fresh water and splashed it on his face drying it off with a dry towel,

"Why am i even siding with a troll?! it was his brothering race that killed Lorienna!....maybe he is just different..." Shaint shook his head and closed his eyes before pushing off on a counter with his firm forearm and walking back out to Gararion and Atrii "Gararion.....why is it than when i try to become better in ways of knowledge or skill i allways fall to the hands of failure?"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Gararion watched Shaint walk past them and into the tavern.  Gararion wondered what this was for.

Shortly after Shaint walked out of the tavern and over to him and spoke to him.  "Gararion.....why is it than when i try to become better in ways of knowledge or skill i allways fall to the hands of failure?"

Gararion looked at Shaint for a moment and thought. He had never been asked such a question by another.  Thinking for a moment Gararion answered back in Styrash.

"Shaint......knowledge is not something that one has through his actions.  One can not simply know how to fight or know how to speak.  One must learn to fight and speak.  It takes time and patients to further ones knowledge in a field of his choice.  

You my friend Shaint seem to want to learn without learning, you want to lead without leading.  Thus you fail in the end.  Even the greatest Archmagi will fail in a spell attempt if he hasn't taken the time to study a spell and learn its secrets before casting it."

Gararion looks at Shaint hoping he had made some sense to him with his words.  Hoping he did not confuse the young elf even more.

Shaint nodded "Thank you Gararion.....that heps with the knowledge you spoke...it just seems harder to study or learn when you have some people depending on you....and lives of persons can fall into your hands" Shaint's cape blew in the wind and he spoke again "Hmm the wind is picking up we best go soon"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Atrii stood beside Gararion. Shaint and Gararion spoke and Atrii tried not to listen, he prefered not to know others business so he looked around the surrounding setting. Shaint ended the conversation which Atrii heard.

"Hmm the wind is picking up we best go soon"
Atrii nodded to Shaint, his heart began to race as his anticipation of the upcoming journey flooding his brain. What the outcome may be and other concerning matters.

Shaint seemed to ignore Grakan's hidden threat about needing to know Shaints enimies and instead pulled out a bag. The one called Gararion pulled out a dragons claw.
Grakan approached and pulled out a mithryl axe, similar to the one he carried. He placed it around his neck and felt a fire course throughout his body. He muttered a short Dwarven prayer, and nodded thanks to Shaint.
"My strength is needed here." Was all he thought.
Shaint then walked to in front of the inn and shouted in what Grakan assumed to be the Elvish tounge of Styrash.
Grakan ignored the shout, guessing it to be some sort of "get round here now!" shout.
Grakan approached Oscar and said. "We be needin' supplies. Ar' they already sorted or do they still need to be collected?"

---

"There is nothing so sure in the world as the glimmer of gold.

And the treachery of elves."

Keelin looked at the bag for a moment with her head cocked to one side, the shut her eyes and reached in. After a moment she withdrew her hand with a necklace twined around her fingers. She dangled the charm in front of her eyes and grinned. It was on a pair of hands, one white, one black. She placed the necklace round her neck and looked at Shaint expectantly, her gaze conveying a sense of readiness and eagerness to be off.  

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

Grakan asked Oscar a question about needing supplies.  "Grakan my friend everything you need is what you need are loaded on the Aj's(camel like creatures, for those who do not look on the main site.) in the stables.  They are packed.  They are the fastest things in the desert.  Even horses may be fast, but they would not last long.  These animals will last.  You can either lead them or ride them.  Personally, unless you know what you are doing, I would lead them.  They have a peculiar sense of humor, and can be dangerous if aroused."

Oscar smiled at him.  "Good journey my friend.  Good journey to all of you, " Oscar said sincerely.  Then Oscar walked back into the Herald, up the stairs, and knocked on Lucirina's door.  He stood there waiting for a reply.


Nahor  Nahor continued to gallop into the night.  He tried to get his thoughts in order.  He wanted to make sure he had all of his facts correct.  Bahar, his commander would not be pleased with insufficient information.  Nahor thought, all he could really tell Bahar, was that a party of mixed races looked liked they were planning on leaving the Herald.  The party had a Troll with them. And that they acted suspicious.  That at least would distinguish them from other trading parties that criss crossed the desert going to Strata to sell their goods.  The one thing he was not about to tell Bahar was that he had been seen[/i]

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

Lucirina looked up from her feet as she heard someone knocking on the door, her heart jumped in her chest as she thought it could be Bobbo, then it sank to down below when she thought it could be the dwarf returning to question her.
In any case she had to let them in.
Slowly she got to her feet, wincing in pain and made her way over to the door, unlocking it and opening.
She smiled slightly as she found herself in front of Oscar.

Greetings Milord Oscar.

She said, stepping to the side to let him enter, using the door to give her some support and keep the weight off her feet

---

Bobbo, known as The Beggar, climbed the stairs of the Thirsty Herald to the second floor. He looked like anything but a beggar now, with his expensive attire. He looked like a lord or nobleman, which in reality he was. He wore a white silk shirt very finely made. He wore black wool trousers, very high quality. Over all, he wore a long, concealing black cloak.

Bobbo, whose real name was Robert Junakin, made it to the door to his room and saw Oscar standing at the door with Lucirina standing, holding herself up, in the doorway.

"I am here and ready to go Oscar. I have only a few possessions to gather and they will fit in my saddlebags," said Bobbo, going into the room after Oscar.

He turned to Lucirina and gave her a short kiss on the lips. He turned to his saddlebags quickly and shoved his old clothing, the leather tunic, worn pants, and battered iron helmet, into the saddlebags. As he opened the saddlebags, a huge stockpile of gold was seen through the opening.

"My treasures from my raid on Troas," he said in explanation.

Putting the saddlebags on his shoulder he turned to Oscar.

"Well, that is all my possessions. Lucirina, do you have everything?"

"I travel from north to south and from east to west and back again searching for my purpose in life. I cannot find it." Bobbo the Beggar

Lucirina opened the door.  Oscar felt a little ashamed, but proud of her spirit as she stood there, ignoring the obvious pain she must have been in.  She was very polite as she answered the door.  Oscar smiled at her, fatherly like, and was about to give her his arm when Bobo appeared and took over.  Oscar graciously stepped aside.  Bobo packed quickly his old clothing and he was dressed like the Lord he was.

Oscar waited patiently for Lucirina to answer Bobo's question.  As he waited he began thinking. Maybe it may be a good idea if Robert was more dressed like the beggar he pretended to be.  Especially with this new development.

Oscar coughed to catch Robert's attention.  "Sir, it may be more advantageous for us if you would put back upon your beggars attire.  I am no sure if you know or not, but it seems we had someone or something spying on us.  Shaint was the one who discovered whoever it was, but he or it managed to escape.  And a wagon will not be the tool of tranportation we will use for m'lady here.  I shall put her upon one of my gentlest AJ's.  He really is a nice fellow, and once you get used to riding him, it can be quite a comfortable ride.  If you do not mind, m'lady?  Also I have some Eascathe in my room which will help heal those wounds much faster.  In fact you may be amazed at how well it works.  It is used on the battle field for the wounded.  I shall get it and return while you redress, if that is ok with you m'lord?"

Oscar waited for their replies.

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

Ciran walked through the door of the Herald into the courtyard. I deep pounding headache had overtaken him, and he had wished to sleep a little longer. Both his drinking and his sleeping habits had gone slightly out of control in the last few years. He snarled as he threw the empty wine bottle into the desert and walked over to join the others.

"Hail to you all. I apologize for my absence, but these hangovers are truly getting the best of me..." He trailed off and after noticing that all the others now wore odd medallions, he drew one up from the bag. At the end of the chain, 8 arrows shot out from one central point. The symbol of chaos. Ciran had often times considered himself chaotic in nature, and therefore that medallion seemed appropriate to him.

Edited by: Ciran Darkblade at: 12/8/02 12:52:43 am

Lucirina smiled at Oscar but that smile was quite interrupted by the kiss Bobbo gave her before rushing by and into the room.
The contact of their lips were short, yet it was more than enough to make her blush. Her eyes following him as he walked around the room.
"Well, that is all my possessions. Lucirina, do you have everything?"
Lucirina shaked her head and slowly separated herself from the door painfully walking over to the bed and the nighttable, picking up her long bladed dagger, silver flute and pouch and once more attaching them to her belt before turning toward Oscar and Bobbo.

Now One has everything One own with One.

Was it so that she owned only these three items and the clothes on her back? And yet she didn't seem to care too much as she limped over to the door once more.
With her ears twitching slightly under her long mane of chesnut hair she listened to Oscar asking Bobbo to get into his old clothings and she nodded in agreement.
But as Oscar mentioned that she would be riding she tilted her head, never before had she used such ways of transportation.

Pardon One for One's ignorance, but what is an Aj?
And will it accept having One on it's back?
And One would greatly apreciate Milord's Oscar healing potion since One isn't exactly of much use in One's current condition.

She seemed rather insecure about the whole riding thing, the whole idea of sitting on the back of some animal and let it carry her around sounded rather strange.

---

Edited by: Lucirina Telor Vevan at: 12/8/02 2:01:20 am

Shaint glanced around his cape waving more in the wind of the desert and his hair blowing Shaints mysterious colored eyes uniqley only to him glanced around watching everything for he was tryign to look into the inner sould of the group itself....hard it was but seeing more than what needed to be seen was Shaints talent but being born as an elven he necer counted his hearing as one,

"excuse me My fellow Party" Shaint worked his way through the small crowd adn into the tavern then up the Stairs and saw Oscar then Lucrina and Bobbo?! dressed in royalies robes anyhow he stopped thinkign about that and kneeled before them quickly before arrising "Oscar I am sorry to announce but we need to be leaving take what time is needed but please hurry to the extent you can" Shaint unlatched his cape with it's metallic shoulder plates and hung it on the door

Along with a light cloak that wouldent get hot but protect from the sand and did the same "Please use them fo ryour protection of the sand" with taht Shaint walked down the stairs and out the door back to gararion

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

"Well lets get packin." Radaroc walked over to the stable.  The stable boy had fallen asleep so he opened the doors.  There in the tall building were the Ajs.  The great beasts were huge at least 3/4 his height at the shoulder (some were taller) with great long necks.  He looked back to Shaint, "We're ridin these beasts?!" he gaped, "Their huge!" One of then turned and looked at him lowering its head down to eye level (it really wasn't that far) it looked at him and cocked its head to the side with curiosity, "Umm...hello.  I'm sorry I don't think I'll be riding you. You see..." Derm in what could be called jealousy (for an aminal) had changed himself into a copy of the Aj in front of Radaroc.  Radaroc whispered to the real Aj who was quite startled at the apperance of his long lost twin, "I'll be riding him." Radaroc led out two of the creatures already packed.  "Take yer pick boys."  

In the begining I was weak.  Now I have purpose stay me from my path and the Gods themselves cannot save you.

At a distance one could hear grumbling. As the low scowling came closer it had a form. A husky brown mule, toting a slight wagon. Along side it, on foot, 'encuraging' the beast of burden was a stout man. His clothes were baggy and loose for the enviroment, shades of brown and darker greys. His skin was very dark, almost black. As was his short hair and long burly beard. Upon drawing closer, you can see the man is a dwarf, and you can begin to hear his gentle and kind words his gives to the mule

"IF any in all y years have I travled with somthing so slow, I have not many more left scine I've been with you! ><" were the 'kind' words he grumbled. "would it kill ya' to even trot along a bit faster, eh?! On foot I could have made it ther' in half the time!"

After a few more moments of the dwarf's 'coaching' they made it to the very front of the building, then the mule stopped and sat down

"WHY the-" He tuged a little on the mule's reigns.
"Move, or by thunder I'll!" he tuged again, to no avail.

He was too angry to formulate words. Surely with all he was carring on like this to the equally stubborn mule, somebody would hear.

Sometimes I think that woman is crazy, always coming in my forge telling me when to come to dinner. I'm a grown Dwarve I know when to come to dinner...

Edited by: Don Griffvander at: 12/8/02 8:14:23 pm

Shaint glanced to an AJ and jumped back a little "Great Av'a!! Those things are allmost as a Ped taller than me!!" Shaint walked to one Aj and jumped up and down to get soem spring and then landed on the Aj's Back "ahh Radaroc hav eyou ever mounted these things they are oddly riddin wouldent ya say??" Shaint looked like a kid that just got a lolli-pop

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Atrii followed Shaint into the stable that held a large amount of Aj. Atrii quickly found one that he liked and mounted onto it's back.

"These beasts are enormous. I've seen them a few times and still I am not used to how large they are." Atrii chuckled as he waited for the others to follow.

Entering through the courtyard, came the dwarf. Pulling his own wagon, with the mule totting along side him. It was quite a spectical for those who watched.

"...good for nothin, ugh... lazy beast argh..." Muttered the Dwarf as he pull'd the hefty load into the courtyard, the mule seemed to be laughing at him all the while.

Having heaved the burly wagon into the yard, with no cooperation from the mule, he saw a varied group of individuals. They were around a table and wore necklaces. A few had left togo to the stables, but otheres were aloof.

He stood there a bit, looking around for his costumer, the elf Shaint. His mule went about its way, walking to the stables for some food or somthing.

The Dwarf gave a sigh, and took a seat leaning aginst the wagon.

"HEY, any -o- ya' know where Shaint is? I got somthin for 'em!" he shouted to those who were still in the courtyard, and those who were within hearshot.

Sometimes I think that woman is crazy, always coming in my forge telling me when to come to dinner. I'm a grown Dwarve I know when to come to dinner...

Bobbo frowned. "No, that would not be for the best. May I point out that my old clothing has been identified by the Authorities. In this new outfit I am not my old self. You see, they would expect me to wear my beggar attire, however if I go about dressed as a lord, they will think I am just a passing lord going off on his own business. You see what I'm saying," said Bobbo, in reply to Oscar.

"And this greatly alarms me, Oscar, this person watching, for I fear he must be in league with the Authorities. We haven't much time as I'm sure we've been identified, " said Bobbo.

Bobbo's face was hard and serious. He seemed to be a different man at this point. He stood tall and regally, and his chin was held high, like a true lord. He seemed to be ready to get the job done and do it right. He looked nothing like the beggar that had hobbled into the Thirsty Herald not so long ago to beg for a job. He stood and looked like his father's son, a great leader of people. Robert Junakin stood looking ready to claim his birthright, and ready to fight to get it.

<!--EZCODE FONT START---<span style="color:"orange";">"I travel from north to south and from east to west and back again searching for my purpose in life. I cannot find it." <!--EZCODE ITALIC START---Bobbo the Beggar<!--EZCODE ITALIC END---</span><!--EZCODE FONT END---
www.angelfire.com/in3/keith30/canon.html Go here if you like music.

Keelin peeked inside the stables, trying to figure out what everyone was loking at. Here eyes widened at the sight of the Ajs. I hope they don't expect me to ride that... that... thing...

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

Gararion stood watching the action continue on its normal pace now.  Shaint had gone in and had returned from the tavern to take care of some business.

Soon after the men had begun to bring out the so called AJ's from within the stable.  Gararion was shocked that he had not noticed such large beast within the stables before when he went to ask the stable boy for a source of water.

Gararion watched the men seem to be surprised and shocked at the size of the beasts.  Though the female elf seemed a little doubtful in her own rights.  Gararion had different thoughts running through his head.

He would rather not ride a horse or any other smelly beast as it would restrict his movements and would add filth to his prized clothing under his plain black cloak.

He waited in the shadows and watched the events unfold...

Shaint sid from an Aj onto the ground "I'm Shaint What wish you with the likes of Me?" Shaint rested a hand on the end of the grip from his sword "Great Av'a another  elf Minden Dwarf"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Grakan saw the AJ's standing together and all of teh party approaching them cautiously.
"Ya' have to be bloody kiddin' me. By Urtengor there is no way I am gettin' on one of those things. I'd rather go by boat!" Grakan shuddered slightly at the thought of sailing.
Grakan approached Keelin, who was also looking apprehensive. "Ah' dont blame you missie. Horses are bad enough, but those things look like they are Khalkaroth himselfs personal steeds!"
Grakan looked in disgust at the beasts as another Dwarf approached them and asked for Shaint. Grakan approached this new Dwarf. "Well met." he said. "Grakan of the Ironhmammer clan," he nodded, making the sign of the hammer in the air as was customary. ((OOC it is now))
"What you be needin' Shaint for?"

---

"There is nothing so sure in the world as the glimmer of gold.

And the treachery of elves."

Atrii took his Aj out of the stable and viewed the crowd of people around him. He noticed Gararion in the shadows, Atrii walked towards him with his large companion.

"Hello Gararion. Quite large beasts wouldn't you say?" Atrii paused and saw the others with their Ajs."You should hurry and get yours before the better ones are taken and you are left with either a disobedient or weak one."

Oscar  Oscar listened to Lucirina's questions and then answered as best as he could. "An AJ m'lady is a beast of burden, it is large, and travels well in the desert.  On its back can be carried many things easily, including someone such as yourself.  The one I have in mind even has a soft covered chair of sorts that you and even m'lord here could ride together on if you wish, m'lord and m'lady.  As far as the Easchathe I will go and fetch it."

Oscar was going to turn and go when Bobo said that the Authorities would recoginze his beggars clothing and that being dressed as he was would be better.  Oscar thought about his reasoning and agreed "You are much wiser, than your years would suggest m'lord.  Yes, I understand and agree with your reasoning.  Now if you will excuse me I will go get the Eascathe."

Oscar walked out the door and ran into Shaint who mentioned it was time to go.  "Shaint, then go.  I will not be going with you.  I have other plans.  May Seyella be with you."

Oscar quickly went to his room, found the Eascathe, he spied something, smiled and grabbed them also, returned and gave it to Bobo.  "M'lord, I would do this but it would seem unseemly to touch m'lord's lady.  Just rub this ointment upon the bottoms of her feet, also here is a pair of Rubbits moccasins.  They are very soft inside, but wear well on the outside.  They should fit m'lady.  I will go downstairs and see to our rides.  I will see you in the stables as soon as you are finished."

Oscar went downstairs and outside.  Shaint's group had found their Aj's and some had mounted them.  The others, including Gararion and the young female elf Keelin seemed hesitant.  He smiled, walked to a young one, pulled her out and gave the reins to Keelin.  "Her name is Sandie, she is still a young Aj, and not quite as large, but she should fit your purposes well.  She likes to be petted upon her neck.  If you tug on her reins she will go down upon all fours, that way you can get on top of her more easily.  Once on top, just tug the reins up and she will rise.  Be careful though for it is a little bumpy as she rises.  But once she is risen, then you guide her with the reins, just like a horse.  

Good journey.  I had hoped to speak with you a little bit longer before you left but it seems we have run out of time.  Try and see if you can teach the others the rudimentary way of how you talk with your hands.  It could be of great help to communicate with one another without others knowing what you are saying.  If you know what I mean?"

Oscar went over to Shaint and a newcomer, a dwarf, Oscar became suspicious, too many unknowns around here. he thought.  Oscar handed back Shaint's cloak. " I will not be needing this Shaint.  But thank you for offering it.  If you have your party all together then I suggest you get moving.  The night is the coolest part of the day to ride.  Once the sun arises, the desert can be death.  Take care and good journey."

Oscar then clasped the hand of Shaint and went into the stables to prepare for his, Bobo's and Lucirina's journey.


Nahor  Nahor arrived at Bahar's encampment.  He was challenged by several guards who seemed to rise out of the desert himself.  Nahor gave the password and was let through.  The first thing Nahor noticed was that as soon as he entered the camp, the wind that had been blowing and was begining to pick up was non-existant.  He thought that curious, as one of the guards took his horse when he got down.  He looked around the encampment, there was a strange looking tent that was not there the last time he was here.  He stopped a guard.  "Where is commander Bahar?" he asked.  The guard pointed at the strange tent.  "He is in there talking with the Sorcerer."

"The sorcerer?" Nahor asked, "What sorcerer?"

"I know not.  He arrived today."

Nahor walked toward the tent. Sorcerer? There are no such people.  But what would he be doing here and why?

Nahor walked up to the entrance of the tent.  Standing before it were two strange men, no wait they were women!  What in Etherus's name are women doing here? Nahor thought as he walked up to them.  The women turned and held out their hands.  They were dressed all in red.  Nahor stopped. "I wish to speak with commander Bahar.  I have some important information to tell him.  I was told he was here."

A low husky voice answered.  "He is with the Master.  I shall go tell him that you wish his audience."  The one who spoke turned on her heel smartly and walked into the tent.  Shortly she came out.  "They are expecting you.  You may enter."

Nahor entered the tent.  It was brightly lit.  Bahar was sitting on some brightly covered cushions.  Sitting next to him was A'Spir, his second in command, they were both drinking some wine, but the person that commanded Nahor's attention was the one standing with his back to Nahor looking at a map of the desert.  He had long red hair that hang well below his shoulders, He wore a hooded blood red cloak trimmed in gold.  His pants were black as well as his thigh high boots which gleamed in the lamplight.  He turned and Nahor had to stop himself from gasping.  The hood covered the mans face but staring at him withing the darkness of the cloak were a pair of red malevolent eyes.  The looked liked the eyes of Coor himself.  The eyes of Death! Nahor thought.

Bahar casually waved to Nahor.  "Ah, my friend Nahor, may I introduce you to Malok Razier."  "Master this is Nahor, a master thief and spy sent to watch over the many varied towns and cities in Rahaz'Dath desert."

The man called Malok walked over, stared at him and held out a ringed left hand.  Nahor did not know what to do. He looked confused as he stood there staring at the hand.  The ring held a stone that was as clear as crystall, but within, seemingly trapped, was a flame that danced.  

The man scowled and pulled his hand away.  He lifted it up and suddenly Nahor's clothes were on fire.  He yelled and tried to beat the flames out.  But he could not, he dropped down to the ground and rolled, but they still could not be put out.  He stood up, and ran out of the tent rushing to the well in the middle of the encampment.  He could smell his flesh burning, as he tore his clothes off,  naked he jumped into the well of water.  Still the flames could not be quenched.  Nahor was terrified, he yelled more, the women stood there quietly and watched, the men turned their heads away.  Suddenly when Nahor thought he was going to die the flames stopped.  Before Nahor collapsed into oblivion he saw Bahar talking excitedly to the one called Malok.  Nahor heard a laugh that seemed to come from the depths of Coor's prison itself, and then unconsiousness over took him and he slipped into the water.  

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

Shaint nodded to oscar and equipped his Cape alogn with his Cloak "Lets go Gararion get an Aj Av'a will protect you" Shaint chuckled before returning his head to the new Dwarf "We must leave Grakan this dwarf seems speechless lets go" Shaint walked to his Aj and mounted it walking it over to Gararion,

speaking in Sty'rash "Gararion get an Aj my good friend there huge but not all that uncomfortable"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

He stood up and greeted Grakan, simply putting his fist to his chest and nodding his head a bit.

"Don Griffvander's meh name." He looked over to Shaint who was reaching for his sword. "By Thunder, Shaint, put yer butter knife away. You know me!" he grumbled.

Returning to Grakan, "Shaint placed an order with me a while back, a few weapons and armor" he taped the wagon. "I told 'em not to wait on 'em, seein' how I take my work seriously, but he paid me in advance..."

Don lifted a bit of the faded canvass that covered the wagon, exposing an assortment of blades glimmering in the light. "and you get what you pay for By Thunder! ><" he shouted to Shaint.

Steadily Don gazed about at everyone's actions. They were preparing to leave for some reason or another. He ruffled his black beard a bit, "Grakan..." he started to notice the Aj also, "...am I missing somthing here, I'd swear you all were preparin' for travle." Don also looked to Grakan's necklace. "...an' what's with the necklaces?"

Sometimes I think that woman is crazy, always coming in my forge telling me when to come to dinner. I'm a grown Dwarve I know when to come to dinner...

Radaroc heaved his pack up on Derm's back.  "No, sadly not.  I just have a way with animals, I guess.  I saw a few wild ones in the distance on my way to the tavern but I would say," he grunted as he swung himself upon Derm, "that it is much like riding a very large horse."  Radaroc grinned as Derm began to shift about.  He turned his head and saw that the pack was on badly and adjusted it.  "Where will we be riding today."  

In the begining I was weak.  Now I have purpose stay me from my path and the Gods themselves cannot save you.

Keelin took the reins Oscar handed her a little doubtfully.

"Her name is Sandie, she is still a young Aj, and not quite as large, but she should fit your purposes well. She likes to be petted upon her neck. If you tug on her reins she will go down upon all fours, that way you can get on top of her more easily. Once on top, just tug the reins up and she will rise. Be careful though for it is a little bumpy as she rises. But once she is risen, then you guide her with the reins, just like a horse."

Well,  might as well try it. She tugged the reins and the Aj obdiently knelt down. Pleased with her sucess, Keelin grinned and climbed up. She tugged the reins again and the Aj suddenly straightened out it's legs, jolting Keelin foward and causing her to throw her arms about the beast's neck as it finished it's rise. Eyes wide, Keelin waited until she was quite sure the Aj wasn't going to move unexpectedly before straightening up and taking a proper riding position.

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

Gararion decides it would be best to follow the actions of the others.

He moves over to the stables and obtains himself a beast like the others.  

He looks at it, being the first time he has ever been so close to such a beast.

Preparing his clothes in a manner to keep them the cleanest possible while riding this beast.  Gararion mounted the animal and waited for the others.

"Don Griffvander's meh name." The Dwarf replyed looking over to Shaint who was reaching for his sword. "By Thunder, Shaint, put yer butter knife away. You know me!" he grumbled.
Grakan laughed shortly as Don turned back to Grakan. "Shaint placed an order with me a while back, a few weapons and armor" he tapped his wagon. "I told 'em not to wait on 'em, seein' how I take my work seriously, but he paid me in advance..."
Grakan looked in interest as Don pulled back the canvas to reveal numorous gleaming weapons.
"Thumpin' good weapons you got ther'" Grakan complimented. "Dwarven made?"
Don then started to gaze around at everyone mountin the AJ's.
"Grakan..." he started, "...am I missing somthing here, I'd swear you all were preparin' for travel."
Don also looked at Grakan's necklace. "...an' what's with the necklaces?"
"Yer we are. Some of us are protecting this group goin' ta Strata. Well jus' me and Radorac over ther'." Grakan motioned to the troll. "I dunno what the deal is with the others. They're all got some sort of task ter do..."
Grakan looked down at the pendant.
"As fer these..." Grakan shrugged. "I dunno, Shaint jus offered this bag 'round and told us to pick them out and put 'em on. It's good quality mythril though."

Grakan watched Keelin mount one of the Aj's and sighed. "Ah best get one of these beasts tho. Knowing my luck I'll pick one that has the attitude of a Dragoness. And I should know what they 're like. I fought one. I won though... shame really... would have been a fine death."
Grakan wandered over to one of the Aj's and took hold of its reins. The Aj looked at the Dwarf curiously as it stooped down. "Come on nah, dont be a bugger."
The Aj made an odd noise, something Grakan swore was a laugh and licked his face. Grakan flushed bright red and looked around to see if anyone was looking at him.
"Well yer'll do I 'spose." he muttered and patted it on the head.

((OOC can a couple of you make sure you do see him get licked ))

---

"There is nothing so sure in the world as the glimmer of gold.

And the treachery of elves."

Shaints eyes saw Grakan the dwarf get licked by an Aj...and he was....Blushing........ Shaint Laughed extremly hard at Grakan "Grakan My Good Man Your Blushing!!" Shaints out of his clumseyness fell off his aj and onto the ground with a lounf THUD! "ugh....Ouch........"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Atrii sat upon his Aj as he saw Shaint burst into laughter after an Aj had licked Grakan. Shaint slipped off of the Aj and fell to the ground with a loud THUD!
Atrii then burst out in laughter. He leapt down from his Aj and helped Shaint to his feet.
"Are you alright there Shaint my good friend?" Atrii asked Shaint, still laughing.

"Yer we are. Some of us are protecting this group goin' ta Strata. Well jus' me and Radorac over ther'." Grakan motioned to the troll. "I dunno what the deal is with the others. They're all got some sort of task ter do..."


"Hmm, Strata ya say.." trailed off Don.

Grakan watched Keelin mount one of the Aj's and sighed. "Ah best get one of these beasts tho. Knowing my luck I'll pick one that has the attitude of a Dragoness. And I should know what they 're like. I fought one. I won though... shame really... would have been a fine death."

Don nodded a bit, relizing a bit that Grakan matched his appearence in being a hardened fighter. Which made it all the more amusing when his face flushed red. Apperently Shaint also saw this, as he laughed himself of his mount.

"Ooo, you ok there...?" Don grimiced. He saw one of the others help him up to his feet.

"So you're delivering other supplies to Strata? or just weapons?" asked Don, still curious.

"Grakan My Good Man Your Blushing!!"  the shout came from behind, and Grakan turned to see Shaint laughing in his saddle. Grakan glared at the Elf, his mohican quivering, his grip tighting on the Elf.
He looked distinctily satisfied when the Elf promptly fell of his Aj.
"Ooo, you ok there...?" Don asked wincing as Grakan watched the one called Atrii help him to his feet.

"So you're delivering other supplies to Strata? or just weapons?" asked Don, still curious.
"I couldn't be sherr', bu Ah think they're collecting stuff fer the Barkeep. Who knows really? But if there's killin's to be 'ad then Ah'm happy. 'oo know's Ah might get a couple of free ales out of it. This Oscar makes some fine beer."
Grakan nodded and awkwardly mounted the Aj which stood up quickly. Grakan shook and gripped on for dear life. "Dammed mule!" Grakan cursed under his breath.
"Ah'd ask yer to come with us, but yer see, it aint m'ah expedition." Grakan told Don, some 2 peds up from where he was thirty seconds ago.

---

"There is nothing so sure in the world as the glimmer of gold.

And the treachery of elves."

"I couldn't be sherr', bu Ah think they're collecting stuff fer the Barkeep. Who knows really? But if there's killin's to be 'ad then Ah'm happy. 'oo know's Ah might get a couple of free ales out of it. This Oscar makes some fine beer."
Grakan nodded and awkwardly mounted the Aj which stood up quickly. Grakan shook and gripped on for dear life. "Dammed mule!" Grakan cursed under his breath.
"Ah'd ask yer to come with us, but yer see, it aint m'ah expedition." Grakan told Don, some 2 peds up from where he was thirty seconds ago.


"Bah, s'ok. I'm not much of the fightin type anyways. Just a Smith," Don taped the wagon a bit, "I made these here, quality unmatched..." He grined proudly. "Say where do you want all this, Shaint?"

Sometimes I think that woman is crazy, always coming in my forge telling me when to come to dinner. I'm a grown Dwarve I know when to come to dinner...

Bobbo nodded to Oscar and knelt at Lucirina's feet. He unwrapped the bandage and opened the ointment. He spread a thin layer over her feet. He rebandaged the feet quickly and deftly. He slipped the mocasins on Lucirina's feet, noticing they were really soft indeed.

He rose to his feet quickly and said to Lucirina, "We must be on our way. If you would like, I can carry you to the stables."

Bobbo was serious, but there was a flame of love in his eyes. It was obvious that he felt a deep love for Lucirina.

"I travel from north to south and from east to west and back again searching for my purpose in life. I cannot find it." Bobbo the Beggarwww.angelfire.com/in3/keith30/canon.html Go here if you like music.

Radaroc looked back to the rest of the party, some of whom had collapsed with laughter.  He dismounted and walked over to Shaint,  "You alright there," he said softly nudging him with a great foot, "I suggest we move as soon as the last two of our party come out.  I believe too many people know of this trip, each one more is another possible weak link.    Before whoever was watching us can get back their master and tell them our position.  However," he added grimly,  "you lead and your's is the final call."

In the begining I was weak.  Now I have purpose stay me from my path and the Gods themselves cannot save you.

Edited by: Radaroc at: 12/12/02 12:47:31 am

Lucirina watched as Bobbo too care of her feet. The cooling feeling of the oinment on her wounds and the soft new bandages helped easing the pain in her feet.
As he slipped the mocasines on her feet she frowned slightly, she lost contact with the ground and felt quite insecure as she scrambled herself to her feet.
"We must be on our way. If you would like, I can carry you to the stables." She heard Bobbo say and nodded slowly, she knew that even with the bandages and mocasines she would walk quite slowly.

One thinks that is a good idea.

She placed a hand on his shoulder and nodded once more, indicating she was ready when he was, her own green eyes shining softly as she looked at him, her love for him showing as clearly as his love for her.

Edited by: Lucirina Telor Vevan at: 12/11/02 3:24:51 am

"Grakan My Good Man Your Blushing!!" Shaints out of his clumseyness fell off his aj and onto the ground with a lounf THUD! "ugh....Ouch........"

Keelin giggled silently and let go of the reins for a moment. Her mount tossed it's head and Keelin threw her arms around it's neck again in an effort to stay mounted and not slip off. Okay, so maybe I'm not that good at this either...

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

Gararion watched all the other members fumble with there AJ's and he looked at his own.  He spoke in Styrash to the AJ.

"By the will of Ava don't try it.  If you want a friendly rider than provide me with a friendly ride."

Gararion hoped that this would work.

Atrii say some of the other group members struggling with their Ajs. One was a female elf, she had her arms wrapped around the Ajs neck.
He also saw others having troubles with theirs.

He walked to his Aj and whispered into his ear."You better not give me any trouble, or I will make this ride your last."

Shaint Still laughing a little bit Got Up from the ground and dusted himsef off "Ok Funs over,We better get on our way and Grakan Btter not Blush Again" Shaint got back on his Aj looking around seeing Keelin struggling as if for dear life he turned his Aj to face her and walked over to her's slowly "Uhmm.....Keelin I belive it is Correct?,If your not that comfortable with riding that Aj you Can ride with me if you wish"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Nahor Nahor slowly, painfully opened his eyes.  He thought for sure he would be looking into Queprur's, the goddess of Death, eyes but he did not.  He was looking at the dark glittering eyes of one of Malok's women guards.

"He is awake m'lord," she said to an unseen presence.

He heard that dark voice speak, it sent chills up and down his spine.  Then he saw the pudgy face of his Commander in his vision.  "Glad you survived that little ordeal.  The Master only allows one indiscretion per person."

"Water, I would like some water."

A flask of water was put to his dry, parched lips and a slow trickle of the life saving fluid flowed into his throat.  He rose slowly, looking at his body expecting to see them all bandaged, and burned.  But he was perfectly fine.  "What in Coor's name happened?  And why in Coor's name was I treated like that?"  He became angry and looked around and saw Malok; standing, staring at him with those red eyes, still hooded.

Nahor moved quickly and faster than an eye could blink, twin razor sharp blades of thin throwing knives shot out of his hands heading toward Malok's heart.  Malok did not even move and what seemed like an eternity the knives flew to their target, they incinerated right before Nahor's eyes.  Nahor could not believe it.  He was still trying to comprehend it when he flelt knives at his throat.  Nahor prepared himself for death.

"Bahar the man is as you say, fearless.  Yet he is also a fool.  You would have thought that he would have learned his lesson."

Bahar looked at Nahor.  "What are you thinking?  It took all I had to keep him from killing you and now you try and and kill him.  Do you not know who this is?"

"No, I do not, and I do not care.  If he is going to kill me, then so be it.  I figured my life was spared by Seyella to give me one last chance to kill this person who attacked me without provocation.  I failed.  I am prepared to face death.  But I will not cower to anyone."

"No," the dark voice said. "You will, you will.  For everyone who meets the Lord the Red Druids bows down and gives respect or dies."

Lord of the Red Druids?  What kind of balderdash is that? Nahor thought.  "I give respect to whom respect is due. I do not give it to one who attacks me for no reason."

"Reasons?  I do not need reasons.  However just this once.  Reason number one, you did not pay proper respect to me. I offered my hand and you refused obesience to me.  Reason two, you were going to hide a certain fact from your commander.  I could go on..."

Nahor did not know how he knew, but somehow this person knew he was not going to tell his commander that he had been spotted.  Still Nahor was stubborn.  "How do I pay respect to someone I do not know, or their customs?"  He tried to circumvent the other queston.

"You pay respect by kissing my hand that was offered to you."

Malok walked, glided over to Nahor and again offered his hand. Nahor hesitated, then kneeled and kissed the ringed hand, he rose and faced the hooded figure.  "Now, tell the commander what you were going to tell him."

Nahor swallowed hard. "Commander a group of mixed races are leaving the Herald.  They have within a Troll, so as not to confuse them with other traders.  What seemed suspicious to me sir, was that it was after 24 bells when this was occuring."  He stopped.  Malok turned to look at him.  Nahor quickly replied.  "And also when I was spotted, by whom I do not know or by what means, I also do not know.  I thought it best to come and report to you.  Lord Troas has always had suspicions about the Herald and it would seem that his suspions have been confirmed."

Bahar listened.  "That may be Nahor, or it could have just been a trading party with a smart leader, who knew it is best to ride the desert at night.  However... I will send a patrol with you and we shall see."

