==========oOo========== NEVERWINTER NEWS Issue # 126 Week Ending 3-24-96 ==========oOo========== *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* FRONT PAGE *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* Congratulations to V Bastion for winning last week's News of the Realm contest for the story "Prelude to a Kiss". V Bastion has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes). Keep up the good work! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> New Player Tour - 3/16 11pm STORY.. The cry went out... Something was amiss in Port Llast, The Gallant Prince arrived at the port deserted and in disaray. I cried out for help to seek out the trouble and the call was answered by Shadow5680, L 5000s, Javdsr, Badasset, Pokiedoo, Lordwarder, and LrdStarion. We set off North and immediately encountered trouble. We were jumped by lizard men and a Pyro Snake! Fortunately we came out of the battle unscathed, but Badasset was torn from us by the Gods, he just vanished!! Onward we went, and closing in on the town of Windy Cliffs we were jumped by a band of thieves! Pokiedoo was a casualty, the stout dwarf was poisoned in a freak accident.. the mood turned somber, but we knew our task had to be completed. Onward we trekked, finding acid spitting Anks and rock reptiles, packs of wolves, and hordes of rats and boars, finally arriving at the port. We rested at the inn and planned our next steps. Closing in on the ship, we found her in disarry. A sign said "DANGER, DO NOT ENTER" but the group knew the mission was all important. Our first encounter was with Giant Skeletons, and ghouls.. but we dispatched them with no problem.. After the battle, we almost decided to turn back, as a man turned into stone in front of our eyes, but we pushed ahead. "Medusa" the group yelled in unison, and sure enough three of the dreaded witches were there to stop us! Lordwarder was lost, but we avenged his death and defeated the vile creatures. We had much to report to Nasher, having found and defeated the Medusae, so we headed back to the safety of Neverwinter. And the comfort of an ale. - Oberon <><><><><> <><><><><> Poison Booth Winners - 3/18 9pm The Poison (survival) Booth winners were: Mershu The Bonze Sir Helios Sol Lethal Itb Twit Warr Gumba Rove Sylverion Deth Troll Prize Won: 2 pearls each - Donagh <><><><><> <><><><><> Location Hunt Winner - 3/19 T'was an easy location hunt this week. N0r Gnicht found the Dwarven Miner's Shoppe and Assay Office in record time. :) - Kel <><><><><> <><><><><> Magic Missile Booth Winner - 3/21 10pm Aurela fried my gator in a Magic Missle Booth with a toasty 72 points. I had to douse myself in swamp water to quench the flames. She wins 4 pearls and one free hour online time. - Cajun <><><><><> <><><><><> Hold Monster Booth Winners - 3/22 11:45pm ************************************************************************************************** I was feeling lonely and decided to try my hand at making the good citizens of Neverwinter "hold" still for a bit.. so it was time for a Hold Monster Booth! Congrats go out to... Mob Nuzzio, Rove, Syren Coal, Ruddra, SK Ntstkr, Lion Kom, Bard Duke, and TSoulman for avoiding a "sticky" situation ;) They each win 2 pearls!! Thanks to all who participated! NWA Oberon <><><><><> <><><><><> *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* NEVERWINTER CALENDAR *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* Keep an eye peeled for those Mini-Booths because they will appear when you least expect in different areas of the Realms! Can you be at the right place at the right time when the NW calls for a location? Keep your eyes and ears open for these events! Watch for the banners! New Player Tours: Join the following staff members for a tour of the Realm: March 25th Monday 8:00 PM EST - with NWA Shaggy. March 29th Friday 5:00 PM EST - with NW Tempus. March 30th Saturday 4:00 PM EST - with NW Kregar. Those interested in any of these tours should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> (submitted by: SOL Saybr) Dear NW Abby, I have a serious problem, and I need your advice once again. My guild brother, Galen, talked me into trying his new batch of "Brew". It tasted awful, and, well, it turned me blue. Not sad, but actually, physically blue. And to make matters worse, apparently I'm leaving blue footprints all over the keep. I've noticed that people are always staring, and women won't even talk to me anymore. This has really damaged my self esteem. Any suggestions??? "Blue in the woods" ### Dear Blue, I don't know about you, but I do know of a few smurfs that would be more than willing to give you a second look. They don't seem to be crying the blues due to their skin condition. However, if you really wish to get rid of your sour facial, then take a visit over to the Great Hall Tavern and have Cyan give you one of her special concoctions by the name of Red Dragon Ale. It's guaranteed to make you see red and you'll no longer be blue in the face!! NW AbbyPrelude to a Kiss (submitted by: V Bastion) --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Nitengale is laying in her large wooden bed which hangs from the ceiling in her opulent bedroom. The raised dais underneath it has four large pillars with jasmine climbing up them until they hit the ceiling and begin intertwining in the chandelier over her bed. It is night and she should be out checking to see if her progeny are safe and well, however, tonight she just wants to lie between her silk sheets and relax. Even in her relaxation though, her mind drifts to Clan matters and to the letter she just sent the mysterious mortal. "Damn me for being so picky in my Clan." she thought to herself. "Sure, the others have more members, but I wish for only the best and most talented from the Realms." She truly hoped that this one would choose to join her. A knock on the thick mahogany door across the room interrupted her musings. With a thought, the iron bar which secured the door was lifted and the door opened. "Come in Malachite." Her Ghoul was a seven foot tall man whom she had met in her travels, in a place far to the east. He was a master swordsman and an excellent warrior in hand to hand styles. He was very dangerous and had a strong will... he had been involved with the Dark Arts when they met. He had assured her that if she allowed him to become Kindred, he would never hurt her. But Nitengale had not survived for these many centuries by being naive, she knew that his lust for power was great. They had reached an impasse, she required for him to be bloodbonded to her before giving him the gift, he did not want that because he knew that meant she would have ultimate power over him, that her wish would be his desire. For now, they had compromised by his becoming her Ghoul, and he had served her well. "A message has come for you from the mortal you wrote the other night, milady." The envelope he held immediately tugged out of his hand and floated across the room to her outstretched fingers. "Thank you Malachite, that will be all for now." With that he exited and with a small gesture the door closed and the beams returned to their place. She read the letter, sighed and got up to retrieve the materials she needed. Quill, ink, and the green parchment she always wrote her letters on. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Dear Bass, I am glad to have received your letter, I see that I was not mistaken in my first impression of you... you are truly talented and it would be sad to see your talents fade away with the passing of the years. I wish to offer you a position in my Clan, if you choose to join us. This is not a bribe, but in seeing your writing, I know that you deserve it. In my Clan, and mine is only like this... we have households for the Arts. There is a household which is devoted completely to the pen, and if you should choose to join, I would like to offer you the title of Master of that Household. You would be in charge of all the other writers and poets. They would answer to you, and you would only answer to myself and my Vox Coterie (Voice of the Kindred) who is the speaker for the households. You would have full reign over that household... it is yours, if you wish it. I completely understand your desire to wait before making your decision. This is an eternal choice you are making, and you must decide where your heart lies. I am not upset in the least by this fact. I just hope that whatever decision you make, your talents are not wasted. Please remember me when you are writing, I would enjoy reading your work in the future. I would hope your decision will keep your talents from passing in time... But this is entirely up to you. No matter what, I want you to know you will always have a friend in me. I hope to hear from you soon.... Love throughout eternity, Nitengale Toreador Elder 3rd Generation Antediluvian --------------------------------------------------------------------------- With that she blows on the letter's ink to dry it and puts the parchment into the envelope. She pulls out a bottle of scent and sprays some on the letter. With a snap of her fingers, it disappeared. A knock upon Bass' door rouses Gaylar. He opens the door to find a dozen tulips lying upon the doorstep with a Green envelope in their midst. --------------------------------------------------------------------------- A knock sounds upon the door of him innermost sanctum... "Come...." the speaker sets down the tulip which he has been looking at. "What is it, Gaylar?" The small man enters the room quietly, trying to not disturb his employer. "The collectors waiting for you have traveled very far to see you and the items which you offer for sale. Will you not even come to meet with them?" "I care not to see them, what is their offer like?" Gaylar knew not what had come over his master, but he knew the value of rare art, "The offer which they have made is low, but not by much. It appears they wish to haggle with you to try to gain prestige." A look of resignation came over Bass's face, a look Gaylar had come to know well these last couple weeks. "Feed them, spare no expense. Make sure they are well treated and when the meal is over, accept the offer they have made." "But why?" The servant knew he was treading on the line separating Master and Slave, from Friend and Confidant. "The piece you sell is worth much more than that from someone else, if you but just hold it for a fortnight or so...." "I care not. My life is about to change in ways you cannot comprehend. I would tell you of the changes, but even I do not understand all which will happen to me." "Does this have to do with all the information you have attempted to gather in the last weeks?" Smiling for the first time in days, Bass motioned his friend over to sit by him. "Yes, I have tried to gather as much information as I can. The reasons for this are unknown to you, but this is how it must be. I value our friendship, I think not of you as a Slave, you are