"I have taken care of that myself Bahar.  Your patrol can go pick up the pieces.  If this party is working for the Resistance, they will not be for long."  Malok laughed as he walked out of the tent.  His female guards followed him without a word.  Nahor stared at his Commander, his eyes asking, begging for some information.

"Now is not the time.  Eat, drink, rest.  You leave in the morning with the patrol.  I will try and come back later tonight and try to answer your questions, cousin."

"I want answers now!"

"No, I said later and I mean later.  The Master wants me and I must obey."  Bahar left the tent leaving Nahor in a confused rage.

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

Bobbo nodded to Lucirina and quickly swept her off her feet into his arms. She was not very heavy, especially since Bobbo was quite strong, having such hardships in his life as he had. Bobbo's only concern was that Lucirina would feel strange having his handless arm on her shoulderblades. However, this was quickly dashed when he came to the conclusion that Lucirina loved him enough not to mind.

Bobbo picked up Lucirina's things and handed them to her. "Hold these, please, love," said Bobbo, tenderly.

Bobbo began to walk out of the room at a surprisingly fast pace, considering the added weight of the saddlebags, Lucirina, and Lucirina's things. Bobbo smiled at Lucirina as he began to slowly descend the steps, this being the hazardous part of his walk. He made it down the steps well, however, and quickly crossed the barroom to the exit.

Bobbo's pace was obviously slowed by the sandy ground of the desert. However he made it to the stable in fairly good time. He sat Lucirina down on a bench and waited for Oscar, setting the heavily burdened in gold saddlebags beside her.

Bobbo turned to Lucirina and said, "I hope you do not feel like myself and Oscar are forcing you into the cause of the true heir of Strata. This is your own choice, right?"

Bobbo had not realized this before, but Lucirina had no obvious reason to fight with the rebellion, besides perhaps her love for him. He was overly concerned with Lucirina's safety, especially after this person had been spotted spying on the tavern.

"I travel from north to south and from east to west and back again searching for my purpose in life. I cannot find it." Bobbo the Beggarwww.angelfire.com/in3/keith30/canon.html Go here if you like music.

Atrii rode his Aj over to where Shaint was, mounted on his Aj speaking with the elf named Keelin.
"I hope we plan to leave soon Shaint. This is starting to feel more unsafe every minute that we delay."

"Uhmm.....Keelin I belive it is Correct?,If your not that comfortable with riding that Aj you Can ride with me if you wish"

Keelin blushed and straightened out. Quickly making a few gestures to show that that wouldn't be nescisary (sp?). Gods, I must look a proper fool...

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

Shaint nodded to Atrii assuringly Sticking a Index and pinkey finger in his mouth whistling loundly "Allright! Lets Get a Move out We Have Supplies to Recieve And Deliver!!" Shaint trotted his Aj over to the beginning of the road away from the Thirsty herald waiting for everyone to follow

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Atrii smiled slightly as Shaint trotted away on his Aj. He looked back to Keelin as she got control of her Aj.

"You ok their?" he asked Keelin as he patted the Aj, settling the beast down a bit."Quite large aren't they," Atrii stated as he continued to pat the Ajs head."Best get going though, Shaint is already heading away. Lady's first, my name is Atrii. I heard you are named Keelin, am I correct?"

Lucirina is swep into Bobbo's arms and feels strangly confortable there, and she does indeed not seem to notice him lacking a hand, or she dosn't care at all.
"Hold these, please, love,"  Bobbo said to her and with a nod she placed the heavy saddle bacgs in her lap and held on to them.
She was amazed over how easily he carried her and his things, as if they didn't weight anything at all.
As he moved down the stair she was a little nervous, but she smiled warmly at him as they reached the bottom of the staircase.
As he seated her on the bench she handed him the saddlebags that he put down beside her.
"I hope you do not feel like myself and Oscar are forcing you into the cause of the true heir of Strata. This is your own choice, right?"
Lucirina nodded and smiled reasuringly at him.

One is joining this cause of Ones own free will. If one didn't want to be here One would just be on One's way once more.

She tilts her head, her chesnut hair lifting slightly in the soft breeze blowing over the desert framing her face quite nicely.

And if One has not left it is for a simple yet powerful reason. One loves you Robert, loves you with all One's heart.

She smiled at him once more, her emerald eyes seeking his for a second before she lowers them into her lap, blushing slightly.

Shaint looked down and back to Don "hmm.....I remember now...DON!! hah hmm Don Your strong....get an Aj you can welcome us on this journey" Shaint pulled a Necklace from the bag oddly enough there was one left he tossed it To Don "Welcome to The Escort"

Bobbo smiled at Lucirina. "I love you as well. I am glad that you are here with me," he said to her.

Bobbo began to pace slightly without realizing it. "Where is Oscar?" he asked to no one in particular, though it could have been to Lucirina.

"I travel from north to south and from east to west and back again searching for my purpose in life. I cannot find it." Bobbo the Beggarwww.angelfire.com/in3/keith30/canon.html Go here if you like music.

Gararion waited on top of his Aj.  He waited in the shados once more.

As he saw the others begin to move out, Gararion started on his way.  He moved out to the road beside Shaint.

"I assume we are heading out.  DO you wish me to fall in at some certain position?"

Gararion waited for the answer from Shaint.

Shaint looked to Gararion "gararion you can ride next to me if you wish it doesent matter to me as long as you are in the group that is all that matters, I would like to put radaroc on one side and the two dwarfs on the other for defence but if they dont want to so be it"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Hearing Shaint talk of positions in the troupe  Radaroc moved to one side of the party.  "Well," he thought to himself, "if I'm going to protect these guys then better make it defensible."  "Alright buckos, lets try to keep a close formation.  We don't want to get split up in a sandstorm or something.  Also make sure you keep enough room to swing your weopon and not whack the leg off of the person next to you.  Lastly if you don't think you can fight or gonna be using magic or a bow stay closer to the middle so you can aim." Radaroc looked around to see if anyone would follow his and Shaint's suggestions,  

In the begining I was weak.  Now I have purpose stay me from my path and the Gods themselves cannot save you.

Edited by: Radaroc at: 12/15/02 6:27:08 am

Shaint turned hsi head to Radaroc and just simply nodded firmly now starting to get serious he pulled a pair of gauntlets from under his cape fitting them on they had a White colored Tapeing that wrapped around his wrist up to about the bottom of his forearm with a silver plateing on the backhand which would un-doubtfully leave a hard impact of force from a punch

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Shaint looked down and back to Don "hmm.....I remember now...DON!! hah hmm Don Your strong....get an Aj you can welcome us on this journey" Shaint pulled a Necklace from the bag oddly enough there was one left he tossed it To Don "Welcome to The Escort"

He caught the necklace, sure enough it held an anvil on its face. A smithing hammer lay across it, with a shimmer of a lit furnace in the backround. He wore it around his neck, "Nice, very nice," he said gingerly.

He went into the stables, and wasn't shocked at the Aj's size at all. All those years he spent travling, he had rode by Aj before, and knew how to mount one.

In selecting of the few remaining Aj's he came back to the wagon, which seemed small and light compared to the animal. It took a while but Don managed to harness the little wagon with the Aj. And all was ready as he listened to the formation orders.

"I would get in the way, asfar's fightin goes, I'll keep to the inside with the other supplies. " Don suggested.

Sometimes I think that woman is crazy, always coming in my forge telling me when to come to dinner. I'm a grown Dwarve I know when to come to dinner...

"You ok their?" he asked Keelin as he patted the Aj, settling the beast down a bit."Quite large aren't they," Atrii stated as he continued to pat the Ajs head."Best get going though, Shaint is already heading away. Lady's first, my name is Atrii. I heard you are named Keelin, am I correct?"

Keelin nodded yes to both questions. She signed Pleased to meet you, but doubted Atrii understood.

"Alright buckos, lets try to keep a close formation. We don't want to get split up in a sandstorm or something. Also make sure you keep enough room to swing your weopon and not whack the leg off of the person next to you. Lastly if you don't think you can fight or gonna be using magic or a bow stay closer to the middle so you can aim."

Keelin nods in agreement with this and glances at the other. She gives her Aj a touch of heel to get it moving and puts herself in a postion to the left near the rear of the "formation". She turned looked out into the dark desert night and pulled the long sleeves of her tunic down over her fingers.

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

So she is a mute... never seen one before.

Atrii trotted along on his Aj and assumed his position in the formation of Ajs, beside Keelin.

"I never you knew were a mute Keelin. Unfortunately I do not understand sign, by the end of this adventure let's hope I know something new." Atrii smiled politely at Keelin as he continued to follow the rest of the group.

Edited by: Atrii Redwood at: 12/13/02 1:58:17 pm

Oscar Oscar came walking out from Ham's room and saw Bobo and Lucirina waiting for him.  He smiled. "Sorry m'lord.  I did not think that you would be down so fast."  Oscar looked at Lucirina's feet.  "And m'lady, how are your feet?  Are the moccasins soft enough for you?"

All the while Oscar was talking he was preparing the two AJ's for travel.  He tied securely a cushioned chair large enough to hold both Bobo and Luci.  Then he tugged on the reins and the AJ went down on all fours.  "You can mount him now.  M'lord after you and m'lady are set, then tug on the reins and he will rise.  It will be a little bumpy at first, but then you should be fine."

Oscar turned to his own mount.


Within the Sandstorm The largest Sephet hid his army of Sephets with the blanket of sand that their Master Malok had conjured up.  The promise of fresh human meat made them all lick their poisoned teeth.  He looked back, there were only six of them besides himself, but that should be enough, even if three of them were of his lesser kind.  He used his mental powers to track his way across the desert and to their prey.  The Master had sent him a mental message to be on the lookout for a band of travelers with a troll.  He licked his teeth once more. Trolls are big, huge dumb creatures, but they taste good. His anticipation grew as the storm grew in intensity hiding them even more.

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

Lucirina looked down at her feet and then at Oscar, she didn't want him to think her ungrateful so she smiled softly and nodded.

One did not know that using foot wear would be this pleasant.

A white lie of course, she felt akward as her contact with the ground was broken, yet she put up a happy face as she slowly got to her feet and wobbled over to the Aj, every step feeling like she was going to loose balance.
She grabbed hold to the chair and slowly pulled herself into it sideways, then she realized that she would glide off if she sat like this, and the fall would not be pleasant.
Blushing deep red she scooted herself so she was now stradling the animal, her dress riding up and showing her leg to her mid tigh, she lowerd her head in embarassment and waited for Bobbo to mount, hoping he didn't think badly of her for explosing herself in such a way.  

"I never you knew were a mute Keelin. Unfortunately I do not understand sign, by the end of this adventure let's hope I know something new."

Keelin nodded and grinned back. This was going to be interesting, only one person in the entire group could understand her, and he was a dwarf! Keelin suddenly had an awful thought. If anything comes up behind us, I can't call out! Keelin frowned and pondered this for a moment. Suddenly she grinned, she had found the answer. I can whistle. Whistling has nothing to do with vocal chords.  

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

Raoneth jumped when he realized everyone was gone.
Are they gone? They can't have gone without me...
He launched himself off the bench and started to walk with determined steps towards the door out from the tavern.
Of course they could... It's not like I'm the most useful member of the escort.
He pushed the door open and, sure enough, there they were gathered about a couple of gigantic beasts with long necs. Raoneth had seen them once before and shuddered, as he did now. What's the point of having all these huge things about... Wasting space.
He was feeling particularily rotten today as he'd been spending the last couple of weeks trying to remember his childhood. He had found out that sitting down and trying really hard to remember something was just an efficient way of running out of money...
He needed the money he would get from this trip.
He started running towards the people, "Hey, Shaint, uh, I'm going along too, aren't I."
He stopped right by Shaint's Aj, "Or... er... aren't I?"

Edited by: Raoneth  at: 12/14/02 8:48:54 pm

Oscar watched Lucirina climb the Aj and then noticed her embarrasement about having to straddle the beast and showing her legs.  He grabbed a light soft blanket, handed it to her.  "With your permission m'lord?"  "Here m'lady this should cover you and keep the sand from rubbing you raw."

Oscar then fixed his pack to his AJ.  He then stood waiting for Bobo to mount his Aj, for to Oscar mounting his before a lord, would be tantamount to treason.

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

Bobbo was much surprised at the sheer size of the Aj. He quickly mounted the Aj beside Lucirina, not saying a word about her legs as not to embarrass her further. He grabbed ahold of the reins and gave them a slight tug. The huge animal rose from its kneeling position and appeared ready to travel. Just to be safe, Bobbo put his arm around Lucirina's shoulders to hold her in the saddle as the animal rose.

Bobbo looked at Oscar in a way that seemed to say, "Please mount and we shall be off."

"I travel from north to south and from east to west and back again searching for my purpose in life. I cannot find it." Bobbo the Beggarwww.angelfire.com/in3/keith30/canon.html Go here if you like music.

Oscar watched Bobo mount his AJ and then mounted his own, carefully ducking his head so as not to touch the roof of the stables he led the way out.  He noticed that Shaint and party were heading out also, but they were heading south, Oscar led Bobo and Luci North.

It was not too long after they left the safety of the small village wherein the Thirsty Herald resided that Oscar noticed the wind picking up and growing in intensity.  He looked back at Bobo and Luci, and with miming motions signaled to them that they should wrap their mouths and nose with a cloth.

Oscar had been in the desert long enough to know that these desert storms could pack a wallop and if the wind was it could make a sand pebble feel like broken glass whipping through you.  Oscar kind of felt good about the storm, it would hide any tracks made by them or Shaints party.  Usually these storms only lasted a few hours.  If it got too bad, they could always put the AJ's down and huddle between them.  The large bodies of the AJ's would afford complete protection as long as the storm did not last too long.

He continued to lead them north.

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

The large troll on his larger mount looked over to Shaint, "Are we gonna be heading out soon.  I feel we need to get a move on."  Radaroc looked out into the desert, "Hmmm..." he thought, "winds pickin' up."

Raoneth looked up at the elf again, frowning.
Elves. Big fancy ears, but no hearing.
Still, he really didn't feel like raising his voice again, so he waited.

Shaint deftenatly heard Raoneth but he knew it bugged him  to not respond......then laughed and looked down to Raoneth "haha yes Raoneth you can come get up here friend" Shaint extended his sword down to the ground for Raoneth to climb

Then looking to Radaroc "yes we are leaving the other members of this party are choosing to be slowly......"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Gararion looked in the direction of where Shaint spoke to.  At first he saw nothing then he looked lower to where Shaint lowered his sword and saw the figure now.

It was a small brownie.  It had been a long time since he had seen a brownie.  He had only seen them in his early days at Ximax.

Gararion prepared himself for the journey, he then slowly began heading away from the tavern....at a slow pace as to give hint that they were leaving.

Shaint laughed "haha yes Raoneth you can come get up here friend", then he put his sword down for Raoneth to climb.
He wants me to climb that? It might be sharp!
"Thanks" he said and tucked the sword in the thick wool of his cloak before attempting to climb. Finally up, he settled himself and started looking out to the desert.

"We're all here, then?
I think we should be prepared for the worst..."
There seemed like it might get windy, he wrapped his cloak tightly around himself.

Shaint watched gararion ride up closer to him and he smiled at him "Gararion, this is Raoneth he is a long time friend i met when i found the tavern you have seen a brownie right??"

Shaint  turned his head to face raoneth slightly "raoneth why don tyou ride infront of me so if you fall off.....wich would be dreadull in itself but so i can get off to pick you up if you where behind me the chances of me hearing you through the sand and whatnot would be to many for av'a to count"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Gararion halted as Shaint spoke to him.  Gararion was now in front of Shaint as he was heading away from the tavern.  He looked back at Shaint and Raoneth.

"Yes Shaint I have seen a brownie before.  I have always been interested in their powers with life magic.  I saw one a long time ago during my early years at Ximax."

Gararion nodded at the brownie as he motioned his AJ to continue to move away from the tavern.

Shaint nodded befor elooking back "Anyone folow us unless your not going" Shaint moved a hand to Raoneth to move him from the back of the horse to the front before jotting off with Gararion from the tavern

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Shaint turned to another elf and, sort of introduced him to Raoneth.
"Gararion, this is Raoneth he is a long time friend i met when i found the tavern you have seen a brownie right??"
another elf... There seems to be four, maybe five elves here.
"Yes Shaint I have seen a brownie before. I have always been interested in their powers with life magic. I saw one a long time ago during my early years at Ximax." Gararion nodded to him. He had on a thick, black cloak.
I guess it's true that nights in the desert are cold. He doesn't exactly look stupid.
A bit more interested, Raoneth looked up at Gararion, "You use magic yourself, then? Um, what kind?"
Before Gararion could answer Shaint shot in, "raoneth why don tyou ride infront of me so if you fall off.....wich would be dreadull in itself but so i can get off to pick you up if you where behind me the chances of me hearing you through the sand and whatnot would be to many for av'a to count"
He gestured to lift Raoneth to the front, raoneth lifted his arms and Shaint quickly moved him to the front before he looked back "Anyone follow us unless your not going"
As they started moving, Raoneth turned back to Gararion.

Edited by: Raoneth  at: 12/18/02 3:14:15 pm

Gararion looked at the small brownie named Raoneth.  "You use magic yourself, then? Um, what kind?", he had said to Gararion.

Gararion looked at Raoneth this time longer, he now felt a sense of magic within the little brownie...though it wasn't the usual life magic brownies often trained in.  The brownie had a essence of the wind about him, though it seemed that it was an untrained skill the little one had.

Gararion looked back toward Raoneth as his AJ continued to move forward.

"For such a little guy you have a large curiousity Raoneth." Gararion smiled for a second then continued.  "I am trained in the emelment of wind.  I have been trained by some of the most powerful mages at Ximax.  I now serve as a apprentice to a archmagus at Ximax and during my spare time train the new students of Ximax in the se of magic."

Gararion paused for a moment then continued.

"You seem to have a certian magical essence aout yourself Raoneth...though it seems to be an untrained skill."

Gararion stopped here and waited for his response.

Atrii looked around at the surrounding, trees surrounded them. He didn't feel secure, especially being closer to the back. He could be easily ambushed and that would be the end of him.

"This doesn't feel safe here, wouldn't you agree Keelin?"

He noticed the bushes move slightly then a small critter emerged with a nut, it looked at Atrii then scurried back into the brush.

Oscar and party left the oil lamp gate of the little village far behind heading north.  The wind had picked up considerably and was blowing East to West.  The sand pounded against Oscars legs.  He looked back at Bobo and Luci hoping they were all right.  Oscar had taken this trip so many times before he could do it in his sleep.  He did not worry about getting lost.

He looked up and even through the blowing sand he could see the shapes of the towers of the place they were going. We should reach it by sunrise, Oscar thought.  The towers of Thalambath.

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

"This doesn't feel safe here, wouldn't you agree Keelin?"

It's just common sense, put the fighters you can afford to lose in the back. Keelin cocked her head at him and signed, You may want to move closer to the front. You are our only archer after all, and you can't hardly hit anything from back here anyways.  

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

Shaint caught the hand movements of Keelin Shaint didnt know sign...well......good anyway but what he did know where basic directions such as North and such Shaint and Gararion where allready pretty far's away from the dwarves with atrii and keelin behind them,
"Atrii get a better posistion your not supposed to be in the back" Shaint motioned wiht his head to the open space to his left wich would make the formation of Atrii,Shaint,Gararion

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Atrii looked at Keelin as she signed a message to him. He picked up bits of it, he picked up that he should move to the front, he is the only archer.

"Well if the back is where I was put, the back is where I will stay. I'm better with my sword than my bow anyways."

Radaroc urged Derm to get moving with the rest of the group, Well, at least we're moving but I can't shake that feeling that something ain't right...  The party was moving steadly onward in a loose formation, "We better try to cover as much ground as possible while it's dark.  Being out in the sun would be murder.  Also the winds pickin' up.  Huh, how 'bout that." he commented as the wind swirled his cload around him.

Don sat there with the two Aj's and the train of supplies. He did a good, if not, at least a decent job of keeping things still and silent. So no clanging of the supplies would reach unwanted ears. But somthing was off, the tension in the Aj's was a bit weird as the wind steadily blew.

Being in the center, he could see everyone about him. But for now he just limited himself to easing the beasts, and tending to the cargo.

Sometimes I think that woman is crazy, always coming in my forge telling me when to come to dinner. I'm a grown Dwarve I know when to come to dinner...

"Well if the back is where I was put, the back is where I will stay. I'm better with my sword than my bow anyways."

Keelin shrugged.

"Atrii get a better posistion your not supposed to be in the back"

I think Shaint wants you up front, she signed at him. Suspecting that it hadn't worked well she pointed at Shaint and then gestured toward the front of the group.

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

Lucirina had wrapped the blanket around her legs but even then she could feel the rasping of the flying sand grains. With one of her hands she held the sleeve of her dress over her nose and mouth and with the other she held on to the saddle.

"This is horrible. One never knew that there could be blizzards of sand, it is almost worse than snow blizzards, and One can't see either."

It was quite true, she had discovered long ago that the grains of sand hurt when they entered her eyes so she had shut them firmly, now depending only on her other senses, feeling very vulnerable, dizzy from the movements of the Aj and scared.
The wood elf had never before been in such a sandstorm, being from the far north had her acostumed to snow blizzards, those she could handle, but having the air filled with sand that rasped against her skin was something she didn't know how to handle.
The only thing that kept her from panicking was the feeling of Bobbo sitting behind her, his warmth giving her the strnght she needed to hold onto the saddle.
She prayed to Avá for the storm to be over soon, her lips moving softly behind the fabric of her sleeve.

Gararion studied Raoneth with a puzled look on his face, then he smiled "For such a little guy you have a large curiousity Raoneth." . "I am trained in the emelment of wind. I have been trained by some of the most powerful mages at Ximax. I now serve as a apprentice to a archmagus at Ximax and during my spare time train the new students of Ximax in the use of magic."
He continued more seriously, sounding like he was used to saying it.
I suppose this "Ximax" place is a place one should be proud of being a part of...
"You seem to have a certian magical essence aout yourself Raoneth...though it seems to be an untrained skill."
Raoneth was surprised by this comment, "well, uh, I'm not sure what you mean... umph" The Aj moved in a way that was not meant for passengers "I've been trained since birth... I'm not very powerful, though."
He shuddered, This place is getting cold... And then there's this feeling I seem to get all the time.
"I think it might be an idea to keep a bit more quiet... Perhaps... well... put out whatever lights we have, or something."

The sand storm was intense all around the Sephets and Skrill, the leader along with his others were in the middle.  Here it was like a calm night.  But Skrill did not gaze longingly at the night stars his gaze and senses were focused on the party of AJ's moving across the desert.  They seemed to be straggling all over the place.  But Skrill was not that great of a tactition.  All he and his kind knew were to just kill!!!

They were still too far away to attack but they were coming closer and the sand storm hid their existence.

He looked back and could see that his fellow demons were ready.  Their skins tough, their multiple arms, he had six himself on each side, each brandishing a weapon.  Though most of them did not carry weapons as they were relying upon their superior strength and their poison which could incapacitate anything from as far as 9 peds away.  Then it was just a matter of killing their prey and eating them.

Skrill had magical mental powers that he could also use, as did the others, at varying degrees.  So he had no worries as to the outcome of this battle.  These puny races of men, elves, dwarfs and even trolls are no match for us demons.  We are the ones who should rule.  but then he thought of  Malok, that was a human who could banish him and his fellow demons back to the Netherworld from which they came from with a single thought.  There was a human who had power.  

It did not occur to him that there were other humans who had power also.  For since the last days of the War of the Chosen when he and his kind were banished back to the Netherworld he did not know that magic had flourished once again and about the magicians city of Ximax.

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

(OOC: Thanx Keelin  missed what Shaint said OOC)

Atrii watched Keelin, she signed towards Shaint then the front of the group. The ranger nodded, and began to move to the front. He then turned and came back to Keelin.

"Nice speaking with you, well it was nice for me to talk to you." Atrii laughed and turned away again and proceeded to the front.

The sandstorm was like a sea of sand, and Bobbo was swimming through it. Bobbo wrapped the cape of his cloak around his mouth and nose. He also pulled his hood down over his eyes to protect them. He could peek out the bottom of the hood, but all he saw was swirling sand.

Bobbo vaguely made out the form of Lucirina sitting in front of him. He could more feel her than see her though. He thought he saw a darker shadow and made out the shape of Oscar riding his Aj in front of them. He sensed Lucirina's uncomfort and wrapped his arms around her shoulders reassuringly.

His voice, muffled by the cloak and sand, said, "We'll pull through. Everything will be alright." Though in truth, Bobbo was not quite so sure of that himself. The sand seemed to pelt every part of his body, no matter how many layers of clothing he wore.

"I travel from north to south and from east to west and back again searching for my purpose in life. I cannot find it." Bobbo the Beggarwww.angelfire.com/in3/keith30/canon.html Go here if you like music.

Skrill  The sandstorm that hid himself and his fellow demons descended upon the party of travelers like a cloud of hornets.  Skrill sent two of his best spitters toward the front of the sandstorm wall and told them to see if they could spit poison at the travellers.

The demons did as they were told, their snake like bodies moving smoothly across the sand as the came closer to the sandstorm itself they felt the sand pelt their skin, but it felt like cotton balls against their tough skin.  One could see a dark shape of an AJ that was moving up and through the others.  He took aim and let go a blob of poison.  The poison shot out of his needle like teeth.  He could not see if it hit what he aimed at.  So he continued to lob poison blobs in the general direction.  Knowing that anything that the poison touched would be poisoned and incapacitated.

His other fellow demon, did the same but he lobbed his at the rear of the column.


Malok  Malok, his guards, Nahor, Bahar and some of Bahar's army spread throughout the black fortressed walls of Thalambath.  The ones they were seeking had gone.  Malok stormed around the city.  Every once in while a ball of pure white hot fire would blast out of his hands; streaking toward a building, slamming into it, burning every last shred of the building.  "Bahar! You said the heir would be here!"

Bahar cowered at Malok's anger.  "Master, my spies assured me that they were here."

"And when was that?" Malok spit back.

"No more than a day ago, Master.  The report said that they looked liked they had settled in and was going to be here a long time."

"I wish to speak to these spies of yours."

"Master unfortunately they gave their report and left for Strata before you arrived."

Kaboom! Another building went up in flames and destruction.  Nahor stood there with his mouth open, eyes wide with fear and awe at what he was witnessing.  He had never seen a human with such power.  Never thought it was possible.

Malok suddenly stopped.  He thought back to what Nahor had told him.  Suddenly a cruel smile lifted back his blood red lips.  He laughed, an evil laugh that seemed to reverberate throughout the fortress.  "They were waiting for someone or something.  We shall wait as well.  Tell the men to hide."  He turned and walked back into his tent, his female guards followed him.

Bahar gave the orders.  Nahor looked around, he spied a niche in the black walls far above the ground.  He began to climb, but jumped back.  He almost screamed.  The walls were warm and seemed alive.  He had heard a voice in that brief instant.  A voice which said something to him.  He shook his head.  This Malok has me jumping at shadows.  I am... not even sure of myself anymore.  Walls are not alive, neither do they talk.

He gingerly put his hands upon the walls again. This time the walls were cold, and lifeless.  Just the way Nahor liked them to be.  He began to climb them, after adjusting the bow and quiver of arrows upon his back.  Soon he was sitting in the niche.  He watched through glittering eyes the ground below him; the men scrambling to hide their tents, and themselves.  One by one their torch lights went out.  The only tent in the courtyard of the fortress was Malok's.  That is real smart.  Everyone else hide but your tent can be out in the open.  If Bahar was not my cousin, and if Rahaz had not paid well, I would say goodbye to all of this nonsense, take ship and head to Milkengrad, where a master thief can live quite well.  I just may do that anyway, once I can get away from these madmen.

Nahor sat there in the darkness.  Several thoughts running through his head, but the one that came back was the voice that he had heard when he first touched these walls.  It was a scream, a scream of pain, anguish and sorrow.  It also held a warning.  A warning that if Malok had heard Nahor was sure he would be cinders seconds after he told him. So he kept that warning to himself.  Besides he was not even sure he had heard anything at all.

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

Gararion wrapped the hood of the black cloak around his face as the storm picked up.  The grains of sand only bothering his face as they scartched at the surface of his skin, digging within the felsh almost.

His body was protected by the two cloaks he wore pretty much.  He only felt the current of the winds throwing his cloak around as the surrents whipped past him.  Wind did not bother Gararion as he was one of the winds.  He began to chant a few elven words and then the sand winds seemed to avoid him, along with the pelting sand to his face.  The currents of the winds of the sand storm seemed to miss him totallaly now.

Gararion continued to ride the AJ, allowing it to lead the way as he couldn't see past the intensifed current of wind that he had created, but the AJ seemed to be able to....or had just known the way through the desert by heart as a good ship captian knew the way by heart through trencherous waters.

All of a sudden Gararion felt the muscles of the Aj which he sat upon tense up as it stopped moving foward.  Gararion stopped for a sat still, trying to sense if there was any magical essence about that could spoke the AJ, he sensed none.

It must just be the storm that has caused this beast to tense up like so....But as Gararion was thinking this to himself he saw a blob of something he just couldn't make out.  

"What in the name of Ava was that?"

Gararion watched these blobs to fly past him, caught up in the modified currents that he had made about him.

What are these blobs?  I have never seen anything like it before.  Surely they are not made by magic as I can sense no magic about them or about us.  What could make such a thing......

FISSSSSS  Radaroc suddenly heard a sizzeling sound and saw hole burning through Derm's neck the shapeshifter screamed out in pain.  THUMP! He fell to the ground as Derm shifted back to the blue mist that is his normal shape.  The acid fell to the ground also were it sizzled for a few seconds.  He pulled his flamberge from it's sheath.  Warily he turned circled his position, "HEY! GUYS! There's something else in this storm with us and it just tried to kill me!"  Hopeing someone would hear him he squinted his eyes under his low hood, a scarf wrapped up around his face to protect him for the stinging sands.  He could make out shapes moving around in the sand up he could not tell if they were friends or foe.  Swinging his giant sword a few times to loosen his wrists he crouched ready for an attack.

Gararion heard the Troll yell out saying that something had just tried to kill him.

Gararion got of his AJ and pulled it down to the ground and hid behind it.

He thought he would warn the other party members to do the same.

"GET TO THE GROUND AND USE YOU AJ AS A SHIELD!!!!"

He hoped the other member would think that their rides were less important then there lives.

"Can Anyone See Where The Enemy Is?"

He then looked about. He barely heard the Troll yell....would the others be able to hear his voice he wondered....

Edited by: Gararion at: 12/21/02 10:35:05 pm

"Great Av'a!!" a Blod of something came hurling from the skys twords Shaint as he rolled off of his AJ and onto the ground the acid barley missing him but hitting his AJ in the center of the back, he could barley hear the others scream but when shaint rolled off his AJ he luckily reached a hand to Snatch Raoneth,

Shaint's eyes wichh where of top quality slashed through the sand and saw the figure of something so ugly and horrid to not speak of..".....Demons........some sort of Demons"....Shaint spoke ot himself before yelling as loud as he could "DEEEEEMMMMMOOOOONNNNSSSS!!" Shaint flew his hand to his Sheeth and wielded his sword,

Shaint's eyes shimmered even in the Sandstorm and he tried his best to remember what these demons where, he ran through his minds database of Demons,Dragons, and Drakes of all kind trying to find them"

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Suddenly there was a movement of something big coming fast from the left, followed by a big, wet thump on his left side. Before Raonetth could see what had happened, he was drawn off the Aj. He saw shaint pulling his hand and felt the great beast rocking underneath him. He landed on his back in the sand and bounced on to his stomach before he heard a greater thump behind him and felt as sand was sprayed on his back.
What...
He sat himself up and brushed away the sand from his face. The Aj had fallen and Shaint was sitting behind it, shouting, "DEMONS!", he could hear other wet thumps around him and heard more shouting, "GET TO THE GROUND AND USE YOU AJ AS A SHIELD!"
I suppose that's what I'm doing. I wonder what demons they are, and what we did to make them discontent with us...
He crawled up to the Aj and started to feel about it, to see if it was dead. "it's only knocked out, I think..." he mumbled as he started to use his lifemagic skills to make sure.
"... I think it might be poison." he said a little louder.
They probably can't hear me...
He crawled over to shaint and spoke in to his ear. "Ah, Could you shout to the others that they should be careful. This might be poison."

Skrill  Skrill lifted his lips in what you could call a smile as he watched the dark shapes fall.  He could hear shouting so he knew that some had not succombed to the poison.  He ordered the two to stop spitting.  And then he turned around and looked at the the others.  "Are you ready?" he asked.

"They growled yes in response."

"Then attack!!!"  Skrill roared.

With one voice they roared and the sandstorm that had been covering them suddenly disappeared.  They charged the fallen beasts and men.  Their mutilple hands filled with heavy double bladed Axes, their spiked skin oozing poison out of the spikes glistened in the now bright moonlight.  They rose to their full heights of 12 peds, Skrill was the tallest at 15 peds and they slithered toward their pray.  Two of them headed toward the rear of the column.  One of them had a fetish for female flesh.  Why Skrill did not know, man flesh was man flesh as far as he was concerned.  But it did not matter.

Three of them went to the front of the caravan to cut off any escape their.

The last one and Skrill himself went straight at the middle.  Skrill was heading toward the troll.  He would be the tastiest.

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

Atrii saw Gararion jump to the ground and begin using his AJ as a shield. Atrii sensed something was wrong and did the same.

He shuffled himself and his AJ over to Gararion.

"What is going on here friend?"

The bushes around the party began to move quickly. A group of people are watching them, likely to attack.

Where are they, what are they? Atrii asked himself.

Shaint watched the Beasts of many peds taller than Radaroc approach his Group and they slithered?! in a circular like trap
around them when he heard Raoneth shout in his ear "RAONETH SAYS IT'S POISEN WATCH OUT!!" Shaint's body got up and looked around they where surrounded the monsterus Demons wilding axes and each with atleast 4 arms, This is bad......We live or die......grrrah! Shaint picked up his sword wich he could see at his feet,

and spun it around to grip in his hand tightly Shaint's eyes narrowed and his muscles tensed  "JUST HOW IN AVA'S NAME ARE WE GOING TO DEFEAT THESE DEMONS?!!" Shaint's mouth grew very serious as a biggest of the demons went for Radaroc Shaints mouth flickered with intensity and if you where close you would hear a small grumbling in him,

Shaint looked at them more closely as theyy drew around his whole group there scaled....protective.....claws un doubtedly poisenes and in ava's name there teeth! wich no doubt where the most poisenes of all........

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

A great best came at Radaroc with a surprising speed for if's size.  It was at least six times his size with six arms each holding a double-bitted axe.  The thing swished its axes back and forth and licked it's lips.  "By all the gods, Radaroc gaped, that thing..that deamon is taller than a building! he rolled to one side as two axes buried themselves in the sand right were he had been standing.  "DERM" he called to the shapeshifter, "Get over here NOW!  Derm in the shape of Kev'lor warhorse came charging to his masters aid.  Terrified for his master who was narrowly missing the demons attacks which were becoming more and more accurate each time.  

Derm charged at full speed knocking the demon over.  It turned on him backhanding with the flat of one of the axes sending him flying to land unconious.

Skrill looked down at the horse which had knocked him over.  He was about to finish it off, but then saw the troll charging sword up raised.

Radaroc saw the beast rise, still charging he came onward heedless to his danger.  The demon brought it's arms up to block the blow with four arms.  The other two he held ready to block the coming blow.  Radaroc dove and rolled to on side rising up behind the creature.  Bringing his sword up he cleaved at the twin tail before him.

THUNKKK!!!

He looked at the tail, a mark, it was about one palmspan deep.  "HEELSPAWN!" he cried.  The creature turned on him and spat a glob of acid at him.  It missed, but not by much some splattered on to his jerkin.
FISSSSS!
Radaroc tore it off before it seeped through to his skin.  Aww, hell. he thought as the thing charged.

Edited by: Radaroc at: 12/24/02 4:02:26 am

Shaint watched the deamon infront of him "Your all going to die Somehow" Shaint's Sword Burst into a Glowing blue aura throwing the sand away from shaints sword, "Grah!" Shaint threw his sword up at a slice twords the Sephet's bottom left arm, ,The Sephet swung a double edged axe and Shaints sword making contact shaints sword dug into the axes blade but deftenatly stopped before coming close to the sephets scales wich most likely would have just,

stopped the sword also Shaint's lip twitched as he pulled his sword back swiftly one side of the axe now having a large crack in it "OK STILL UNKOWN ON HWO TO STOP THESE THINGS!" Shaint searched around on his clothing but as he did two axes came berraling for Shaints body, Shaint jumpped to the ground and rolled missing the blades by a fair amount,,

Shaint stuck a hand in the air to block the sand for a slightly better vision but a blob of something slammed againt his Gauntlet "Ah!" Shaint rubbed the gauntlets threads against the blade of his sword slicing them and the gauntlet coming off luckily for Shaint just before the ooze hit his skin, Shaint pulled a knife from his clothing he found what he was looking for and jabbed it hardly and the Sephets thick scaley tail,

the blade hit the sephet as it did an axe heading twords Shaints body yet again oddly enough he started telling himself advice "Roll shaint roll!" Shaint rolled out of the way and flipped backwards getting up and back on his feet,

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

When those dark blobs had started flying through the air, Keelin's mount had tried to buck her off, she had suceeded only in making Keelinslid into a dangerous position halfway out of the saddle. Keelin was still trying to right herself when a snakelink shape rushed out at her. What the hell... The thing slashed at her with a wicked looking axe and Keelin lost her hold on the reins and tumbled to the ground with a thump. She managed to crab-craw backwards just as the creature swung at her again. She drew her scimitar from her awkward position of the ground and swung, managing to knock the axe of the demon's hands. The demon snarled at her, but Keelin had had enough time to get to her feet. She swung at the creature again, causing it to rear backwards to aviod her strike. At that moment, Keelin spun of her heel and ran, hoping to find someplace defensible. However, before she had gotten very far the demon recovered and chased after her. Keelin felt sometime tear through her left shoulder. Her eyes widened in surprise and pain, but she spun around and swung out, catching the demon by surprise. However, her blade merely slid along the scales. Uh oh... Keelin decided now would be a good time to run again.

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

Edited by: KeelinElf at: 12/24/02 1:33:40 am

Shaint was busy fighting the Demon confronting him when he saw Keelin she looked like she was in pain "KEELIN!!!!!!!" Shaint now behind the Demon flipped the sword to be Wielded in two hand and he Slammed it point first into the demons back The Demon's hard skin hit the blade on contact and the blade just made an indent "In Ava's name this is going to be Extremely challanging!"

"Grah!" Shaints sword sliced at the Demons neck "Keelin You have to find somewhere to Hide! or with Defence or soemthing!!" With that shaint lande back on the ground "grrr...." Shaint took a step loser to Keelin Protectivly

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Edited by: Shaint at: 12/24/02 2:17:23 am

Atrii was attacked from behind by one of the slithering demons. It drove its head into his back. The ranger howled in pain as he fell to the ground with a large thud.

The demon growled as it bent down over the crippled ranger. Atrii felt paralyzed and could not move his legs or arms, only one thought crossed his mind.

I am DEAD!

Gararion watched as the creatures slowly slithered their way into the midst of them.  They seemed not to notice Gararion at first as thier eyesight couldn't peice the dtrong current of sand that Gararion had about himself, now shielding him like a dome as he hid behind his AJ on the ground.

Gararion watched as the members of the party seemed to each battle these demons to their best abilities, each either fleeing or failing.  Gararion decided it was time for himself to act against these demons.

He stood up from behind the AJ, the dome of sand growing as he stood to still cover his body.  

Gararion waved his hand and the shield slowly grew less fierce and finally as the sand fell to the ground, leaving dust now around Gararion.  Gararion walked through this dust and once out from within it stood still looking about his fellow members scurring about in a offensive rage.

Gararion saw Atrii fall to the ground and one of the demons lurch over him like Artii was his prey.  Gararion suppose to these demons we were just an everyday meal which they would use their poisons to soften the insides of its meal enough to make it juicey and rich in flavour.

Gararion stared into the eyes of the very demons that stood over Atrii.  The demon rasied and looked at Gararion stepping over Atrii forgetting about him.

Gararion raised his hands into the sky, the sleeves of both loose robes he wore falling slightly downwards.

"Vásh ór.  Vásh ór."

The instance after speaking the two raised hands quickly moved together, clapping together and making a fierce loud noise.

Suddenly one lightining bolt came firing from the sky striking the Le-Sephet, now making his way to Gararion, upon the left shoulder and spreadin about its body in a flash.  The Le-Sephet stopped dead in its tracks, recovering from the strike.  But as fast as the first bolt came down a second bolt came firing down with even more fierce speed then the first one had.  This bolt seemed to be absorbed into the body of the Le-Sephet instead of how the first one spead about the body.  As the bolt quickly entered the body of the Le-Sephet it's eyes seemed to bleed, blood slowly trinkled out of the sockets as the Le-Sephet feel to the sandy desert ground.  Blood still trinkled out of the sockets now soacking into the sand that its face rested upon.

Gararion moved his way over to the fallen Atrii.  He said nothing but faced the other Le-Sephet and the Matar-Sephet who seemed to be the largest of them, and thus Gararion thought was the leader.

Edited by: Gararion at: 12/24/02 8:32:16 am

The Demon approached and he saw Shaint move twords Keelin it got closer and growwled the slimey ooze dripping from the tip of the Evil beings razor teeth As Shaint scanned the demon looking carefully for any mere weaknesses of the demons hard Scaled in penatrable from a slice of a mere sword,

The Demon swung an Axe at Shaint's legs Shaint's eyes glazed over as he became seriously intence about finding a way to destroy these foul demons Shaint jumped the axe but as he did one came for his side with great force Shaint made a sound and he flew backward from the wave of the axe at him slicing shaints garments to the skin and scuttign across shaint's stomach and lower chest,

Shaint lowerd and dropped to the ground a axe and arm on the lower left of the demon came from above trying to slice Shaint in two "Grah!" Shaint had found a point in the monsterus beings defencise and took the opportunity thrusting out and upward shaints feet lifting off the ground his sword headed for the underarm of the demon Shaint's sword jammed into the armpit of the demon and through the shoulder,

the monster growled loudly in pain and lightning bolts could be seen flashing near and around, the demons arms on the opposite side came barreling for Shaint's head and side for such big creatures they where fairly fast, Shaint's flexxed his forearms to the extent of perhaps a vein busting and pulled his blade up slicing through the Demons muscle arm organs and out of the Scales on the top of his shoulder the arm of the beat flying off,

but shaint still had the two axes to worry about Shaint threw his head back his sword busting into a burning blue flame yet again and rising Shaint barely over the blades the top one slicing the skin of Shaints Jaw Shaint came to the ground and with the demons arms to the wrong side and only one arm on the side the other two where on he had no attack position available in a hurry....Shaint had yet been looking for weaknesses while all this was happening and focused in on a Primal state on the lower haw in the center skin where the scales looked much thinner and soft,

with the rage of the demon and his family or clan trying to attack Shaint group and new found 'friends' Shaint wielded his blade with two hands and jumped to the air the blade below his waste Shaint threw it up with his body's weight and force into the Demons under jaw in styrash Shaint yelled as the very point of Shaints blade met the soft scales "Now Your Being Shalt Die!" at the spoken styrash Shaints blade thrustes into the demons throught/head and kept going up and threw the monsters head,

from teh demons eyes teared blood and his neck flew freshly loose blood the monsteres severd limb was dead and the nub wich was hardly left leaked of gore through Shaints wrath, as Shaint had just severed and seemingly killed the demon it had been standing so tall it began to fall until it fell to th ground Shaint tossing from the demons head and his own sword Shaint landed on the Sand with a Loud THUD!! but slowly got up walking over to the demon and pulling his blade forcefully from it's head the sword of the Rouge elvens blade dripped a drop of blood and the slice on his jaw and stomach trickeled freely,

"KEELIN! Find a Object of Protection!!!" Shaint looked around before wielding his blade tightly again and breathing heavily shaints sword swung from his side and it was held infront of his face the double edges facing left and right the sword glowed and a ring of wind shot from Shaint's feet blowing sand in a small shockwave like affect "BY AVA'S NAME THIS GROUP SHALL LIVE!" Shaint moved through the sand and looked for other party members of the group,

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

The great thing charged at Radaroc, slithering at him all six blades whirling.  He scambled over to the right as the axes began to search for his neck.  Using all his brute strength and skill he kept the demon back but he was still on the defensive but his arms were tiring from blocking crushing blow after crushing blow.  Suddenly the demon turned it's head (the Le-Sephets dying) at this Radaroc took his chance.  He charged and with all his trollish strength swung at the right lower hand.  
THOCK!
  The sword cut deeply almost halfway through the wrist.  The creature roared in pain and anger.  Pulling his sword back he swung again, this time chopping the wrist totally off the arm, still clutching the axe.  From the wound blood and gore poured out covering him from head to toe in a red/black ichor.  Radaroc slowly fell from his own body reaching back into Trollish history of war and brutality.  Laughing madly he charged at the demon singing a war song of long years past.

 

The song ended Radaroc cried out his battle cry "'S death on the wind!  Give 'em blood an' vinigar mates!" Attacking with all his might he brought the monster on the defensive, he roared his challenge, "Never had prey fight back like this, 'eh?  Come on give me a challenge!  Back to the bottemless depths of hell with you, demonspawn!"  With that another hand fell.  

Skrill looked at the mad troll attacking him.  He had already lost two of his hands and we wasn't about to lose another.

Grakan was silent on the trip out to the desert slightly stung at the embaressment he had suffered, his pride had suffered a serious blow. He brooded silently as the Aj's made their way out into the desert, into the wind that slowly was building up. The Dwarf looked around curiously. Something was amiss in the desert. The wind had picked up to a sand storm and it bit at Grakan's tough skin.
"HEY! GUYS! There's something else in this storm with us and it just tried to kill me!" the shout came from Radorac somewhere on Grakan's left.
Grakan looked around warily and dismounted quickly scanning the area.
He could make out several blobs in the distance, but the sand blocked his vision.
"GET TO THE GROUND AND USE YOU AJ AS A SHIELD!!!!" shouted the Elf Gararion. Grakan looked in his direction and saw him sheltered behind the large beasts.
"Bloody cowards." Grakan cursed nevertheless following the Elfs example.
"DEEEEEMMMMMOOOOONNNNSSSS!!" came the shout of Shaint and Grakan leered to himself. A good fight at the start of a journey. Excellent.
Grakan heard a shout about poison and Grakan snarled. "Not the way ta' die!"

The demons emerged, the largest one charging towards Radorac. Grakan stood up and hefted his axe. "Cant have that now." He thought. "Radorac? getting all the fun? Over my dead body!"
"Pah!" he laughed aloud and charged forward.

He caught site of the Elf Keelin under attack by one of the Demons and was about to run to her when he spotted Shaint jumping in to save her. He was several peds away when another Demon bowled into him. Grakan grunted as he hit the floor but immediately reacted to a crushing blow by one of the demons axes.He own axe parried quickly, the runes glowing as the two blades met and sparks flew.

Grakan quickly rolled backwards defying his bulk as three other axes hurtled downwards. He stood quickly and parried again catching the wrist as the blades bouced off each other. One hand fell to the sand below, twitched a couple of times then was still. The demon roared in pain and Grakan leered as he swung his axe in again. The demons dodged quickly and went to bite Grakan, its fangs dripping with poison.
Grakan reversed his swing swiftly and took the lower part of the jaw clean off blood spraying the sand with blood.

The Sephet roared again and spat at Grakan who dived out of the way, knowing the potency of what the poison could do.
The Sephet dived at Grakan in frustration hoping to overwhelm the Dwarf, all five of its remaining axes swinging wildly.
How Grakan dodged was anyones guess but he successfully parried all of the axes easily and ended up by cutting another  of the hands off.

The demon screeched in pain and anger and swung its tail round knocking the Dwarf back several peds. He landed with a thud and the Sephet slithered over and raised its axes high and brought them down. At the very last possible instant Grakan rolled out of the way and stood as the demon crashed to the floor. The Dwarf sprang to his feet and brought his axe down on the back of the Demons neck, the runes glowing.

There was an audible crunch as the blade connected with bone and the neck was instantly severed blood sparying everywhere.Grakan retrieved his axe and then looked around for who else needed him.

((OOC hope Grakan doesnt sound too powerful in that... and I really need to do something on runes... hmm...))

---

"There is nothing so sure in the world as the glimmer of gold.

And the treachery of elves."

Edited by: Grakan Ironhammer at: 12/24/02 6:00:48 pm

Gararion saved Atrii from certain death from one of the Le-Sephets. The mage stood over the fallen ranger while facing more of the beasts. Atrii gathered his strength to attempt to speak, he struggled at first but then finally found the words.

"Gararion, I was surprised. I was attacked from behind, I was too weak. I owe you my life dear friend." Atrii struggled to move to get to his feet, he got to his knees before pausing to regain some strength.

Keelin blinked a bit, trying to get her mind to catch up to the present. Damn, he's good... She notice Shaint once again running off to challenge the Demons. He's also completely insane. Keelin glanced around, several Demons were missing limbs, but when one has four arms, it doesn't matter much. She noticed one who was facing away from her and didn't appear to be currently engaged. Keelin was slightly confused until she realized it was preparing to start spitting those blobs again. Ah, shite. Keelin ran up to it and slashed at the back of it's neck. Startled, the thing turned around to look at her. Before it has recovered Keeling once again slashed at it, this time at it's eyes. The thing let out a shriek and two of it's hands to it's face. The other two arms atacked blindly and Keelin jumped backwards.
Forgetting about her injured shoulder Keelin flipped her swodr over and thrust upwards into the thing's stomach. She gasped and winced, and let go of her sword. The Sephet began to slither away with Keelin's sword still embedded in it's stomach. Keelin ran after it and, gritting her teeth, pulled with both arm. The sword slid sideways and tore free. Keelin thrust it upwards again, but this time into it's throat. The Sephet fell backwards and lay unmoving.

Keelin could feel something running down her side and her tunic felt wet and sticky. She felt rather dizy, then collapsed on the ground and passed out.

OOC: There, that explain why she doesn't do anything else. I won't be here for the rest of today. Feel free to finish off the demons without me.

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

Shaint caught up in the sandstorm heard a Shreek of Pain but could tell it wasnt any Demons,"Damn you Keelin" Shaint spoke to himself lightly before swinging his sword to a tightly gripped fist He started Walking to where he heard the screem coming through the blazing sand his hair blowing all off one side, and all of his clothing blowing like a flag in high winds Shaints eyes glazed over and then returned to normal,

As he Approached he saw a Tall Le-sephet Demon once again...."BURN IN THE NINE HELLS OF FIREY DEATH!" Shaint's the Le-sephet allmost had a grin and his fangs dripping with the thick ooze of poison it looked as if it was happy about something.....Shaints face frowned as he got closer to the Le-Sephet demon,

all of a sudden the Demon made a sound poisenous blobs of there venom came flying from the air twords Shaint "Ah!" Shaint dove out of the way of few and then one somehow managed to hit him in the back quickly starting to burn through his cape Shaint Det tached his cape and looked back "By Ava's Name!" a second Le-sephet was spitting venom twords shaint......

but turned around for some reason.....Shaint didnt let it bother him as he rolled out of the way of poisenous drops from the Le-sephet demon spitter "Grah!" Shaint jumped twords the Demon with force and movement like a slice to the demons waste but turned and went strait up and down "Die you Evil Demon, RETUURRNN TO HELL!!!!" Shaint Jabbed the sword at the stomach of the demon and the blade incerted it's sharp tip and sides under the demons scales into the demons stomach,

a Loud Screech of pain came from the sephet as it swung it's blade's to Shaint and foolishly it's own stomach Shaint ripped the sword from the demons body left and right leaving a gargantuian wound allmost the length of it's own front waste "Grahhhh!" one of the blades came barreling from the skies for Shaints legs "av'a help me!" Shaint threw his sword blade tword the ground and he flew into the air barely missing the blades of the Demon but one slicing Shaint's back leg,

and the blades of the now painful Demon hit itself in the stomach and waiste Shaint looked into the eyes of the Le-Sephet while he was in the air and yelled "DIE HELLSPWAN!" and Shaint came down with point blade right inbetween the Demons center eyes and through his skullcoming out threw his jaw Shaint hung onto his swords grip as he came down the blade cutting through the demons head and through the nose,

Shaint pulled the blade roughly out of the demon and fell to the ground with bom! the Demon falling Behind him with a Loud THUD!!!!! dead with the last fall oen of the demons claws dug into Shaints back emitting from shaint a loud "AHHHHHHHHHHH!" and Shaint fell forward face first intot eh sand but somehow managed to rise up slowly and try to run over to Keelin dropping to a knee beside her "great av'a your not going to die Not while i was trying to defend you!"  

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Skrill looked about the sandy desert as he saw his lesser brothren fall under each increasing blow, each dealing damage but not satifying the hunger for death that Skrill had within him.  

As he fought Radorac, Skrill let out a screeching noise towards the remaining two Le-Sephets.  They both looked toward Skril.

Skrill eyes seemed to flow with poison themselves as the Le-Sephets looked to him.  Skrill spoke mentally to the Le-Sephets.

"Malok has given usss a life and a purpossse...that purpossse isss to kill thessse puny creature before usssss.....do not show weaknesss towardsss thessse creature like your brothersss had shown.  KILL!"

With this the Le-Sephets fought even more fierce.  Now showing skills they had hiden early amoung the battle.



Gararion looked at the the leader Sephet as he screeched out and the other Le-Sephets looked at him for a second.  SHortly after two Le-Sephets came foward towards Gararion.  Gararion looked at the one closest to him.  The Le-Sephet eyes watching Gararions movements closely.  Gararion watched the movements of the eyes of the demon as well, once again raising his hand in the air.

"Vásh ór. Vásh ór!"

As he clapped his hands together with a force stronger then the first one one bolt o lightning came don from the sky and strucked the demon, another, another, another, and another.  The vemon on the outerskin of the demon acting as a conducter increasing each blast of lightning strength.  The demon stood still stood.  

Gararion left this demon along now as he looked toward the second demon.  Trying to get a deep look into its eyes.

The second demon raised his head, hiding his eyes from sight, then quickly lowering it sending out it poison towards Gararion.  Gararion waved his hand sweeping the blob of poison away, as the blob went passed him a second blast of poison came toward Gararion.  This one not a blob but a spray.

Without think Gararion waved his hand and pulled the hood of his cloack over his eyes.  Not fully getting all of the poison in his sweeping wind poison sprayed amoung his loose cloak.  

Gararion heard the soound of the poison eating away at his cloack.  Quickly Gararion sent a blast of air from his feet to the sky, taking the cloak with it.  For an instance as the fierce air raised from the ground to remove his cloak Gararion's silver hiar raised, revealing his missing left ear through the strands of silvery thread like hair, only for a quick moment as the blast was fast and accurate.  Now Gararion's garmet which he wore under his plain black cloak could be seen.

Gararion now wore a black silky robe that seems to be metallic in appearance as it glistens with the same glisten as
shiny metal. This robe has a hood that is made of the same material.  Both the robe and hood are trimmed in a delicate silver fabric. On top of this robe he wears a article the hangs over his shoulders. It is made from the exquisite golden material that seems to shimmer during even the darkest nights.

With another strong push of his hand, as if pushing the wind itself, the Le-Sephet was sent tumbling 20 peds away, enough time for Gararion to catched gain his bearing once again.

Keelin felt rather dizzy. Hm... I can't feel my shoulder, I don't think that's a good sign...

She heard, as if from a great distance: "great av'a your not going to die Not while i was trying to defend you!"

Am I dead? Keelin giggled weakly to herself. That was a stupid question. I can't be dead, it hurts too much. Keelin opened her eys and had a sudden spinning sensation as the world swam into focus. I think I'm gonna be sick... She tried to lift her head, silently mouthed Ow. and set it back down. Okay, so charging after the demon wasn't the best idea...

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

(when Raoneth is talking to the demons he'll be speaking a twisted version of ancient browniin, so you won't understand anything. He thinks he's speaking normally)

Suddenly the thumps stopped and the sandstorm died.
Raoneth shivered as he lifted his head above the fallen Aj's throat. What looked like giant men came quickly towards them, only when they came closer he could see they had several pairs of arms and the lower body of a snake.
Baithag! These can't be demons!
Shaint started shouting again, asking how to fight these demons.
Good bloody question...
Some snakes are easily paralyzed by light. maybe...
Raoneth jumped over to the saddlebags looking for a torch. He struggled to light it as the noises behind him were becoming louder.
they must have started fighting. I hope the light of this little torch is enough
Moving out behind the Aj, he noticed his torch was burning unnaturally bright.
What magic is this? I guess I was lucky.
He also noticed a human lying down on his back. Knocked out, no doubt.
He moved slowly towards the man, careful to always face the demons. They weren't paralyzed by the flame, but they seemed to avoid it by as far as they could. "Demons", Raoneth shouted to one of the smaller demons "We have never met before, and we have not wronged you. I know it can not be us who you have business with. Please leave us as I'm sure we're not worth the effort."
His voice, so stern, so steady, so rude!
Raoneth, that's not a fitting way to speak with a demon.
The demon didn't seem to want to punish him, however, as it seemed to move away from him. Raoneth moved closer to it, and it moved further away. Supressing a surprised smile, he moved faster towards the demon, "Be gone, it's not worth it, honored one!" Suddenly the demon tossed his head back and spit out a small blob of poison. Raoneth jumped to the side as quickly as he could. Landing with his face in the sand, he realized how far he was from the rest of his traveling mates, before he noticed he had landed on his torch, and it wasn't burning anymore.
Crud
He turned around only to see a lump of demon spit hurling towards him.
"Baithag!" he cried before the spit was hurled backwards together with the demon several peds. A strange lightning-like force seemed to sorround the demon. He turned his head back as he rose.
G
Gararion was nowhere near. He looked back at the demon, it was on the ground now, wriggling. Raoneth picked up the torch again and started lighting it while walking quickly towards the demon again.
I'm begging for it, i'm sure of it... But it's bound to get up again some time unless I do anything.

Edited by: Raoneth  at: 12/26/02 4:17:41 pm

Shaint noticed the movement of Keelins head even of the slightest and he held it up looking at her badly wounded shoulder the poion had eaten through the clothing and onto the skin a foul sight to a normal stomach but then again....Shaint wasn't normal so niether was his stomach, Shaint looked oppon himsel for a useless rag or soemthing of the sort only to succeed in finding......well nothing usefull he ripped his cape wich was scattered to the side of where the female elf Keelin lay and tried to put it on Keelins arm.,

all the while skreetching and grunting and the clanging of weapons and bashes of migical capabilities rang through the air.

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Oscar was relieved when the storm stopped, he turned and looked behind him to see where Sir Robert and Lady Lucirina were.  They were still behind him, thank Ava. he thought.

Flashes of light could be seen way far away to the south.  Oscar wondered about that but shrugged his shoulders and looked ahead.  In front of him, still about a half-league away were the towers of Thalambath.  Their black spires knifing the black sky which was even now turning lighter as the sun was begining to rise.  He rode his AJ back to the other two.  "Sir Robert and Lady Lucirina I pray that thou hast fared well?  The sun should be up in about two hours I reckon.  Do you see those black towers ahead in the distance?  They are where we are heading.  The Resistance and the Tristin are there.  I think we should be there within the hour.  The towers are the entrance to the fortress called Thalambath.  Do you know about the legend of Thalambath?"  Oscar asked.

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

Atrii got up to two knees on the ground, his back was straight as he surveyed the surrounding area. All of his companions were fighting off the Sephets. Shaint was defending Keelin as Gararion was defending him.

Gararion knocked away the attacking Sephets and bent down resting. Atrii got to his feet and sprinted over to Gararion as a Sephet leapt out of the darkness beside the mage. Atrii dove and lowered his shoulder as he bashed into the Sephets side. The lizard fell and retreated to a safe distance before coming back. Atrii rolled and slashed at it's arms, it knocked away Atrii's sword and swung it's arms at Atrii's head. The ranger ducked and slashed the Sephet. It lost it's balance for a second, Atrii leapt up and bashed it again with his shoulder. The sephet fell and retreated again. Atrii felt the poison eating away at his shirt covering his shoulder.Atrii tore it off and threw it to the ground. He then ran and bent down beside Gararion as he regained his strength.

"They just keep coming, I don't think I can beat them," Atrii looked at Sephet waiting for the beasts next move.

Edited by: Atrii Redwood at: 12/27/02 1:48:28 am

Gararion looked at Atrii who tackled the Le-Sephet who attacked him from the side.

I knew these demons were fast but that fast to come back from me sending it away then attack from the side only moments later.  Amazing creatures.

"Yes truely these demons are strong my friend.  Rest as I will take care of this creature."

Gararion turned towards the remaining last Le-Sephet and watched it slither towards him.  Gararion waised his hands to the sky, staring the demon in the eyes, the demon doing the same thing.

"Vásh ór. Vá....."

Gararion's words were cut short as a sword was hurled at him with blazing speed.

Gararion dodge the attacked, landing on the ground.  He looked up from the ground, the Le-Sephet now standing above him ready to strike..but not with one of the five remaining sword he carring.  With the one free hand fire surronded it.  He was going to engulf Gararion in flames himself.

"Eaá'avásh!"

Suddenly the surronding sands began to twist about the Le-Sephet.  

Not knowing what to expect the demon began releasing the fire from within his hands upon Gararion.  It never reached him.  The fire was trapped by the swirling sands, now even more fierce then before.  It now was a massive sand twister, its core a firely death trap.

The Le-Sephet scramed out in pain as the fire he attended to cast upon Gararion no engulfed himself instead.  Gararion watched as the sand twister slowly travelled through the desert, carring its victim within it firey core to his death bed.



Skrill had lost two hands but this only feed the anger he held inside for this troll.  He slithered backwards about 10 peds and hissed a few words unknown to the travlers of what language they were.

Skrills body now began to raise in temperature as he hiss loudly, his body seeming to almost burn itself.  The blood dripping from his two missing hands slowly becoming brighter and brighter, almost as lava itself.  Suddenly Skrill launched a full out attack.  He began spraring his venom about in every direction toward all the members of the party.  As the venom flowed out of his mouth the hands whiched seemed to drip lava itself raised.  Suddenly a red hot liquid sprayed out from Skrills two missing hands towards Radorac.

Skrill then spoke to Radorac, sending his words to him through the powers of his magic.

"You ssslice of my hands foolish troll.  Now you evil doing will bring the end to you and your friendsss.  You harm my brothern now you all mussst DIE!!!   YESSSSSS DIE!!!"




Gararion watched as the action near Radorac picked up.  With a wave of his hand a protective dome of air shielded both him and Atrii from the spraying piosons.

Gararion looked through the dome to find out where the other member were in order to protect them as well from this massive attacked that no one could've expected to come from such a demon.  What magic was behind this demon?

Keelin winced and tossed her head to the side. Dammit, that hurts! Just as that moment she happened to glance at the demon, Skrill, and saw that it it had begun to spray poison. A few curses Keelin didn't know she knew ran through her head. She tugged weakly at Shaint's sleeve. We have to go now! Damn, I wish I could move.

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

The demon screamed at Radaroc charging, the blood streaming from it's stumps glowing with heat.  A gush of the burning blood scalded his back as he ducked and side-stepped away from the creature.  Roaring in pain he fought to control his madness which strove to drive him deeper into a bloodlust.  One of the Sephet's axes swung toward him, he raised his flamberge to stop it but it merely succeded in glancing it off to gash his shoulder.  That was all it took.  All sense dropped from Radaroc, to him nothing else mattered,  nothing other then to keep this thing away from the few people who had given him a chance to prove himself in his life, the monster must be destroyed.  His eyes glazed over and took on a red filmy look.  He gave all of himself to this last attempt.  Suddenly a large wolf appered at his side, he looked at it and nodded grimly, then grinned, "Derm." the wolf howled a reply.  And they attacked.  
Derm plowed on ahead, circling around the Sephet and bounding up it's back he then locked his jaws on the beast's neck.  It roared reached an arm up to pluck him off but Derm had let go and bit the hand reaching toward him then the venom on the skin began to take effect he wobbled, his eyes rolled up and fell.  Skrill turned back to the Troll but Derm had already done his part.  Radaroc was already past the point where Skrill could use his weopons and to point the blood at his own body would be foolhardy.  Radaroc took his sword in both hands and jabbed upward through the soft scales of the armpit. The sword halted as it hit the ribcage.  Blood poured out some gushing onto Radaroc's hands.  His strength lost he began to fall and the flat of one of the axes batted him and he flew almost 4 peds slamming into the ground flipping and coming to land on his stomach.  Skrill adavanced on the Troll still losing blood but his body seemed to not lack in the quantity of the stuff.  
Skrill came on almost dreaming of the taste of troll when the wolf stood in his path and growled feebly, slumping and finally falling his eyes still staring at the demon, teeth still bared and his eyes still followed the demon who moved past him and on to his master.

Shaint saw the Demon Leader Skrill emitting poisen in every wih way and lava shooting out for Radaroc Shaint felt a tug on his sleev but didnt reply the poison came hurling tword Keelin and Shaint threw his body over Herholding it up by the muscle of his arms a blob of poison landing onto the center of Shaint's back and burning threw his shirt Shaint's eyes widened and his teeth gritted, a loud muffled painful like noise came from Shaint's mouth as the poison continued to burn more blobs of it came hurling twords Keelin and Shaint,

few hitting the sides of Shaintt's outer stomach and on on his upper arm's edge the blobs stopped the spitting to them and shaint rolled off of keelin standing up barely but slicing his shirt off with his sword to get whatever poison that was on it off, this ofcourse left Shaint Upper body of Just Skin,blood,scars, and burns, by just the weight of Shaint's body he fell over onto the Sand with a light thud he was in pain, but danger was still there for His Party...."I will be right Back"! Shaint said who forgot he was laying on the ground "Grah!" Shaint stood up with pain but jumped over dead arms and bodies to see the ravaging battle of Radaroc an Skrill,

Shaint's mouth opened and he yelled loudly in Styrash but he thought it sounded normal "DEMOON!! RETURN TO THE BURNING HELLS FROM WITCH THOU CAME AND BURN IN THEM FOREVER!!!", Skrills head turning to Shaint slightly the full body and height of him turned around to Face the small elf compared to Skrill and the fang's of Skrill bared highly lava seeming to drip from them as did the poison a Roar or some sort of growl came grom Skrill and shaint gritted his Teeth,

"Now you die Demon!" Shaint gripped his sword with two hands resting it on the ground tightly gripping it he wielded it and swung it from the ground and around Shaint's head shaint's feet moving in a circle the speed picking up of his body slightly as Shaint stopped abrupptly and released the Sword wich burst into blue flames and spun sideways for the Great demons Jaw  

He who lives by the sword Lives with Pain Anger and Sorrow
But he who lives by the sword lives not with regret for he who lives by the sword lives with Redemtion

Hmmm... how brave of him... Keelin though, a little deliriously. By now, she had lost a great deal of blood and her shoulder was trying to decide whether it was numb or still burning. The world spun again, but Keelin blinked furiously until it stopped. Keelin fell into a semi-concious state, her last coherent thought being: If I die, I'm coming back to haunt that demon-spawned sonuvabitch...

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

As he approached the crater, he noticed the size of it. Too big by far to have been made by the demon.
This most definently smells of trouble
He stepped up to the edge of the crater and he could feel the hairs on his hand rise, and his skin priccle.
The demon had not grown. It was still down in the middle of the crater, wriggling.
Raoneth looked at his torch.
If this doesn't work, I believe I'm done for...
And threw it in, the very same second he started running away.
He heard a crackeling sound before he could feel the burst of flame behind him. He looked back only long enough to see the flame standing a few peds above the crater, and enough to feel it hurting his eyes.

He continued running back to the others, knowing that if he hadn't killed the demon, he wouldn't be able to deal with it himself. They seemed to be doing quite well, given the situation.

Gararion was about to finish off one of the Le-Sephets when another interupted Gararion's spell. The Sephet threw a ball of fire at the mage but Gararion made a Sand Twister and threw the fire right back engulfing his opponent in flames. Gararion watched the creature burn, perhaps too long for the first Sephet came charging at the mage with a sword thrown by his companion in his hand. He took his sword and swung, the sound of metal hitting metal met the blade as Atrii dove in front of the attack. He knocked away several slices by the demon, but one struck Atrii's arm. The ranger spun in the air and landed on his side.

As Atrii lay helpless the Sephet charged back again attempting to drive his sword into the ranger's heart. Atrii rolled and leapt to his feet. The Le-Sephet's eyes widened as Atrii hammered his blade deep into the gut of the foul demon. He quickly removed his sword and swung again at the demon's neck. The Le-Sephet slowly fell to the ground motionless. Atrii fell to his knees gasping for air.

Gararion looked about the area surronding him.  It had seemed that he was the only one who still stood strong against these wreched demons, which now were down to the one last remaining Skrill.

Gararion looked at this demon and studied this demon as it seemed that it was more interested at another foe.

Gararion pointed his staff in the direction of Skrill.  He focussed his mind on the end of his staff.  Suddeny the end began to burn brighter and brighter with every passing second.  After several second of his staff burning with the blue fierce fire the fire suddenly seemed to dissappear as a bolt of compressed air shot forth from the tip of the staff.

As fast as it departed the tip of the staff it went through body of Skrill.  As this happened Skrill looked down at his body as his lower part continued to move onward for a moment but his upper part didn't.  He had been sliced straight through parting him in two section.  Both sections feel to the ground as Skrill began to scretch out words of magic in words of his own language unknown again to the other members of the party.

"You will pay for this foolish mortal!!!  You will find yourself lost within this desert for enternity searching for a portal which cannot be seen by the eye!!  So is the curse of Skrill!!"

As skrill was hit by gararions magicical staff's powers splitting him in half the sword of shaint was still headed for the head of Skrill, and still on flame the sword sliced through the head of the Demon skrill as he fell was he finally dead?? the damn hellspawn? yes it assumed he was and shaint walked to the body of Skrill lay dead "You lay in sand demon.....now return to the nine hells from wich you came" Shaint yanked his sword from the neck of skrill and wiped it off on a torn rag before sheething it,

Shaint looked to Gar the sandstorm was slowly dieing and vision was lightly restoring "Gararion,i now know why my mind told me to recruit the elven Magi!" Shaint chuckled laightly but then again it was the only thing he could do because of the wounds.

Lucirina was trying to rub the sand away from her face but it was useless, she felt like it was made of cracked mud and the sand had managed to cut the skin open on some places mixing with the blood forming small red crusts, yet she was happy that the storm was finally over.
Shaking her head to get rid of most of the sand trapped in her hair and then leaning to one side and then the other trying to get the sand out of her sensitive ears.

"One now knows one more thing about the desert. One absolutely HATES the sand ..."

She muttered under her breath as she shaked her head once more, a small cloud of sand coming from it and falling down on the ground.
As Oscar rode back to them she actually managed to smile at him despite the fact that she was still annoyed by all the sand.

"Sir Robert and Lady Lucirina I pray that thou hast fared well? The sun should be up in about two hours I reckon. Do you see those black towers ahead in the distance? They are where we are heading. The Resistance and the Tristin are there. I think we should be there within the hour. The towers are the entrance to the fortress called Thalambath. Do you know about the legend of Thalambath?"

She wasn't going to complain over all the sand, after all it wasn't Oscars fault, even thou it was itching and annoying, so she nodded at his question about how she had fared.
She follows his gaze and does indeed spot two towers up ahead in the distance, only one more hour before they would be away from all this horrible sand, she sighed softly.
Lucirina tilted her head as she tried to remember if she had heard that name before but she then shaked her head quite slowly.

One is sorry to say that One has never heard of such a legend. Then again One was not raised with the songs and legends from the south, but with the ones from the north."

This was the first time Lucirina actually gave some kind of where her home lands were, slowly she was starting to open herself to both Oscar and Bobbo as one gained her trust, and the other gained her heart.

Edited by: Lucirina Telor Vevan at: 12/31/02 5:25:02 pm

Oscar listened to Lady Lucirina and then replied.  "The legend of Thalambath should even be known in the northern lands as well m'lady.  For Thalambath came from the north.  He was one of the last Arch Mages from the War of the Chosen.  Legend is that he and several of his followers fled the destruction of the north after the War of the Chosen and headed south.  Even here the ravages of the War of the Chosen had taken its toll.  The Wizard found this spot on the Northwestern shores of this land and created this fortress.  The legend is that the fortress is the Wizard himself.  He turned into the fortress for reasons of his own.  It was not long that the fortress became the bastion for a city to grow within the shadows of its protective towers.  Thalambath the city thrives and is a very busy and productive trading city.  The fortress has been closed off for many centuries but the Tristin and the Resistance have been there ever since the Tristin left Avennoria to come back here and reclaim his throne.  But I fear that the enemy is closer to catching him and resistance.  Too close for comfort.  But that is just my feeling.  It has grown so because of the certain events that have occured over the last 6 bells.  The figure ontop of the roof is one.  I hope Shaint and the other fare well.  They should be entering Strata by the time the sun sets today if all is well."

Oscar rode silently beside Lord Robert and Lady Lucirina lost in his own thoughts, his eyes peering ahead, not really looking just ahead watching the towers grow larger and larger as they became closer and closer.

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

Radaroc blinked and slowly pushed himself into a sitting position, "GASP!" his back burned with pain as did his arm and leg.  In shock of the pain he had collapsed again, this time slower and prepared for the pain he gritted his teeth and sat up.  The body of Skrill was in three parts a head, a torso, and his snake-like tail.  Smiling to himself, Well, he thought, Looks like I wasn't abandned. He grimiced as another wave of pain racked his body.  Looking at his arm he saw it was already starting to scab over and so were his back and his leg.  "Derm?" he called, then he noticed his compainion laying in a heap near the head of the demon.  Standing up and nearly blacking out in the proccess he limped over to the shapeshifter,  kneeling down next to the body he nudged the head, on of the eyes opened looked at him and then shifted to his misty-blue form to recouperate.  He picked up his sword and sheathed in the the tattered scabered that hung at his waist.  He looked to Shaint and Gararion, "Well, we sure gave him what-for, eh?"