more of a friend, how long have we known each other?" "For as long as I can remember Master. I was bought by your father's brother. I am supposed to be the same age as you, sent to you, a younger son of a younger son as a gift when your uncle took over the holdings of your family." Eyes focusing upon nothing as remembrance takes him, "When your uncle's wife had delivered of him twin boys, it was known that you would never gain any family lands, but since you were always a favorite of your uncle, he wished to gift you in some way. That was me." "Have you ever known any reason to regret this, Gaylar?" "No Master, I was an orphan in the slums of some great city to the East. I have had a much greater life than I would have expected had I been free." Taking a letter out of his desk, Bass hands it to Gaylar, "This is your freedom my friend, I will not be around much longer and I wish to gift you for your years of service to me." Holding up a hand to forestall any arguments, "No, listen to me. I will brook no retorts to this. I am still your master, at least until I am gone from this world. I am going to need you to maintain this residence for me. I may be in need of it in some time in the future. In this desk are documents which will give to you ownership of this estate, as well as mastership over the other slaves and servants. The only thing I ask is that you keep this house as I would have kept it. Assume that I am away on an extended trip and will return in a day or so. I want all the servants of this house to think this, you will be the only one who knows the truth." "Bass," for the first time in years, calling him by the name he knew him by in childhood, "Where you go, I am to attend you. Why will you not let me accompany you wherever this takes you?" A smile crosses Bass's face as he shakes his head sadly, "No Gaylar, Even I know not where I will be taken in the next few weeks. I cannot ask you to go with me, it may mean death, or worse...." --------------------------------------------------------------------------- Long after sending Gaylar away to do his bidding, Bass stands in the window of his study. He watches as the collectors are ushered out the door with their prize. They have it held tightly to their breast as a mother would hold a new-born babe. Afraid to look away from it as they are scared that the deal of a lifetime would slip away as the mist into the night. Soon all the sounds of them are hidden by the underlying sounds of the night... Those sounds hold a new fascination for Bass now. He knows that he has gathered all the information that a mortal can, but he knows he is still has very little knowledge of the Vampires. The Lady Nitengale had contacted him on several occasions by note, the information given to him in these missives was not for just any mortal, as he well knew. If he had not asked to become one with the Camarilla (as the Vampires in NeverWinter called themselves) he would never have even heard of her. But as he thinks back, it seems that she knew more of him than should have been obvious. He was secretive as well, for a collector of rare and fine items is always a target for the thieves of any city. He was sure that these Masters of the Night were masters of secrecy as well, how else could one live in the middle of Humanoid society and not be found out? Returning to his desk, he gathers the notes, all the information which his not inconsiderable fortune had been able to buy. Looking over them, he notices that one seems to be missing. He tries to think what might have been done with it, but cannot remember moving it. It was a note from the Lady Nitengale herself, a response to one of Bass' letter to her. It contained nothing of import, no other names or places of residence, but it's disappearance bothered Bass. Walking to the door, he opens it and calls for Gaylar to return. As he enters, Bass waves for him to close the door behind himself. "Has anyone else been in these chambers Gaylar?" "No milord.... " "Then I must ask you, what happened to these letters on this desk. One seems to be gone, and you and myself are the only ones with access to them." With a look of utter shame, Gaylar removes the missing letter from his breast and returns it. "I worried about your safety. I wished to know what it was that you were delving into and you would not answer my questions. I had hoped to return this before you missed it, but I forgot in the press of affairs." With concern obvious on his face, he continued... "Milord, you cannot be serious about joining with these people, they are probably only thieves who have come up with an elaborate ruse to take your wealth, but if they are not..." The thought trailed off. "I know you are concerned, but I have made my decision. It was made when I received my first letter from this one called Nitengale, had I but known. As for your worry about these being thieves, you may forget those thoughts. I should have let you in my deliberations from the start, as you will be affected as much as I. But I was under edict from the Lady to tell no other what I learned. Had I decided to not join with these people, and had I told anyone else of them, I would have been killed out of hand, along with any that I had told. They have a formidable arm in these parts. I was only trying to protect you, but this was wrong as I now see. How could they not take you as well if there became a need to destroy me. Any who know you, knows you are my confidant. I put your life in peril without your leave." Motioning Gaylar over to the desk, he begins to go over all that he had learned.... ---------------------------------------------------------------------------"The Bulette and the Potato Farmer" (a folktale) (submitted by: Karamiran) Once, a very long time ago, in a country a very long way away, lived a halfling. Well, really, many halflings lived there... and humans and dwarves and elves and... But they really don't come into our story at all. Just the one. His name was Sef. Actually it was Sefthransir Ilarin Stoutfoot, his family had pretensions, but to the rest of Greenberry village it was just Sef the potato farmer. Greenberry was very good for potato crops, and corn, and cabbage, and many other veggies for the pot. Not so good for fruit, but they got a good strawberry crop, some wild blackberries if the birds didn't get them, nothing on trees because they were halflings, after all, and very short. Most of them got dizzy on a ladder. Trees would've been a real challenge. Sef grew potatoes. He grew a few other crops, too, but potatoes were his baby, you might say, everyone knew that. Sef was THE potato farmer. Life was good in Greenberry. They planted crops, and weeded, and all that other stuff you do with plants, but that really doesn't come into our story at all. Just that Sef was a farmer. Then one day one of the children came back screaming from berrypicking that she'd seen a monster in the woods. Well, the good people of Greenberry, they weren't fighters, they were farmers, they were better at lifting ale mugs and forks than shields and spears, but Greenberry was THEIR town, and they weren't going to let any monsters start scaring THEIR children. Not to mention ruining the berry season. So off they went to the woods to find the monster. It was pretty easy, actually. The woods around Greenberry weren't like the woods around here, dark and deep and full of secrets and you always think there's something watching you but when you turn around there's nothing there. No, Greenberry's woods were happy and sunlit and very, very tame. So the monster sort of stuck out in all that sweetness and light. It was a bulette. Even one bulette is serious stuff. They can tear a strong hero up in just seconds. And these were just halfling farmers. So they ran back to Greenberry and they met in the Town Hall (which was also the Alehall) and knocked back a few and figured out what to do. "Let's hire a ranger," someone said, because rangers are big and strong and know woodcraft, and one of them could get rid of the bulette easy as pie. And there was one right nearby, a ranger not a bulette, in the city of Silverush. (Silverush wasn't really a city, out here we'd call it a middling-large town. But that really doesn't come into our story at all. Just that it was nearby.) So they sent their fastest runner off to Silverush. That would be Jenna Curlytoes, a pretty girl but a bit thin for a halfling. But Jenna really doesn't come into our story at all. Just that she was fast. But that night the bulette got into Sef's prized potato patch, and the next morning it was all torn up, and Sef'd lost that whole crop. Because bulettes are awful hungry all the time, and I guess dirty potatoes are better than nothing. Sef was hopping mad. Said he wasn't waiting around for some fool ranger, he was gonna take care of that bulette RIGHT NOW! So he put on his helmet and picked up his shield and trident (really an iron pot, a pot lid and a pitchfork, but it sounds better the other way) and marched off into the woods. Greenberry was sure it'd seen the last of Sef. But Sef had a plan. So when he found the bulette - he was downwind of the monster and small and in the bushes, it hadn't seen him yet, bulettes are mean but not too bright - he sat right down and opened up his sack and started spreading veggies out in a line, and at the end of the line was a big barrel of ale with the top open. (It was a magic bag, that held a lot more stuff than it looked like it could.) And then Sef went to the edge of the bushes and shouted and banged on his pot lid. "Hey! Stupid!" he yelled at the bulette. (Sef wasn't much for dramatics.) And the bulette came after him, but it stopped to eat all the veggies Sef left out. Then Sef climbed a tree as fast as his short stout legs could go, but it was alright because the bulette found the ale barrel and couldn't resist giving it a try and... Did you know that bulettes can get drunk? VERY drunk. So when Jenna got back with the ranger and the ranger came into the woods, thinking all the while that she'd find Sef's mangled bones, what did she find but a happy Sef with his pitchfork in the dead bulette's back? So don't ever underestimate a potato farmer with a pitchfork. And don't EVER drink anything from an ale barrel that you find in the woods!From the Neverwinter Chronicles (submitted by: Rysun) The boisterous guild hall of a moment ago becomes silent as a tall stranger strolls boldly into your midst. For a moment everyone pauses eyeing the stranger speculatively...then the ranks part like the parting of the great sea of legend, giving the stranger ample room to walk deeper into the midst of the now waiting throng. Out of habit, some hands find comfort in the reassuring feel of a sword hilt while others finger dangerously dark scrolls gaining confidence with the memory of their ability unleash death at a moment's notice. Each are seeking some sign of provocation, some movement that would betray evil intent. All are