Shaint looked to Radaroc and could do nothing but lightly smile at his remark "Yes,I suppose we did, can you imagen what he is thinking about now? what-for, did they have to cut me in three pieces" Shaint chuckled and looked at his arm and lower torso gritted his teth slightly as he moved but stoo dup srait, "Radaroc,Gararion please be tolerant if I yell" Shaint Moved his good hand to the injured arm's shoulder and gritted his teeth tightly,

Shaint's hand jammed upward on his shoulder Making a Loud CRACK! and allmost sickening pop only to result in ofcourse..Shaint Yelling "HELRUEK!" 'huff''uff' "Sorry..i had to make my arm work" With that Shaint Smiled lightly but then his legs collapsing and Shaint falling to the ground and passing out

Keelin had another swimming sensation as her conciousness returned. Hmmm... still hurts, so I'm not dead yet. She opened her eyes quickly closed them again. The sunlight was painful. How long was I out? This question brought a frantic thought of the others and Keelin snapped her eyes open, looking around as best she could. She could see the others standing around, it looked like all the demons were dead. Keelin gave a silent sigh of relief. Okay, time to get up. Keelin rolled onto her stomach and pushed herself up to her knees. Panting with exertion, she rested a bit before trying to get to her feet. Her legs felt all watery and when she tried to take a step, she collapsed back into a sitting position. Okay, maybe I'll just sit here a while...

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

Atrii saw Keelin shake herself from her unconsciousness. She attempted to stand but fell back and simply sat their resting. Atrii smiled as he saw the elf try to stand. He walked over to her and sat beside her.

"How are you feeling?" Atrii asked, trying not to show his own pain in his own body.

Keelin glanced up. I feel like I've been dragged through all the hells backwards, she signed at him, then winced as her injured shoulder twinged. You?

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

Atrii began to slowly understand Keelin's signing. She had had a rough battle and showed it. Atrii sighed when she signed asking him how he felt.

"Well, I feel exhausted. My muscles are acheing but I'll get through it. This isn't the first time this has happened to me."

Gararion watched everyone seem to recover from the battle.  Gararion stood leaning against his Staff, nodding when needed to show other that he was listening.   He stood, recovering the energy he lost during the little battle there.

He looked about the desert then wondered to himself.

This is strange.....I can't seem to get a bearing of where I am.  What magic is this?

He stopped by one of the fallen Aj's and could see that all the other demons were killed and people seemed to be up and alive.
He could see one of the humans sitting beside the female elf, the both seemed exhausted, and Shaint had passed out. Gararion stood gazing out in the desert with a worried look on his face.
Raoneth stopped by him and asked "Er... is there something wrong?"

Gararion heard the voice of Raoneth speak to him from below.  Gararion looked at Raoneth and knelt down to get closer to him.

"Yes my little friend....I ask you...can you find a bearing on this desert?  I have seemed to have lost mine...which is strange as I have traveled mostly all over this land and have never really felt lost before."

Gararion looked back out towards the open desert with a strange look upon his face...almost if he was waiting for a voice within his soul to speak up.  But as far as he knew that voice had left him.....

Bobbo listened in silence to Oscar's tale of Thambalath. It was a truly interesting tale to him. He felt his sword next to him. It seemed like the sword was calling to him to draw it and kill the evil ones.

Indeed, it seemed probable that the sword had been made in the days when the Tristin was still in power in Strata. It seemed to be enchanted to always fight for the Tristin and the true people of the Stratanian Empire.

"Then we will fight for the Tristin," said Bobbo to Oscar, after he had mentioned that the Tristin and the Resistence would be captured, "Or I shall at least. It is my duty."

Bobbo truly did feel a loyalty to that man whom he had never met named the Tristin. He was finally accepting his birthright. He had found his purpose: to serve the Tristin. It was a sublime moment in the man's life, for ever though he was covered in itchy dirty sand, he was forever changed. No longer would he wander about the lands. He had found his love. He had found his king. He had found his life.

"I travel from north to south and from east to west and back again searching for my purpose in life. I cannot find it." Bobbo the Beggarwww.angelfire.com/in3/keith30/canon.html Go here if you like music.

Oscar paused and peered at Lord Robert.  His outburst to protect the Tristin and be prepared to fight for the resistance seemed to have swept over the young man, as an ocean wave upon the sand, forever changing its apperance.  He smiled at the young lord, clasped his forearm to Lord Roberts and shook it.  "We shall fight for freedom then together.  Onward to Thalambath and to the Resistance."

Oscar once again took the lead.  The AJ's sensing something became excited and began to lope upon the desert sand and through the lightening sky as the sun rose higher.


Nahor Atop his perch he looked over the southern wall of the fortress and noticed two shapes heading this way.  His keen eyes could see yet who or what they were.  He just knew that they were heading this way.  He yelled down.  "Visitors approaching from the south."

The flap of Malok's tent opened and out stepped one of his bodyguards.  Her flaming red hair reminded Nahor of the sun at sunset.  She turned and looked in his direction, gave a nod and then walked back into the tent.

Then Malok himself walked out along with Bahar and his guards.  Malok looked up at Nahor.  "How many do you see, master thief?"

"Just two dots upon the desert floor, not close enough to count numbers.  But it cannot not be too many, there is not that much dust."

Malok paused, nodded turned back to Bahar said something to him which Nahor could not hear and then returned into his tent.  Bahar went to the other posts and Nahor assumed was giving last minute instructions.  Then Nahor saw something that again made him question his sanity.  The tent that was in the middle of the courtyard suddenly disappeared.  He blinked, once, twice and looked again.  It was gone.  "What in Coor's name? Nahor muttered.  He sighed, maybe that Wizard or whatever had left? That would be good. he thought.  But something told him in his gut that they had not left.  Whoever these travellers were they were walking into something that even he could not imagine.

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

Edited by: Oscar Lotus at: 1/2/03 7:15:23 pm

Radaroc gimps quickly over to Shaint and kneels next to him.  He looks around in confusion, he has never delt with anyone other then himself when hurt, and even then he was very resistant to most damage and illness.  He muttered to himself as he looked for someone to help, "By the gods, why did he go and do that? I don't know anything about healing."  However his common sense ruled that he should get both himself and Shaint out of the sun.  Lifting his unconcious burden to the shadow of one of the fallen Aj's he set it down as lightly as possible.  Now to find someone to help. he thought.  Rising once again he moved as fast as he could toward the voices which he assumed were those of his companions.

Edited by: Radaroc at: 1/3/03 5:23:08 am

Keelin waited for a few more moments then pushed herself to her feet. She stood there for an unsteady moment, blinking back the darkness that threatened at the edges of her vision. SHe waited a few more moments then tried to take an unsteady step. Keelin toppled over onto her backside and winced again as the landing jarred her injured shoulder. Okay... so I still can't stand up yet.

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

The battle was over. They had won. Grakan spat on the corpse of the demon at his feet and approached Keelin and Atrii.
"How ya doin missy?" Grakan asked her. She stood and then promptly fell over again. Grakan laughed slightly. "You be steady ther'. I saw ya, trying ta take on those demons. That Elf tho', Shaint is it? he saved ya..." Grakan fought back the urge to look in contempt at Shaint's name. "Come ta think of it... Where is tha bugger? Its not like a warrior to abandon the lady they jus' saved. They normally expect some thanks..." He glanced sidelong at Keelin and walked over to her. "Come here." he said kindly and picked her up gently and carried her over to a central point and put her down.
"Lie ther' for a while. ah'll go speak to Gararion."

He approached the Magi and noticed Raoneth with him. "Bloody good fight ther'!" Grakan leered and then said, "I thik we should camp for a while. Keelin canny walk, Atrii looks a bit battered, and I cant see Shant. Mebbe he's buggered off... canny handle the pressure..." Grakan shrugged. "What do you think? You're the boss here aint ya'?"

---

"There is nothing so sure in the world as the glimmer of gold.

And the treachery of elves."

Oscar sat upon his AJ patiently as he waited for Lord Robert and Lady Luci to come by his side.  The black basalt gates of Thalambath loomed in front of him.  They were closed.  Oscar rode up to the gates and knocked on the gateskeeper door.  He waited for a reply.

Gateskeeper. The gateskeeper, whos name was Jelin, felt the pressure of the tip of the sword against his throat. A very feminine voice softly said. "Answer, any tricks and the last thing your eyes will see will be your head less body."

Jelin, stared at the red haired woman, tried to swallow, but found it hard to do so and then nodded solemnly.  He cursed this woman silently.  He cursed himself and his fellow guards to allow these people to casually walk in here without so much as one arrow strung, or one sword drawn.  But he followed the instructions of the Tristin as he watched them leave along with the Resistance several days before these strangers appeared.  

Now these outside, if they were the ones the Tristin had been waiting for were now going to be guests of these foul creatures.  He thought about yelling, telling them to flee.  But knew that before he could utter a word of warning, he would be dead and those he had tried to help would be in the hands of these monsters anyway.

He opened the small barred window and spoke. "What seeketh thee?"

Oscar looked around and at the man.  The man had beads of sweat pouring down his face.  Oscar thought that a little bit unusual as the sun had not risen fully, but it was still a very hot day and was going to become hotter, besides Luci needed tended to and Oscar, in his wildest imagination would have never figured he was walking into a trap.  He replied. "I and my companions seek shelter from the desert heat and water to refresh our bodies and some Tulimon's to refresh our soul."

The response could have been said by anyone.  The password was cleverly hidden amongst the seemingly innocent request.  The gatekeeper immediately recognized the password and nodded.  "Enter then and may your soul be refreshed."

Oscar stiffened when he heard the reply.  The gatekeeper just gave him a warning but there was nothing Oscar could do without letting those inside know he knew something was amiss.  He looked at Sir Robert and Lady Lucirina with sad eyes knowing he was leading them and most probably himself into death itself.

Oscar waited for the gates to open, he heard the bar behind being removed and then the gates opened.  Oscar rode in and gestured for Sir Robert to follow.  When he entered the courtyard he looked around seemingly innocently like, but he was searching for a sign and there it was. A brick in the southwest corner was not where it was supposed to be it was empty and that gave Oscar hope.  For if the corner was empty it meant then the Tristin and the Resistance were safe, at least for the time being. So thought Oscar, who had captured us then and what did they want?

As soon as the gates closed behind Oscar and his companions they were surrounded.  Men poured out of hidden places swords drawn.  Oscar made a sudden move to look at Sir Robert, an arrow came whistling down and its tip embedded in Oscars left shoulder.  He yelped in pain and fell to the ground.  The pain piercing through his body kept him concious.  "Do not move!  Anyone move and you will be sand viper food!  You, go help the old man."

Oscar looked as a soldier ran to him and attended his wound.  He could see the distrust in Sir Roberts eyes. Oscar desperately wanted to tell him that he did not lead them into a trap but all he could do was look at him.  And then he screamed as the arrow was pulled out of him.  He slowly lost unconsiousness the last sight was a woman dressed all in red striding toward him.

Nahor Nahor watched as the two AJ's with their passengers walked right into the trap.  He was stunned when someone shot the old man. The old man had not drawn a weapon! He was just looking around and they shot him.  What kind of people am I working for?

Nahor watched the other couple on the other AJ.  The man looked liked he was a noble or something and the elven woman with him was a curiosity.  Were these the ones this Malok and especially Troas were after?  An old man and a young man with an elven woman!  He needed almost a complete army to capture three people?  What a waste of men and time.  

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

Edited by: Oscar Lotus at: 1/3/03 7:20:50 pm

As Bobbo rode to Oscar's side, he was very puzzled by the language he used, however, he figured it was something of the local specialty. Then Oscar looked back at him with sad eyes. Bobbo was startled. Has Oscar betrayed us? Has he been hired to bring us here and now he thinks it is sad that we must die? NO! He seemed so loyal to the Resistence thought Bobbo.

Oscar beckoned for him to ride forward when he entered the gates. He was cautious. His hand strayed to his sword hilt. If this is the end, then I will not go without a fight he thought.

Suddenly an arrow flew into Oscar's left shoulder. Quick as lightning Bobbo's sword came out of its sheath. Then the fell warning was heard, and Bobbo knew he could not save them. He lowered his sword.

"This looks like the end," he whispered in Lucirina's ear, "Do you propose we take what chance we have and fight or go along? Do you feel you can help me?" But Bobbo knew that it was foolishness. He then realized that the enemy was not killing them but capturing them and there were too many of them about to fight. "Never mind," he said to Lucirina, "Let them play their game. I will not say that these are the last moments of our lives."

Bobbo saw the red-clad woman with red hair. He glared at her with the anger in his heart. If he had not Lucirina to look after, he would have killed her and fought his way through them all, at least until the archers let loose their arrows down upon him. He slowly sheathed his sword and breathed deeply.

'... 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)

Gararion knelt down to answer him. "Yes my little friend....I ask you...can you find a bearing on this desert? I seem to have lost mine...which is strange as I have traveled mostly all over this land and have never really felt lost before."
Raoneth lifted an eyebrow, more surprised that the elf actually bendt down to answer him than at what he said.
"erhm... I suppose... You don't see the towers in the horizon either, then..?"
I do feel somewhat confused. but as long as I know right from left... no, thats left from right... or... well, I'll be fine
Just then a dwarf approached them.
We had a dwarf with us? Good.
"Bloody good fight ther'!" the dwarf leered and continued, "I think we should camp for a while. Keelin canny walk, Atrii looks a bit battered, and I can't see Shant. Mebbe he's buggered off... canny handle the pressure..." he shrugged. "What do you think? You're the boss here aint ya'?"
Raoneth started, "er, I don't really know who... Ah... I'm sorry. But I don't really know who is who here. As I haven't been introduced. But I got the impression that Shaint was, well, sort of, in charge..."

Edited by: Raoneth  at: 1/4/03 7:07:08 pm

Issrah Issrah, walked calmly past the man and elven woman upon the AJ and continued to the fallen old man.  She watched as the soldier pulled the arrow out and heard the old man scream.  Emotionless she reached into her red suit, pulled out a small stringed sack, opened it, took out some Eascathe and placed it upon the old mans wound.  "Bind the Eascathe with a piece of clean cloth. Then carry him to the Masters tent." she ordered the soldier, who obiendently complied with her order.

She then turned around and looked at the man upon the AJ.  Her lips curled into a small smile.  "You were wise to sheath your sword.  There is no escape from here.  If you answer the Masters questions then you and this "lady" may depart in peace.  Unless..." she left the implied proposition hanging in the air.   "Get down from your mount. Unbuckle your sword belt and rid yourselves of all weapons. That includes the elf too.  Then we will search you for any other type of contraband you may be carrying.  After that you will be taken to the Master.  Do you understand?" she asked him.

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

As the arrow pierced trough the flesh of Oscar Lucirina winced and her ears twitched at his scream, the spill of blood was something she couldn't yet handle well, it didn't make her sick or anything of the likings, it just brought back very bad memories that she would rather have forgotten.
The woman ordered the soldier to bind Oscar's wound and then walked Lucirina and Robert that were still riding the AJ.
"You were wise to sheath your sword. There is no escape from here. If you answer the Masters questions then you and this "lady" may depart in peace. Unless...
Get down from your mount. Unbuckle your sword belt and rid yourselves of all weapons. That includes the elf too. Then we will search you for any other type of contraband you may be carrying. After that you will be taken to the Master. Do you understand?"  
Lucirina looked down at the woman adressing both her and Robert and felt a small wave of anger wash over her at the implications of the red-clad female, she knew perfectly what she ment when she called her "lady" in that tone, and her long ears twitched and slowly was layed back in irritation.
She jumped off the AJ and landed on her feet, and even thou the healing herbs that Robert had applied on them before they left the tavern had healed them some, she felt a jolt of pain run up trough her legs, yet she wouldn't give the other woman the satisfaction of seeing her in pain. Still with her long ears laid back in irritation she stood up straight as she unbuckled  her belt and let her long bladed dagger and potion pouch fall to the ground, she kept the silver flute thou.

What harm could a simple bard do with a single, harmless flute. Besides One is afraid that the soldiers may break it. A fine lady like yourself must know how reckless they are with all things of beauty.
One understands what is asked of One and will answer all questions that One carry answer to.

Lucirina talked with a soft and calm voice while facing the other woman, and even thou she was sounding very polite and correct the actitude of the elf was cold and unfriendly

Bobbo felt a great swell of anger rush through him as the woman spoke. However, knowing that he would die if he did not comply, he dismounted and took off his sword belt. His ring was still on his finger, though. He dropped the sword belt with his Stratanian blade to the sandy ground.

"Here I lay my sword, and here it shall stay until I return for it, do you understand?" he said, his eyes gleaming with coldness. He knew the ring's power, but decided now was not the time.

He also untied the saddlebags from his AJ and dropped them beside the sword. "And this shall remain untouched as well. Do as I say and a little reward might be in order," said Bobbo to the guards and the woman. He meant, of course, if they did not touch his bags, he would give them a few golden coins from the bags.

"Pray, let me keep this ring on my finger, for it is an heirloom of my household and holds great sentimental value," he said to the woman.

Polan A young man dressed in Stratanian garb approached the great walls of Thambalath. He appeared harmless, and he approached city gates very feebly, as he was covered in sand from the sandstorm.

He shouted over the gates, "Hail! I am here to buy goods for my master in Strata." The boy had come to Thambalath pretty regularly before and it was not unusual for him to come to the city. He expected to be allowed in and allowed to carry out his business.

'... 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)

Grakan picked Keelin up off her feet and lay her gently at a central point where the group of battered warriors regained their energy. Atrii stumbled over to Keelin, his legs ached. He looked at his shoulder, it had been touched with a tiny bit of poison. A small bit of his skin had been burned away. A few steps before Atrii reached Keelin he collapsed down. He hit the ground with a *thud*, Atrii rolled over onto his back and lay motionless.
He pushed himself towards Keelin and managed to get himself onto his knees.
"Don't try and get up for a while, their no need to risk any injury right now," Atrii smiled kindly before continueing. "I don't believe Gararion knows exactly what to do just yet, so we may as well make the best of this rest we have."

Gararion looked at the dwarve who came up to him and spoke to him.

Gararion raised, now standing above the dwarf in hieght.

"Camping might be a good idea.  But I think we need a source of water to tend the wounds that most have suffered in this battle.

As to myself being in charge...I am but a follower of Shaint on this quest of his.  Shaint is the man in charge here.  Go speak to him.  As to where he is....." Gararion looked around for a moment and saw Shaint laying down in the sands.  He assumed he was resting along with the others.  "Shaint is over there dwarf."

Gararion pointed in the direction of Shaint.

Gararion looked out towards the desert.  He could no longer see the towers that the brownie was speaking of, though through the storm he hadn't seen them very clearly to begin with and thought the shadows to be tricks that the sand was playing.

Gararion searched his mind for an answer to this question.  At the same time scanning the area for a source of water.

Radaroc vision constantly wavered and rippled in the heat but he finaly saw Gararion and a few others in conversation.  Moving as quickly as was possible with his injured leg he limped toward them.  Finally reaching them and he struggled for breath, "Shhhaint is, is," he gasped for air, "is over there," he said gesturing in the direction he had come, "I don't know what's wrong with him he just collapsed but I moved him into some shade.  Does anyone know how to heal?  Nevermind, just get over there and help him, I'll take care of myself."  The troll sat down and breathed deeply,  he looked up towards them, "Go!"  

Shaint still lay motionless as the sands of the desert began to cover his body it started to enter some of his wounds, and blocking his mouth the only thing left for partial air through the nasal passage wich would be soon engulfed with Sand....Just HOW long was Shaint laying there anyway......

Atrii rose his head from where he lay. He looked at Keelin for a moment. "I must go help my friend Shaint."
He slowly got to his feet, he limped to Shaint and fell beside him.
"Shaint," Atrii checked his pulse. He was alive.
I must awake him...water!
Atrii reached into one of his pockets and pulled out a bottle filled with water. He splashed some on Shaint's face emptying half of the bottle.
"Come on Shaint, please wake up."

"PAH!!" Shaint burst from under the sand pile sand sliding from his clothes and his hair, the eyes of him drew open and from his mouth inhaled deeply he looked arund and then saw atrii "good atrii....i must have fallen asleep........or something of the....." Shaint cut himself off and his eyes widened slightly "KEELIN!!!" Shaint somehow sprung to his feet and ran to where he presumed Keelin was...he saw nothing but some blood holes not knowing she had been moved by Grakan...."What?!"

Atrii sprung and ran with Shaint.
"Do not worry my friend, Grakan moved her. She is right over their, she is badly injured but she will be fine. She just needs to rest." Atrii pointed to Keelin as she lay quietly resting her wounds.

"Camping might be a good idea. But I think we need a source of water to tend the wounds that most have suffered in this battle." Gararion said, "As to myself being in charge...I am but a follower of Shaint on this quest of his. Shaint is the man in charge here. Go speak to him. As to where he is....." Raoneth looked around and finaly saw Shaint, before he could open his mouth, Gararion continued. "Shaint is over there dwarf." And pointed.
The troll came limping towards them, looking to be near exhaustion, "Shhhaint is, is," he gasped for air, "is over there," he said gesturing in the direction he had come, "I don't know what's wrong with him he just collapsed but I moved him into some shade. Does anyone know how to heal? Nevermind, just get over there and help him, I'll take care of myself." The troll sat down and breathed deeply, he looked up towards them, "Go!"
Raoneth looked in the direction he gestured to, the same direction Gararion had pointed out, before looking back at the troll. "You don't seem very well yourself." Raoneth pulled the pouch out of his belt, loosened the cord and rummaged around in it for a while. "er... ah! Here." he held out a rather flat looking gray mushroom. "It tastes like sand, but that's all good, It'll make you feel better. At least I think so." Raoneth frowned, he could heal people, but he was feeling unatturally exhausted himself for some kind of reason. "Er.. mr. Troll. I think I may be able to... heal, as you call it, people and Aj's. But I... need to take the lifeforce from something. We might have to sacrifise one or more of the, uh, Aj's."

Issrah Issrah watched the elven woman jump down from the AJ.  She impassionately watched her take off her belt and watched a daggar and a pouch fall to the ground.  Then she listened to the elf speak.  She let her speak then replied. "One? You have no name? You call yourself one.  That would come from a creature such as yourself."

Issrah walked up to the daggar and pouch and kicked it over to a soldier.  "Pick it up, search the pouch, and then give it to your commander."  She then peered at the elven woman scruitinizing her and then she took a long look at the flute.  She did not touch it, just looked at it.  Then she took a step back and spit on the ground. "If that thing gives you some comfort you may keep it for the time being.  Of course the Master may have different ideas."

Issrah then ignored the elf and watched the man jump down from his AJ.  She glanced back at the elf and leered and then walked up to him.  She stood there watching him put down his things and listened to him try and warn her and then try and bribe her and the guards.  She smiled, walked slowly up to the man until she was so close she could smell his manliness.  "Threatening me or trying to bribe me or these guards is like pouring water in the sand.  I will do whatsoever I choose to do with these things." she said as she kicked them and then motioned for two guards to pick them up.  "Search the pouches, and then give them, their belongings and his sword to your commander" she said staring, taunting the man.  "Let me see this precious ring but before that..."  She walked over to the man, glancing once more to the elf, and then rubbed her hands over the mans chest.  "MM..  you have very well developed chest muscles.  Why is a man like you with a creature such as one?" she asked.  "A man like you could be an asset to my Master and I could teach you things that would make your blood boil like lava in a volcano."

She was interrupted by a soldier.  "Mistress Issrah a boy calls to be let in."

Issrah wheeled, opened the palm of her hand and a fire ball the size of the fist flew toward the soldier and engulfed him in flames.  "I do not like to be disturbed when I am playing with my pets!"

She spat at the elf as she strode to the gates door.  "You may keep your ring until the Master says otherwise.  Guards take them to the wall and chain them.  I shall be back."  She gave a laugh and continued to the gate.

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

"KEELIN!!!"

Keelin was jolted out of her half-sleeping state by someone shouting her name. Wha- What's happened?! She jumped to her feet, eyes wide, and looked around. When she saw everything was in order she sighed and allowed her knees to give out again, dumping her to the ground.  

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

"One? You have no name? You call yourself one. That would come from a creature such as yourself."
Lucirina let her green eyes meet those of the woman as she replied to her words, the eyes of the elf, usually so filled with peace and warmth now were as cold as her voice had been.

"One has a name, but One will decide if one wishes to reveal it or not to the fine "lady" that is asking One."

The words once more were spoken in a polite tone, but the inuendo behind them were not easily ignored, Lucirina was walking on a fine line between politeness and direct insult and she knew it, yet the elf didn't turn her gaze away from the woman as she spoke.
Lucirina watched in silence as the woman kicked her dagger and her pouch toward the other guard. SHe knew she wouldn't find much in the old pouch, exept some minor medicinal herbs and a few copper coins.
A soft smirk came to her lips as she was allowed to keep her flute, atleast for now it was safe.
As the other woman approached Robert Lucirina had to struggle with herself to not show any signs of anger nor agressivity, only the ever laid back ears of the elf gave away what she was feeling at the moment, but when she ran her hand over Robert's chest a small movement of her hands revealed her anger, she balled both her hands into tight fists for a second before releasing them.

*A pet... He is no pet, he is a kind and noble man... and now he is in hands of this witch.*

The mind of Lucirina raced even more as she saw what the woman did to one of her own kind, a witch as powerful as her was someone to be wary off, better stay calm and wait.
The woman walked by her and spat on the floor and Lucirina did act like she was suddenly both blind and deaf, ignoring the female completely.

Radaroc took the mushroom nodding his thanks to the brownie, he munched on it feeling some energy flow into his limbs and some of the ache disappear.   Standing up to his full height he streched.  "Thank you, I needed that." he looked down at Raoneth, "I don't know much about magic except stay on the good side of those who use it, but if you think we need it we need to find out which Aj's are healthy, injured, or dead.  But first we should get you to Shaint and the others to see if they need your help.  I could carry you if you'd like."

Jelin Jelin stood in terror as he watched the guard go up in flame.  He looked at the elven woman and the man and slowly shook his head for he knew even if they were innocent they were dead people, but not until this Master and especially this woman had their fun.  He croaked out fearfully. "Mistress, the lad outside. I know him.  He comes here quite often to visit me before he goes into the city to buy goods.  He is just a wee boy.  Let me try and get him to go away."

Issrah turned on Jelin and Jelin saw his life flash before his eyes.  But she stopped, paused, tapped her finger against her thigh.  "Yes, that would be the wiser course.  The boy probably has family and would send out others to look for him.  Agreed gatekeeper.  Do as you want, but if you cannot sway him to leave.  Then..."  She left the implied answer hanging in the air.

The guard put the sword tip once again at Jelin's back and walked him to the gatedoor. Jelin tried to swallow, but his throat become very dry again.

Nahor Nahor watched with disgust from atop his perch at all of what was going on down below. These people do not deserve such treatment.  Can not that red haired sorceress see that!?  I have seen enough.  I am out of here as soon as I can.  

Nahor looked over the wall and saw a young boy come up to the tower. Now what? he thought.  He heard the young boy yell to be let in.  Nahor turned and saw a fireball streak out of the sorceresses hand and literaly burn alive the guard who was just doing his duty.  Nahor thought about notching an arrow to his bow and letting it fly. Right between the witch's shoulder blades.  But his mother did not raise up a stupid boy.  The odds were against him.[/i]

The stench of burnt flesh wafted up into his nostrils.  Then Nahor almost lost his footing as he saw a shimmer in the courtyard and then in seconds, where there once was no tent, now there stood one.  He blinked.  This was too much for his senses to take.  He looked away toward the south and wondered what had happened to the party of travellers that had left the Thirsty Herald.  What sort of trap was laid for them?

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

The troll stood up and stretched, "Thank you, I needed that.", then he looked down at Raoneth "I don't know much about magic except stay on the good side of those who use it, but if you think we need it we need to find out which Aj's are healthy, injured, or dead. But first we should get you to Shaint and the others to see if they need your help. I could carry you if you'd like." Raoneth started walking towards the others, "You should rest, you're probably more tired than I am."
He didn't know if that was true, though. He was more fatigued than he should have been by far.
I'm beginning to wonder if I stayed too long at that inn...
A good couple of days of walking will do me good.

He could see Shaint on his feet together with the human,
They're probably fine, then
He also saw Keelin suddenly standing up before her legs gave up and she fell down again.
And she's not...
He trotted onwards to her, when he finally reached her he stopped and looked at her for a while.
She seems to be alive too. And well, given the circumstances.
"Are you... ehm.. do you need any help?"  

Shaint's body turned to Atrii "ah...Thank you my good friend i just wanted to Make sure she is ok if she died i dotn think i could carry that and the....well the fact that i cant even put a mapping of were we are good friend.....it is truly the oddest feeling....i dont know where we are.......but come i'm going to find Gararion" Shaint was beginning to feel better no wthat he heard Keelin was allright The storm was dieing down so the vision was very clear.....

he could map out were most people where Gararion,now Grakan and Keelin, Ofcourse Radaroc, and Atrii..... well i'm sure raoneth is fine Av'a protect him he is a monsterously great brownie" Shaint walked twords Gararion and stopped before him moving to his side "Gararion, i have the strangest feeling.....my mind is blank of location of where we are.

"Are you... ehm.. do you need any help?"

Keelin blinked uncertainly. I do not rememeber seeing such a small... erm... being... with us before...

I don't believe so... unless you are offering medical assistance? Keelin Gave a rueful grin. I cannot bandage my own shoulder, unfortunately.

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

Gararion looked at Shaint.  He then looked back out towards the open desert.

"I too have notived the same feeling within my own mind.  Though I feel that it is only within my mind."

Gararion thought for a moment as he recalled what happened during the moment Skrill had died.

Those unknown words that he had hissed seemed to carry a magical essence about them.  Was this the work of this foul demon's magic.  What power had this creture truely had?

The elf blinked and paused before giving a rueful grin and gesturing to her shoulder that seemed like it had been hit by the poison.
The tough, silent kind, then... Elves.
"Ah, you've been hit, haven't you. Do you have a dagger or anything like that?"

Issrah  Issrah turned to face the elven woman after the guard forced Jelin to the gate door.  She laughed. "Oh, your name I will know, as well as anything else.  By the time my Master is through with you I will know everything about you."

Suddenly a tent appeared toward the rear of the courtyard.  Issrah became very quiet and then whispered into the elf's ear. "The Master has arrived."

Issrah walked toward the tent.  The tent flaps opened and another red clad, red haired female, almost twin to Issrah walked out, she held the flap open and out stepped Malok.  Issrah immediately fell to her knees and touched her head to the ground.

Malok Malok stood towering over Bahran who had followed him and several of his soldiers.  Bahran who was at least 3 peds tall himself felt dwarfed at the height of this man.  Malok, dressed in his usual blood red cloak, and shiny dark boots, walked majestically toward Issrah.  He placed his left hand upon her shoulder.  "Rise faithful one."

Issrah rose, but kept her head slightly bowed.

"Tell me Issrah what have you discovered?"

"Nothing as of yet Master, except that one is an "elf" and a woman at that.  The other, is a man, dressed like a noble, but has the hands of a peasant.  Though he does wear a curious ring.  The elf also carries a flute.  And we have a young boy outside wishing to enter.  The gateskeeper tells me that the boy visits him before he goes into the city.  The gateskeeper asked that he be given a chance to move the boy along. I allowed this, thinking that if the boy came up missing, that his parents would send someone out looking for him.  How does the rest of the Masters plan fare?" she asked.

Malok removed his hood.  His hair black as coal, his eyes were blood red, and he wore a short black goatee. An almost animal magnitism permeated around him.  He would have been called an extremely handsome man if it were not for the evil in his heart that marred his soul.  He peered at Issrah then replied, his voice dark and deep.  "You have done well Issrah.  As far as the other matter I will tell you later.  I will have a look at our visitors now."

Issrah stepped aside, Malok walked forward and Issrah and her sister Rhas fell in behind.  Issrah thought. The other matter must not have fared well or as well as the Master had wanted for he would have told me with joy upon his face as he would describe each detail of how his demons would vanquish his enemies.  I wonder what had happened?  

Malok went right by the man, though he did look at his face for a brief moment, then stepped in front of the elven woman.  She was quite striking, for an elf he thought. "Your name?" he asked impassionately.

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

As the woman turned away Lucirina spat on the ground where she had stood, a curse in styrásh on her lips as her green eyes followed her as she stepped toward a tent that appeared out of thin air in the middle of the camp.
As she saw another red clad woman step out of the tent her long ears twitched and were laid back even more.
As she watched in silence a very tall man emerged from the tent and spoke with the witch that had been adressing her earlier.
He slowly lifted his hands to push away the hood of his cloak and revealed a quite hansome face, but Lucirina payed no attention to the finely sculped features, the only thing she noticed about him was the deep evil in his eyes.
The man walked past her and towards Robert keeping his eyes on him for but a second and then he turned toward Lucirina, standing in front of her.
"Your name?"
He requested. Lucirina thought for a second, if she did not answer he would anger for sure and the evil that layed in his eyes would be unleashed on her and maybe on Robert too. Yet she did not wish to share her name with such a foul creature so she answered him, her green eyes meeting his red ones, the rising sun making them shimmer green like the emerald waves of the sea as she spoke, her voice soft and sweet as the honey from the cloewen tree.

"Ones names is Nightbird."

As simple as that, the many decades of wandering and of surviving in the world of men and orcs had made her quite a skilled lier, not a sign in her eyes nor her voice could reveal that the name she gave was not her own.
The wind blew softly as she spoke, lifting her long hair, making it dance around her slender frame, she pushed the long locks away from her face with a lithe hand before she let her eyes break away from his.

Edited by: Lucirina Telor Vevan at: 1/7/03 8:52:02 pm

"Gararion, indeed it is not only within your mind.....but i feel for the worst and it has been and is in the others....Gararion...we are yet behand allmost a day and need to get to Milkengrad....i knew it wouldent be easy....but i never thought we opposed so much evil and foul works..."

Shaint's upper body was still coverd by nothing but the flesh upon him...the slices on him where starting to scab.....wasnt he not an elf.....and why was he healing so fast......

"Gararion, I'm going to speak..well find Keelin i cant hold my mind anymore i must she if she is allright" Shaint nodded lightly to gararion before walking in the way that he was told Keelin was.... Oppon arriving he saw Keelin Grakan and what looked like Raoneth.....Shaint moved himself next to keelin and crouched on his own to legs "Keelin, if you cant walk i'll carry you consider me a temporary ride untill you can move fully again allright?"

Atrii walked up beside Shaint and looked at Keelin. She was gathering quite a large crowd around her. Grakan, Shaint, Raoneth and himself.
"She will be alright won't she?" Atrii asked, he thought he knew the answer, but he just had to ask the question.

Bobbo just about pushed the woman away from him when she rubbed his chest, but he did not want to bring further harm to himself or Lucirina.

When they were chained up he waited. Then a tent popped out of thin air and a really mean looking guy stepped out. Bobbo was stunned. He must be a wizard! he thought The ring will serve no purpose here.

He watched as the completely evil man walked past him and stood before Lucirina. He saw the man's eyes look at him once. Of course, that was too much. Bobbo shiverred from his gaze.

Polan "I say!," said the boy, "Are you going to let me in? My master will not be too happy. He may decide to not send me here anymore. Your merchants won't be very happy. I say, are you listening up there?"

The boy was feeling very uncomfortable about this situation and almost decided to turn back as it was, but he heard voices on the other side, he couldn't make out any words they were saying, but since the desert was silent, he could tell they were talking.

'... 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)

"Ah, you've been hit, haven't you. Do you have a dagger or anything like that?"

Keelin shook her head. No dagger, sorry...

"Keelin, if you cant walk i'll carry you consider me a temporary ride untill you can move fully again allright?"

I'll be just fine in a minute. I can walk, Keelin signed, a bit defensively. Having people worried about her was rather uncomfortable and it made her feel rather useless. Keelin let her hand drop to the hilt of her scimitar and felt the tiniest bit better.  

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

Malok One's name is Nightbird. What a curious way to speak. he thought.  "Nightbird? Interesting name.  And interesting way you speak about yourself calling yourself one.  I have had some dealings with elves and have never come across one such as your self.  From what tribe do you come from and... more importantly, why are you here?  Why do you ride with a human?  What are you seeking?  I warn you if you lie to me I will know and your end will be more painful than your begining."

Jelin "Polan I hear you boy.  I am sick and do not wish to give you my sickness.  So leave and come back some other time.  Bring some sweet pineapples with you, ok?"