curious to see why such an interloper would dare invade the intersanctum of your guild... When the stranger was sure he had everyone's attention, he threw back his hood revealing a somewhat handsome face with startingly clear pure blue eyes... Deliberately, the stranger searches out, catches and holds the eyes of several within the room who might confront him in what is obviously a challenge of wills. It seems to please him that all challenged refuse to flinch or look away. After a few long moments, the stranger speaks. His voice is strong, clear, and full of determination. "I am Rysun Pride, son of Aslym Pride and brother of Ryym. As some of you know, I have only recently appeared in this realm. How I arrived is still a mystery to me and is of little importance now. Fortunately, I was found almost immediately by an adventurer known only as Rathgar, a noble member of the Order of the Crimson Cross. When he found me I was lost, naked, and in a delirium... I am told that I was repeating my brother's name over and over again. "Rathgar healed me, clothed me, and armed me. He then began to show me the realm unto which I had fallen. Soon thereafter and to my great alarm, my brother began to speak to me. No, not it words, but in my mind. A strange manner of communicating which I have now come to know as ESP. "Under Rathgar's tuteludge, I developed enough weaponry skill so as to be able to protect myself from the thieves and Kracken spies that pervade this realm...He introduced me to Exebius and others of his guild who also befriended me and offered me aid. "Once the initial shock of learning that I could communicate with my mind had passed, I learned that my brother was questing with people known as the Jedi Praxium. I wondered what strange manner of beasts these Jedi Praxium were and was later embarrassed to find that Jedi Praxium was simply the name of another guild. "Then I began to receive communication from a holy man known to me only as Fyrthorn. He offered me comfort and reassurance. I told him I was in need of neither because I was with Rathgar and I am a hero after all. "While my brother was talking to me about joining the Jedi Praxium in my mind, some of Rathgar's friends invited me to join the Order of the Crimson Cross. I must say, this conflict caused me some concern. "Because of other duties known only to my friend, Rathgar and I parted soon after. Because of his kindness and unselfishness, I swore my friendship and sword to his call. "Within moments...JP zimdol and a rather strange individual calling himself Uncle Ira found me. It turned out that my brother Ryym had asked them to look out for me. They were also members of the Jedi Praxium. I was also secretly relieved to find that they were not some form of foul smelly beast...although they did spend a lot of time talking to themselves, mumbling such things as "Silvanesa, ummmm..." or "A sweet delicate hand appears and slaps Zimdol." All very strange. I thought perhaps it was some sort of secret guild language. "Where Rathgar left off, Zimdol and Uncle Ira took over. After a few adventures, they decided I was ready to fight "Ducks" at their side. Although honored at their confidence in me, I was truly confused...why would they need a hero like myself to fight "ducks?" Well, it turned out to be something called "Dracs." Imagine my surprise! Nevertheless, I did honor to my Gods by facing them heroically and unflinchingly. "I am now told that Uncle Ira has gone adventuring in far off lands and I have not had the honor of seeing the noble JP Zimdol since that time. However, because of their courage and unselfishness, I swore my friendship and my sword. Soon after, I was befriended by another powerful adventurer known as KF Smokin. He is a member of the Knights of Freedom. Smoke, as I came to call him, is a pure warrior who, like those who came before him (Rathgar, Zimdol, etc..), did nothing but bring honor to his guild. We fought many battles side by side and his loyalty was unquestionable. If I was in trouble he would sweep across the realm in an effort to aid me. As you might imagine, I have also sworn my friendship and sword to him and Smoke's enemies are now my enemies. "Then today, I was again befriended by another powerful figure known as Lordgyphon. It turns out that Lordgyphon is a member of the Knights of Justice and he too, was a noble and valiant friend. And yes, I have sworn him my friendship and sword. "Now then, that brings us to the purpose of my appearance in your hall...First, I have been offered either the opportunity to apply or a position in at least four quilds...in all of which, the members that I have met were noble, unselfish, and valiant warriors. As you might imagine this leaves me in a predicament...I have given an oath as only a warrior can swear, to members of each of these guilds... therefore, I humble myself in front of each of you and your noble guilds to ask forgiveness for the fact that I do not chose a guild..So as not to offend any of those I call friend, ...I chose to roam the realm guildless. I ask the forgiveness of all, for I offer no slight and choose to honor each of you with this gesture. "Secondly, I would recount a recent experience. During my travels with KF Smokin, we befriended a young adventurer known as Evilthumb. A man of good heart who unfortunately had a mother who could not see the goodness of his soul and therefore named him after the poor deformed digit on his left hand. "During our travels and after having met so many noble people, I became aqquainted with a man known to me as Primedevil. Primedevil began to taunt my friend Evilthumb. In fact, when Primedevil found out that Evilthumb was pure of heart, he threatened to kill him. Of course I stepped in and attempted to protect my young friend...KF Smokin, also being of noble heart, thrust himself between us all. Primedevil then began to insult Smoke's guild and brag about having killed other Knights of Freedom...Smoke offered to meet him in the Sewers but the thrown gauntlet was never picked up. "Since then, I have found that Primedevil is the Guild Master of S.A.T.A.N., an evil and wicked guild that prides itself on destroying those adventurers in the realm that would aid the cause of justice and righteousness. Once beaten, S.A.T.A.N.'s guildmembers take the charred and broken bodies of these valiant and courageous heroes and presents them as a gifts to Primedevil and S.A.T.A.N. "I now understand that KF Smokin is being hunted by Primedevil and that his name has been taken to the great hall of S.A.T.A.N. and the slaves of Primedevil have been ordered to find him and make him pay for his insolence and for even thinking he could stand up to Primedevil. "Oh...that the Gods would give me the power and the strength to defeat this vile being and his unfortunate slaves. But that is not to be...for now, at least... "I am but a young and humble hero...seeking to do what is right and to honor my oath to my friends. After much thought and concern for my friend I see few alternatives. "So I come here today to throw down the gauntlet (the stranger slaps down an ornate black leather glove upon the floor) of a grand quest to the noble guilds that I have mentioned in my tales. Let us band together the OCC, the JP, the KOJ, and the KF and make it our quest, nay, the very purpose of our being to destory this evil guild. Let us take up the mantle of this challenge together. Young and old, the experienced and inexperienced... The evil in this realm is not just the monsters we fight as part of our daily fare, it is also the evil adventurers that would delay us in our fight to aid this poor evil-stricken realm... "Let us raise our swords together to defeat this evil! Remember, daily good deeds alone will not save this realm. The gauntlet is thrown, will you and your noble bretheren pick it up?" With the final words said, the stranger lowers his hood upon his brow, turns, and marches swiftly out of the silent hall.CHANCE ENCOUNTER (submitted by: Devin Tir) Devin entered the town square and muscled through the throng of people milling about to find his usual spot. He greeted the guard on duty politely and sat on the clean, spacious, white bench. The guard looked at him curiously. "Devy..." the guard began, and then erupted into laughter. Devy stared back up at the guard, confused. "What is it?" "Did you not notice the 'wet paint' sign on that bench?" He jumped up, blushing furiously, looked at his cloak in consternation, and moved to another bench. He heard a soft giggle from the crowd and looked up to see a silver-eyed lady glancing quickly away. He had seen her before, briefly, and been captivated by her beauty. Now was his chance to speak with her. "Hello milady, do I know you?" He said in a muffled tone. He then noticed that she wore the mark of the Round Table upon her shield. She looked about her, and then back at him. "Are you speaking to me?" He merely nodded. "My name is Capybarra," she curtsied. "I do not believe we are acquainted. I am pleased to meet you." "Would you care to sit?" he mumbled. As she sat next to him, his heart skipped a beat, shocked that one so fair would take any interest in him. He gazed at her, and then looked down, embarrassed by his inability to speak. At that moment, he noticed the sorry state of his boots, and groaned at the pain in his feet. His footwear had recently been damaged by an excessively playful wolf, and his toes were poking through, chilly and chafed. He grumbled something under his breath about needing new boots. "Yes, those cannot possibly be good for you," she said in a motherly tone. "Are your feet well?" Looking into her eyes, Devy forgot the pain, finding his concentration focused solely on her. "Tis nothing, milady, just a minor injury. It seems I have neglected the care of my feet," he said in a soft tone. Never had he seen such beauty, and the effect she had on him surprised him. Normally calm and composed, he was now struggling to find the right words to say. He even noticed his heart beating erratically. "Are you quite sure?" she asked, concern written on her face. He stared back at her, and then a thought crossed his mind. "Actually, no, my feet pain me. Perhaps you could take a look at them?" Capy looked at the others about them. "I am not sure if it is the right thing to do," she responded. The thought of her touching his feet began to fascinate him. "Please," he asked, "if you could possibly help me with this problem, I will be forever indebted to you." She hesitated, considering the matter. Suddenly, she rose. "Perhaps I can help if you come away for a few moments." He almost blurted out, "I would go anywhere with you." Catching himself, he just nodded his agreement and stood to follow her. Walking behind her, he watched the sway of her hips and the bounce in her step. He was so entranced by her movements that he barely noticed entering a building. Suddenly they were inside, alone, and she was motioning for him to sit. "Let me have a look." Kneeling before him, Capy pulled off his boots. Her head bent over his injured feet, examining them. His gaze moved from her silver hair falling in her face, and wandered over her in an effort to memorize every nuance of her form. He stared until he noticed she was again looking up at him. "Your boots are old and in need of repair, and you seem to have an ingrown toenail. Perhaps wearing socks might help protect your feet." He stared, confused. "Socks?" "Do you not know what socks are?" He could only shake his head, still in a daze. She nodded. "Yes, unfortunately, they are a rare commodity in these parts." she stopped and sat back, pulling up her long skirt, unlacing one of her own boots. The glimpse of her bare calf made him quiver, and he reluctantly brought his eyes to the fabric that covered her foot and ankle. "My late husband bought me these stockings on a journey to Waterdeep. These are silk. For your own use I might suggest wool, as it is hardier. Unfortunately my skin is sensitive, and I cannot wear wool against it." She blushed and glanced up at him. "Here, feel them..." she pulled the fabric away from her calf slightly. As he touched the cloth, his knuckles grazed her skin for a brief, scintillating moment. His breath caught. "They are very fine milady." She removed the stocking, revealing a dainty, soft, unblemished foot. "Do you see how well they protect?" "Aye, milady," he stammered, unable to manage any further comment. Seemingly oblivious to his enraptured state, she replaced her stocking and boot, and knelt again, examining his injured feet and toes. Her touch against his skin sent a tingle up his leg. He did not even notice when a boy brought her water, soap, a soft cloth, and a towel. Tenderly, she took each foot in turn in her hands, and immersed it in the warm water, using the cloth to scrub at his feet. She frowned in concentration as she used more soap on them, and then sighed. Looking up, her silver eyes met his green ones. "Do not worry," she began, and then paused, appearing momentarily distracted. "I seem not to have caught your name." "Devin Tir, milady." "Don't worry, Devin Tir, I will be done in a moment. Unfortunately, your feet are very dirty." She reached in her pack and removed a short-bristled brush, the likes of which he had never seen, and began to use it to scrub his feet. He trembled slightly at the sensation produced by this new experience. Suddenly, she was rubbing his feet in a towel. Then the towel was gone, and she was massaging his feet tenderly. This brought a soft moan from him that was barely audible. The pleasure was over too quickly. "My advice to you is to look for some socks, and get some new boots. These," she gestured to the worn-out leather boots in the corner, "will no longer do." He watched as she took a small, sharp dagger from her belt and began paring his toenails. "Indeed, milady." He stuttered slightly. "See, all better." Capy gave Devin a warm smile and then looked quickly away. "I should go now," she said with a frown, as she gathered her things, rinsing and wiping them. "It is getting late, and it might be unseemly for me to be seen..." suddenly her cheeks turned bright red. "Not a problem, milady. You have done me a great service," he spluttered, thinking to draw the moment out as long as possible. "I hope I was not a burden." "No, of course not. I always help those in need." "Good night milady, I do so hope we meet again," he stammered. "Yes, and please think on my advice," she smiled at him as she slung her pack over her shoulder, and was gone. Devin Tir AGM Grey KnightsFloodblest Well (submitted by: Felena) It was a warm spring day as she completed her tasks in and around Camelot. It was midmorning when she finished, and she headed toward her room to gather her weapon, cloak and shield for the quest she was beginning. Her plan was to learn the Floodblest Well and the fights therein, well enough that she could follow the trail in her sleep if need be. She had been charged with preparing for a new player tour, and she took very seriously the safety of those who would be under her care while they ventured into the depths of that area. She traveled to Floodblest along the road through the Wharves. It seemed rather quiet in the area, but since she had rarely traveled this way, she was not sure if that was normal or not. As she approached the center of town, she happened across the Rankled Boar Inn, and she stopped in for a bit to rest and take refreshment before continuing on to the well. She finished her fruit and cheese, drained the last of her tankard of ale, and paid the Innkeep before stepping back into the street. There she proceeded to the part of town where she knew she would find the entrance to the well. She climbed down the ladder carefully as it was damp and slippery, and gained her footing before releasing her grip on the ladder. The floor was muddy, and she felt it squish beneath her soft leather boots. The walls around her were of dark red clay, and moisture dripped continually down the sides, thus explaining the muddy floor. She proceeded into the chasm, around a corner and through a door where she chanced across another adventurer battling with some Owlbears and a Carrion Crawler. She entered the fight at his request, and as fate would have it, just in time, for the traveler had been stung by the Crawler, and stood paralyzed and helpless. Felena quickly sent the Crawler to its god, and set about the task of protecting the unfortunate traveler from the Owlbears. It wasn't long before they had joined the Crawler, and Felena turned to the adventurer and saw to his wounds. She made sure he was safe, bid him fare well, and continued on her way. She traveled further along the corridor, the floor becoming more slippery with each step, following the path she remembered from her few brief trips into the area (3 to be exact). As she pushed forward, easily dispensing with the roaming bands of Owlbears, Crawlers and Lizards, she became more and more unsure of her location, and the way out of the well. (Doh!!! Wrong way Fel!! ;) ) She entered a room, paying more attention to her location, than to the noises from within, but was immediately jolted from her indecision by a stab of pain that ripped through her shoulder. She gasped, her hand moving instinctively to her flail, and began a counter spell to stop the fleeing wizard who had wounded her. However the guard of Gnolls distracted her just long enough for him to escape, and the ensuing battle kept her from following him until his trail was long covered. She rested after the battle, seeing to her shoulder wound, and wishing she had placed a container of the salve from her home of Winterbrook, famous for its healing properties, and virtual prevention of scarring. This wound would leave a scar now, of that she was certain. Felena stood and surveyed her surroundings. There were several doors leading from her location, and she could not remember the path from here. She entered each of them, searching for the secret passage she knew she must locate. Upon striking a wall she located a hidden door. But each attempt to pass was to no avail. She tried time and again, yet the passageway would not yield. Thinking this was the correct exit, she kept trying, becoming frustrated in her failure. It was then that she felt the presence of her sponsor in her mind. "Greetings, Squire," Windgrey said. "Good eve, Sire," she answered. "I am exploring the well, in preparation for my next quest. But I fear I have lost my way." She then told him briefly of the hidden passage she had found, and her failure at passing through. He told her he was in the area, and would find her. It wasn't long before he was beside her, and they proceeded to the passageway of which she had spoken. He repeated the same procedures she had previously done, with the same results, and a band of Owlbears set upon them as they puzzled over the problem. The monsters were defeated quickly, and Windgrey, having been called to an urgent task, bid Felena continue her search until his return. She watched him depart, and tried the last door in the area, which, to her surprise and delight, held the doorway for which she had been searching. She passed through it, into a narrow hallway, around a corner, and into a maze. She moved cautiously here, having heard grunts and growls from ahead, and rounding a corner, happened upon a band of Lizards. She defeated them easily, rested and continued along her way. As she rounded another corner, she was surprised by 2 Minotaurs blocking her path. She threw several bolts at them, not noticing the Umber Hulk lurking in the shadows, until her best spells had been expended. He bore down upon her then, gazing at her as rays of confusion spewed forth from his tentacles. The first ray hit her solidly, and she stared blankly, fighting with all her will to clear her mind of the confusion she felt. She succeeded briefly, and he sent more rays at her, confusing her yet again. She shook her head against the effects, cleared her mind, and struck out, landing a blow solidly in his blue bulk with a thud. He screamed in outrage, and pain, and gazed at her again, and Felena was able to overcome the effects more easily this time. She brought her flail high over her head, calling on the assistance of Tyr to give her strength, as she brought it around to catch the Hulk in a fatal blow to the neck. She felt slightly nauseated, as he crumpled to the floor in a hideous blue heap, and she stumbled to a nearby chair to rest and recover her nerves. She would not repeat the mistake she had made. She made a note in her mind to survey the battle field completely, before plunging headlong into an unfamiliar encounter again. She sat there for some time, and when she felt sufficiently calm, continued to search for the exit. She found it after many wrong turns, and random fights, and ascended into the fresh air of the town above. Another encounter ensued, as she disturbed a sleeping cloud giant when she passed through its resting place, and finally Felena was again on the familiar street of Floodblest. Windgrey called to her again, as she entered the Inn, and he expressed his pleasure at her accomplishment. She felt as though she had grown in maturity this day, and was content with her efforts as she rewarded herself with a frosty mug of ale to quench her thirst.Sparing Around the Crock (submitted by: Aluric) Aluric walked cross the courtyard dragging his gunny sack of equipage behind him and trailing sweat with a path a salmon could have spawned in. A few of the pages and an assistant scribe came to aid him tired as he appeared, but he dispatched them all save the scribe. "I thank thee with all my heart, maiden for thine aid!" was all he said at first. But this brought a sharp retort from his assistant! "Alright I have forgotten thine given name, and thou art indeed a lady in the truest sense, it is my own short coming that I can not remember a simple name to