Polan listened and as soon as he heard Jelin ask for pineapples he knew something was wrong.  Jelin hated pineapples and it was the signal to go out into the desert and find the secret oasis where a Resistance spy held out.  Polan hoped that Jelin would still be alive when he returned.  "Ok, Jelin.  Hope you feel better.  Bye."  Polan slowly walked away toward the c

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

Gararion looked around.  Shaint had left to aid the female elf.  gararion could sense that Shaint had a deep feeling for her....a feeling he once had ages ago.  But that was art of a forgotten past that Gararion had learned from.  He had given up love since that day.  His studies wouldn't premit it now.

Gararion searched the desert for any clues as to where they were.  The storm had seemed to had blown any tracks they had made before so he knew not where they had and hadn't been.

By what magic was this that the demon used against the part.  Truely there was no spell in his knowledge that could errase one of their memory.  That was it.  It was errased from his memory...only idden deep within.  Memory turned into a illusion like thing.  There but not truely there to the senses.  Gararion thought about what he must do to counter this, as he now knew the effect of the spell.

Lucirina decided that it would not do any harm to tell about her tribe, but decided to keep the reasons for her being with Oscar and Robert a secret.
She bowed slightly to Malok before she spoke, the grace produced by years of training along with her natural soft movements making her body seem fragile like a lilly.

"One is part of the Injerín elves from the far north.
As for what One is doing here and in the company of that fine lord it is a simple answer.
One is but a bard that has lost One's anterior master and is in search of a new one. The desert is a dangerous place to travle alone, specially if one does not know all it's dangers. One merly joined this little caravane to be safe.

The eyes of the elf was ever clear as she spoke, and her hand strayed away to gently run over the silvery flute attatched to her belt, a slow and caressing touch. The silver somehow felt reconforting, atleast she still had her flute, even thou it would have been more reasuring to have her dagger.

Malok Malok watched the elf closely as she talked.  Looking for any sign of a lie and could see none. Either she was telling me the truth or she is the best liar I have ever come across. he thought.

"An Injerin elf, a bard, so you must hail from the city Lyeil'soula?" Malok asked.  If she was truely as Injerin elf she would know or she is lying. he figured.

Most would think that wizards can read other peoples minds.  that is technically not true.  For no one can.  However those trained can read people's actions, their slightest body movements;from the position of their arms, hands, even the slightest eye movements can tell someone if they are lying or not.  Malok was extremely skilled at this.  However if people want to think that he could read their minds, so much the better to actualize the illusion of his power.  Even his two most trusted guards, Issrah and Rhas, thought he could read minds.

Oscar Oscar woke as a jolt of pain racked his left shoulder.  He opened his eyes to see a guard above him.  He could feel cold steel around his right wrist and then felt the same being clamped around his left one.  The bands held his arms outstretched.  Then the guard took his feet and stretching them put them in irons as well.  Oscar looked and could see Sir Robert and Lady Lucirina standing, guarded by men.

One man stood way above the others and seemed to be addressing Lady Lucirina.  Why were they so interested in her?  I would think they would be more interested in Sir Robert or myself, not an elven bard.  Did she hold secrets?  How did they even find out?  Who betrayed us?  And where is the Tristin and the Resistance.

Oscar noticed another man.  Bahran! He is here! Bahran is Troas's spy in the northern part of the desert.  Could he have been the one upon the roof?  No, he is to fat.  But I recall he had a cousin who was a master thief.  Could he have been the one upon the roof that Shaint saw.  Even if he was, how would he know where the Tristin and the Resistance were.  No, someone betrayed us and I will die trying to find out who. If I do not die before then.

That was a sobering thought.  Oscar stood chained to the wall, straining to hear what was being said.

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

Atrii smiled at Keelin. He could tell that she didn't really like being the center of attention.
"She will be fine, she is a strong one. She can take care of herself right now." Atrii smiled again before walking to Gararion.
"Well friend, how are you feeling now? I haven't had a real chance to talk to you since the battle ended."

Edited by: Atrii Redwood at: 1/10/03 1:52:23 pm

Gararion looked towards Atrii as he came up to him and spoke.  He was still searching the depths of his mind searching for an answer for this puzzle he was confronted with.

"I am doing quite weel my friend.  I seemed to have faired better then the rest of yous in that little battle.  Though my mind is puzzled with our current problem.  I ask you Atrii, have you a idea where we are?"

"Not at all, I have seen things that I recognize but they are not where I remembered them to be. I am as puzzled as you are my friend."

Raoneth could hear Shaints voice behind him, "Keelin, if you cant walk i'll carry you consider me a temporary ride untill you can move fully again allright?"
I was wondering when he'd show up
The female elf signaled something with her hands, Shaint didn't move to pick her up.
"Er, Shaint, you have a dagger or knife on you somewhere, don't you?"
"She will be fine, she is a strong one. She can take care of herself right now.", the human broke in.
He smiled and walked over to Gararion.
Raoneth frowned and turned back to the elf with a questioning look on his face.

Shaint looked to raoneth and smiled "sure i have a dagger here Raoneth...well here it is anyway your a little bit small to wield it" Shaint chuckled lightly and removed a dagger from his belt setting it on the ground next to Raoneth "hmmm....It's getting dark we should probably pitch camp for tonight i dont thin we can get out of here right now anyway" Shaint stood up and looked around for his own fallen AJ it was coverd in sand but the bags of utilities and whatnot still remaind on it,

Shaint removed the bags with some heavy tugging and sat them on the ground opening one side "hmm...where is it" Shaint searched through some clothing and extra things then found what he was looking for it was a vest of somesort black(velvet looking) material he picked it out and pulled it over his head Shaint actually looked somewhat of wearing the typical elven things...but then again so far from it

a V neck cut with strings cross it atleast it was an upper body covering of somesort Shaint picked up his bags and somehow managed to work it up onto his upper body to be carried by him he walked over to gararion and atrii who where talking amongst themselves "Hmm, What do you think about pitching a camp tonight?? that suitable for you high class people like myself??" Shaint laughed maybe it was only funny to him....owell it was funny to him none the less.

Gararion nodded to Atrii's response.

Gararion turned towards Shaint.  He did not understand Shaints joke but agreed that resting for the night would be best for the injured members of the party.

"Setting camp if fine with me Shaint.  It will give the injured the needed time to rest."

He then once again looked out towards the vast desert.

Atrii nodded to Shaint as well.
"I agree, we are all very tired and weary even if we are not injured."
Atrii saw Gararion turn and look into the vast desert. He did the same trying to find something that would lead them in the right direction.

"Ok i'll notify the others of what where doing" Shaint was still carrying his bags from the AJ but dropped them before walking away he spoke to Gararion and Atrii "You might want to get the bags from your AJ also they are all the supplies we have" Shaint walked around to radaroc and all of the other units and told them of setting up camp, accept for making an Exeption for Keelin because he figured out that she would probably try to help and was really the last thing he wanted her to do was hurt herself again

Gararion had moved towards his AJ.  It had been alright protected from the majority of the attacks by his magic.  Gararion pulled the AJ back up on its feet and stood beside it.

He looked over the AJ, it was still in good health, little dirty from the sands but other than that alright.  Gararion decided to leave his pack on his AJ as he didn't really add anything to it when they left.  So what ever the packs contained was already there before they left the Tavern.

Lucirina was quite happy that she decided to speak the truth about her race, if not she might have ended up in trouble when he asked from what city she came from, but now she could answer with a nod and a slight smile to his question.

"Yes, One comes from the Lylei'Soula, or song of bards as humans know our small town."

She nodded once more as if she was looking over many a memory from her home.
She then met his eyes once more, her emerald ones sparkling softly from the many memories the name of her home town had brought her.

Edited by: Lucirina Telor Vevan at: 1/11/03 6:57:37 pm

Atrii also walked to his AJ, it had scrambled off a few peds from the main battle area. It stood alone waiting to be found by it's master.
He used a rag he found in his pack to clean his sword bringing it back to it's shiny silver. He took off his cloak and put it inside his pack as well revealing his green shirt and pants. His clothes were very loose, he hated tight clothes, he needed everything to be very loose and baggy.
"Ah much better," he said to himself as he led his AJ back to the rest of the group.

"sure i have a dagger here Raoneth...well here it is anyway your a little bit small to wield it" Shaint chuckled a bit before setting a dagger in to the ground beside him. "hmmm....It's getting dark we should probably pitch camp for tonight i dont think we can get out of here right now anyway"
Raoneth mumbled a "thanks" before turning back to the female elf. He wrapped his hand in his cloak and carefully lifted up the piece of her tunic covered with poison while he reached for the dagger. Then he started working away on the cloth. Sawing back and forth with the dagger.
The dagger was surprisingly sharp on the edges and he was soon finished.
He put away the dagger before he dried off what had gotten through the tunic to her skin.
Then Raoneth stopped and looked around.
Seems like she was the only one hit by the poison, everyone else seem like they will get better with just a good nights sleep.
Raoneth blinked and rubbed his eyes, he could definently use some sleep himself.
"Ah, do you have a piece of cloth or anything to spare, er, or even better, some bandages?"

Edited by: Raoneth at: 1/11/03 7:52:03 pm

Malok "Of that, you tell the truth."  Malok paused a moment then walked to the man, stopped looked at Nightbird and spoke to Issrah.  "Issrah take the woman to my tent.  Offer her some refreshments.  Then keep an eye upon her until I return."

Issrah's eyes narrowed and if was possible her hair even turned more red than its usual color.  "But.. Master.." she sputtered.

Malok turned and looked at her. "Yes, faithful one." His voice was barely above a whisper and extremely calm, yet Issrah knew that was when he was the most dangerous.  She mumbled. "Nothing Master. I shall do as requested."  She bowed her head a brief moment, then lifted it high.

Issrah walked to Nightbird.  "M'lady if you will follow me."  She swept her arm in front of her.

Malok turned his attention to the man in front of him.  His features and clothing marked him as a noble, but Issrah was right, his hands are the hands of one who has worked all his life, the hands of a peasant.  "Now young man I ask you the same question.  "What is your name?  And what is your buisness here?  Recall that I can tell if you lie to me.  If you tell me the truth then you see what happens.  If not?..."  Malok left the implied answer.

Rhas stood close to Malok.  He noticed and leaned down to her as she whispered.  "There was another.  An old man.  Issrah has him chained to the North wall."  Malok nodded, Rhas stepped back and walked behind Issrah.  Malok looked at the young man.  "I am waiting."

Quithrah  A man in white desert robes sees a small boy heading toward the city Thalambath.  The boy looked familiar.  Qui, as his friends call him, rode his AJ closer and called out.  "Polan! Polan is that you?"

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

Polan"Qui! Yes, yes," said Polan. "There's trouble in the city, Qui!"

Bobbo"I am called Bobbo," replied Bobbo, "but you may call me Bob if you like."

Bobbo was not speaking a lie, for that was his name and had been for several years.

'... 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 elf stood still as the mage seemed to make up his mind what he should do with her, he walked over to Bobbo and looked at him before he turned around and barked an order to the woman who had spoken to Lucirina before.
"Issrah take the woman to my tent. Offer her some refreshments. Then keep an eye upon her until I return."
Lucirina felt a wave of fear wash over her at these words, her, alone in that.... that....evil thing's tent, she would rather face a whole pack of cor'cutas alone, but she loved her life all to much to give the man a reason to slain her.
After shooting the woman a short glance, her eyes green poison, she lifted her head and let the redheaded woman take her to the tent, she was amazed to feel that the insides of the tent were much cooler than the outside, there were many soft pillows piled on the floor to sit on.
The wood elf frowned bu took a seat anyways, reciving the mug of water that was offered to her, and lifting it to her lips pretending to drink, yet her eyes were allert, and her ears twitched slightly as she listened to every little sound.

Qui "Trouble? In the city? What kind of trouble? Or do you mean the Fortress, Polan?"

Malok "Bobbo? Well Bobbo, what is your buisness here?"

Issrah After Issrah gave Nightbird her water. Nightbird! What a name.  She then took a piece of rope, made a loop.  She smiled at Nightbird, then slapped the water away. "That will suffice."  Taking Nightbirds left wrist she looped it with the rope and then cruely tugged it behind her and pushed Nightbird against the main pole and grabbing her other wrist tied it behind her latching her to the pole.  She smiled once again.
"There the "lady Nightbird, has her wings clipped, so she cannot fly away."  

Issrah noticed the flute attached to Nightbirds waist, reached down and took it.  She looked at it and then smiling took it and threw it upon the pile of other things the guards had taken from their prisoners; The mans sword, the elfs daggar and pouch and the mans pouch as well as the old mans pouch.  Issrah sat down, picked up some dates, and a cup of water and slowly ate.  Staring at Nightbird.  This duty is for minions, not one such as myself.  Malok will rue the day he treated me like this.  One day...  She then looked quickly around and stopped her thoughts, afraid that Malok would hear them.

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

"I am here on an errand of my lord. He would be most unappreciative if I told my task. It is a secret of his," said Bobbo. He definately was not lying, because he was on an errand of his lord, to meet his lord. And he was on a secret mission.

Polan "Qui, Jelek asked for pineapples. He hates them!" said Polan, "There is definately something going on. I heard voices on the other side of the gate. I couldn't make out what they were saying but it was not good by their tone of voices."

Polan was extremely worried. "Jelek may be in trouble. We must inform him of this!" said Polan.

'... 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)

Malok Malok paused, intrigued by the mans courage. Any lesser man would be cowering beneath his gaze.  However there is something this man is not telling me.  He tells the truth, as far as I can tell, but it is weaved intricately with something he is not telling me.

"Tell me what is the name of your Lord?  And I would think if your Lord values you than he would rather have a live servant than a dead one.  So speak."

Qui "I agree Polan.  Come jump up and I will catch you and we will go see him.

Nahor Nahor crawled down the wall.  He made his way over to Bahran.  "I am hungry cousin.  And I wish to talk."

Bahran nodded and led Nahor away from Malok and his prisoners toward his own little encampment.  Malok was gracious enough to provide.  A small fire was burning and a pot of stew was cooking over it.  Bahran sat down, after dismissing the guards, waved for Nahor to sit, poured himself some ale, gave some to Nahor, and stirred the stew.  "What is it, Nahor?"

"What is it?  I am sick of this buisness.  Why does it take almost a whole army and a sorcerer to capture an elf, a young man and an old man.  Speaking of which, why was the old man shot?  This is not what I signed up for, and you know it.  I want to go.  I have had enough of this sordid buisness."

Bahran sat still, took another swig of the ale and replied. "Cousin, you leave when Malok tells you you can leave.  As far as these three, I am not sure what Malok's plans are for them.  But I do know that the army was for the Resistance and the Tristin. However they are gone.  I suspect that these three were going to meet them and Malok is trying to find out why."

Nahor drank some ale, wiped his mouth off with his sleeve. "He can read minds can't he?  He read mine.  I should have thought that he would have the answers by now.  Unless he is toying with them.  Still I do not have to be here.  I can be put to better use, looking for the party that left for Strata.  I think that is where Malok should put his efforts, not at this pitiful party."

Bahran thought a moment.  "You have a point.  Once Malok has finished with the young man I will ask him.  I promise.  In the mean time eat some stew, drink some more ale, and make yourself comfortable."

Nahor did not like the answer his cousin gave him, but he nodded and scooped into a bowl some stew and ate in silence.

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

Gararion looked within his pack that was upon the AJ.  He pulled out what seemed to be a large bag of canvas.  He placed it upon the ground and opened it up.  Within it was a large tent.

"If you want you may use this tent to shild yourself from the cold desert night.  But surely you all need your rest."

Gararion then looked back out towards the open desert.  He was still confused by this turn of events.

What has brought this upon our small party?  I must find a way to solve this problem.  I must be alone to let my thoughts guide my way.

With that thought Gararion raised himself with his staff.  He then began to walk away from the party...seeming to almost dissappear within the desert winds them self.

Shaint had set up a small tent looking fixture and then looked around "Gararion my fellow Man....?" Shaint could find nowhere where Gararion was "Gararion?" Shaint looked aroun dhowever he did see Atrii he sprinted off to Atrii to tell him the news of Gararion "Atrii Gararion isnt here!"

Atrii was shocked. Gararion gone, where, how.
"What? Where has he gotten off to? We must find him, hold on one moment good friend."
Atrii sprinted off around the area where the party would be camping.
"There!" He cried, footprints, barely visible in the desert sand, nearly covered with sand from the blowing winds but surely enough Gararion had left. Atrii noticed his staff marks on the sand.
"Shaint quick, over here."

Radaroc looked from where he had collected the surviving Aj's.  Gararion had dissapeared into the desert, Aww, hell.  Well no point worring about what I can't fix. He stands up, "I'll take first watch." he says.  Radaroc moves to a boulder near the outskirts of the camp and leans sits next to it.  His body in the shadows mearly looks like another rock.  His eyes twitch back and forth over the camp.

"I do not know my lord's name and that is the truth. He has not told me, but I serve him anyway," replied Bobbo to the wizard's question. His face was defiant. He told perfect truth again. He felt he had won this round.

Polan "Of course, Qui," he said, mounting beside Qui, "Let's go."

'... 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)

Shaint looked to Atrii and jogged to him stopping next  to him in the sand he saw what Atrii had seen footprints and staff marks "hm.....Atrii where is he going, and just how can we get him back......" Shaint rubbed a hand through his hair and stood with his hands on his waiste clearly in thought.....

His hands dropped to his sides and mouth opend readying himself to speak "Atrii, Gararion has left now it is either you me and Radaroc go find him so everyone else can rest.....or take the whole party with us.....but either way we arent going to camp tonight"

Malok "To not know one's Lord's name and yet still serve him.  Either the man who serves him is a fool or the Lord is great leader of men.  Describe him to me.  I may know this Lord for whom you serve so well.  It may be that we serve the same Lord and not even know it.  In that case, we should be allies and not enemies."

Malok used his charm. There had been more than once that he had used his charm to unearth the truth.  Honey is sweet to the bee.  I wonder who this Lord is?  That he acquires such devotion.  Does he do it through fear, as I do?  Or...  Malok could not even fathom a leader who did lead by fear.

QuiQui took the boy, slung him behind his back and rode off into the desert.  This does not bode well.  The Tristin was right in moving from the fortress.  How he knew is anyone's guess, but know he did.  It is his wisdom that sets him above all others.  I wonder if Oscar had been behind those walls?  The last communication we recieved was that Oscar was bringing someone who the Tristin should meet.  It never told the Tristin who it was, but it seemed important enough to Oscar that he would take the risk.  I wonder who it was, and are they now in the hands of Troas's minions.

That thought made Qui spur on his AJ.  He had to get to the Tristin and the Resistance as soon as possible.

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

Atrii shook his head.
"No they must rest, Keelin is badly hurt still and everyone else is exhausted. I will go, you may come with me if you wish."
Atrii turned to Shaint.
"Let's go inform the rest of the party what we have decided, we must also pick someone to take charge of the group until we return."

Shaint's head nodded to atrii and he began to walk past the other party members directly to radaroc at the boulder "Radaroc you blend in" Shaint chuckled slightly before telling him the bad news "Now Radaroc you are the leader while i am with Atrii youre the most responsible if anyone opposes that you have permission to kill them....well.....not Keelin if you do then I'll kill you but anyhow you do understand dont you?"

"Now Radaroc you are the leader while i am with Atrii youre the most responsible if anyone opposes that you have permission to kill them....well.....not Keelin if you do then I'll kill you but anyhow you do understand dont you?" Shaint informed Radaroc ending with a threat. Atrii laughed LOUDLY!
"Ah Shaint!" the ranger smacked the elf on the back. "Let's go."

Shaint turned and shrugged "What?" The continued walked after the footprints and Shaint still had the question of what was he laughing at i was seriouse... "C'mon friend Atrii what where you laughing at???" Shaint scratched his head thinkingly

Gararion had been walking within the desert for quite some time now.

He had not figured out the answer to the puzzle that was presented to him.  Though he thought that it would be his place to find the answer as the puzzle seemed to have a magical essence about it and he was the only mage within this group.

Gararion's mind had been concentrating so hard on the problem at hand he had not relized what he was doing.

A strong breeze followed him where ever he went as he slowly glided over the deseert sands.  He was once again gaining the benigits of flying but since his powers were still quite new to him and he had much to learn still of how to control them.

Bobbo was at a loss for words. He had not heard much about the Tristin, so he gave what he did know, or guessed, about the Tristin.

"He is a great and noble man," said Bobbo, his voice brimming with pride. "He leads his men with love and kindness. He sees a weakling and brings him up to strength. He knows when to fight and when to run, so he will not waste lives needlessly. He is very wise and powerful in all acts of lordship and honor."

Bobbo gave the best prideful voice he could bring forth, and as he spoke his voice grew stronger till his confidence seemed to fill the place where they were standing.

'... 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)

Radaroc looked to Shaint, "Right, no one goes in and only Keelin goes out.  Can I ask, where yer headed?...And if your looking for Gararion he headed that away." Radaroc nodded his head in the dirction the elf magi had gone, "But the wind blew away most of the tracks." he looked down to his sword that he was sharpening then looked back up, "If you want, you could take Derm with you he may be able to help."

Atrii nodded to Radaroc. "Yes, the wind is making tracking Gararion difficult but I can still see part of his tracks, also his staff. So we should be alright. We better get going Shaint, and I don't know why I was laughing." Atrii paused for a moment and looked at Shaint. "Just seeing you looking straight up at Radaroc and threatening is quite amusing." Atrii gave Shaint a large grin before beginning to walk in the direction that Gararion had gone.

Malok "Bah, there is no one like that.  You speak of your Lord as if he were your lover and not your master.  Is he the one who gave you your ring?  Let me see that ring."
Could there be such a man?  A man who inspires by kindness and love? A man who inspires courage from weaklings? Just by his word and actions? No! I will not believe that.  Kings and Lords rule with an Iron hand or else they lose their kingdoms.  Has it not been so throughout all of history?  This man must be lying.  But if he is, I cannot tell. He speaks with such conviction in his voice.

Malok's thoughts were confusing him and the more confused he became the angrier he became until he wheeled and fireballs flew from his hands and lashed out at the southen wall of the fortress.  He turned back and faced Bobbo his face contorted in confusion and anger.  

He did not even notice that the walls did not even show a sign of the power that had been thrown at them. Power that would have blown holes the size of huge boulders in any other ordinary wall.  But Nahor did and he wondered and remembered the tales of Thalambath.


Qui Qui rode in silence and headed far east into the desert.  He knew where he was heading.  It would take a long hard day's ride and the day had already been half done when Qui found Polan.  So he knew they would be riding in the night.  "Polan if you get thirsty or hungry there is a flask of water and some dried dates in the pack behind you.  We have a long ride ahead of us."

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

Shaint began to walk with Atrii mumbling 'yea, yea,' he stoo dupright and walked normally with Atrii looking for tracks "Hey Atrii i think he's been blowing the tracks away like he doesent Want us to find him......but still it is th emiddle of the desert i dont think he would go any foolish directions

Atrii mumbled a bit as he and Shaint walked through the desert in search of Gararion.
Has He abandoned us? Atrii thought.
"Hey Atrii i think he's been blowing the tracks away like he doesent Want us to find him......but still it is th emiddle of the desert i dont think he would go any foolish directions" Shaint blurted.
"Yes, but why doesn't he want us to find him? Has he abandoned us? And if he has, why?" Atrii thought deeply while the two continued to walk watching the tracks very closely.

Bobbo was startled when the man threw fireballs at the walls of the city, leaving not a dent.

"No," said Bobbo, "My lord did not give me this ring. My father did before he died."

Bobbo lifted his hand and revealed it. He knew that the wizard would not be able to detect any magic in it because it was cunningly concealed by spells of great and powerful wizards.

"It is of sentimental value," said Bobbo, "As a reminder of my father, who was assassinated when I was very young."

All he said was true, for Richard Junakin did pass that ring to Robert Junakin. Robert had kept it all these years, keeping its magic a secret.

'... 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)

Malok Malok took the hand and peered at the ring. Powerful forces surrounded that ring, but Malok did not know what they were.  There had been some rumors that the near dead could put spells upon objects and give them to others that not even the most powerful of Wizards could break.  And those given by father to son or anyother family member to another were the most powerful of all.  Malok believed in these rumors, for he had a possesion he wanted to pass to his son, if and when he ever had one, and all of his powers.  It was his claim to immortality.

"Do you have a son or daughter?" asked Malok.

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

Edited by: Oscar Lotus at: 1/18/03 8:41:46 pm

"Ah, do you have a piece of cloth or anything to spare, er, or even better, some bandages?"

I have what's left of my shirt and some fabric scraps in my pack if anyone knows where my mount ran off to... Keelin glanced around and pointed. There she is.

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

"No I do not have a son or daughter," said Bobbo, "I have lived alone all my life."

Bobbo did not know if his eyes were playing tricks on him or not, but he thought he saw the man gaze lustfully at the ring on his hand.

'... 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 had been wondering about the desert for quite some time.  He had went through thousands of possibilities that might rid of of this curse.  Suddenly he figured it out.

This surce has only affected the mind, hiding the true thoughts and memories behind an illusion.  To regain control of ones own mind one most overcome these illusions.

Gararion stopped dead in his tracks.  He stood there motionless.  He was now figuring out the way to overcome these illusions.  This was easy for him for he had great knowledge of illusions from his studies.  He found the illusion that block his path, a wall within his mind.  Know that he knew where this illusion was he suddenly snapped out of the trance that he had been in.  He looked about and a slight smile drew upon his face.  But as quickly as it came it had left as he headed back toward the party that he had left.  This time running, running with the wind behind him making his strides longer and more graceful than any other elf.

Radaroc looked up, his keen ears picking up the sound of feet dashing across the desert at tremendous speed then he saw a small plume of sand and the silouete of a person running full on, "Atri, Shaint! Somebodies comin' this way!  And whoever it is, they can sure as hell run." The 3 ped troll chuckled to himself as he guessed who it was.

Atrii turned, Shaint look. He pointed in the direction of a figure running towards them with incredible speed.
"It's Gararion!" Atrii yelled happily.

The elf gestured to her shirt and pointed at her Aj, Raoneth looked at her shirt and then at her Aj. He ran over to the Aj, it was lying down. Like all the others.
He opened the saddlebags and rummaged through them before he found some orange pieces of cloth.
He walked back to her while tearing it up to bandages, sat down and fumbled his puch open again.
No mortar and pestle... Guess I'll have to do without.
He cruched some plants together in his hands by rubbing his hands together and started smearing it on the inside of the bandages. It smelled sharp and bitter.
"This might sting a bit. But, hopefully it'll neutralise or slow the poison."
Most poisons, anyway... I have no idea what it was these demons were spitting around.
"You should probably see a demonologist or something. Just in case... Er, was there anyone else hit by the poison?"
Raoneth looked around "It's Gararion!" The human yelled. Just a few peds away, he and the troll stood and looked out in to the desert.
It's Gararion who did what?

Malok "To be alone, is something I empathize with.  I too walk alone in this world." There seemed to be a longing, sadness in his voice then his voice lost the emotion once again and he continued.  "Yes, I have servants, but friends I have none, neither one who loves me.  It would seem that at least you have one whom loves you.  I assume you feel the same about her.  So I will ask plainly these last questions.  Tell the truth and she lives, lies, and she dies, slowly and painfully by my faithful one, Issrah.  Issrah as you may have guessed does not care for elven kind.  It is a long story, but she was hurt by the elven kind, what kind of hurt? Even I do not know."

Malok paused to allow Bobbo a chance to digest the veiled threat then continued. "Do you know the whereabouts of the Resistance?  Did you come here to meet the Resistance? And last one, Who is the old man that seemed to have been leading you.  The one chained to the wall over there.  The same wall you will be chained to and watch helplessly as Issrah does what she does best to your elven woman!"  Malok laughed an evil laugh.  "Issrah is very good at what she does."

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

Edited by: Oscar Lotus at: 1/18/03 9:00:27 pm

Keelin bit her tongue and nodded. He was right, it stung. Thank you, she signed.  

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

Bobbo was quite startled by the sudden emotion in the other man's voice. Then, quick as could be, a threat was issued. He began to sweat, trying to decide what to do. He looked back at Oscar. His face then hardened.

"No, I do not know where the Resistance is," said Bobbo, turning back to Malok. "But I was on my way here to meet them. It was part of my mission. The old man told us that he knew the way to this city. It seemed to me that he was leading us here to be captured, but tell me, why would you shoot your own servant with an arrow?"

Bobbo was very troubled on the last point. It would seem likely for Oscar to be a servant of this fellow leading us into a trap.

'... 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 hasn't tasted a drop of the water before it was slapped away, she didn't care, she wasn't planning on drinking it anyways.
She didn't struggle as Issrah pulled her off her feet and then pushed her toward the pole and tied her hands behind her, the elf standing ever proud even when the rope was gnawing at her wrists and her feet were hurting from standing on the sand once more.
She closed her eyes to hide her distress as the flute was pulled away from her belt and the metalic sound as she threw it on the pile of weapons.
She opened her eyes and looked at Issrah as she sat down and started eating and drinking, she then noticed the way she looked around and smirked.

"What is happening "lady", is something scaring you?"

The elf looked ruefully at the human sitting, and in some way she managed to seem superior than Issrah

Gararion had started to run twords Shaint and Atrii,
Atrii had pointed out it was Gararion "Haha, Radaroc He'sa mage he has to run alot" Shaint walked twords Gararion pointed a laughed slighty he turned and saw Raoneth fixing up Keelin "Atrii i'll be right back" Shaint walked over to where raoneth and Keelin where pinching the shirt of Raoneth with his finger and thumb,

"Raoneth dont get any ideas, i quite fond of her, I meen she is important to me, I meen the party ok?" Shaint sat him back down and walked to Radaroc leaning against the rock next to him Sighing slightly he crossed his arms.

Atrii watched Shaint walk over to Raoneth and speak with him, Atrii listened with his keen hearing over hearing Shaint's words "Raoneth, don't get any idea, I'm quite fond of her, I mean she is important to me, i mean the party, ok?" Shaint then put Raoneth down and walked over to Radaroc.

I'm quite fond of her too Shaint... however I will not get in your way Shaint. I will not interfere.Atrii thought silently in his mind.

He then snapped back to reality and quickly ran to Gararion and laughed.
"Where'd you get off to good friend?"

Radaroc looked at Shaint who had just sat down next to him, he thought about the way the elf was stumbling over his tounge when he talked of Keelin, He'll do anything to keep her safe, he thought to himself, But I hope he realizes that she is still a fighter and can probably take care of herself.  
He still was unsure of their real location, ever since the battle he had been....lost.  Looking to the sky he stared intently at the stars and tried to recognize some to see if he could find out where they were.

Shaint slowly slid down the face of the rock next to radaroc now on the sand he held his hand on top of his head and dug his head to his knees he felt as if he had done something wrong as a leader he was the youngest out of everyone and yet had such a big responsibility, he thought as if he had gave up love to be a fighter then when it came back effected him so hard......,

Gararion looked at Atrii and placed his hand upon his shoulder as he spoke.

"I had to be alone with my thoughts good Atrii.  I believe it is time for people to get some good rest for tomoorow's journey."

Gararion then left Atrii's side and went to Shaint.

"I'd suggest that you get these men to get some rest for tommorrow's journey.  Surely the desert heat tommorrow will make the journey a formable one."

Gararion then left and went to the tent.  He saw the peice of canvas held the tent together beside it.  He took it and place it within the tent and spread it out over the ground so whoever slept within wouldn't need to sleep on the sandy ground underneath.

Gararion laid down, placed both his book and his staff beside him and closed his eyes.

Shaint stuck his head up and shouted so all in there party could hear "Get some sleep you will need it for tommarrow!" Shaint rested his head against the rock behind him and closed his eyes the stars in the sky shimmering gentle waves of light onto his skin.

Atrii heard Shaint yell to the group to get some rest, he walked up to his Aj and sat resting his back against it. He sat quietly observing the group of companions, some had just had the fight of their life.

Malok So the Resistance was here. And this man was coming to meet them.  Part of his mission.  And what servant?  The old man is one of ours?  We shot one of ours, maybe Issrah did that to throw confusion into the midst.  I will have to talk with her about that.  Still something puzzles me.

"What was your mission?" Malok asked.


Is "Nothing scares me, "M'lady" But if you call me "lady" like that again, in that tone of voice, then it will be my pleasure to roast you like the elven pig you are!  Master has some interesting servants who love roasted elven meat."
Issrah knew she was overstepping her boundaries.  The Master had told her to show this "elven woman" all courtisies and here she was tied up and Issrah was threatning her.  But the elven lady attitude just rubbed Issrah raw.  Just like Sarone acted when Issrah dared to love Garth, an elven archer from the Tethinrhim tribe.  But that was a long time ago.  When she was still a naive girl.  She had left, vowed vengance, and found Malok and went into his service to learn his secrets.  All elves would feel her wrath.

Suddenly she got up and took out her knife, she brandished it in front of Nightbird, leering.   Then she went behind Nightbird and with one swift moment cut the ropes.  "Do not do anything foolish, M'lady.  If you try anything, like escaping, then I do have the authority to cut you down where you stand.  Sit down." Issrah ordered.  "I will get you a cup of wine and some fruit.  The pineapples and dates in this land are extraordinary.  They are shipped to all parts of the world by the richest and nobleist of people."

Issrah filled a sliver cup with some wine, filled a silver plate with the fresh fruit and handed it to Nightbird. Her face and voice completely changed and she talked to Nightbird as she would a friend.  "I would eat and drink if I were you.  The desert cold at night is almost as harsh as its heat and the sun is going down soon. Nourishment will help you.  Is there anything you would like to know?"

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

"Nothing scares me, "M'lady" But if you call me "lady" like that again, in that tone of voice, then it will be my pleasure to roast you like the elven pig you are! Master has some interesting servants who love roasted elven meat."
Lucirina didn't seem to care about the empty threats, instead she just lied her ears back once more and looked at Issrah with cold, green eyes.

"One may call you as One wishes, and it is better to be a elven pig than a footstool. You may roast One if you wish, but One will not be the one facing the anger of your master "milady." "

Her heart leaped in her chest as the woman got to her feet and took out a knife, she lifted her chin, if she was to die she would die with pride.
Imagine her suprise when she felt her hands cut loose and the woman who had been threatening her suddenly offered her a seat and some things to eat.
With her ears still laid back she slowly took a seat while rubbing her wrists.
. "I will get you a cup of wine and some fruit. The pineapples and dates in this land are extraordinary. They are shipped to all parts of the world by the richest and nobleist of people."

"One declines your offer "milady" the venom of the sand viper and the flesh of the cor'cuta would be more welcome than what you are offering One. One would wonder of the merchants that sell such treats to people of your likes.
And the only thing One would like to know is how long One will have to endure your company."

Lucirina was wary of the woman, as one would be wary of a wolf that was just snarling at you and then suddenly starts wagging it's tail, she would not let down her guard, she may be unarmed and have no magical skills, but she would not let this woman see her scared.

"Get some sleep you will need it for tommarrow!"

Right-o. No problem here, Keelin thought. But first... She managed so push herself to her feet and stumble over to her Aj. She pulled her cloak off it's back and lay down nex to it, using her cloak for  a blanket.  

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

Bobbo smiled at the man asking him these questions.

"As I said before," said Bobbo, "My lord would be very angry if I were to tell you the goal of my mission. He is a noble man, but a strong punisher. And I, personally, would not want to entail my lord's wrath, or be the one responsible."

'... 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)

Malok Malok smiled at Bobbo's answer.  He leaned close to Bobbo, so that their faces were mere inches from each other.  "You fear your Lord, who is not here, more than you fear me, who is?  Have you not seen my power?  Those fireballs were insignifcant compared to my real power.  But for one such as yourself I do not need to use my real power.  I can do this."

Malok looked upon the ground, and though the sun was going down and the courtyard was filling with shadows he spotted a snake writhing its way across the sand floor.  He pointed at the snake.  "Boy, see that snake.  Watch carefully." Out of the pointed finger a single stream of fire pierced the snake, like a knife, Malok then brought the snake to him, watching the snake dangle from the fire spear.  He then took the snake and let it dangle right before Bobbo's eyes.  In a soft, calm voice he again said. "Watch and learn, my friend."

Slowly, the skin of the snake began to turn red, then it began to peel and flake as it was inexcruciably burned off.  The snake writhed, and curled and even tried to attack its attacker.  It's tongue flicked out faster.  The burned skin bubbled and rose higher up the snake, and the inner soft skin began to turn red, and then black and pieces began to fall off.  The stench of the burned snake filled the air.  Malok continued until each layer of skin had been burned off, the innards of the snake were then exposed and then they to were slowly burned.  The snake was alive through all of this until its vital organs burned up.  Finally Malok tossed the charred remains upon the sand and ground them beneath his boots.

Malok faced Bobbo once again, his voice almost a whisper.  "Now tell me whom do you fear? A Lord who is not here, or me?  What is your mission."

Issrah Issrah was outraged.  This elven woman threating her! Who does she think she is toying with?  If it were not for her Master's wrath she would fry this woman were she sat.  What does the Master want with this woman anyway? Issrah knew that Malok fancied women, but an elven woman, not even he would go that low, would he?  The thought of Malok and this elf made bile rise up in Issrah's throat.