go with a face as pretty as thine own. Please berate me not! My head aches only slightly more then the balance of my body at the moment, and I am not myself." His assistant let up on the stinging repartee, only long enough to ask why he had then waved off the pages that came to his aid. "Simply put madam I am embarrassed, and would have done likewise unto thee if not for my thinking of you as a mothering sort, (at which she hit him in a spot already tender from the last of the fights with the younger Rathar). "Go, Milady and attend to business elsewhere for this is of no comfort." Standing erect he took up his load and wandered into the corridors where the sons of Adam housed as members of the guild. Upon the door closing behind him 2 of the house staff took up his load and escorted him to his apartment. "Pleaaaseeee Magister, tell us the tale if you would! whined the younger of the two. Very well then, for soon enough you'll have the tale from young Rathar himself, best ye had my side of it before then else I'll never save face. I went out this afternoon to answer a challenge from the ladder by young Rathar. For the first time ever I was in rare form, and laid on the lad like leather on a cows back! first set, the poor kid couldn't get out of his own way, in the end he fell to a simple but critical laying on of my hands. Not satisfied, he ran back from the gates of Southwall and Neverwinter for the second round. Again I struck him several light blows not wanting to be too rough on him or he on me since I thought it a fluke of the creators sense of humor to permit me another win, and fully expected to be dropped into the earth upon which we stood. But this son of a norseman was still standing after several rounds and I had lost all track of time. Well it appears so had he or simply luck was not his for on an whim I cast a hold upon his head and he did not move! Amazed as I was, I did not think fast enough to save him from his embarrassing fate. And the lowly crocodile bit him in the nether regions sending him to eat gate wood once more. That being 2 out of 3 (actually 2 in a row) I though myself lucky and knelt in prayerful thanks. But lo! he was back! "Yes", I asked with a tilt of me head, "magister you are the victor, but I still get my crown points so I am happy" was his reply. With a sad snicker of a laugh, (for I already hurt from our engagement) I said; "Sorry son but Since I did see thee posted a challenge to me for my position upon the ladder this cannot count for your knighting points." But Sir! I had given word to send to the for a formal challenge by way of the points I do need for my knighting! Aluirc was about to stifle the lad, when a young supplicant of the KEF guild did round the very door way where the 2 now stood, dressed in the livery of one of the guilds pages. "Aluric, Magister Aluric, ALURIC where are thee master" was his vocalization (screaming as it would have been called by others). Coming up short of crashing into the 2 knights, "Magister, Finally I have found thee". The Herald's page then turned with a start and bowed once and then again when he realized he had neglected to acknowledge the younger knight of the pair standing before him. "your pardon sirs! please do not inform my master of my tardiness or my lack of grace and courtesy" Aluric replied gently (for this child was now staring directly at the angry red Rathar, who was still none to thrilled at learning he would not earn his points for knighting). "Son what is that you said about you're tardiness?" The herald near jumped from his boots; "sir oh I almost forgot again!" "There has been a formal challenge issued by Lrd Rathar for points of knighting" "I did receive my instructions to deliver it yesterday, but the hour was late and so I thought I could seek thee out at suns rise and deliver it before you where done with the breaking of the fast!" "Again I do apologize, for I over slept, the bed was warm and...." Enough! I will advise you master of your delivery, thou some what less than expected, no harm from it resulted, save something of my reputation!" The Heralds page looked somewhat confused. So Aluric provided illumination. "Recite for me again the time and place of this challenge! Like the twang of a bows string after the shaft has sped upon it way, insight did come to this young one, prostrating himself for the flogging he expected would come. Aluric instead drew him up, brushed him off and introduced him to Lrd Rathar! Again the boy near fainted away at realizing he had failed miserably in his assignment. "Away, with you now. Ill set the matter right, and say nothing to you master, for the trouble you are now in is nothing compared to the trouble you will be in when the house mother sees what your groveling and such hast done to your doublet hose, let alone the dirt stains upon that new tunic! "The youngsters face went ash as he fled from the room, trying to figure out what to do now! Laughingly Aluric turned to face the none to leased Rathar. "It would seem I did have another bout upon my dance card with thee when I accepted this ladder engagement. Rathar quickly offered to postpone the match for points. But Aluric would have none of that, "Its high time you lads in the common ranks learned to buck up and take what's coming to you, its a fight you want and its a fight you'll get. I am the present scribe for the Knights of the Eternal Flame, but I still follow the paths of sword and shield!" Now lest get set and go for the gust, and may the better man win! Good Luck!. Aluric figured Rathar would need it since he had already felled to Aluric 2 straight matches this day. Surly the creator was with him. No? NO! Aluric released the beast, someone's pet reptile. Though not before casting the proper spells to make himself a prayerfully blessed holy, protected, shielded and downright friendly sort of fellow just as he always had before. And once the crocodile was away he set about placing a globe between himself and the now entered Rathar. But the crock really took a liking to Aluric and pursued him all over the room. Had Aluric but known that this was what would happened, surely he never would have attempted to silence the poor excuse for a ladies handbag. Clumsily Aluric now stumbled in and out of various clouds of noxious vapors, continually harried by the "friendlier crocodile", who constantly was taking away little, but still, significant parts of Alurics backside with each attempt to place distance between him and the enamored if not succulent knight of the realms! Rathar could not seem to get a hold upon Aluric, but not to be out done by this low lying leathered layers of teeth, occasionally Rathar would spice it up a bit with a bit of electrical discharges. In the end Aluric could no longer stand from the holes bitten or burned through his body and found himself upon the fine mahogany wood that comprised the gate between South Wall and Neverwinter Proper. Applying some healing magics, Aluric did again return. This time was Rathar's turn to set free the caged but "ever so friendly" crocodile. Aluric thought to himself, "the tag on the cage said it was the property of the now departed Sunglitz, now I know why she had kept it around!" On que, Aluric entered and the 2 knights again began the dance. Exchanging volleys of magic missles for light wound, light wounds and fumbles for confusions and holds but no spell Aluric cast seemed to stick, then in the 11th round Rathar re globed. and Spells where again exchanged, but when in the 17th round Aluric now globed for but the first time. having gone the whole time unchecked, and to Rathar's amazement, unglobed, though not unprotected. You hadn't globed? "he asked as Aluric and he again, exchanged ineffective spells. "Nope, and you did not even check! taunted Aluric. Now did Rathar pull out all the stops, using scroll, and wand and scroll, (or was that scroll, scroll, scroll, spell). I forget Aluric narrated to the fellow, who was now seated upon Aluric's bed listening intently. The second laid out the equipment they had carried up while Aluric continued to spin his tale. All I do clearly remember was that stupid, stinking swamp creature biting me with little nibbles while Rathar somehow took the initiative in such a way as to get 4 spells off in a row. At that point I was near dead! One more spell would have done me in for good and I do so tire of eating wood. All the while Rathar was hard pressed to not look like he had been in some sort of a scrape but a single fix would be all he needed. Aluric then heard Rathar say "the hour grows late, and I needs take my leave of thee and go anon to the other world. But I shall give thee a rematch on the morrow." "OH NO YOU DON'T!, I have had my fill of thee, bested now twice, though I have not yet gone to the gate. I concede happily to thee, this round which makes thee the victor and valid holder of you first points towards knighting. No more this day or this week will I fight the likes of thee! Nope If its a fight you want go and find the Lady Fair Star! Ask of her a lesson or two the likes of which she gave me and get you're points from her if you would (dare)." Rathar replied; "directly will I do as thee have suggested and seek out the lady." And thank thee milord scribe. You are a worthy knight. and a good sport. I then silently said a prayer for forgiveness, for my lack of kindness to young Rathar. With the glow of victory still upon his face he had no idea what he was in for and it will be My pleasure to read of those exploits! Some what happy again, Aluric hurried the young assistants out of the room so he could go soak his head and the rest of his hurting body in a warm hot bath, with a warm hot mead from the box hidden under the floor boards in his room. Another day or two to recover his pride and Aluric will challenge the one know as Kef Furry to a match upon the ladder. But now tis time to rest.Chance Meeting (submitted by: Lake Mist) The mid-February storm had broken about ten in the evening. The wind still howled like a pack of ice hounds, but the snow had let up. The snow was still falling, but not nearly as heavily as earlier in the day. Within the Red Mage Inn, near Southwall, all was warm and lit with merriment. A mighty fire roared in the stone hearth, filling the gathering hall with flickering orange light and a steamy heat. Mages, clerics and an occasional traveler caught by the storm sprawled on benches before long tables, consuming the local ale, or if they could afford it, the finer wines from the cellar. A quarter of owlbear turned on the creaking spit above the roaring blaze, and the rich smell of roasting meat filled the room. Caught by the wind, the heavy wooden door crashed open. Everyone turned, startled, to see a tall figure looming in the doorway. From throat to heel he was wrapped in a black cloak. Water was starting to stream from the snow on his shoulders and head with the sudden warmth of the room upon it, forming puddles on