Issrah spit.  She glared at Nightbird.  "If you do not want to partake of the generosity of the Master that is none of my concern.  I offered.  I did what I was told.  The sun will be down very soon now and the Master will return.  I will let him deal with you.  As far as your company is concerned if I had my way it would have been parted, burned away, you might say, long ago.  But the Master may have other plans for you. The soldiers out there have not had a "lady" in quite a while.  Maybe he may toss you to them, like a bone to a faithful dog."
Issrah laughingly replied as she took some food and ate it, along with a drink of wine.  She never took her eyes off of Nightbird.

Oscar Oscar was kicked and then a few dates were shoved into his mouth.  He ate them greedily.  Then a cup of wine was given to him.  He drank that down quickly.  Then the soldier walked away.  Oscar had been watching the interactions between Bobbo and the giant man  Once in a while Oscar caught some words.  Oscar thought to himself, once this man is through with Sir Bob, then it will be my turn. I just hope I can hold out as well?  I wonder if Bob and Luci think I am a traitor?  Luci! I wonder how she fares?  Oscar had seen Luci been taken into the mysterious tent that had suddenly appeared out of nowhere.  His hopes were fading fast.  Unless somehow the Resistance came and rescued us, Oscar feared the worst.

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

Edited by: Oscar Lotus at: 1/21/03 6:38:14 pm

Lucirina continue looking at Issrah, her eyes cold as the icy sea of the north never leaving her, she knew that she was literally playing with fire, this woman was dangerous yet she wasn't going to cower in front of her. The elf was far to proud to let her enemy see her distress.
"If you do not want to partake of the generosity of the Master that is none of my concern. I offered. I did what I was told. The sun will be down very soon now and the Master will return. I will let him deal with you. As far as your company is concerned if I had my way it would have been parted, burned away, you might say, long ago. But the Master may have other plans for you. The soldiers out there have not had a "lady" in quite a while. Maybe he may toss you to them, like a bone to a faithful dog."
Lucirina looked at the woman, despise painted all over her face but at the last words her beautiful face was covered with a smirk and as she spoke her words were low, almost only a whisper.

"One guess they would be pleased if he did. For such as you can hardly be called "lady", One is not even sure if the most lonely of beggars would accept you.
Since you are one of those faithful dogs yourself you may aswell go and wag your little tail at him, that way he would notice you and he would have no use to search for company in One."

Lucirina knew she was pushing her luck hars but if she managed to make the woman anger maybe, just maybe she would manage to acomplish what she was trying to make her do for a while now, attack her.
It was risky, she knew it was, the woman seemed cruel and powerful enough to skin her alive, yet the master seemed even more evil than his apprentice.
If Issrah lost her temper and attacked her she would scream to call on his attention, leading it away from Bobbo and Oscar, even if this could cost her life.
Lucirina looked at Issrah and smirked once more, the long ears twitching in irritation, she was playing everything in this card, everything, even her own life.

He looked back at the elf, she gestured something, he had no idea what it meant, but she seemed grateful, so he smiled and gave a little nod.
"Raoneth dont get any ideas, i quite fond of her, I meen she is important to me, I meen the party ok?"
Raoneth turned to see Shaint, he looked a strange mix of embarrassed, angry and tired. Behind him he could see the human, looking at them with a indeterminable look on his face.
What's going on here?
"Uhm... sure. Whatever you say." Raoneth got out. But Shaint had allready gone off towards the troll.

Raoneth packed up his things in time to hear Shaint shouting "Get some sleep you will need it for tommarrow!".
The female elf managed to stumble to her Aj and lay herself to rest there.
Raoneth walked over to Shaint and the troll, it seemed Gararion had joined them.

Bobbo was at first startled to see the snake burned to a crisp, but then he remembered his ring.

"Ah," said Bobbo, laughing, "You think to impress me with such things. I am what you would call a "wizard" too. As you may see."

Bobbo opened his hand to show his palm. He had twisted his ring around unnoticed by anyone and had it facing out from his hand. He pointed his hand at a passing scorpian and mumbled a word or two. A thin jet of flame leaped from his hand and immediately incinerated the scorpian. In less than a second, the creature was dead, a pile of charred ash.

"Now," said Bobbo, "How's about letting me and my companions go. You have no reason to hold us. We were just passing through. I have heard reports that the Resistence had moved on. I had been prepared to return to my lord to tell him of the failure, when I decided to stop in this city for a day. You remember, there was a sandstorm last night and I was exhausted from traveling. If you must know, I was sent to warn the Resistence that my lord would soon rule over them."

Bobbo tried to tell more of the truth than lies. He truthfully said that he had come to stay in the city. With clever interweaving, there was little or no lies about his dialogue. Indeed he was to say that his lord would soon rule over them, as he already did.

'... 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)

Issrah Issrah listened to Nightbirds reply and the more she listened, the more enraged she became.

"One guess they would be pleased if he did. For such as you can hardly be called "lady", One is not even sure if the most lonely of beggars would accept you.
Since you are one of those faithful dogs yourself you may as well go and wag your little tail at him, that way he would notice you and he would have no use to search for company in One."

How dare this wench!  Without thought, without reason, Issrah leaped at Nightbird.  Her hands spread like claws from an angry cat. Her hair turning redder and even seemed to have life of its own as it swirled around her head.  She snarled. "You.. Wench."  She fell upon Nightbird trying to scratch Nightbird's eyes out.

Malok Malok listened and saw. He was astonished. "You.. you are a fire druid?  And you say you was sent by your Lord to give a message to the Resistance that they would soon be ruled by him.  I do not believe you.  There is some trickery involved here.  And I will find out.  Either way your power is no match for mine, so do not test me.  For now until I figure this out you will be chained."  

Malok turned to several guards.  "Chain him."  Then the thought occured to him. If this man was a fire druid then chains would not hold him.  He would simply burn his way through.  I will have to keep him by my side.

The guard was begining to take Bobbo when Malok said. "Stop, I have changed my mind.  He will come with me."

Nahor silently watched everything that had gone on.  When the young man burned a scorpion and seemed to have powers like Malok.  Nahor thought. So that is the traitor. Poor Oscar and the lady elf.  They never knew.  Malok and the young man had put on quite a show, but Nahor thought he now knew. No need for me to be here.  As soon as night falls I am out of here.

O When Oscar saw the flame shoot out of Bobbo's hand, his heart sank. I trusted him.  How could I have been such a fool? He is in league with this man.  How else could they have known we were coming?  Bobbo's ability as a wizard tells me all. And now he is being taken to the tent.  Poor Lucirina, she fell in love with a traitor. And now our lives are truely forfeit.  Thank Ava that I did not introduce this man to the Tristin. For if I did, the Tristin would probably be dead by now and Troas would have won.

Oscar jerked at the chains and yelled.  "Traitor! All of the fire in Coor's abode will be like water when vengence and justice finally comes your way."

Malok Malok turned and peered at the old man chained at the wall when he heard him yell. Traitor?, he must be speaking to Bobbo.  Is Bobbo working for Troas.  That makes sense.  He said his Lord gave him a message that he would soon rule over the resistance.  Only Troas would give such a message. So, now I know the truth.  No wonder this man had such courage.  If Troas is really his Lord, then yes I would fear him, even more than myself.  For Troas has powers even I cannot imagine. I rule fire, but Troas rules people.  It would be like him to up the ante by putting in a spy amongst the Resistance and using a fire druid also makes sense as well.

Malok turned and looked at Bobbo.  He looked at him with different eyes and attitude.  "Well, it seems I now know the truth.  Why did you not just tell me that Troas was your Lord.  We could have avoided much unpleasantness between us." Malok paused, looked at the tent, then asked. "Does Nightbird know? Or is she one of your pawns as well?  The sun goes down.  Let us eat and drink and talk shall we.  Maybe we can discuss a way to shake the Resistance out of their hiding place.  Come friend."  Malok walked back and put his arm around Bobbo.

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

Shaint's eyes opend up and shaint slid off the rock standing up he looked at his side he saw Radaroc and Raoneth wandering Over "Radaroc i will take responsibility for second watch you can sleep of wichever you may need to do" Shaint extended a hand to Raoneth for him to climb up on,

a slight night breeze drifted over the area on wich the party rested twitching Shaint's hair.

"Not yet" Radaroc replied.  He turned to Shaint, "The cool air of night reminds me of home." He said with a grin.  "I can almost smell the Mahood-Euwen trees, but they are far to the north.  But here I am far to the south, helping a band of rebels dispose of an evil tyrant, seems like something bards would sing off." At this he chuckled and sat back to lean against the rock and stared at the sky picking out the (Trollish) constellations of Nor-thock the Hunter and Hadoom of Mantharia.

Lucirina smirked widly as the woman finally lost her temper and launched herself toward the elf snarling like a shingar cat.
"You.. Wench."
Lucirina didn't reply but took in a deep breath of air and let out a long and sharp scream, despise the look of triumf on her face and in her eyes the scream was of the likes of the ones coming from someone scared of their own life, someone terrified.
As soon as she finishes screaming the elf leans herself hard afainst the pole using it to lift herself off the ground and plant both her feet in the chest of the advancing woman to kick her back as hard as she could.
Then, still smirking at Issrah she bit down hard on her lip making blood well out of her mouth, then she slowly sank down to her knees and started shivering and crying, anyone who just entered the tent would only see the enraged Issrah standing few peds away from the elf tied to the pole catching her breath and the elf on her knees on the ground, sobbing as blood ran from her mouth.

Bobbo heard Oscar shout traitor. Bobbo turned to him, his eyes were almost saying, "No, it was a lie." Indeed Bobbo was quite glad Oscar had shouted traitor. It had done what he had been trying to avoid, to lie to this fellow, for Bobbo did not feel he could calmly lie.

Bobbo disliked the man's arm on his shoulder. It felt hot somehow and like a heavy burden on his back. Bobbo longed to grasp his sword and slaughter this fool.

Then he heard a scream in the direction of the tent.

"What in the name of all that is holy, was that?" said Bobbo.

He ran to the tent to see what was going on. It sounded like Lucirina's voice. He opened the flap and peered in to see Issrah looking like she was going to kill Lucirina. He ran to the scene and grasped hold of Issrah's wrist, restraining her.

"I do not want to knock you out," said Bobbo, coldly, "So please control yourself."

His grasp was hard and firm, not letting anything get loose. He was reminded bitterly of his encounter with the hunter's trap when he was younger. The incident that cost him his left hand.

[ooc: Oh, by the way, if you recall at the pregnancy scene in the Tavern, Bobbo did use his fire ring in the presence of Oscar. /ooc]

'... 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)

Malok Malok heard the scream, heard the exclamation come from Bobbo and then saw Bobbo run into the tent.  Malok started to say "Wait" but it was already too late.  When Malok walked calmly into the tent he saw Bobbo had Issrah by the wrist and was threatining her by knocking her out. He looked at Nightbird and saw blood trickling down Nightbirds chin.  Issrah looked like she could kill.  Malok calmly said. "Bobbo, please release my faithful one before you get a taste of her power.  After all she is on our side."

Malok then walked over to Nightbird, tilted her chin up and touched her mouth.  Power flowed through him and into her busted lip, slowly the wound stopped bleeding and new skin was replaced.  He smiled at her. "My power can heal as well as destroy."

He then turned back to Issrah.  "Tell me what happened faithful one.  I thought I asked you to take care of our guest, not this."  He pointed at Nightbird.

Issrah Issrah was startled at first when the young man grabbed her wrist.  She was about to let loose a fireball straight at the intruders face when Malok entered and asked Bobbo to let her go.  Astonishment fell over her face when she heard Malok tell Bobbo that she was on their side.  She looked into Malok's eyes, quzzically.  "What? He is on our side? I...I do not understand," she mumbled.  She then glared at Nightbird.  "Does that mean she is on our side as well?"

Malok shrugged his shoulders.  "That faithful one, Master Bobbo will have to tell"  Malok looked at Bobbo.  "Is she? Does she work for Troas as you do, or is she a pawn as I suspect she is.  Though I believe you do have feelings for her.  Maybe you were thinking of winning her to our side?  That would be a wise plan, another spy within the Resistance's camp."

Issrah peered at Bobbo.  "Master, he works for Troas?"

"Yes faithful one, Troas is his Lord.  Why he did not tell us before became clear just a few moments ago.  It seems that the old man out there, the one I have not talked to yet, was taking our young man here to meet the Resistance and most probably the Tristin himself.  I believe Troas probably hired this man to assasinate the Tristin.  It was a brilliant plan.  I am awed at Troas's abilities.  The old man called him a traitor.  Since I knew he was not talking to me, it had to have been at young Bobbo here.  It all makes sense.  The only question I had was... was Nightbird here part of the plan, or a pawn?  And now since you brought it up we listen to our comrades answer."

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

"Heh Radaroc I dont have a homeland I travel it's odd how i allways seem to get stuck with some of the oddest jobs" Shaint chuckled and pushed himself of the rock with his shoulders "Hey radaroc i'm going to start a fire right near this rock Shaint went off and got some things from his AJ's bags and after awile had set up a fire that was starting to come up,

He blew lightly on the small flame wich burnt the variose materials he had layed down to get it started Shaint had gathered alot of stake like wooden objects....

"Radaroc if your wondering where i got the wood from each one of those Demons WAS after all wielding atleast six axes" Shaint chuckled and the flame started he sat some axe handles around it and they burnt making a red glow, Shaint's nose breathed deeply the flames and he smiled,

"now this reminds me of how i used to be, just a hire mercenary that would kill just about anything for fun or money....i changed ever sence I traveled here i lik eit here quite well but I will probably end up traveling off somewhere....who knows maybe with Keelin" Shaint looked back and radaroc and laughed slightly enjoying the f

Bobbo released Issrah's wrist. He knelt beside Lucirina and tried to help her. He gently looked into her eyes and tried to show with his eyes that he was tricking them. He winked at her and smiled.

"I think she'll be alright," said Bobbo, standing back up and helping Lucirina to her feet. "She is most definately on my side. As she will attest to if asked."

Bobbo smiled at Malok, then frowned. "But now the old man will never lead me to the Resistence, sir. Troas will not be happy that you have forced me to reveal my mission. The old man is the only one of my party who knows the way," said Bobbo disappointedly. In truth he was disappointed; Oscar would never trust him again. He would have to hope Oscar would realize that he had been trying to save them all by cleverly weaving his words and lying slightly.

'... 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)

Malok Malok watched with interest the way Bobbo hovered over Nightbird.  He did not speak he was deep in thought. Something is amiss here.  I just need time to sort it out.  Something about Bobbo's explanation concerning Nightbird, but... whatever it was is eluding me for the moment. I am tired.  I need rest.  In the morning I will work upon the problem.  In the meantime, if Bobbo is correct, and the old man out there was the only one who knew where the Resistance is then I need to talk to him.  A cold desert night might loosen up the old man's tongue.  And what about Issrah?  I have to take care of that problem as well, especially since Nightbird is Bobbo's woman.  That is if she truely is?

"I believe we all need some rest.  There is plenty of room in here for you, Master Bobbo and Nightbird, Issrah, Rhas and myslef.  Do not take this wrong, but until I verify that you are truely working for Troas, I must keep an eye on you both.  You will be afforded all courtisies."  Malok looked at Issrah and his eyes told her she will comply.  Malok sat down, swept his arm toward the empty pillows and said to Bobbo and Nightbird.  "Sit, have something to eat and drink.  After we have had our fill, we shall talk.  I would like to know more about Troas's plans for you."

Issrah Issrah glared, but nodded submissively to Malok. "Yes Master, as you wish.  I need to get some air first and call in my sister.  By your leave, Master."

Malok nodded and Issrah slowly, trying to keep her temper under control, walked out of the tent.  That wench on our side? I do not believe it.  Troas would never have an elf, especially a female elf, work for him.  Or would he?

Issrah had only met Troas once, his presence was even stronger than Malok's and drew Issrah to Troas.  If Troas would ask her to do anything she knew she would do it, or die trying to.  She had fallen hard, but he paid little or no attention to her at all, except to acknowledge that she was Malok's favorite pupil and that he could depend upon her.  She walked outside, breathing in the cool air, saw her sister and walked over to her.  Out of the corner of her eye she saw the old man still chained to the wall.  She glanced back at the tent.  A thought forming in her mind.

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

"Radaroc i will take responsibility for second watch you can sleep of wichever you may need to do" Shaint said to the troll when Raoneth approached them. Then he extended an arm to Raoneth, as for him to climb.
"Not yet" Radaroc turned to Shaint, "The cool air of night reminds me of home. I can almost smell the Mahood-Euwen trees, but they are far to the north. But here I am far to the south, helping a band of rebels dispose of an evil tyrant, seems like something bards would sing of."
Shaint moved his hand just as Raoneth was about to brush it away. "Heh Radaroc I dont have a homeland I travel it's odd how i allways seem to get stuck with some of the oddest jobs" Shaint chuckled and pushed himself of the rock with his shoulders "Hey radaroc i'm going to start a fire right near this rock"
Shaint walked over to the fire, Raoneth turned to the troll, "erm, Radaroc, is it? It doesn't seem like anyone's bleeding... heavily, so if no one's been hit by the, er, poison, we'll probably be good. So, um, has anyone... been hit by the poison I mean?" Shaint was still speaking to the troll, from the fire.
"Radaroc if your wondering where i got the wood from each one of those Demons WAS after all wielding atleast six axes"
Shaint poked the fire,  
"now this reminds me of how i used to be, just a hire mercenary that would kill just about anything for fun or money....i changed ever sence I traveled here i lik eit here quite well but I will probably end up traveling off somewhere....who knows maybe with Keelin"
I say. Love at first sight, or just desperation... who knows? Who cares... Love is... for later.

Edited by: Raoneth at: 1/25/03 10:08:47 pm

Lucirina was starteled when she saw Bobbo helping her up, he was the last person she expected to see in the tent of their captors.

*Avá be mercyfull, he is on their side!*

Was the thought that rushed trough her head as she looked at him, her green eyes filled with confusion and pain, but then they spotted the small wink and the shining brown eyes that she so much loved, her heart rising in her chest. He was lying to them, as she did too.
She stood by his side and let her green eyes move over Malok and Issrah, she could notice Malok was suspicious of them and that Issrah would do anything in her power to reveal them as what they were, her brain working franaticly to find a solution as they were offered something to eat and drink.
This time she didn't refuse what she was offered, knowing that it was unwise to offend Malok, besides it would not be good for her little plan of getting rid of Issrah, so she sat down by Bobbo and recived both food and drink without protesting.
As Issrah left the tent she knew that now she was alone with Bobbo and Malok, and that somehow she had to answer all of the questions in such a way that all suspicions were dissipated.

Atrii sat observing the group, alone, he hadn't done this in a while. Stayed quiet, sitting alone. Lately he had been quite talkative and amongst others, his friends and companions. But now he sat there, alone, thinking, wondering, back to the dark visions that had haunted his mind in the past and that are now coming back. The death, darkness and horror was all coming back to him.
Atrii pulled a pad from his belt and quickly jotted something down before swiftly replacing the pad in a pocket in his belt.

"Thank you, my friend," said Bobbo, politely, "It is long since I have feasted with one of mine bretheren. However, I expect this shall all be cleared up quickly and I shall return to Strata as soon as may be."

Bobbo sat down beside Lucirina and ate heartily. He was silent while he ate. He glanced around the tent as if admiring the furniture, but he was really trying to get his bearings for the tent and it's environs. He noticed his sword and saddlebags as well as Lucirina's things in the corner. He did not like the thought of the old man who had helped him so much being left out in the cold. He was rather guilty for using the old man in his plots to trick Malok.

"I say," said Bobbo, "Must the old man sleep outside? Even though he is with the Resistence he was very hospitable to myself and Nightbird."

The name seemed to be harsh on Bobbo's tongue, as if he was not used to the word. He dearly hoped he had not given them away.

'... 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)

Malok This man is to assuming.  To call us brethren, as if we were life long friends.  That disturbs me.  He trips over his tongue when he called Nightbird by her name.  One does not do so if one is as familiar with a companion as our young master claims to be.  And compassion, that is not one of the attributes I would consider a fire druid to have and especially one sent by Troas.  Things are not as they seem.  However in time I will discover it all.

Malok just smiled, partook of the meal itself and flashed a smile at them both. "Compassion Master Bobbo is a weak character trait.  However since you are young, I will ignore your naivety.  The old man will survive...barely."  

 Malok then spoke to Nightbird as he passed some wine to her.  "I recall you saying that you had just met Bobbo and was using him as a protector, shall we say.  Yet it seems according to Bobbo that you and he have been... well lets say a bit closer than just companions.  Why did you not say so in the beginning?  Or was all of this just a ruse for the old man's sake. To keep up the illusion."

Issrah Issrah walked up to her sister.  "Rhas, the master bids you to go inside and eat and rest.  I will be in later after I take care of something."

Rhas, looked suspiciously at her sister, but then nodded silently and walked into the tent.  She noticed Malok and their new companions sitting and talking.  She silently placed a pillow behind and to the left of Malok and sat down after taking a small glass of wine and some meats and fruits.  She sat there watching.  Her eyes glistening in the torch light.

Issrah walked over to the old man.  He kicked him to wake him up, though there was no need for Oscar was wide awake.  He looked defiantly at her.  Now that Bobbo has probably told all. I will now die, but probably first not before I am tortured to find out all what I know.  The only regrets I have are not being able to see my two twins sons grow up and cutting the tongue out of that lying Coor's son, Bobbo.  I should have checked my sources before I so readily accepted him.  It's just, that he seemed so believable.

Oscar growled. "What do you want?"

Issrah smiled. "I came to ask you several questions?"

"You came on a fools errand then.  For I will answer no questions.  If you want answers, ask your new found friend Bobbo."

"He is no friend of mine.  Any human who has an elven woman as his lover is lower than a snakes belly.  My question is why were you taking them to the Resistance?"

Oscar thought. So this woman does not like elves, especially it seems elven women, and they do not know why I was taking Bobbo to the Resistance.  That is curious, I would have thought Bobbo would have told them all by now.  Unless...he just told the man whom seemed to be in charge and this woman is envious and wants the knowledge for herself... for whatever means I do not know.  There could be another possibility... a small voice, not his own, whispered in his mind.

Oscar jerked and shook his head. "Who said that?"  He looked suspiciously at Issrah.  "Did you say that?  Did you plant that in my head, sorceress?"

"Plant what in your head?  You old fool.  I did not say anything except to ask you why you were taking "them" to the Resistance."

Oscar shook his head.  "Like I told you before.  You are on a fools errand.  I will tell you nothing!"  He spat at her, the spittle landing upon her shiny red boots.

Issrah let loose a fire ball toward Oscars head, but at the last moment the fireball, swerved and blasted its power against the wall.  Issrah stared, perplexed as she saw her fireball mysteriously miss her intended target and then when it hit the wall behind the old man it did no damage.  After a moment or two, she walked away, slowly shaking her head.

Oscar sighed a sigh of relief, but then he turned and looked at the wall.  The wall did not even show a single sign of being hit by a fireball.  Oscar's eyes widened.  Could the tales of Thalambath and his fortress be true?

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

I grow tired of this thought Bobbo. He was beginning to dislike this fellow all the more, but he kept a friendly expression on his face. He remembered the placement of his sword and thought I will wait for the right time. Then this "Fire Druid" will meet his doom, for that sword craves the blood of the enemies of the Tristin.

"May I ask you, sir, what you are doing here in Thambalath?" asked Bobbo politely, "However if you would prefer not to tell me that is fine as well."

'... 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)

Rhas Rhas listened to the impudent tone in this young mans voice.  She answered coldly.  "The Master does not answer questions, but asks them."

"I agree sister," said Issrah as she stepped into the tent hearing the last part of the conversation.  Issrah bowed to Malok. "Master no disrespect, but why do you play such games?  Why do you allow such "people" to treat you like that?  They are beneath your dignity and your power.  If these two actually were sent from Troas, then why the games.  Obviously they are playing games, and making a fool of you."

Malok had listened quietly but when he was called a fool, he looked at Issrah.  Issrah shrank beneath that penetrating gaze.  She knelt quickly and bowed her head down to he floor. "Forgive me Master."

Malok went deathly silent and his voice was barely a whisper. "What I do. I do.  Now look at me Issrah."

Issrah raised her head.  Malok reached out and gently touched her left cheek.  Suddenly Issrah screamed.  Thin lines of where Malok's fingers had touched her cheek began to bubble, and burn.  She raised her hands to cover her cheek, to take away the pain.  But Malok grabbed her wrists. "No one calls me a fool."

Issrah's scream became a high pitched wail as the burning and pain became more intense.  Through labored breathing she cried. "Please, Master.  Forgive me!"

Malok pulled her up and then shoved her out the door.  He whirled around and glared at Bobbo.  "That fire druid is how you wield power and gain respect.  As my faithful one, Rhas has stated.  I ask the questions around here.  I do not answer questions.  Since you are a fire druid, chains will not hold you.  But they will hold one who seems dear to your heart.  Rhas, take Nightbird and chain her to the wall next to the old man."  Malok peered at Bobbo.  Do anything foolish and she will die, slowly, painfully, remember the lesson of the snake?"

Rhas nodded silently and went and took Nightbird.  She bound her wrists and then lead her out of the tent.  After they left Malok waved his hands in front of Bobbo.  Immediately spears of fire rose from the ground surrounding Bobbo.  The flames seemed alive.  "This will stop you from going anywhere.  I doubt you have the power to diminish these flames, however... I will not underestimate you.  I will also do this.  With another wave of his hand, Malok put a heat shield surrounding the fire spears.  "The heat may be a little intense, but a fire druid as yourself should welcome it.  I have buisness to attend to."

Malok walked out, noticed Bahar and waved him over.  Bahran ran over as fast as his pudgy legs could carry him.  Malok spoke. "Send a courier to Strata.  I have a message that I need to give to Troas."

"Nahor would be the fastest and the most reliable, Master."

"The thief?  Yes he is lightfooted and discreet.  Send him to me."

"He sits by the fire where I was.  I will go and fetch him."

Bahar left and shortly Nahor stood in front of Malok.  "Yes Sir, what can I do for you?"

Malok had written a message while Bahar had fetched Nahor. He gave the message to Nahor.  "Go to Strata and give this message to Troas.  Wait there until he gives you an answer then come back here as quick as possible.  Do you understand?"

Nahor nodded. "Yes, Sir.  I understand."  Nahor took the message, tucked it into his cloak, turned and walked away.  He found a horse, jumped on and rode toward the gates.  "Open the gates."  Soon the sound of Iron cranking against other iron was heard and the metal gates opened.  Then the Eur'Oak beam was slid across the doors and the gates opened.

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

Edited by: Oscar Lotus at: 1/28/03 5:20:27 pm

Qui Qui and the bulk of the Resistance along with the Tristin had been quietly sneaking up upon the fortress.  Qui had been thinking about how they were going to storm the fortress when suddenly the gates opened wide.  Qui smiled, Foiros be praised. he thought silently.

He turned and looked and got the signal from the Tristin.  Suddenly a horse came bolting out of the night into the desert. It was just a lone rider.  Several Resistance men started to give chase.  Qui whispered. "No, leave him be. We may never have another chance like this.  He yelled at the top of his voice.  "For the Tristin and his glory, Attack!"

Suddenly the ground in front of the fortress became alive as men rose up from it and ran forward toward the opening.  Yelling and screaming.  Archers behind the swords men let loose volleys of arrows.

Inside Malok was going to head for the old man, when he heard the yell.  Volleys of arrows came streaking his way.  Quickly he raised his hands and a heat shield surrounded his body, but not before an arrow found its way into his side.  He cursed, pulled the arrow out, and sealed the wound with his magic.  But there must have been poison on the arrow head.  He could feel it beginning to course through his veins.  He headed for his tent and yelled for Issrah and Rhas.

Immediately Rhas was there, but Issrah was no where to be found.  "We cannot wait.  I have been poisoned faithful one.  I must go back to the tent and then home to discover what kind of poison so I can make an antidote.  What did you do with Nightbird?" He asked.

"When you called, I had just chained her to the wall.  I was returning when I heard the yell after the doors opened.  Then a volley of arrows came streaking in."  Her voice was labored.  Malok saw pain upon her face.  "Are you injured?" he asked.

Rhas answered. "Yes, Master.  In the back."

Malok turned her around and saw an arrow deeply embedded in her left shoulder blade.  Malok looked around, complete chaos had occured.  Hundreds of men had seemingly appeared out of no where and was attacking the forces inside the fortress.  He helped Rhas back into the tent.  He looked at Bobbo.  "It seems that fortune smiles upon you and your companions.  But we will meet again.  That I promise."

Malok waved his arm and the tent and he and Rhas disappeared leaving Bobbo standing in the back of the courtyard still surrounded by the fire spears and shield.

Oscar Oscar watched sorrowful when he saw Lucirina being led to the wall and chained.  He tried to speak to her when all of a sudden the chains upon his wrists and ankles let loose.  He noticed that the chains did the same to Lucirina.  He sat there stunned, and unable to move, he had been in that position for so long.  He yelled to Lucirina.  "The Resistance has come!"  A volley of arrows headed his and Lucirina's way, he threw up his arms and tried to run to Lucirina to protect her but it was not needed.  Before his astonished eyes the arrows were deflected and fell harmlessly on the ground.  A voice inside his head whispered. "The righteous shall survive."

Oscar tried to crawl to Lucirina.  "I am sorry Luci about Bobbo.  I had no idea he was a traitor.  But we will be vindicated.  That I promise."

And the battle just raged on.

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

Lucirina watched in terror as Malok burned the cheek of his own servant, the sight and smell of burnt flesh was sickening and the elf was forced to look away.
She now knew what dangerous little game she had been playing and how close she had actually been of dying in hands of the apprentice of this evil creature. Bowing down her head so her long locks hid most of her face she waited for the decition of the fire druid.
"That fire druid is how you wield power and gain respect. As my faithful one, Rhas has stated. I ask the questions around here. I do not answer questions. Since you are a fire druid, chains will not hold you. But they will hold one who seems dear to your heart. Rhas, take Nightbird and chain her to the wall next to the old man."
Lucirine looked up long enough to see Malog give Bobbo a short glance. "
Do anything foolish and she will die, slowly, painfully, remember the lesson of the snake?"
Once more she let her head fall forward, so this was what she was reduced to now, a mere puppet that could be destroyed to keep someone from escaping.
She did not put up any resistance when Rhas bound her wrists and led her out of the tent toward the wall where she could spot Oscar, she gave him a look, her green eyes containing all the sorrow in the world, before she once more let her long hair cover her face.
Rhas untied Lucirina just to snap a chain around each of her wrists, then she walked away leaving the elf standing by Oscar, bound to the wall by chains too thick to even think about breaking.
Rhas had barely walked away when the chains on her wrists snapped open once more allowing her freedom.
Oscar shouted at her as his own chains came loose
"The Resistance has come!"
She lifted her head in time to see a flurry of arrows coming her way, she lifted her arms in a futile attempt to protect herself, yet the arrows never hit true.
Opening her eyes she turned and looked at Oecar trying to reach her.
"I am sorry Luci about Bobbo. I had no idea he was a traitor. But we will be vindicated. That I promise."
Slowly she turned toward Oscar, . A whispering voice, barely audible, reached Oscar.

"He is not one of them.....he has not betrayed us."

She then turned away and looked toward the camp, green poison boiling in her eyes.
Issrah!... she was going to pay for the way she treated her.
Looking around she spotted a dead soldier and whit him what she sought for... a dagger.
Grabbing the dagger she lifted her head and looked over the chaos in the camp.
There!
Red hair glowing like fire among the warriors marked the spot where the fire sorceress were.
Lucirina took a deep breath and seeing as the arrows were deflected from her she made a decition.
Running as swift as a stag toward Issrah that had not still seen her she moved to the exposed back of the sorceress and with a short yet powerful movement she sank the dagger to the hilt between her shoulderblades, stabbing her down.
Issrah did not see her attacker util she fell to the ground, a sharp pain in her back making her unable to think straight or even breath. As the life seeped out of her along with her blood she could see Lucirina standing over her, smirking as she looked down on the agonizing sorceress.

"Where is your master now "milady"? It seems that he has forgotten one of his dogs when he left or maybe he did not care for you anymore.
Who would have imagined that a little Nightbird could have such a sharp beak? Sharp enough to cut you down, despite your magic."

The elf smirked as she slowly turned and ran away, leaving the deadly wounded sorceress behind as she moved back to Oscars side, trying to help the old man to his feet.

Edited by: Lucirina Telor Vevan at: 1/28/03 6:59:22 pm

Bobbo stood helplessly in the ring of flame. He felt deathly heat around his body. He glared outside looking for Malok, but he was gone. Then suddenly he heard Oscar yell, "The Resistence has come!" Bobbo was encouraged, but he felt that the Resistence would not have a powerful enough wizard to dispel the flame. Then an idea came to Bobbo's mind . . .

He took his golden ring from his finger and threw it at the flame. Suddenly the flames vanished and the ring lay on the ground, glowing brightly. Bobbo reached down to touch it, but it was burning up with heat. His hand recoiled and he noticed a burn on his finger. He put the burnt finger in his mouth and soon the burn cooled a little. Bobbo found a dead soldier with a sword and his saddlebags lying nearby. He drew the sword and picked up the ring with its tip. He then gently placed the ring in his pocket, where it would not burn him.

Bobbo took up his saddlebags and looked around. He then saw Lucirina standing over Issrah. Issrah appeared to be dead. At least her enemy is dead thought Bobbo. He then saw Lucirina run to Oscar and help him up.

Bobbo dashed over to the two.

"Oscar," he said deeply concerned, "Are you alright?"

'... 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)

Edited by: Bobbo the Beggar at: 1/28/03 7:51:23 pm

Issrah Issrah was too consumed by anger when the cry came and the attack happened.  She stood there dumbfounded, trying to figure out how the Resistance knew where they were.  She saw about a half dozen men fall quickly to arrows.  She immediately threw up a heat shield in front of her.  The arrows burned up before they touched her.

Bahar's army had bedded down for the night and were caught unawares.  The guards up above had not given any warning.  Issrah assumed because the gates were opened, for what reason she did not know, that is how the Resistance got in.  But who opened the gates and why?

As she pondered on these things suddenly she felt a sharp pain in her back.  Blood immediately began to fill her lungs.  She fell forward, turned her head and saw that elven wench with a triumphant look upon her face.  Issrah tried to speak, but only blood spurted out of her mouth.  Then, incomprehensible to her mind, her heart stopped beating. How? was the question in her mind as she died.  Her eyes open in disbelief.

Oscar Oscar watched Lucirina run to a dead soldier and grab a daggar from his dead hands and then disappear into the crowd of fighters.  Arrows filled the sky but none seemed to hit her, or him for that matter.  Even the Resistance army seemed to be unaffected by the arrows as they fought hand to hand with Malok's army.  He stared in disbelief and in awe. It must be Thalambath! was his only thought.

Then Lucirina was back at his side. He could see splatters of blood upon her clothes.  He looked up at her quizzically.  Then she said something that really made him think he had gone mad.  "He is not with them,  he was lying."

"Bobbo, is not with them.  But I saw him burn a snake.  I saw the man take him into his confidence.  Are you sure?" He asked.

Then Bobbo was next to them and asking if he was ok?  Oscar looked at him with suspicion in his eyes. "I... I am fine. It is just I was in this position so long that my legs and arms fell asleep."

Suddenly there was a roar of victory heard throughout the courtyard.  Oscar looked and saw the remaining army put down their arms and surrender to the Resistance.  He recognized his old friend Qui; he was wearing dark desert robes, but he stood head and shoulders over most of the Resistance fighters. Even the Tristin was shorter than he. Only a scar across his right cheek that ran from under his right eye to the corner of his mouth took marred his handsome looks, with dark black hair that glistened and deep dark blue eyes. Polan was near him.  Then out from the crowd he saw the Tristin.

Qui had spotted Oscar and was heading toward him, Polan was following.  Oscar took a quick glance at Bobbo. Do I trust him?  Lucirinia said he was not one of them.  But she is also in love with him.  I know what I saw and heard.  I cannot let my friends and especially the Tristin get to close to this man. There are too many questions and not enough answers.  Oscar quickly made up his mind and yelled. "Qui, do you see me?  Over here!  The enemy seems to have been vanquished, but one, never knows."

Qui Qui had seen Oscar along with a male and an elven female and was heading toward them.  Polan was about to rush forward and hug the old man when he heard Oscars voice.  Immediately he held onto Polan.  His steps slowed, but his eyes became narrow and he peered at the two strangers.  He turned back toward the Tristin and whispered into his ear.  The Tristin, just nodded and walked away, loosing himself in the crowd of Resistance fighters.

Qui then continued toward Oscar.  His hand hovering near his falchion. Oscars warning rang in his head but as he looked at the two strangers he wondered who Oscar was talking about?  The man or woman?  Until Oscar could tell him, he would be very cautious.