the floor around his boots. Under the black hood was glimpsed a dangerous blue eye in a bronzed, weather beaten face and the gold of a well kept beard as the stranger stamped in, slamming the door shut behind him and removing his cloak to wring the snow and water from it. That's when I noticed the patch over his left eye. The fat, perspiring innkeeper hurried over to ask the stranger's needs. He was quite awkward, and kept rubbing his fat hands on the well worn leather apron that barely offered protection. "Hot spiced ale," the stranger growled, as he sat down at a bench near the fire. "And a cut of that owlbear I smell roasting, if 'tis done. Quick, man. I'm frozen to the bone and hungry as a famished hell hound." As the innkeeper hurried away to begin serving the stranger, a burly local townsman, much worse for wine and ale, nudged his companions and rose to his feet and moved to the fire, swaying a little as he tried to stand. He was big, with a thick throat and broad shoulders. The expression on his boar like face resembled that of cunning with just a dash of stupidity. He stood there, looking down at the stranger, with a drunken grin, taking in the scar that ran down the entire side of the stranger's face and disappeared into the top of his tunic. Spreading his cloak to catch the heat of the fire, the stranger paid him no heed. "What do we have here, lads, eh?" said the local townsman in a thick drunken voice. "Looks like a Triboarian bushwacker to me, ThistleRoc," said WarnOrd. ThistleRoc looked the stranger up and down. "Long in the tooth for a bushwacker, lads," he jeered, "and look at the dog sitting there, hogging the best seat in the Red Mage. Hey, yellow beard. Drag your frozen bones to the back and let honest men soak up some heat." If ThistleRoc had not been so deep in his cup and spoiling for a fight, he might have noticed the fire in the blazing eye that was raised to him. Alas, the warning glare only enraged him to petty fury. Rage flared in his bloodshot eyes, and his face flushed crimson. "I'm talking to you, newby." he snarled, and swung a heavy foot to kick the stranger's shin with a thud, startlingly loud in the gathering hall, which had become eerily quiet. This was the local bully, the strong arm, the loudmouth. The other locals began to chuckle and nudge each other, waiting for the fun when ThistleRoc goaded the stranger into a rage. At the other end of the gathering hall I sat silently, catlike in a shadowy corner, enveloped in a thick, forest green cloak with the hood drawn close about my face. I leaned forward to observe the quarrel. If the stranger was who I thought he was, this wouldn't last long. The stranger moved like a striking tiger. One moment he sat folded under his steaming cloak; the next, he surged to his feet, clamped a vise like grip around one of ThistleRoc' fleshy thighs; then caught the bully's throat with a throttling force. Incredibly, he swung the bully off his feet and hurled him across the room. His body struck the wall with a force that shook the entire inn, and then thudded to the wooden floor, where he sprawled. For a moment he lay there, gasping. A look of disbelief growing over the faces of his comrades. His face an even brighter crimson, ThistleRoc jumped to his feet. Swearing an oath, he lunged across the hall with his arms outspread. The stranger stepped forward to meet his charge. He sank his left fist into the other's midsection. As the air whistled from ThistleRoc's lips, the stranger's right fist caught him in the face with a smack that sounded of breaking bone. With a smash from the left fist to the face, ThistleRoc's head snapped back and he was lifted from the floor. As his body fell in a heap to the floor, the stranger booted him into the hearth. Coals flew and soot shot out in a thick grey-black cloud. Screaming in alarm, ThistleRoc's comrades rushed to drag him out of the hearth. Blackened, singed, and grease spattered, they tried to rouse him. Blood running from his broken nose and cut lip, they carried his unconscious bulk to another room for recovery. The tension in the gathering hall broke with a chorus of laughter, congratulations, and compliments on the strangers prowess. Many of those present this eve had long hoped that someone would some day take that overbearing bully's measure. The stranger gave them all a half-smile and turned his attention to the ale and owlbear being served to him. I made my way through the crowd to the table where the stranger sat, just finishing his first mug of ale. "Innkeeper, two mugs of frenzy," I called over my shoulder as I sat down across from the stranger. "By the Morning Star Archet, there's only one mortal in twenty realms that has the daring to do that. Is it...can it be?" I asked as the stranger looked me over. Forest green cloak over plate mail, a massive broad sword strapped to the back, beard and a youthful glint from the eyes. The eyes, he lifted his voice in a bellow of joy "Lake Mist." It was true, "Garthlik, by the claws of a tiger, it warms my heart to set eyes on you after so long," I said as the innkeeper placed two mugs of frenzy on the table. Over hot owlbear and more frenzy, we exchanged stories of events that had transpired since that day long ago when Garthlik had ventured thru my village and set me on the road to Neverwinter and the path of a ranger. Garthlik was winding up his story, "Now I too have chosen to follow the path of a ranger. It is hard giving up the ways of a thief and to follow the path of another. I am surely trying, but am not sure where this will all lead. I chose not to join any guilds at this time, least till I know what path awaits me." With that, I wished my old friend luck and a smooth path. We moved off to our rooms for the night. When I awoke the next morn, Garthlik had already arisen and journeyed on.Siege at Floodblest - Chapter 4 (submitted by: Makmorg) It was sheer havoc outside the Rankled Boar Inn. The sounds of battle and the shrieks of the mortally wounded echoed through the night. The injured cleric was right. Before my eyes the adventurers in Floodblest were being slaughtered. Griffons swooped down from above like raptors and snatched adventurers off the ground only to release them while high in the darkened sky. Even the bravest screamed as they plummeted to their deaths. Huge groups of owlbears, fighting en mass, viciously mauled those unable to withstand their powerful onslaught. And giant lizards, scampering across the sides of buildings, easily ambushed the unwary, snapping up unfortunate heroes in their hungry jaws. Urging on the monsters were bow wielding bugbears, the evil giant, hairy cousins of the goblins . They took wicked delight in shooting arrows at adventurers while their backs were turned in combat. I tried to locate my friends in the mass of battling adventurers. Particularly Saralla. I wasn't worried about her per se and realized anyway that I would never be able spot her or the others in this chaos. Just as well for they would be busy enough trying to stay alive in this conflagration. Fortunately none of the buildings or homes in Floodblest were being attacked which meant that the citizens of Floodblest would be safe for now, if they were smart enough to stay indoors behind their barricades. One less thing to worry about. At the moment it appeared as if the monsters were solely hunting adventurers but for reason I could not even begin to guess at. "Mak, we have to do something. Everyone is being murdered." It was the hulking Lander who spoke. The strain in his voice made him sound much more like a boy now, an innocent youth trapped in a grown man's body. "These damn fools are allowing themselves to get boxed in between these buildings and alleys." I observed angrily. "They're chasing monsters and are getting ambushed." Just then Kel the half elf thief shouted a warning. "Mak, look out!" A griffon was bearing down on us, it wicked talons eager for flesh. In one fluid movement I brought up my crossbow and fired. I watched the bolt sink into the avian beast's forehead. Unable to halt its momentum the griffon's corpse sailed over us-my youthful companions had enough battle sense to lower their heads-and smacked against the side of the inn in a bone sickening crunch. "That was too close for comfort." Fox said relieved after the attack. "That griffon almost had us there." Staring at the circular, bloody smear on the inn's stony walls I replied, "Yeah, the griffon went from a bird's eye to a bull's eye." I then returned my focus to the conflict. Lander was correct by his earlier statement. We had to act soon. If we didn't do something to help our fellow adventurers everything-Floodblest, it's people, and maybe even Neverwinter-would be lost. "Okay young ones, this is your chance to be heroes," I started. "If you want to help out the other adventurers you have to do what I tell you, understood?" Like a single organism they all nodded their heads in agreement, the anticipation of battle silencing their voices at the moment. "Lander, you and I are the front runners. Kel and Mort follow behind us and shoot at anything that isn't friendly with your arrows and magic missiles. Remember to keep an eye on the skies. Fox and Nira, keeping our rear flank safe is your responsibility. Ready?" I looked at their faces one more time to gauge their readiness and was met by a powerful look of determination, the sincere desire to do some good. Yes, the fear was still lurking in their visages but I knew it would only drive them forward not hold them back at this point. They were indeed ready. "Okay let's do it!" I ordered. The Party of Five and I charged into the bloody fray in front of the Sinda's Trading Post, fighting our way through the monstrous horde to help our fellow warriors. I took care of the owlbears, which were the most immediate threat, going for fatal head shots with my crossbow this time around. Lander, armed with a powerful two handed sword, followed my lead and hacked away at any of the shaggy monsters that had anyone pinned down. Kel the half elf thief was deadly accurate with her bow and with ease had the bugbears on the field ducking and running for cover, some never reaching safety at all. Mort kept the skies clear with magic missiles and managed to keep the griffons at a safe distance. And Fox, armed with a short sword, and Nira, armed with a flail, slashed and bashed away at giant lizards who attempted to stealthily attack us from our rear. The sudden arrival and successful attack of our fighting unit gave the other adventurers a chance to recoup and organize themselves. "Shall we let these youths do of our fighting?" proclaimed a Dalesman with a sword in the air, "Let us join ranks and take the fight to the beasts, with gold to spare!" The gathered adventurers let out a cheer and joined our formation. They fought now with new found fury and strength. Despite overwhelming odds our small army managed to kill or send running all the creatures in our area. The