"Oscar my friend.  Yes we seemed to have won this battle, but the war is far from over.  Enemies are still around, to our left and right."

Oscar nodded.  Bobbo was to his left and Luci was to his right.  He replied. "Yes, I agree. Enemies are all around. To the left and right."

Qui immediately drew his falchion and put it against Bobbo's neck.  His voice hard as the steel that he carried. "Make one twitch and your body will have no head."

Several fighters who had heard Oscar and had been watching quickly came up and bound Bobbo.  Some of the archers had their bows drawn and were pointing their poisoned arrows right at Bobbo's heart.

Qui removed his falchion and sheathed it.  He smiled and held out his hand to Oscar.  "My friend, let me help you up and you can tell me what has happened.  We had no idea that you or other friendlies were in here.  We would have never fired arrows if we did.  All we knew was that Jel, was in danger.  Polan told us that."

Oscar gave Qui his hand and was helped up.  His legs were unstable and he forced himself to stand.  He gave Qui a hug.  "It has been a long day.  I am hungry and thirsty.  May I introduce you to Lucirina, she has been a help to me."

Qui gave Lucirina a nice smile. "M'lady it is a pleasure to meet you.  Not only because you have helped my uncle but also because your beauty could stop Injera in the sky."

Then he looked at Bobbo. "And what about him Oscar?"

Oscar looked at Luci and then replied. "That one I am not sure.  He claimed to be Junakin's son and heir.  But then I saw and heard what seemed like a collaboration between him and our enemies.  M'lady says he is not, but she is in love with him so I am not so sure.  I thought that prudence was the better part of valor.  Until we know for sure. We should keep an eye on him."

Qui looked at Bobbo.  Then nodded. "Uncle I believe that there is one who would know for sure."

"The Tristin?"

"Yes the Tristin would be able to tell whether he is whom he says he is.  Only he would be able to tell."

"I thought so, but I did not want the Tristin to get to close to him.  He is a fire druid."

Qui stepped back. "A fire druid? Are you certain? No, Junakin I knew ever dabbled in the magical arts.  You may have just caught an assasin, Uncle."  Qui then looked at the archers. "Keep your arrows trained on him.  If he so much as twitches then kill him!"

"Yes my lord as you command."

Qui turned back to Oscar. "I will stay here.  Polan go find the Tristin and bring him here.  Tell him everything you have heard this night."

Polan took off into the crowd of fighters.

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

Edited by: Oscar Lotus at: 1/29/03 6:10:02 pm

As she moved to Oscars side she once more repeaded what she had said earlier and was not suprised at the old man's reaction
"Bobbo, is not with them. But I saw him burn a snake. I saw the man take him into his confidence. Are you sure?"
Lucirina glanced at Bobbo as he walked over to them and tried to help Oscar to his feet, and she also noticed the look Oscar gave the beggar, he did not trust him and she understood he had good reasons. Yet it hurt her that he did not trust her, she had done nothing to earn such mistrust, she just stayed in silence, watching, waiting.
She did not have to wait for long before a man in dark robes approach the place where she, Oscar and Bobbo were standing.
Oscar seemed to know the man for he called out to him.
"Qui, do you see me? Over here! The enemy seems to have been vanquished, but one, never knows."
The dark robed man stopped and turned to nod at someone in the crowd that walked away before calling back at Oscar
"Oscar my friend. Yes we seemed to have won this battle, but the war is far from over. Enemies are still around, to our left and right."
Oscar nodded. Bobbo was to his left and Luci was to his right. He replied. "Yes, I agree. Enemies are all around. To the left and right."
Lucirina could only watch as the dark robed man drew a falchion and put it against Bobbo's neck. His voice hard as the steel that he carried. "Make one twitch and your body will have no head."
Lucirina was about to rush forward to defend her darling as he was bound but the sight of the many archers pointing their arrows at him discouraged her, if she did something hasty she would only cause the death of both herself and the man she loved, so she stood meekly in place and lowered her head once more.
She looked as Oscar and the dark robe spoke and as the old man gave the newcommer a hug before turing at her and introducinr her to the dark robed man that gave her a charming smile.
"M'lady it is a pleasure to meet you. Not only because you have helped my uncle but also because your beauty could stop Injera in the sky."
Lucirina lifted her head at the words and looked from Qui to Oscar, so they were of kin.
Blushing slightly because of the words she was offered she bowed to Qui, her movement as soft and fluid as most of the elven kind but there was a extra softness to them, as the ones of a lady of the court.
They spoke about Bobbo once more and Oscar said it was safer to distrust him for the moment.
Qui said he knew who would know for sure if Bobbo was telling the truth and sendt a boy after someone, the long ears of the elf had picked up one single word "Tristin"
The harsh oder of Qui to shoot Bobbo if he even twitched made her look down once more, what would she do if he had lied to her? What would she do if he was indeed one of the enemy?
Her hand strayed to the belt where her flute was no longer, not allowing her the simple confort of touching the cold silver.
Once more she closed her eyes as a wave of sadness washed over her making her bow her head once more, the long locks hiding her face from view, but those who were fast enough could have spotted a desperate glance at Boobo, a glance begging for him to have told her the truth about himself, for if not she would not have any reason to continue living.
The chesnut locks concealed her face from the people around her, but on the sand at her feet there was suddenly two small spots of moisture.

Gararion woke early in the morning for his race needed very little sleep.  

He sat up and looked about the tent that was made for everyone, he was alone.  Were they already awake or did no one sleep within the tent?

Gararion walked outside the tent and saw many people sleeping, and one that seemed on gaurd almost seemed like he too was sleeping.  Gararion laughed quietly to himself as he began to take down the tent silently making no sound to disturb the others.

After the tent had been packed and retied to the AJ Gararion walked about silently, only the sounds of the winds brushig the deserts sands could be heard.  He walked about and examined each person seperate, what would it take to cure their minds of the darkness that each had.  He stopped last at the person who was on gaurd and stood still.  The winds blowing his cloak lightly, his hair flowing in the winds with grace equaled to that of a elf.

Oscar noticed Lucirina's down cast looks.  He felt sorry for her. He went and put his arm around her. "Lucirnia, I am sorry for the hurt you are going through.  I can see it in your eyes, your countenance, and even in the way you hold your head.  I may be wrong about Bobbo.  If I am I will truely apologize and I am sure Bobbo would understand.  The Tristin's life is more important than life itself and if needed I am sure Bobbo would do the same if the situation were reversed.  I hope you understand and will forgive me if I am wrong as I hope I am and I hope Bobbo will do the same.  But if I am right?..."

Oscar left the implied implications hang in the air.  Soon many men came toward them. Torches had been lit all over the courtyard and it looked almost like day, except for certain corners and crevices where the light could not reach.  Oscar could see the Tristin in the middle of them.  Polan was by his side.  

Oscar smiled. The Tristin was dressed in black as were the rest, but his hair was as sandy as the color of the sand of the desert.  He was not as tall as Qui, but he walked upright with steps of grace.  He stopped before Oscar, looked at him his emerald green eyes twinkled even in torch light. A genuine smile radiated from him. He gave a brief glance at Bobbo, but then turned his full attention to Oscar.  

Oscar swore if he could he would have been able to physically touch the aura of power and respect this man had, like all great men throughout history had.  Oscar began to fall to his knees. "My Lord," he began to say.  

But gentle, yet strong hands stayed him.  The Tristin's baritone voice rang out. "You do not need to kneel my friend.  Have you forgotten that you dressed me and taught me and even played with me when I was but a child living in your families home in Avennoria.  You served me as my squire for many a year.  And now you still serve me.  I am glad to once  again see the face of my mentor."

Oscar looked up and smiled. "No, my Lord I have not forgotten.  It is good to see you again my Lord after all these years.  I became old."

"Nay my friend, you became wise.  And your wisdom gave me Qui, which I would be lost without.  I thank you.  Now, who is this beautiful woman whose shoulders your arms were around before I arrived?"

Oscar stammered.  "Oh, I am sorry my Lord.  Lord Tristin may I introduce you to Lady Lucirina."

The Tristin took his hands and gently lifted up Luci's chin and brushed away her hair.  He noticed tears upon her cheeks, he gently wiped them away.  "M'lady, such tears upon such a beautiful face is not seemly.  Why such tears?"

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

Shaint sat on the ground silently his knees to his chest his arms ontop of them resting he opend his eyes the glow of the fire shown on his face and reflected in his mysterious dark eyes in the cold dim colored light of an early day, wind blew his hair and sleeves rustled,

"Gararion, time ago when I was younger a man before he died told me this saying..." Shaint spoke but it was in elven tounge...or something like it this is what he said.... "E' islme daeae fara e' kalina agar kair lanta thus huine kain fiolae vanwa ilya" it made me think for along ime after but now i have figured out the words to what the man said in odd tounge,

in human it says "In moonlight shadows hunt in daytime blood will fall thus darkness will prevail over all...." Shaint looked through the glow of the burning red yellow and orange fire "Gararion i believed this man to be wise so for some odd reason i could not stop thinking of the words spoke and yet it took 9 years to figure what it said and ment...

but now that i know it i allmost wish i hadn't of figured it out....if what he said was true then the chance of us entering and leaving Milkengrad alive....and actually helping the resistance is...well i fear we dont have one...." Shaint tilted his head to see gararion fully....

"however this man also spoke H'uma 'er lun quendi lle maranwe wich is no one can speak your destiny....." Shaint sat and gazed back threw the fires flames the reflection of them in his eyes forever...untill day struck...

Edited by: Shaint at: 1/31/03 8:51:06 pm

Lucirina was slowly starting to sink into the sea where she had been drowning herself for so many years, after the short gasps of air that Bobbo's love had proven to be she was now feeling that indifference towards life was once more filling her.
Oscar's arm around her shoulders came as a suprise, never had anyone cared enough for her to comfort her in the hardest of moments, not even her own kin had been able to show her compassion after the death of her first love.
The warmth coming from the body of the old man and the gentleness in his word proved to be like another gasp of air to her drowning mid. Slowly she lifted a hand and placed it on his, still keeping her eyes on the ground.
She heard someone approach them and Oscar's arm dissapeared once more as he spoke to the newcommer, treating him with great respect. Respect that was returned to him as the man spoke with a profound and strong voice.
Lucirina's long ears twitched slightly as she sensed the power behind that voice, but differently to Malok this voice also carried compassion.
He asked about her and Oscar stammered a introduction
" Lord Tristin may I introduce you to Lady Lucirina."
So this was the Tristin, she thought, never lifting her gaze from the ground but a gentle hand placed itself under her chin and gently lifted her head so she would face him, gently brushing away her long locks before running over her cheeks carrying away the tears.
"M'lady, such tears upon such a beautiful face is not seemly. Why such tears?"
She looked at the man, black clad as the other man had been but not as tall and his hair was the color of the sand. She could feel the authority around him yet he did not seem threatening.
At his question her eyes once more strayed toward Bobbo and were filled with tears.

"One is sorry if One has offended Milord in any way but...
How can One smile when One's world is once more crumbling around One?
One does no longer know what is truth and what is lie, who to believe?  One's heart speaks with one tounge but One's mind speaks with another. Who do One decide to follow then Milord?
What can this simple bard do?"

The elf moved her eyes to gaze at him, the emerald green orbs filled with sorrow and confusion.

Edited by: Lucirina Telor Vevan at: 1/31/03 5:29:35 am

Tristin Tristin saw the look she gave to the man whom Polan had told him that Qui, who was standing next to, and had bound him and had guards guarding him claimed to be the Junakin heir. He listened to her words and a deep sigh escaped his lips. "Ah, M'lady. You did not offend me. However to answer your questions would take a much wiser man than I to answer.  For in the heart of man can come truth and lies.  How does one discern the difference?  Your love tells you one thing, it is ruled by emotion. But your mind tells you another, it is ruled by reason.  But I have come to understand that your mind can be tricked, manipulated by what you see and hear.  But a true heart. A pure heart. That heart is usually never wrong, nor can be tricked.  So dry your eyes M'lady and lets us take a look at the one who calls himself the Junakin heir."

The Tristin turned and now his full attention was upon Bobbo. "Bring in more light, shine it upon his face." he ordered.  Men brought more torches and the Tristin peered at the face looking back at him.  He smiled at Qui, "You may release him."  He then turned to Lucirina and held out his hand, beckoning her to him. "Your heart M'lady has not lied to you."  He then placed Lucirina's hand in Bobbo's.  Then he said aloud.  "Hear me.  Hear all that is within my voice. Come and give the respect and honor due to the heir of Junakin."

He turned and bowed his head slightly and then straightened it.  "I had thought never to have seen a Junakin heir.  I had thought that the assassins that had killed your family had also killed you.  Please forgive my men and those who serve me for the treatment you have received M'lord.  And welcome to the Resistance and soon, very soon, we shall both have our houses and honor restored, as it should be, as it should have been from the beginning if it were not for...Troas."  At the name of Troas the Tristin's usual peacful voice, sounded like a vipers tongue.

Oscar was astonished at the pronouncement of the Tristin but deep down he knew that Bobbo had told the truth, but the events that had taken place... He now felt ashamed of himself. Of how he treated Bobbo.  He fell at Bobbo's feet. "Please forgive me M'lord.  I just thought..."  He could not continue for the shame he felt.

Qui, was quite confused.  He was a little bit more suspicious. Oscar had told him he was a fire druid.  But the Tristin said he was the Junakin heir and there was no one who doubted his word.  Even Oscar.  He would hold his tongue and keep his eye upon this one.

He turned and also took a knee and bowed to Bobbo.  "My sword is to the Tristin, however I will give my life for thee as being the only heir to the Junakin throne."

Suddenly a shout arose from among the fighters.  "Hip Hip Hooray! Hip Hip Hooray! Ava, save the King and Strata once more be free!"

The Tristin smiled and then said.  "We shall make our beds here for the night.  On the morrow we make preperations."

He then turned to Bobbo, Lucirina, Oscar, and Qui.  "We need some refreshment and need to talk.  I need to know what has occured since I recieved the message from you Oscar asking that we meet."

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

Sand. Keelin sat up and busily brushed the sand out of her eyes and then shook it out of her hair. I hate sand. It had even gotten into her mouth. She stood up and spat it out, shaking out her cloak and wrapping it around her shoulders. She shivered slightly and looked around. She saw a pair of dark shapes sitting near a fire a decided to join them. I thought deserts were supposed to be hot... It's freezing! As she neared, she raised a shaky hand in greeting before collapsing gratefully next to the fire with a yawn.  

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

Shaint looked at Keelin and noticed her shivering he removed his top clothing placing it lightly around Keelin now Shaint had no shirt just his bare skin and scars from battles a scar was starting to form around where he was hit with the poison protecting Keelin he didnt seem to mind them.....

was it the fact he had deep feelings for Keelin and it didnt matter to him? or was it he was such a long wile wanderer it didnt affect him?.....

Shaint smiled slightly at Keelin and kissed her smoothly on the cheek before resting his fore-arms on his knees and crouching on his legs before the fire...

Atrii sat out in the desert, it was quite cold but it did not bother him at all. He sat leaning against his AJ as he watched some of the group near the fire in the centre. He saw Keelin and Shaint, Shaint had just kissed Keelin on the cheek after taking off his top and wrapping it around Keelin.

Atrii sat silently, his eyes slowlyl closed and he began to get the visions again. The visions of death, darkness and pain. He sat up quickly and looked around, he was sweating heavily now, he then placed his hand to his forehead. What are these, visions? Why do I keep having them, over and over and over?

Keelin's eyes went wide and she blushed. Um... what? Why? Er... Even her thoughts weren't very coherent.

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

The citadel with its one tall tower with its golden fire tip seeming to pierce the sky, surrounded by several smaller towers, stood like a hand with its middle finger giving an oath to Ava, or the desert in which it stood.

It's name was Mene'chronn, an elvish name meaning, Isle of Paradise. It had been built by slaves bought from Shan'thai, and surrounded one of the largest oasis in the middle of the Rahaz' Dath desert. And if one was inside the citadel you would swear you were in paradise.  The Oasis kept everything green. Blue Gittras, Haloens and other colorful birds flew about the place.  Their calls could be heard throughout the courtyard.

Rhas used to love standing upon her balcony looking out over the courtyard seeing the Bombox Palm trees sway gently in the desert breeze.  Malok somehow, through his magic imbued into the walls of the citadel itself, kept the temperature at a balmy 80 degrees, the Oasis had a large pool where she and her sister would swim.

Issrah! Rhas knew she was dead, she felt the daggar, could see the elven womans features in her minds eyes as her sister transmitted her last dying moments to her.  She could hear the elven womans words she spoke to Issrah as she stood there triumphantly over her dying sister.  

She glanced up at the main tower.  Malok had secluded himself up there ever since they returned from Thalambath.  Malok had removed the poisoned arrow, then searched his books for an antidote, found it, prepared it and placed it on her back and then took care of himself.  

She laid in bed writhing in pain as the poison rapidly swept through her system.  It began to paralize her limbs.  If it had not been for Malok she would have been completely paralized, as it was she limped now upon her left leg and two of her left fingers, pinky and her ring finger, were curled up and could not be straightened.  But she was alive and she would avenge her sister...someday...someday soon.

Malok searched through his books.  He had been feverishly looking through the old texts, scanning for any written reports of Thalambath the Wizard and of his fortress.  There were brief mentions of him here and there.  He was a wizard of great power during the War of the Chosen.  A war that was lost in myth and time.  Records that far back, were rare.  Most of them had been destroyed, or handed down orally and were embellished.  As most folktales were.

Malok did find one interesting bit of information: Thalambath the Fortress was supposedly the physical presence of the wizard himself.  According to the brief mention.  He and seven of his followers had found the spot where Thalambath stood, the seven had turned around and when they turned back, Thalambath the wizard was gone, but the Fortress stood there.  It was then that the seven began to build the village and finally the city that the fortress overshadowed named after the wizard Thalambath.

Malok closed the book, his breath was labored.  The poison arrow had partially paralized his right lung before he stopped the poison with the antidote.  He swore vengence upon the Tristin and all those who served him.  He stood up, stretched sore muscles, and walked to only window in the tower.  It over looked the courtyard.  He looked out and saw nothing but desert as far as his eye could see.  

He glanced down and saw Rhas standing on her balcony. Her normally fire-red hair tightly braided around her head was free flowing and fell softly around her shoulders.  Though he would never show it, he loved her.  

She was different from Issrah.  Issrah was impulsive, craved power and respect.  Rhas was thoughtful, learned more by being more attentive, she did not crave power, but she had power, more power than even she imagined.  He knew, he had seen it in her.  Saw the way she could manipulate fire in a way that almost rivaled his own.  Her own personality and the aura around her from her having that knowledge and knowing when, and more importantly when not to use it, gave her the respect that her sister had demanded.  Rhas did not need to demand respect, it came to her from others, drawn to her like the power of fire was drawn to her, like he was drawn to her.

Suddenly a globe inset in a hole in the middle of a marble table began to glow and beckon Malok.  Malok turned and walked and peered into the globe.  Soon the swirling white mists gave way to a face.  The image of Troas: Dark beady eyes, blue black hair, swarthy good looking olive colored skin sporting a thin black goatee and mustache. He spoke. "Malok, what do you have to report?  Has the traitor Tristin and his feeble, ragtag, of an army been defeated?"

"No Troas he is not."

Rage embedded in Troas's features: his eyes became more beady, his fact contorted and then he screamed. "Why not? What happened?  Our spies told us exactly where they were.  You... you promised me that the Tristin would be begging for his life before me and his band of rebels would have their heads upon poles stuck in the sand leading into Strata!"

"I know what I told you.  I keep my promises Troas.  The Tristin and his band of rebels will be dealt with.  Something happened unforseen at Thalambath.  I think I know what happened there.  It will not happen again."

"What unforseen thing?"

"You would not believe me.  Even if I told you."

"Try me."

"Thalambath helped them."

"Thalambath?  The city?  How could a bunch of merchants help them?"

"Not the city.  The...wizard!"

"Thalambath the wizard!?"  Troas began to laugh. Then he stopped suddenly. "You excuse your imcompetence upon a man who has been dead for over five thousand years!  You are a fool!"

Malok kept his temper in check.  He calmly replied through clenched teeth. "Thalambath the fortress, is Thalambath the wizard.  I am sure of it.  He helped them escape."

"Balderdash.  Never mind we shall in our magnificance forget this incident.  You promised me the Tristin.  I believe you.  So do it!"  His image began to fade.  Malok quickly said "Wait."

The image reappeared. "What now?"

"I sent you a courier.  His name is Nahor."

"Hm.. Yes I know Nahor.  He is the cousin of my general of my armies, Bahar and a very good spy.  What of it?"

"I did not know if I would be in contact with you through the globe so I sent him a note with a question for you."

"What question?"

"Do you have a man by the name of Bobbo working for you? A fire druid. An assassin."  Then Malok described Bobbo to him.

There was a pause, and Malok could see Troas's eyes widen and beads of sweat to appear upon Troas's forehead. "No, I do not.  But the man you describe is dead.  My assassins killed him and his family long ago."

"Then who is he"

"He...he is of no importance! Just another rebel spy whom you let slip through your fingers.  Now I have other important matters to consider and you have a job to do."

The image disappeared.  Malok shook his head.  He is lying.  There is something about this Bobbo.  I must find out,

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

Edited by: Oscar Lotus at: 2/3/03 6:45:05 pm

Shaint smiled lightly to himself and rubbed a thumb across Keelins face allmost like he was trying to rub something of then just burst into a laughter not loud but loud enough for Keelin to hear "Keelin, your blushing" Shaint removed his hand and then stood up Shaint walked around the variouse places where the members where sleeping,

"Hey Wake yourself we have to get going!" Shaint shook everyone and finally coming to Atrii "atrii, you had a vision yet again" Shaint could notice Atrii after all was sweating "Calm down my friend let them leave dont think about them anymore and they will simply vanish"

while everyone was still moaning and probably wouldent wake up for still awile now he sat down back next to Keelin near the fire.

Atrii stood and smiled at Shaint. "You're right Shaint. Hopefully everyone will wake quickly so we may get on our way." He followed Shaint over and sat down on the other side of Keelin.
"How are you feeling this morning?" the ranger asked sweetly to the elf.

The troll didn't answer, Well, I probably shouldn't expect to be able to speak with something that far up... Besides, he looks tired.
... what was I going to ask him again?
Raoneth looked around, everyone was going to sleep. The troll didn't notice him, and he couldn't remember what he was supposed to be saying.
So he walked over to a spot that seemed soft.

He'd not brought anything to sleep in, so he lay himself down in the sand and covered himself with his cloak. He was tired, and it was getting both cold and dark, but there was no way he could sleep like this. The ground was hard and wierdly shifting.
A bed? There's a tree right outside, why don't you just go off and sleep where you belong, little brownie?
He had no count of how many times he'd heard that. The thought gave him a little twitch. The world was a cruel place, and these contitions didn't make things mutch better.
He shifted, it was coming now, the slight nausea that came when he couldn't sleep. A bad taste in his mouth.
And his back hurt.

Morning, he woke up slowly by the sun shining directly at his eyes. He'd been lucky, there was only a thin layer of sand on top of him. He spat out what was in his mouth and coghed a bit before he stood up.
He tried to get rid of a bit of the nausea and tiredness by shaking his head only to stumble a few steps from the dizzyness. He shivered, yet it wasn't really that cold.
"Why am I like this..." he mumbled to himself.

He stumbled over to Shaint who was walking about, waking people. "Eh, do you" he coughed, "do you by any chance have some water to spare?"
No one seemed to be dead, he'd just remember what he was about to ask the troll last night, but everyone moved.
I suppose that's a good sign

Edited by: Raoneth at: 2/4/03 8:47:19 pm

Bobbo was startled when Oscar gave him a suspicious look and then the Resistence soldiers bound him. "Wait, they were lies, Oscar!" he said desparately, though he knew it would not help. What he had intended to rescue them had become his own grave.

Then the Tristin came. Bobbo was startled that he appeared as an ordinary soldier, but had an air of majesty about him. Bobbo was silent. Then the Tristin pronounced that Bobbo was indeed the Junakin heir. Then Oscar and Qui bowed before him. Bobbo was quite shocked. He looked into the Tristin's eyes and saw understanding.

"My lord," he said, choking, "It is a dream come to true to finally meet you."

Bobbo knelt on his own knees before the Tristin. He was awestriken and knew that his description to Malok of the Tristin was very accurate.

Bobbo rose and turned and smiled at Oscar. "Oscar, my friend," said Bobbo, "Pray let me explain the fiery show I was putting on with Malok."

Bobbo went to his saddlebags, opened them up, and pulled out his ring. He showed it to Oscar and everyone around.

"This ring was given to me by my father. It has the power to control fire. I was using it to convince the wizard that I was one of his order to get us out of the mess we were in." he explained to everyone.

He handed the ring to the Tristin and asked, "My lord, do you remember this from my father?"

Bobbo turned to Lucirina. He smiled at her. "Your life has not fallen apart, my love," he said, "It has only just begun."

He embraced her lovingly and kissed her. He then turned to those assembled and cried out in a mighty voice, "May the kingdom of Tristin be reestablished! Long live the Tristin!"

'... 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 blinked rapidly, shrugged, and closed her eyes. I'm not even going to attempt to think about this.

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

Gararion listened to Shaints words and said nothing in return.  He just looked on past the elf into the vast desert hoping they would soon move on.  

As he looked on the female mute had made her way over to them.  He watched in silence as it seemed that Shaint had made the first move in showing the female his deep care for her.  Gararion thought to himself of tpast times when he once had those feeling for one, but then shaked his head as he wanted to forget those times now, they meant nothing to him now.

When the small brownie asked for water Gararion knelt down to the little one and uncapped the chilled waterskin he carried with him.  He looked at the little man.

"Do you care for some of mine?"

Oscar Oscar woke the next morning, the refreshments the other night were welcomed indeed.  He thought he would burst with all of the food and drink he had partaken of.  His mind swirled with the events.  He could hardly believe it himself that all that had happened in the last 25 hours or so.

He, Luci and Bobbo had walked into a trap: He was shot off his mount and then chained to a wall.  The leader of the army, whom he know knew as Malok and his subordinates, Issrah, whom Luci had killed, and Rhas her twin sister were fire druids.  Oscar had mistakenly thought Bobbo was a fire druid when he saw lord Bobbo burn a scorpion.  But it was just a trick by a ring given to lord Bobbo by his father.

Lucirina must be very happy, thought Oscar, to know that her love for lord Bobbo was not in vain.

The night wore on as the Tristin not only acknowledged lord Bobbo's ring but even commented that the ring had a secret catch on it that revealed the Coat of Arms of Junakin.  By the look on lord Bobbo's face, Oscar did not think that even lord Bobbo knew of the secret catch.

There was much discussion between Bobbo, Qui, the Tristin and some other rebel leaders about what to do next.

Finally before they had all left the Tristins tent to rest that they would in the morning discuss what should be done.

Oscar slept in Qui's tent.  He looked over and noticed that Qui's mat was empty. Qui was always an early riser. Oscar got up and walked out.  The sun was already past the horizon and climbing.  Oscar looked over to his right and saw the tent that was given to lord Bobbo and Lucirina.  He looked around and all around him the men of the Resistance were standing around fires, eating and joking with each other.  They had changed clothes now and were all wearing white desert robes.

Oscar stretched and looked up.  He saw several sentries high upon the walls of the fortress.  Their eyes searching the horizon for any that may be coming their way.  Oscar looked for Qui and saw him walking toward his way.

"Uncle, how do you feel this morning?" Qui asked as he came closer.

"Like a new man.  Is everyone awake and up?" Oscar asked, looking toward lord Bobbo's tent and then the Tristin's.

"Ah, the Tristin awoke almost before I did.  As far as lord Bobbo and lady Lucirina, I have not seen them yet this morning.  But they could have be up.  I have been looking over my troops, seeing that the wounded were tended and that the guards were in place.  Speaking of the wounded.  I have been meaning to ask you.  We did not know their were friendlies in here other wise we would not have used poison arrows.  How did you and the others escape from being shot?  From the tales of lord Bobbo they both had arrows in them before they mysteriously disappeared."

Oscar thoughtfully replied.  "I think that Thalambath saved us."

Qui looked around at the fortresses walls, his eyes wide with awe.  He had heard of the tales of Thalambath. "Do you really think so?  After all these centuries that Thalambath lives?"

"Well at least his spirit does inside these walls.  There could be no other explanation.  Your arrows came and then just fell to the ground before they touched me or lady Lucirina."

They both went silent then Oscar asked. "Do you think the Tristin will marry lord Bobbo and lady Lucirina?"

Qui laughed. "Your moral sensibilities are showing Uncle. I am sure that though lord Bobbo and lady Lucirina shared a tent that nothing happened.  And even if it did, who are we to judge what the lord and lady do?"

"You... You are quite right, Qui, as usual."

"Besides Oscar, if they wanted to marry I am sure the Tristin would marry them.  It maybe that lord Bobbo will marry, but after he has been restored to his house."

"Ah, that makes sense.  But do you think that the other rulers of the houses of Strata will accept an elven woman as one of their own?"

Qui stroked his clean shaven chin and thought about that question.  He then replied.  "Well even if they do not, I doubt they will be open about it.  If the Tristin is agreeable to the union then once he comes back into power, no one will say anything about his decisions.  So I guess it would be best if the Tristin would marry them.  It would then put his stamp of approval upon their union.  The other rulers of the houses would accept that approval, at least in public, who knows what happens in private?"

"Ah true.  You have grown into quite a man since I saw you last.  I am proud of you Qui."

Qui looked at Oscar, a mist in his eyes, but then it was gone. "Thank you Uncle.  Now lets go get something to eat.  And wait for lord Bobbo and lady Lucirina to arise.  The Tristin would like to discuss the invasion of Strata."

Oscar quickly turned, speechless staring at Qui. "Are we at that point?  I sent a party to Strata to get more goods from Hashish.  They should have arrived and be heading back to my tavern by now."

"Good then our first stop will be your tavern uncle.  We shall gather the supplies that you have gathered and stored for us and then prepare for the invasion of Strata."

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

Edited by: Oscar Lotus at: 2/4/03 8:23:52 pm

Lucirina could feel the tension in the air as the Tristin looked at Bobbo to decide if what he said was true or not. Her hands were clutched so hard that her nails maid white marks in the palm of her hands.
Relief came as a wave of happiness as she heard the Tristin proclaim that Robert was indeed who he said he was and that he had not lied to her.
Robert’s arm around her shoulder and the kiss he gave her afterwards were enough to clear every single doubt she had felt to then and when he called out for the Tristin’s she joined him, her own voice sounding incredibly clear along with Roberts.
The night was filled with delicious food and strange drinks she had never tried before and when she went to rest that night her heart was quivering with happiness as she fell asleep few feet away from the man she loved.

Lucirina awoke before the sun rised and looked over at Robert just to make sure that he was there, a soft smile on her lips as she watched him sleep for a few moments before she raised and walked out of the tent and walked past the sleeping soldiers.
She knew they were safe within the fortress and she feared no attack so she decided to greet the sun as she always did.
The sentries on top of the wall could see a lonely figure move out from the fortress, long hair waving softly in the morning wind as she walked to a large dune and sat down looking out over the sands of the desert.
The rising sun showed all of its splendor as it painted the sands with strange reds and golden tones that no painter nor artist could fully emulate. Lucirina smiled in joy as she discovered the beauty of the desert, silver by night and gold by morning. She was used to the changing colors of the forest, the leaves changing from green to red in fall, but no colors were so intense as the ones that painted the desert.
Now the sun was already over the horizont and Lucirina stood up and faced the golden lights, her hair lifted by the wind as she began to sing.

Injèrá, dear sister Injèrá
Traveling lady,
Golden smile that fills my heart with warmth.
Silarná, little sister Silarná
Dame of love.
Silent spy of nights of passion

Sister Injèrá,
Sister Silarná,
Let nothing never part me from you both.
Sister Injèrá,
Sister Silarná,
Let nothing never part me from Avá’s dream.

Sister Injèrá what burn in you heart?
What brings so much rage?
You seem as confused as me.
Silarná white reflection,
Cold heart in you chest,
Yet you guide me in the dark of night.

Sister Injèrá,
Sister Silarná,
Let nothing never part me from you both.
Sister Injèrá,
Sister Silarná,
Let nothing never part me from Avá’s dream.

Sister Injèrá... Welcome Sister Injèrá.

She raised her arms and praised the newborn day, a wide smile on her lips. She realized perfectly that she could have died that same night but she lived on, and she was ever grateful for this fact.
Still smiling she walked back to the fortress and many a soldier were charmed by the soft smile given to them by the elven lady as she walked by them.
Spotting Qui and Oscar standing not far away from where she was headed she walked over to them and greeted them with a bow and a smile.

Greetings Milord Oscar, greetings Milord Qui. One is glad to see you both raised and in good health.

She tilted her head at them and smiled once more, it seemed that she quite enjoyed mornings, the elf seemed fresh and rested.

Raoneth stopped. It seemed like something had happened between Shaint and the female elf.
While they were looking at each other with different strange expressions, Gararion knelt down to Raoneth.
"Do you care for some of mine?"
Raoneth flinched, he'd allmost forgot what he'd just asked. He was very tired, and very thirsty.
"Oh, ahm, yes, thank you."
Raoneth gave a tired smile and grabbed at the waterskin. After getting pretty mutch filled up (maybe one or two human mouthfulls) he wiped the end of the waterskin with his hand.
"Thank you very mutch", he said and surpressed a burp, "I'm clearing up now. Is everyone ok from last night?"

Shaint stood from the place he had been crouching near the fire and looked strait down into the flames.....

Images filled his head of past days when he was a Mercenary for hire, no feelings.....communication he was practicly a shadow...now he was standing at a campfire with a party of different races, he allmost longed for the old days to come back yet....doesent in a way....

Shaint went to his AJ pouches and looked through them, his top half still un-covered he found a black shirt again widening downward at the wrists he put it on and took something more from the pouches a Leather vest he wore it on-top of the shirt,

He found a covered place and took his pouches with him Shaint after awile came from behind a tree dressed with a black shirt,leather vest,leather boots,hidden daggers,his sword sheeth and most of all noticeable was two silver earrings.....what was he doing? was he converting back to the rouge he was?

Radaroc burst out from under his blanket with tremendous yawn.  Quickly rising to his full height he streched his arms up to the sky. His wounds had gotten much better over the night, but his muscles ached from the fight and swinging his sword.  Looking over to Derm he saw him in wolf form nawing on the carcass of a small Dune Mouse.  Walking over to him he bent down and rubbed the creature's head,
"That may be fine for you, but what am I to eat?"  
Derm cocked his head at the question and looked over to the fire where some of the others had gathered.  
"Right, get my own, 'eh?"
Quickly putting on his vest he put on his belt and strapped his sword onto his back and headed to the fire.  His long strides eating up the distance in a short time he squated next to the fire and rubbed his hands trying to warm them, the coldness of the desert morning having just struck him.  Pulling out his large water bladder he to two deep gulps, as the light alcohal began to course through his veins, he felt a bit warmer.

The silence of a deep, dreamless sleep lifted from Bobbo's eyes as he awoke in the dim morning. It appeared as though the sun was only just rising in the sky as he went to his feet. His mind was not troubled by the council he had shared the night before with the Tristin and his officials. Bobbo hoped not to need to recall it until they met again.

Bobbo remembered the great meal of the night before. He had partied and made merry as anyone, though a few months before, he would never have considered something of the sort. Bobbo remembered that day, not so long ago, when he had first become a social person, when he had risen in a tavern and sang a song. It was a stupid song, by all accounts, but it broke Bobbo's shell and allowed him to be open to Lucirina.

Bobbo had fallen asleep quickly when he lay in his tent. His weariness from the day before quickly knocking him into a deep, dreamless sleep, as he was often to have.

Bobbo exited the tent and saw Oscar, Qui, and Lucirina. He came to them and said, "Ah, good morning my friends!"

He grasped Lucirina's hand and squeezed it gently. "And good morning to you, my love," he said with a smile.

He turned to Qui and asked him, "So, perhaps I could be provided with a sword? My noble Stratanian blade was stolen by that 'Malok' fellow."

'... 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)

Oscar Some of Oscars questions were answered when Lady Lucirina walked through the gates coming in from the desert.  Oscar saw the effect she had on the men as she smiled at them. I do believe that men would follow her almost as much as the Tristin himself.

She walked up to them and gave them a dazzling smile and told them she was glad they were rested and well. Oscar smiled at her but Qui was quite distressed.  "M'lady you should not have gone out of the fortress without an escort.  The guards will pay for their breach of conduct." Qui said.

Qui was about to storm off when Lord Bobbo appeared, welcomed them as if they were equal in his sight and then asked Qui for a sword.  It seems his was stolen by Malok.
Qui replied.  "Yes M'lord I will fetch you a sword as soon as I deal with some inattentive guards.  If you will excuse me."

Qui made a small bow to Lord Bobbo and Lady Lucirina and left.  Oscar watched him leave. I have not seen Qui so rattled.  I wonder why?

Oscar turned to Lord Bobbo and Lady Lucirnia. "I pray that you both had a restful sleep.  The Tristin is in his tent, probably having breakfast.  I do not know about you, but I am hungry."

Oscar saw Qui return in his hands he carried a scabbord with a sword inside it.  Qui stood in front of Lord Bobbo, knelt and offered him the sword.  "It is a Kyranian sword, M'lord.  Their blacksmiths are renown for their craftsmanship and skill in creating weapons and armor.  This sword I am told is only rivaled by the one the Tristin carries.  The Tristin told me that.  He says the blade is made from the hardest metal known to man, Uryant.  It's pommel and guard are made from the finest gold.  I pray that you will be pleased with it."

After Lord Bobbo took the sword.  Then Qui did something that even Oscar was surprised by.  He stood and bowed and said to Lord Bobbo. "With your permission Lord Bobbo.  I also have several pairs of Sophronian throwing knives.  The Sophronian women were the army of the Sophronia, before they were defeated.  But the knives are the finest balanced weapons for a lady."  He took out of his robe a piece of cloth, knelt down and placed it upon the sand, opened it up and inside were three pairs of the most beautiful and deadly throwing knives Oscar had only seen once.

Each knife had crushed, polished, hardened oyster handles with the rarest pearls, a black one, one in each of their handles.  The oyster handles in the sun gave off a rainbow of colors.  The blades were thin, hardened metal, razor sharp.  Along with each blade was a soft leather sheath to put them in.  

Oscar recognized the blades.  They had been given to Qui's mother by his father for their wedding present.  They were supposed to be given to Qui's wife when the time came.  Only Oscar and Qui knew the significance of these knives but Oscar thought that Lady Lucirina must have had a more profound effect upon Qui than he imagined.  He listened as he gave her the knives.

"M'lady, this pair are called the "Twins" they are to be hidden within your boots.  This pair is called the "Mauraders" they are to be strapped to your inner forearm.  And the last pair are called "Chastities" they are to be strapped to.. um.. M'lady's inner thighs.  They are throwing knives.  And I am sure with practice you will be able to throw them with exceptional accuracy.  Though their blades are thin, they are not delicate and within the leather sheaths are sewn in whetstones to keep the blades sharp as a razor each time they are withdrawn or placed within. I hope that M'lady will be pleased with them."

Qui arose quite quickly and said. "Now I must take your leave and check upon my men."  He quickly turned away, but not without giving Oscar a quick glance.  Qui's face had turned red, but he was quickly getting his emotions under control as he walked away.

Oscar coughed. "Well M'lord and M'lady they are quite beautiful weapons, are they not?  Shall we go and eat some breakfast with the Tristin?" Oscar stood there a little awkwardly waiting for their reply.

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

Lucirina smiled back at Oscar but her smile faded slightly at Qui's reaction. "M'lady you should not have gone out of the fortress without an escort. The guards will pay for their breach of conduct."
She was about to protest and defend the guards when Bobbo appeared and greeted her good morning. Lucirina gave Bobbo a bright smile as she felt his hand in hers.
As he asked for a blade she remembered that both her dagger, pouch belt and flute had been taken by Malok.
Oh well, the belt and pouch she could remplace, but not the flute nor the dagger. A soft sigh escaped her, how long would it be until she could find another flute like that.
Qui answered to Bobbo's request.  "Yes M'lord I will fetch you a sword as soon as I deal with some inattentive guards. If you will excuse me."
Lucirina felt sorry for the guards, after all it WAS her fault that those guards were going to be punished.
As Oscar spoke of breakfast her stomach growled slightly in agreement with his words, she was hungry too.
Then Qui returned and gave Bobbo what Lucirina thought was one of the most beautiful weapons she had ever seen, the blade seemed sharp enough to cut trough anything and the pommel was beautifully crafted.
Then to her suprise Qui knelt in the sand and opened a cloth, revealing several knives. Not only did they look sharp and deadly but they also were very beautiful.
Her suprise grew even more when Qui explained a bit more about the knives.
"M'lady, this pair are called the "Twins" they are to be hidden within your boots. This pair is called the "Mauraders" they are to be strapped to your inner forearm. And the last pair are called "Chastities" they are to be strapped to.. um.. M'lady's inner thighs. They are throwing knives. And I am sure with practice you will be able to throw them with exceptional accuracy. Though their blades are thin, they are not delicate and within the leather sheaths are sewn in whetstones to keep the blades sharp as a razor each time they are withdrawn or placed within. I hope that M'lady will be pleased with them."
So they were to her!
Lucirina had to contain herself not to gasp as this realization came to her, they were a gift to her, a gift like no other she had recived before in her long life.
She opened her mouth to try to thank him but he was long gone before she could even utter a single word.
She knelt down in the sand and let a finger gently caress the handle of a knife before picking it up. It was light and very well balanced and fit her hand perfectly, as if they had been made specially for her.
She smiled widly as she sheated the blades one by one and gently picked them up, noting how light they were, she would practice hard so she could fully master these weapons.
As Oscar once more spoke of breakfast her stomach growled at her, telling her quite loudly that it was growing impatient.

"Breakfast sounds like a wonderful idea milord Oscar.
One will just leave One's weapons in One's tent before going to the tent of the Tristin. It is not correct to eat with friends while armed to the teeth."

Speaking like this she turned around and ran to the tent she shared with Bobbo, her movements fast and almost dancing, the happiness she was feeling amost radiating from her body.
She dissapeard for a few seconds within the tent before appearing once more and running back to the two men, her long hair flaming behind her as a banner.
It seemed that the food and rest had reestablished her feet back to full health, for she did not limp a single time.
Returning to Bobbo's side she smiled at them both

"Now One is ready for breakfast"

Gararion raised after the small brownie had taken a drink from his waterskin.  He recapped the skin with its cork and was about to say something but now sound came from his moving mouth.

The visions came to him once again, pure darkness as his eyesight had been taken from him once again.  He looked around trying to see or sense the magical being that he had sensed during these time many times before.  Spinning in circles he finally heard a voice.

"...young one please resist your urge to see us...I ensure you in time you may but for now it s in your safety that you don't..."

"Why does thou haunt my dreams, what is your meaning?!"

"..In time young elf, but for now we come to tell you that you must move on...the time spent within this vast desert lays path to great evil....evil only you may end..."

"What Is this evil that you speak of....voice?"

"....in time..."

Then as with that sight returned to his eyes, as he stood there.  Other heard his words during this time, saw his actions but didn't hear the words of the voice within him self.

Gararion turned to Shaint as he spoke quietly...

"We must move for I fear my time here is running short.."

Bobbo's eyes opened wide at the beautiful weapon that Qui gave him. It was indeed a splendid sword. He grasped the hilt of the sword and it seemed his hand found grooves for it to rest in, as if his own hand hand been stuck on the liquid metal as the sword was being cooled. Bobbo smiled.

"This is indeed a fine weapon, Qui," he said, breathless, "Thank you."

Bobbo drew the sword from the sheath. It shone like a bright white flame in the morning sunlight. The sword was well-balanced for his one-handed fighting stance, which was the only fighting stance he used for obvious reasons.

He twirled the sword around expertly and smiled. "My!" he exclaimed, "And I thought my old sword was good!"

The golden pommel of the sword shone like the ring, which Bobbo had on his finger, and they seemed to be one, as if forged from the same gold; Bobbo was curious of this phenomenon.

Bobbo sheathed the sword and half-regretted it; it was such a wonder! Bobbo then saw Lucirina's equally beatiful gifts. He thought this strange, for Lucirina had neither asked nor inclined that she needed any new weapons.

"Those are fine weapons, indeed, my love," said Bobbo in wonder. "And this sword! I tell you! I had expected only to be given a regular sword until I recover mine own, but this is amazing! It makes it seem unecessary to recover my old sword."

He heard Lucirina's remark and nodded. He was about to place it in the tent, when he suddenly felt an overwhelming desire for it not to leave his side. He felt it almost certain that someone would steal it. He strapped it to his side, besides it was usually proper for a man to wear his sword at all times in a military camp. He saw Lucirina's knives lying about in the open. He wrapped them in a sheet and put them under his saddlebags, under his bed roll, to keep them safe.

He then left the tent and said to Lucirina, "It is only proper to carry a sword in a military camp, my love."

He then took her elbow in his and walked to the Tristin's tent for breakfast. (OOC: I think that's what we are doing)

'... 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)

((uhmm I believe it is two......correct me if I'm wrong))
Shaint nodded solemnly to Gararion "indeed this vision have I got read of long ago my friend many things still haunt my sleep but if thou do not fear them they shall not overcome you" Shaint finished with a smile smile "Everyone, Get what you need to survive Clothes,weapons, water and we need to move those who where wounded more than others will take the remaining two AJ's the rest walk with only the supplies they MUST have" Shaint spoke "Hurry and then Let us Move"

Atrii rose, already with everything he needed. He slipped his pack off of his AJ and slung it over his shoulder. He got his AJ to its feet and walked it over to where the rest of the group was gathered. Atrii stood waiting for whoever needed the AJ to come and take it from him before they moved out.

---

My Online Journal

Oscar smiled at Lucirina when she said it would not be proper to be dressed armed to the teeth to eat breakfast.  Oscar replied. "Ah, M'lady the gift that Qui gave you are meant to be worn at all times.  They were crafted to be hidden amongst your person as Qui has told you so.  However if you wish not to wear them at the moment that is your desire, but I do not think that the Tristin nor anyone else would mind.  Especially since they would not even know you carry them, unless of course you have to use them.  I have seen Sophronian women warriors use those knives with deadly accuracy and secrecy.  However it is your decision.  Shall we go and eat something and talk to the Tristin?"

Oscar led the way, stopped before the guards standing next to the Tristin's tent.  He asked for an audience for himself, lord Bobbo and lady Lucirina.  The guard quickly walked into the tent and came out shortly, the Tristin following.  

He was dressed all in white including a turban with a Sapphire the size of a man's fist in the middle to hold it with. A gold sash encircled his waist.  His sword, almost twin to lord Bobbo's, rested easily at his side.  He smiled at them all.  "Welcome my friends.  Come in.  My cook has prepared a nice meal of fruits, dates, sweetmeats, and sweet honey bread.  Along with Oscars famous wine.  Come."

He waved his hand in front of him.  "M'lady after you.  Lord Bobbo I see that Qui has given you my gift to you.  Actually it belonged to your great, great, grandfather. It was given to my great grandfather as a gift.  I am most pleased to return it back to the family from whence it came.  Did Qui tell you its name?" He asked conversationally.  As if their was no worry at all.  No war, no one after his head, just friends having a meal together. How does he do that? thought Oscar.

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

Gararion got up and Raoneth rolled his eyes as Gararion got a wierd expression on his face.
They started talking about visions and bad omens while Raoneth walked over to the dead Aj, hoping to find that there was some lifeforce remaining.

Keelin nodded, opened her eyes, and pushed herself to her feet. She walked over to Sandy and pulled her pack off the Aj's back. It was light and mostly empty now, so she slung it over her right shoulder and led Sandy back towards the others.

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

"Wait, Keelin!" Shaint shot to his feet and pulled the pack off Keelin's shoulder tossing it over his and picking her up legs on his left forearm and back on his other "your riding an AJ for a few reasons it's safer and you wont get hurt stop trying to do things that could hurt you i'm fine and strong enough to do the things for both of us untill you fully recover"

tha Aj lowerd when Shaint spproached and he sat Keelin upon the AJ annd it raised "Get your things where leaving fight for the other AJ or whichever you wish but dont touch Keelin she is injured therefor she stays on this AJ"

Shaint picked up Keelins pack wich he had sat down to put her on the Aj and slung it over his shoulder's he was now carrying two packs on his shoulder's he looked around.....

"Come where leaving now anybody who doesent come gets left behind it's the way things go" Shaint looked aroun dthe deserts vast amount and just started walking he didnt really care that he was walking but he figured his chances where fairly high of actually getting to milkengrad"....

Keelin narrowed her eyes. There is nothing wrong with my legs! I can walk just fine, and I can fight just fine! That... that... boy... is going to find out just how well I can fight if he insists on treating me like a cripple!

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

Edited by: KeelinElf at: 2/10/03 11:09:47 pm

Shaint looked back and Saw Keelin frowning at him alot Keelin yes you are just accept it and ride the damn AJ he thought as he kept walking he was pretty sure of what Keelin was mad about he got the same way.....

What Oscar nor Bobbo did not know was that she had strapped the "marauders" to her forearms, she was trying how they felt against her skin and she had to admit that it was not unconfortable at all.
Waiting in silence beside Oscar and Bobbo as the elder man asked for an audience she let one hand stray to her forarm to touch the handle of the knife, she was still confused over the fact that Qui, someone she had barely met, had given her such a gift.
As the Tristin emerged from the tent she could not stop herself from bowing slightly, he looked like royalty dressed like so. She then stood and returned his smile, her head slightly tilted to one side, her loose hair dancing over her shoulders as she walked into the tent and looked around for somewhere to take a seat.

Gararion watched as SHiant had gathered all who were ready to come along.  Gararion made his way over to his AJ and tugged the reins bringing it up on its feet.

He hadn't time to inform the others of how to conqure the shadows within their minds.  Their minds were still affected by the dieng curse of Skrill.

He looked to Shaint.

"Beg my parden Shaint.  During my leave of absent last night I came to new knowledge than none of you have been given the chance to obtain nor understand fully what blocks your way.  Might I suggest you travel this way" he oints in the opposite direction that Shaint began travelling in "if thou wishes to reach ones destination."

He hoped that he hadn't embaressed the young elf in front of the one he had surely had feelings for.

He waited silently for the response....

Nahor Nahor had ridden like the wind toward Strata.  His first thought when he heard the war cry as he galloped out of Thalambath was to return and fight.  But then he thought, Bahar has plenty of men and with that magician and his guards they should be able to handle any army.  So he continued on, besides this Malok fellow told him not to stop for anything.  So ride he did.

The sun had just began to arise when he passed the small village where the Thirsty Herald and his adventure had begun.  He quickly rode into the still sleeping village, watered his horse, filled his own waterskins and then continued on.

Bahar Bahar was sitting, though guarded, on some colorful pillows inside the Tristin's tent.  He looked up when he saw the lady elf walk in.  The Tristin had treated him well.  Much better than Malok or even Troas would have treated a general of the Tristin's army.

Throughout the night he was interrogated but not tortured.  His answers were heard, thought upon and then another question was asked.  They seemed to Bahar insignificant questions, not the kind that he would have asked.  He would have asked the size of the army against him, what were their plans etc etc.  

But all the Tristin wanted to know was how the people of Strata were?  How did they react to the change of power?  How did lives change?  Questions that confused Bahar.  He answered them the best he could and told them truthfully.  After all he was not divulging any secrets.  Then the questions were stopped, he was fed, bathed, and given clean clothes and then told to get some rest.

Now his eyes narrowed as he watched the lady elf, nightbird, come in.  He watched for others he knew that would follow.

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

Shaint stopped and turned to Gararion walking back to him "if you speak of it that way......then your the mage your knowledge is going to be greater than mine at things.....and i'de hate to admit it but you are older so you have most likely traveld more than I....so we go that way" Shaint pointed in the direction Gararion had pointed....

and just kept right on walking in that direction he was slowly remembering and couldent believe he was so foolish....all of a sudden he stopped and looked around....walking back to Gararion "Gararion pardon my foolishness but.....dont you still have a piece of the Map....also does Atrii....and me....." Shaint smiled and scratched his head,

"it was awile ago so the thought just came back to me....however if we could get them back together we could fin dthe way there even if we didnt remember..."

Bobbo bowed to the Tristin and said, "No, my lord, he did not say the name of the blade. But it truly is a grand weapon, my lord. I thank you very much."

Bobbo entered the tent slowly listening to the Tristin as he walked. He saw the man (Bahar) looking at Lucirina. "My lord," said Bobbo, "Who is this fellow?"

'... 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 listen to the words that came from Shaints moth and nodded to his question in silence.

He opened the book and slowly removed the piece of the map that he held in his possession.  He showed Shaint..

"I can not answer the question of whether yoursef and Atrii still have your share of that maps in your possession."

Gararion had thought the curse had only made them loose thier sense of direction, not the memory of thier pasts as well.  Maybe it effected others differently then himself.

Atrii had everything ready and saw Shaint with Gararion talking of something. When would we be getting going? Atrii thought. He was getting anxious to begin moving again. He walked up beside them silently and just listened not wanting to interrupt them.

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My Online Journal

Tristin "The name of the blade is called 'Avenger.' I carry its twin its name is called, 'Injera's Wrath' but I prefer to call it just Injera.  Wrath and judgement are meant for the Gods, not their creatures.  However...Justice will be ours."  He stopped when lord Bobbo asked who the man was?

"His name is Bahar.  He is one of the generals of Troas's armies.  He cannot harm you or your lady.  If he displeases you I will have him removed.  I have gathered all the information I needed from him last night.  Do you wish him to be removed and placed back with his men?"  

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

Bobbo shook his head. "If he is no harm, then let no harm come to him," he said.

Bobbo looked about. "So, my lord, are you hungry? Cause I am!" said Bobbo.

Bobbo would not sit until the Tristin did and so stood by Lucirina's side.

Malok Malok breathed heavily as he made his way down the stairs from his upper chamber to Rhas's room.  He knocked, wheezing.  Soon the door opened and Rhas stood there looking at him.  "Master what can I do for thee?" she asked noticing him trying to catch his breath.

"I have found out the truth about Thalambath and the one who called himself Bobbo."

"What are these truths?  And did you find any information about that one who called herself Nightbird."

Malok looked at Rhas.  The last question was said in such a calm voice but her eyes betrayed her.  Her hatred for the elven woman was quite obvious.  Nightbird had killed her sister.  Something that Malok would have thought no mere ordinary person could have done, especially not an elven, and a woman at that!  He answered Rhas carefully, choosing his words with caution.  He hated to admit it, but he was awed and yet afraid of her.  "Thalambath the Wizard and the fortress are one and the same.  It is he who allowed the Tristin's armies to defeat us so easily.  And I believe it was he who clouded Issrah's mind so she could not fight against Nightbird.  I cannot believe any other reasons but these.  And from Lord Troas's mouth I recieved the truth about the man called Bobbo.  He did not work for Troas as he led us to believe."

Rhas cooly looked at Malok.  "Master I would not disagree with you in your deductions, however I must point out some flaws in your reasoning.  One, you sent someone to Strata.  That opened the gates which allowed the Tristin's men entrance.  If that had not happened then his armies would have never gained entrance.  

And two, if the fortress of Thalambath is truely the great wizard as you say.  Then why did he not act sooner or do some other great feat of magic.  No, I do not believe it was Thalambath that clouded my sisters mind.  It was her treatment by you.  You scarred her face with your impudent use of your powers to show to that elven witch and her comforter what you could do! Instead of showing your powers upon the elven witch you did it upon my sister!  Why?  Did that elven witch bewitch you with her smile, courtisies and fair speech?  What plans did you have for her?  Was she to become your bedmate!?  Then you have made your own bed. Now leave me."

She slammed the door.  Malok stood there dumbfounded and then he became angry.  A massive fireball burst from his hands and blew in the door.  He was immediately met by several fireballs that crushed his chest and lungs.  He was thrown violently against the far wall.  He arose, stumbled and fell to his knees.  His breath was labored and pain in his left lung was almost unbearable.  

He looked up and saw Rhas glaring at him. Her red hair flew about her face like live squirming snakes.  She didn't speak, just smiled and then let loose seven fireballs at once.  Malok looked in surprise as each one melded with the other until they were one gigantic fireball.  Its heat and brightness was like standing next to a small star.  He tried to throw up a heat shield but the fireball smashed through it and through him.  In that instant he knew he was going to die. Quepruer would soon be judging him.  He stared in unbelief as he felt the flames consume his body.  He would have never thought that Rhas had the power to create a star.  A power even he did not have.  A puzzled look came over his face and like Issrah the question was, how?

Rhas went to her window and jumped down.  She landed lightly upon her feet using heat to slow her down.  She looked back and saw the citadel burst into flames.  "I will build another. Greater than this one. But first I avenge my sister upon this elven witch and the one called Bobbo," she muttered to herself as she watched the citadel burn.  

She then remembered Malok's library in the top tower. Those books and scrolls must not be lost.  She threw her right arm up, index finger pointing at the base of Maloks tower and sliced the towers base just as some flames from beneath were licking at it.  The tower toppled and it fell crashing into the ground its point piercing the ground.  It looked liked an upside down pyramid.  Rhas knew it would be safe, for it fell a great distance from the rest of the burning citadel.  She then fell upon her knees, her strength completely gone.  Her anger had fueled her power but now that her anger was slowly dissapating so did her power.  She too was amazed that she had that kind of power.  She blissfully fell asleep on the sand next to the well dreaming of...revenge!

Tristin The Tristin took his seat upon the pillows and waved his hands for Lord Bobbo and Lady Lucirina to sit also.  "Your words M'lord shall be observed.  But I wish to speak you without prying ears."  He clapped his hands and said. "Guards take Bahar to his men.  See that all are fed and well taken care of."

"Yes M'lord." one of the guards said.  They took Bahar out of the tent.  He went willingly and without a word.

Then the Tristin clapped his hands once more and from the side of the tent several women, clad in veiled clothing came forward and served.  After they served, they bowed their heads and left.  The Tristin ate and drank in silence, as if he were gathering his thoughts.  Then after sometime to allow his guests to eat and drink also he began. "Lord Bobbo, since you were a child when your family was killed I suppose your father had not been able to tell you of the Houses of Strata and how they came to being.  Would you like to hear that story and how you and your family play in that part?  I would also like to know what happened to you and how you escaped Troas's treachery?  But first I shall tell you the story of the Houses of Strata if you do not know already."

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

Gararion quickly grew a feeling of dislike for this standing around.

He placed the piece of map he held in his back in its portecting place.  As he did he noticed the ring that Shaint had given him, still wondering its purpose.

Gararion then slowly headed for Strata.  If Shaint needed to speak to him he could speak to him on the move.....

Lucirina looked as Bahar was taken out of the tent and felt a certain amount of relief....she did not like the men that worked for Malok.
Taking a seat on a pillow she watched the women come in and serve the both food and drink, both she acepted in silence and bowed her head slightly to them before they moved out of the tent.
She ate and drank in silence, her long ears twitching slightly as she listened to the Tristin speak without hearing him, her thoughts lost in her own pondering.
Since yesterday a thought had been troubling her, how could she, a simple wood elf armed with only a dagger from a fallen soldier, have killed one of the powerful sorceress that were with Malok, she remembered how the witch had failed to notice her presence before it was too late, yet it was said that the users of magic seemed to sense when someone was close.
Lucirina knew very little of magic, the only one she actually possesed was within her flute, now in the hand of Malok, but she was certain that it was not easy to kill a magic user, specially nit in the way she had done it.
She shaked her head slightly as she took a dink of the sweet wine in her goblet, her green eyes closed for the moment.
Then they flared open as she felt a cold shiver run down her spine, as if something evil had just touched her soul.

"Someone just walked over One's grave."

She muttered before lifting the goblet to her lips and downing all the wine contained in it. Ahhh... what she wouldn't give for a mug of Ruin-n-desolation right now, but she was too polite to ask for it, and she seriously doubted that a noble man like the Tristin carried such a wretched drink around.
Falling back into silence she closed her eyes and continued her thinking.

Shaint walked and caught up with Gararion "so we depart" Shaint crossed his arms and just continued walking with Gararion through the desert...

Gararion nodded to the words of Shaint as they continued to walk.

He looked behind to see if the others were following....

Oscar Oscar walked silently in behind the others, sat down, watched Bahar being led out and gratefully ate and drank in silence.  He knew some about the houses, but since Lord Bobbo had not yet said anything he sat and ate.  His eyes strayed over to Lady Lucirina and he pondered Qui's unusual behavior toward her.  She was strikingly beautiful, that was true.  But there are other women out there, though rare, that are as beautiful.  Besides beauty is in the eye of the beholder.  Oscar had thought his wife to be beautiful. And she was until her beauty and youth was taken from her by an assassins blade.  But this was not about Oscar but Qui.  What about lady Lucirina touched Qui so deeply and quickly that he would give his most precious gift away.  Of course Oscar knew that the most precious gift was a persons heart.  Did Qui give the knives because he knew he could not give his heart?  Hm..

Oscar continued pondering that other questions as he ate in silence.  Once when he had glanced at Lady Lucirina he saw her startled and mutter "One has walked over one's grave."  He thought about that.  What does that mean?  Could Lady Lucirina have figured out what the knives really meant and has contemplating something?  Or is it something else? Perhaps in her past? Or future?

Suddenly the tent flaps opened wide and Qui stepped in.  He bowed to the Tristin and Lord Bobbo, and quickly nodded to Lady Lucirina, his face flushed.  Then he quickly said. "M'Lord Tristin the guards on top of the fortress has seen something."

"Well Qui what is it?  I have not seen you this way before."

"That is because I too have seen it.  Well... at least part of it.  It was a huge mushroom shaped liked cloud that rose from the desert far to the East.  The guards said before the mushroom shaped like cloud there had been a bright light, like a piece of the sun had fallen and had crashed in the middle of the desert.  Now, the wind is picking up and a massive sandstorm is heading our way."

"We have all seen sandstorms, Qui.  But this cloud you say you have seen and this bright light.  This I am not sure of.  The fortress should provide us adaquate protection from the sandstorm.  As far as the light and cloud.  We shall deal with it if and when it comes our way.  So go and tell the guards to prepare for the sandstorm and then come and sit with us and eat while I tell Lord Bobbo about the houses of Strata."

Qui took a sly, shy glance at Lady Lucirina, his face flushed once more and then he nodded. "As you wish M'lord Tristin.  However I must decline the offer of eating with you.  There are many plans to be made, besides I have already eaten.  By your leave, Lord Tristin."

The Tristin was not quite sure to make of Qui's sudden departure of behavior. Usually Qui would welcome the chance to sit by his side and enjoy each others company.  Maybe this phenomenon he saw has really shook him up.  I wonder if I should go outside and see?  No, not right now.  Maybe later.  "As you wish Qui. You may leave."

"Thank you M'lord."  Qui quickly stepped out of the tent, paused, looked over his shoulder, gave a sigh and then walked over to the gate and began climbing the wall.  He wanted to see this sandstorm.

Inside the tent the Tristin asked. "Now where was I? Oh, yes the houses of

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

No, that's one dead Aj...
Raoneth turned back in disapointment. The others seemed to be leaving anyway. He followed, slowly.
He was tired and sick and he almost fell as he staggered through the sand.
Everything will be good when I get back to Strata, everything will be good when I get back to Strata, everything will be good when I get back to Strata...
Unless whatever killed Bagh knows who I am...

Nah, Everything will be good when I get back to Strata

Radaroc stood kicked some sand over the fire and walked over to his pack and bedroll.  Quickly rolling it up he tied it onto his pack, shouldered it and took off in a jog to catch up to Gararion and Shaint. "Derm come on!" he yelled to his friend, a small falcon quickly came to rest  on his shoulder.  Radaroc saw Raoneth stumble, "You need a lift Raoneth?"

Bobbo nodded to the Tristin when he asked to hear the story of the Houses of Strata. He gratefully accepted the food he was given and ate heartily. The food was wonderful, of course.

Then Qui appeared and talked about the mushroom cloud. Bobbo was not too concerned about this, but was rather concerned by the fact that he kept staring at Lucirina. Bobbo looked at Qui neutrally, trying to see his thoughts. He saw that Qui was blushing, and his cheek twitched once.

When Qui left, Bobbo sighed and said to the Tristin, "Yes, go on and tell me, my lord."

Atrii looked up as Gararion and Shaint led the way. Finally it appeared as they were moving on. The ranger felt content now, his mind had other things to think of other than the dark visions that he was cursed with in his dreams. He jogged up beside Shaint and Gararion, once again saying nothing. Just quietly walking with the two stride for stride.

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My Online Journal

Lucirina lifts her head slightly and looks at Oscar, a small smile on her lips, before returning to her own thoughts.
She knew that mages were not kind to those that did wrong to them, and she knew that Issrah had a sister and that she would probably come after her.
She let a hand stray to her forearm and touched the handle of the throwing knife, the would have to practice very much if she wanted to use those weapons, that much she knew.
As Qui moved into the tent she gave him a short smile and was rather puzzled when she saw him return nothing but a short glance, his face all flustered.
She listens quite interessed to his explanation of the cloud of smoke and the sandstorm, her mind wandering as usual.
She then rememberd her ponderings about the fire witch and wonders if she should dare to ask him to teach her to use the knives, but before she can say anything he moves out of the tent, not without giving her another short glance.
She frowned slightly and then, being the lightharted elf that she was she got to her feet and walked over to the Tristin and bowed slightly to him.

"One is sorry to bother Milord with One's requests, but One needs to ask Milord Quis a question.
One asks Milord to excuse One for a few minutes."

She turns toward Bobbo and smiles softly at him

"One will be right back."

She nods at Oscar before walking out of the tent and looking around if she could spot Qui among the soldiers.
Not finding him she decides to go to the tent she shared with Bobbo and strap on the remaining knives, knowing that she needed to get a pair of boots if she wanted to use the "Twins".
Walking out of the tent and towards the walls she spots Qui finally, standing atop of the wall, she smiled slightly and kicked off her mocasines, being a wood elf had its advantages when it came to climbing and soon she was standing right beside him on top of the wall.

"Greetings milord Qui.
One was wondering if milord would be terribly offended if One asked you to train one in the use of the throwing knifes."

She speaks as if it was completely normal for her to climb a wall to speak to someone, smiling slightly she stood waiting for his answer.

"Atrii, welcome back....however if one does not speak it is still as if one is not there" Shaint turned a head to Atrii "talk Atrii we are friend nothing escapes this group" Shaint continued to trudge on twords Strata,

Shaint seemed to wear his black shirt and hard leather vest with ease....even in the heat it had to be hot while wearing black.....

Atrii smiled. "I would talk, but I have little to say, as always." He continued to walk. "But I am very glad we are finally underway again, I can't stand just sitting around."

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My Online Journal

Shaint walked on through the heavy sands and light winds kicking sand twords the face and into the eyes of him and his party members making them often hurt and itch,

"Atrii, one who has little to talk about is quite un interesting to talk to we should be approaching the great city of Strata in time and you will have plenty of things to talk about.....fun will come while in the city but the duties we have come first"

Shaint spoke and kept walking he still seemed quite cool....the air around him was not as Gararion but the same as any other however he had not began to sweat....

Shaint's head drifted back to his folded arms and looked forward "so Desolate is the desert....if only life would flow through freely it could be such a nice place" Shaint smirked but then went back to a serious in thought frown....

A great many footsteps had been taken sence Shaint had last spoke... they where approaching the city of Strata...slowly threw the sand it became visable....Shaint smirked and looked over his shoulder "We approach Strata" he suddenly stopped and had a course of thought.....

"wait...we might have a problem.....a big party traveling into the city....especially with the many different races.....and someone saw us we might have problems about....."

Edited by: Shaint at: 2/17/03 12:14:37 am

Tristin After Qui left Lord Bobbo asked for the story to begin. "There are four ruling houses in Strata, " began the Tristin.  He paused when Lady Lucirina rose up and asked to be excused to ask Qui a question.  The Tristin thought this curious, but nodded.  He then continued after popping a date into his mouth and washed it down with some wine.  "Oscar, your special brand of wine is most excellent."

"Um.. thank you M'lord." Oscar replied, curious as well as to what Lady Lucirina wanted to ask Qui and then he stole a glance at Lord Bobbo to see what he was thinking.  But Lord Bobbo's face was unreadable.

The Tristin continued. "The four houses are as follows; The Ruling house, the Executing house, the Administrating house and the Inspecting house.  We Tristins were the head of the Ruling house.  The political and law makers of Strata.  Your family, M'lord Bobbo were the head of the Executing house.  Troas's family heads the Administrating house and the Graza's family headed the Inspecting house.  

What my forefather did not forsee when he put the power of the Administrating house of justice which was to condem or put into prison any, including any of the heads of the other houses including my own, the Ruling house, that one would come along and not be willing to work side by side, but would want the power to rule.  That one was Troas.  By manipulation of certain facts, people and the underworld of Strata he trumped up charges against those who opposed his rise to power.  Your father was one of those.  When your father resisted and discovered Troas's plans, Troas had him and his entire family murdered, fortunately you escaped.  How I do not know, but you can tell me later.  Graza's family was bribed to go along with Troas.  His house ruled all of the trade going into and out of the city.  He could actually put the city into a deadlock.  Once that was accomplished and with your family out of the way.  He then attacked mine.  But before he could murder mine, my father took us into exile in Avennoria.  Troas then made himself supreme Ruler and the other rulers of the other three houses were either dead and replaced by Troas's puppets or were bribed or scared for their lives and allowed Troas to do as he pleased.  It has been two decades of his rule.  Over the last decade I and my father, who passed away just this last year, planned our return.  We began to search out those who were dissatisfied with Troas's rule and enticed them to join our cause.  We became the Rebellion.  Though we prefer the term Freedom fighters.  Now after this time we are ready to strike.  We have spies in the city. We know alot about Troas and his ruling power and his army.  Somethings we did not know.  Things such as that an heir of the Junakin house was still alive, or that Troas had secured the services of others.  Just who was that man that Bahar had told me was called Malok.  Do you know?"  The Tristin asked.


Qui Qui stood upon the top of the wall looking Eastward watching the slow but inexhorable advance of the sand cloud coming their way.  It blocks out the sun as it advances, he thought.  Then his thoughts strayed to Lady Lucirina. Why does she make me sweat?  Make me stumble over my own words and even thoughts.  She makes the deserts flowers and beauty pale beside her.  My heart beats faster whenever she is near and when she speaks, she takes my breath away.  But she is Lord Bobbo's lady! My thoughts will surely betray me eventually.  I must find a way to leave. I will not dishonor the Tristin or Lord Bobbo.

Suddenly Lady Lucirnia was standing next to him and asked him to teach him how to use the knives he had given her.  He was so startled that he almost fell off the wall. He walked back along the wall, giving space between them.  He stammered. "M'lady...M'lady you should not be up here.  You..You may fall and get yourself killed.  I could not bear such a thought.  Please M'lady go back down." he pleaded. His thoughts were just the opposite. Please stay up here and keep me company.  Your voice is like the sweet waters of an Oasis to a dry and thirsty man.  Your beauty outshines the desert night sky.  

Suddenly Qui shook his head violently, as if to throw his thoughts far far away from himself. And he then sternly repeated his reply. "M'lady, I must request that you remove yourself from the top of this wall.  I will help you down.  Once on solid ground I will find an instructor for you.  To show you how to throw those knives I gave you.  I have too much to do."

Qui held out his hand to help Lady Lucirina climb down the wall.  He forced himself not to look directly into her eyes.  For he knew if he did, he would melt. Uncle Oscar once told me that when love came it would strike through me like a sword through a silk scarf.  I had laughed when he told me.  Now I know what he means.  It is much more than any man can bear.  I wonder how others can do it?  Just please do not look at me, M'lady and do as I ask? he pleaded in his thoughts.

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

Gararion stopped along beside Shaint and listened to the words that came from his mouth.

"This is true friend but I believe that this figure you saw was did not have good intention thus it is not tied with good people.  Unless this city is truely filled with evil then I think we shall have no problem entering.  

Nevertheless if we do maybe we should be prepared to do a little saying of ones mind with something that humans prize so much....coin."

The elf stood smiling at Qui as he took a few steps back and spoke at her.
"M'lady...M'lady you should not be up here. You..You may fall and get yourself killed. I could not bear such a thought. Please M'lady go back down."
Lucirina was suprised over how Qui treated her, his words saying one thing while his eyes said another.
She smiled and was about to explain to him that it was rather difficult for her to fall down from a simple wall, having climbed many trees that were more tall and less secure than the wall she was now standing on.

"But One will not fall, do not worry....."

Her words cut short as he shakes his head and once more spoke to her, his tone more stern and hard than the first time.
"M'lady, I must request that you remove yourself from the top of this wall. I will help you down. Once on solid ground I will find an instructor for you. To show you how to throw those knives I gave you. I have too much to do."
Lucirina was not one to anger quickly but this was ridiculous.
Looking at him with a flash of anger in her green eyes she spoke once more, her voice having a soft yet icy tone.

"One understands if Milord is too ocupied to teach One the art of the throwing knives, and One appreciates that Milord will find One a instructor.
But there is one thing One want Milord to understand.
One is not a frail flower that need to be protected at all times.
One have survived alone for more than a human age, taking care of Oneself and One will not do something as ridiculous as fall down from a wall.
One is sorry for bothering Milord Qui and One will leave now...alone"

Turning on her heels and ignoring his hand the barefooted elf moved to the side of the wall and climbed down once more, her movements agile and fast.
Once she is down on the ground again she puts on the mocasins that Oscar gave her and started walking toward the tent of the Tristin once more, her movements giving away the anger she was feeling as her steps were fast ovr the sand.