adventurers now held this part of the town by the inn and the trading post. Weary from battle we took advantage of the brief respite to catch our breaths and help out those who were wounded. I had to admit the Party of Five handled themselves well in battle and I admired the bravery and stamina of these young people. Although tired, covered with the gore of their enemies, the young warriors were doing all they could to assist the other people. I noticed that there were other pockets of organized resistance from other adventurers in some parts of Floodblest. These groups obviously had some kind of military experience. They were fighting in small defensible units and like us were keeping a part of the village free of monsters. One group fighting by the temple was led by the black haired female dwarf drunkard from earlier this evening. With no sign of her earlier inebriation she and her unit of wily female dwarves were easily fending off an attack from a pack of giant lizards and owlbears. I guess battle was a sobering experience. The dwarves were letting the monsters come to them. They then rushed forward in a startling charge and chopped into the beasts with their battle axes. An idea then occurred to me. "Fox, where's the largest open area in town?" "That would be the dock area north of here." answered the Ranger, "Hasn't seen much use lately though. Why?" "No time to explain. I want you and your friends to gather the surviving adventurers and head towards there. Help out those in trouble along the way but get them to there." "Mak, I don't understand..." Fox began. "Just do it, boy!" I interrupted. "Can you heroes handle it?" Steeling himself with confidence Fox said, "You can count on us Mak." Turning to his friends he said, "Come on Party of Five. For honor and justice." As one they lifted their weapons and shouted in unison, "For honor and justice." They then quickly spread word among the heroes gathered there. There was some reluctance on the part of some of the adventurers at first but with skillful words Fox was able to convince them otherwise. Soon the small army was surging to the north attacking groups of monsters along the way. I ran off and left them to their task, shouting out some parting words of wisdom. "Remember, fight in formation. Hold the dock area until I get there with help!" Then I was gone. Reaching the female dwarven unit by the temple was a very hazardous task, considering the monsters who stood in my way. First a wretched bugbear popped out from an alley and challenged me. He believed his bow was quicker than my crossbow. A bolt to giant goblinoid's chest proved otherwise. A giant lizard was my next victim, falsely secure while hidden in the shadows. Two bolts to the head brought his mistake to light while also bringing him down off a building wall. The final creature I faced was a savage griffon. It was swooping down on a pair of wounded mages when my last bolt brought the avian beast down in a lifeless heap. I made sure the two mages were okay and told them to get to the open air area to the north before continuing on. As I neared the dwarves I spotted, to my utter disgust, a thief from the Black Daggers looting the body of a fallen adventurer. Anger flashed through me for a second. I should have killed the scoundrel outright but instead I smashed the wooden stock of my crossbow down on his unsuspecting head, knocking him unconscious. Let him take his chances now. The black haired dwarf had seen my actions against the thief and when I reached her said, "I guess that thief picked the wrong moment to pick pockets." "The only thing he'll be picking is his teeth off the ground if he survives the night." I replied. The black haired dwarf chortled as she yanked an axe out of a giant lizard's skull. "That's the last of 'em." She said with satisfaction. Surveying the area I had to concur. She and her female cohorts had killed every monster that attacked them, without even a single injury to their unit. The female dwarves cleaned their weapons and then gathered around the black haired dwarf, the apparent leader of this group. "Name's Hildha by the way. Never caught yer name back at the inn, handsome." She said. "Call me Mak." I answered. "You and you comrades have military experience I take it." "Yer looking at the former 5th Dwarven Brigade Ground Assault Unit." "Excellent, I'm going to need your unit's battle skills then." "I'm listening, handsome." Hildha said curiously. "We need to get away from these alleys and into a more open area to fight. And we have to do it in some kind of battle formation, like soldiers. If we don't none of us will survive this night." "You're right about that," Hildha agreed, "But these durn treasure hunters ain't much for soldiering though. What do you suggest we do?" I quickly outlined my plan, telling her about the dock area and the gathering of the survivors by the Party of Five. "If we fight them on our terms then maybe we might have a chance." I concluded. Hildha nodded, showing her satisfaction with my plan. She then pulled out a heavy crossbow, her troops following suit. I took this time to reload my own crossbow. The spunky dwarf raised her crossbow as high as her stubby arms would allow and said, "Let's get this party started and get da rest of these goldbricks to the north!" The ladies of the 5th Dwarven Brigade let out a hoarse cry and together we plunged back into the melee, making our way through the entire town. We helped out every adventurer we came across, regardless of their alignment, and steered them towards the docks covering their exodus with a barrage of crossbow bolts. Other military veterans, including vets from King Azoun's crusade against the Horde, joined in our efforts and helped us to herd the remaining adventurers to the north. They issued orders like sergeants and got stragglers moving. They even made sure that the injured were carried off by the strongest warriors. The dead were left behind. Mages added their mystical might to our crossbows and hurled multicolored fireballs to help cover our retreat. With our ragtag army we arrived at the dock area to find the adventurers gathered there already by the Party of Five holding a tenuous line against the bugbear lead monsters. With the river to their backs there was no place for the defenders to go. Fortunately, Saralla, Rodrigo and other more experienced adventurers were there to take command and control the situation. They were moving up and down the line keeping the defenders together. We had arrived in just in time, however, for the line was starting to falter under the unrelenting assault of the monsters. I shouted, "For Floodblest!" and lead my group in a charge to tip the scales in our favor. Our sudden appearance completely surprised the bugbears and their monster charges and our organized attack sent them fleeing for the alleys, for now anyway. The heroes in the square let out a cheer at our arrival. There was no time, however, to celebrate our brief moment of victory. It wouldn't be long before the bugbears reorganized the monsters for another attack. I quickly outlined to Hildha and the other vets what needed to be done, assigning them each a specific task. Once they understood my plan I left them to get the heroes organized while I checked on my comrades. Locating Saralla I approached the cleric of Helm but she just glanced once in my direction and then went off to help some of the injured. Just as well, her clerical skills were needed now. Looking for the others I saw Kwarrel and Kel were joining the ranks of bowmen being set up by a Turmish soldier by the name of Ahmed. Lander and Fox were gathering with the swordsmen while Mort and Kayla huddled with the other mages. Nira was with the other clerics tending to the wounded. At that moment the young cleric of Chauntea looked up at me with weary eyes, so unused to bloodshed and battle, yet with determination returned to her healing. She was truly an inspiration to the other clerics. Someone then placed a hand on my shoulder. I turned to face Rodrigo, his usual smile stuck on his face. "So I hear you're organizing this little party," He said, "Well then what's the plan oh, great, leader?" Leader? At that moment I realized that everyone was looking at me. It was never my intention to lead this group. I had thought if I could just get them organized then the rest would take care of itself. But here they were, a sea of faces waiting for my words. For a brief moment I felt doubt. I had failed to save my wife and daughter and countless others in my years of struggle against the Zhentarim. How could I accept the responsibility for the lives of these brave men and women, humans and demihumans. I then shook it all away. I would not fail to save Floodblest. By Tyr, I would not fail. "Hear me fellow adventurers!," I started, "If you wish to live to see morning you must follow my orders and the orders of the individuals I assigned to organize each of the groups." "Why is he the leader," suddenly interjected an easterner who I learned was called Khan Gah. Before I could reply there was a sudden thump and the Kara Turian fell to the ground. Hildha stood over him massaging her fist. "Cuz, I sez so!" She said and then turned to the other adventurers, "Any other complaints." When no one responded she nodded toward me, indicating that I should continue. "Uh, thanks Hildha." I said, then resumed my talk. "The monsters will be here soon. This is where we will make our stand. "The bowmen will be our first line of defense. Mages, you're split up into two groups. Kayla your group will launch the first attack. Zairn keep your group in reserve until I order otherwise." Earlier during the retreat I had seen the extent of the mage Zairn's power and knew he was a wizard of great power and experience which was why I chose him to lead the reserve mages. "The rest of you will on my command rush out and sweep the field." "What do you mean sweep?" Asked a swordswoman by the name of Glenda. "He means kill anything left standing after the bowmen and mages attack." Replied a beefy vet named Cilus. "Right," I responded, "Then on my command the sweepers shall immediately pull back. No stragglers. "As for the clerics, they shall protect the injured and act as our rear guard." I paused and gave the assembled mass of adventurers a few second to digest my words. I then added, "Remember people we're fighting for our very lives here." "What about the bugbear archers?" Asked a red-haired halfling named Quince. "They'll pick us off with their arrows if we stand out here in the open." "I already have a plan to deal with them." I answered. "You just remember your task and remain in position. "Are we clear on everything." I looked at the haggard faces one more time. There a general grunt of approval from everyone. In this mass of heroes I spotted Saralla. For a second I thought I recognized a look of respect on her face. Was this for me? Then it was gone replaced by the scowl of impending battle. The monsters could be heard coming. "Okay, everyone in formation. Now!" I ordered. The heroes rushed into their assigned positions. Group leaders made sure everyone found their place and held them there. I joined the ranks of archers and crossbowmen. In the distance a line of owlbears and lizards were headed towards us pushed on by bugbears. Behind this group was the biggest bugbear I had ever seen in my life. He was a huge goblinoid beast and radiated pure savagery. The hairy monster held a wicked two handed sword with one hand, hefting as if it were a mere dagger. This had to be the leader and rightly so. Several bugbears stood around him like a living barrier preventing any clear shots at him. I'll worry about him later. The sounds of loud screeches told me the griffons were on the way. "Do not attack until I give the command!" I growled to the adventurer army. "The line is yours Mak." Said Rodrigo. The land monsters were getting closer and the griffons were visible in the moon lighted sky. "I hope we're are not making a mistake following this man. I was a great leader among my people back home." Commented Khan Gah from among the swordmen. The griffons were circling near by now. Like us, waiting. Keeping an eye on the avian beasts I said to Khan Gah, "This is no time to dance around the issue." Totally confused, the Kara Turian asked, "What do you mean?" I responded, "No one wants a Khan Gah line," then the griffons attacked. ::to be continued::Thief - Part 4 Thieves Den (submitted by: Garthlik) By Garthlik One Eye Leaving the chamber where I killed the troll, I move back down the corridor to the chamber where I encountered the four spies. I would search the bodies again, but they are gone. Moving back to the street, I turn right and continue. There is a door on my left and I am on the northern side of the bazaar. This may be my last chance to find any clues. I enter the large chamber and begin to look around. As I search the south-east corner I discover thieves hiding in the shadows. The eight thieves draw their swords without a sound and move to attack. I fell two quickly, but the rest surround me. Fighting from all sides, I find it difficult to maintain a solid attack or defense. Finally, my sword cuts the last, and I stand victorious and wounded. Tending to a rather deep cut on my left arm, I notice one lone thief cowering in a corner. As he looks at me he says, "Please don't hurt me, I beg of ya's." I move a little closer and in a low voice demand, "Tell me where your thieves den is!" He quickly looks around, then says, "I'll tell ya's what ya's wants to know." He stammered on, "Our hide...hideout, search to the west, the pass...password is beh..." Just before he finishes, a dagger flies across the room, burying itself deep in his throat. I turn quickly towards the door and see a figure dressed entirely in black. As the figure turns and melts into the shadows, I here it say, "Sing no more, ye coward." I think to myself that these thieves are even more ruthless than I had originally figured, to simply kill their own. There are many differences between them and myself. Looking back into the corner, I decide to change into what appears to be a sort of uniform for these thieves. Maybe I will get further if I look a little more like them. As I leave this chamber, I look at the rough map I made of Southwall as I looked around. There can only be two or three places to look at west of here. The closest one is near the well where I had encountered those orcs. I follow the street north of the well and then around to it's west side. I turn right and enter the door. Searching this corridor I find nothing. Moving to the door in the north-east corner, I enter and begin to search this chamber. There is nothing to the east. In the west corner I find a trap door. Looking at the locks, it is not to difficult, so I open it. When I reappear in the open, I see an archway just ahead and to the left. As I try to enter. I run into an invisible barrier of some sort. There is a weasel looking man on the other side. He motions for me to write on the slightly fogged surface of the clear barrier. What had that dying thief said, "Beh..." I thought for second. Just as I started to write, a thought, and then I scrawled what I thought it should be. The weasel pulls a lever and the barrier slides into the wall, I step into the room. As I reach the door in the north-east corner, Weasel realizes that I don't belong here. He sounds the alarm and attacks with four wolves. I slay him and then the wolves and then move through the door. The corridor twist right, then left, then right again. Halfway along I find a storage room with nothing of value in it. I must move quickly. At the end of the corridor, a door to the north. I enter and find yet another corridor. I follow the corridor right, then make a sharp turn to the left and head west. The corridor turns south and I run into two thieves moving quickly in my direction. Surprise on my side, I kill them both quickly. As I move south, I see a narrow stairway to the west, leading down. Taking this stairway, I step out into another corridor and feel a stone tile shift under my foot. Spears fire through holes in the wall. I try to dodge, but there are to many, and I have fresh wounds. Nothing fatal, but they still hurt. I move quickly, and find more stairs continuing downward. As I descend, I come out in yet another corridor. I quickly look for more traps, none. I move north, and turn a corner to see five doors. Two on the left and three on the right. I open the closest door on the right and enter. Pots and pans line the walls. It looks like I am standing in the kitchen. Shadows appear to move to south. As I approach, two bandits and two thieves stop their chores and attack. Not wanting them to sound another alarm, I move in quickly and drop all four where they stand. I open the door and stumble into the mess hall. By the looks of the half-eaten meals on the tables, and the empty benches, the alarm was sounded while they ate. I step forward and three thieves jump out of the shadows. I think their upset at me for disturbing their meal. Haste in mind now, I fell these quickly and move north for the door. Standing in the corridor again, I face another door. Pushing it open, I step into the sleeping quarters. I surprise four bandits who are trying to get their armor on. Sword already in hand, I rush into them and slay them quickly. In the north-west corner of the quarters, I open the door and find racks full of swords and well oiled leather armor hanging on pegs on the walls. Even bad weapons can cut. I head back to the corridor and turn left. Two doors are left to investigate. I step forward and open the door on the right. It is another storage room. Moving back to the corridor, I open the last door. I enter a lavishly decorated room with a large man sitting with his back to me behind a polished oak desk in the far north-east corner. He says, "You have become most troublesome, and I'm actually surprised that you have made it as far as you have. You will definitely make it no further." He stands and faces me. My jaw drops and shock registers. Lord Nasher? He starts to laugh and says, "I suppose I could tell you my plan, after all, you will be dying soon anyway. My name is Tandel Davaub and I am the founder of this place you have stumbled into. You cannot hope to stop me, my plans are already in place, as you can see. The Sword Coast will be under my control." He clenches his fist and looks directly at me, "Your beloved Lord Nasher will be assassinated and I will shall rule in his stead. With Neverwinter under my control, and Luskan as my ally, we shall go after Waterdeep itself." He quickly steps through a panel in the back wall as I start to move after him. Two thieves and three orcs, his guards, move to block my path. This man has more tricks up his sleeve than he first appeared. As his guards fall, I move quickly to his desk. I search his desk carefully. In a secret compartment, I find a diary with detailed information on his plans, but it bursts into flames as I hold it and I quickly drop it. I suddenly realize that the only way to remove the threat to Lord Nasher is to catch Davaub. I find the secret panel and step through it. The panel slams shut, leaving me only one way to go. As I start to climb the rungs of the ladder, I see movement out of the corner of my eye. Turning, I see a sword flash towards me. A gasp of pain escapes my lips as feel the blade slice across my arm. Davaub turns and says, "I will finish you myself." as he and two bandits and two thieves attack. His armor may look like Lord Nashers, but it is cheap in comparison as my sword rips through his plate and he falls. With their leader dead, the others don't fight quite so hard and I slay them as well. I climb the rungs and clear the well. As I look around, I realize that I must report to Lord Nasher as quickly as possible. As I enter the palace, the guards look at me in surprise. Blood is still seeping from the cut on my arm. I ask to see Lord Nasher about the mission he had given me. The escort takes me to the back of the palace where I wait. Lord Nasher appears and signals for his attendants to at least clean and dress my wounds. I explain in detail my findings in regards to the thieves den. He sits silent for a moment then says, "You have done well Garthlik. I am just sorry that the rouge Davaub could not be brought forward for justice." He looks up at me and continues, "I knew your parents, Elthryn and Amrythale. Your father as a fine ranger and your mother a good priestess of Mielikki. You do them no dishonor. I had thought to charge you with following their path, but, now I realize that would be wrong. You have started down the path of the ranger, and you are doing well. I say to you that if you wish to combine the paths of ranger and thief, I will bless it. Always help those weaker than yourself, and be true to who you are." With that, he left the chamber and I rose to leave. Follow the combined paths of ranger and thief? Would others accept me? So many had turned their backs to me at the mere thought of a thief near them. As I left the palace, I realized that I needed rest. I turned left and followed the street to Daglow's Inn. There I purchased a meal, drink, and a room. Before retiring, I wondered if my father's brotherhood would accept me, the wayward son returned home. Well, that was for another day, sleep for now.(submitted by: Murtano) Two recent knightings in Camelot.... Murtano/Sr Murtano former Squire to Sylphee - Champion of KORT Sir Str/Str187 former Squire to Sir Corw1n/Corw1n <><><><><> <><><><><> Gimme a Scoop! Enter the weekly News of the Realm contest by submitting text for publishing. If your Announcement, Article, Helpful Hint, NW Abby Question, Poem, Fiction, or Tidbit wins, you'll have won your choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes)! Submit all text to screenname: NW NEWS. <><><><><> <><><><><>