==========oOo========== NEVERWINTER NEWS Issue # 144 Week Ending 7-28-96 ==========oOo========== *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* FRONT PAGE *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* Congratulations to Metr0n for winning last week's News of the Realm contest for his story entitled "Labors of Love". Metr0n has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes). Keep up the good work! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> POISONED WATER SUPPLY! Lord Nasher was concerned. He had begun receiving reports of sudden deaths within the city, initially they seemed to be isolated instances. There was no sign of violence and the victims ranged in age and profession. The trickle of messages rapidly became a torrent as the outlying regions began to notice similar occurrences. As the Mayor poured through the reports and consulted with his advisors and guard, it quickly became clear that a great illness was sweeping through the city. Was it plague or some terrible magical attack inflicted upon the people of the town? Responding quickly, Lord Nasher sent his guard to interview the families of those afflicted, searching for a similar factor in each of the cases. To his dismay, it quickly became apparent that the city's water supply had become contaminated. It was thought that perhaps the sewer had begun leaking into the cisterns or mayhaps the bodies which could be spotted floating in the river from time to time, had carried disease. In any case, it was clear that there was a serious problem with the water supply. Acting swiftly, clerics from each of the Temples in the city prayed for assistance, casting spells of purification upon the water tanks. They worked tirelessly cleansing batchs of water for use by the city's folk while Vern, the sewer man, repaired a few damaged valves, and the river was dragged to remove all the debris. Lord Nasher's finest were called upon to help purify the water and transport supplies of the valuable fluid to the outlying areas. It seemed that the city would manage to survive this setback, provided that the newly cleansed water really was pure. Realizing the risk to anyone testing the batches and the huge number of different samples that needed to be checked, Lord Nasher called for volunteers offering a reward to those who were willing to risk great illness or even death! (Resist 3 Poisons, win 3 pearls) Lord Nasher's guard positioned themselves in five locations and called for hardy and brave volunteers. Over 160 citizens responded! By the end of the evening, a great many deadly batches of water had been identified and the clean water had been distributed throughout the city. Not long after, sewer repairs were completed and the river was cleaned. Once again, the courageous actions of the citizens of the city had saved the day and garnered them a reward from Lord Nasher himself! Thanks to all who participated and ran booths, congratulations to those who won! NW Events Winners ------------- abk sentry abklongbow aurela backbitr baneknight bauvlin bd celtic boltthrwr cervaros daevion deemonia delracnid drakmore69 duke pug eliseer12 ers reaper fyry death gardian gary2922 goodygater hc carak heligtight hellsangyl illmatter ingenjeger itb hate itb onyx jnar4u jp cape kadi0n kali sedai keglord kh0lari kto alan kto vecna ktokheldir kytis gor ldy cyber lev1ath0n lord chadd loveunholy lrd markus lrd raz0r marius1350 mat gaidin mavralyn mech aielo mech lotus mech moses mech pulse mech ryman mech zorro modalex moradinson mordor xax n0r dravn niro olorin val openw0und paulw15712 powerdog95 redbear pb redflow rhys kom sara sedai sarhth0r sir vermin sol ent1ty sol lethal sorilea sr shumard ssc taerl taim asha tanandea tcs elvin temudjinn thdrakside tp havok tptec tripwire undeadmage v arawn vet vic wgw rhuarc xo2 zeus xym0x zacnefear2 zotreth <><><><><> <><><><><> WATER SUPPLY UPDATE!! The sudden and seemingly inexplicable death of many of Neverwinter's finest citizens gave cause for the Lord Mayor to assign his agents to immediately find the root of this newest horror. It was not long before it was ascertained that the only common thread among the deceased was the Neverwinter water supply. Lord Nasher promtly assigned five agents to test and treat the water and put out the call for valiant men and women of Neverwinter to assist in testing the new water treatment, with the promise of great reward (if they survived). Twenty-five brave souls came to Donagh's Water Treatment Plant to see if the new process was safe for humanoid consumption. Sadly, seventeen did not live to receive the Lord Mayor's reward. However, those surviving found a new treatment for the water supply and have declared Neverwinter's water safe for humanoid consumption! Winners of three (3) pearls were: Sol Lethal, Lrd Markus, ERS Reaper, GoodyGater, Bauvlin, Lord Chadd, Deemonia, and Backbitr. Congratulations to the winners and thanks to everyone who came out and participated!!!!! NWA Donagh <><><><><> <><><><><> Location Hunt Winner!! The clue tonight was "This store room is full of caravan supplies, along with harnesses...". A rather tough clue as these things go. Took about 20 minutes before a winner found it :) Mech Riots was the first to reach the caravan harnesses in the Nightsedge Caverns :) <><><><><> <><><><><> July GoH Booth #2 Winner!! "To cool the GoHers off, a beverage called the "cooling effect" was introduced, and a booth was made to see who can withstand its effect. Able to make anyone cool in any sort of heat, the beverage can also be deadly with its freezing abilities on one's body: creating damage like an ice storm, and causing one to save versus a slay living effect, or die. Congratulations to Thorn Hawk, who was able to not only survive its effects, but take the lowest amount of damage from it as well, and wins 6 pearls." -- NW Strahd :) <><><><><> <><><><><> New Player Tour 7/25/96 10:00 pm ET Having been assigned two cases to investigate, I awaited the staunch volunteers I knew would be arriving soon. It was not long before some rather hardy adventuring types came to my location at the entrance to the Neverwinter Gardens and were eager to rid the region of any treachery they could find. Seeing that these brave souls had some experience, I chose the tougher of the assignments given me by the Lord Mayor....to investigate the strange happenings at the ship, the Gallant Prince in Port Llast Harbor. Renthar, Tirac1, PawMcGloin, Br0ther, Wulfgar352, RandJaegr2, and I left the Neverwinter Gardens heading north to the warehouse region of the city. Though we could see all manner of beasts hiding in the shadows of the warehouses, they cowered away from the heavily armed band. As we passed through the gates to the wilder lands just south of the town of Windy Cliffs, we ran into Sshot13, who joined our eager band. After quickly dispatching several lizardmen and pyro snakes, we reached the Inn at Windy Cliffs. Unfortunately, Sshot13 left our party there, and though we called for him; we did not see him again. We headed north again. Not far from the northern edge of Windy Cliffs we happened upon Ben120994 as he battled viscious wolves and a great vilstrak. He thanked us for coming to his aid and we asked him to join us in our investigation of the Gallant Prince. As we headed north again and the Neverwinter patrols thinned the danger was apparent. Suddenly a horde of giant rats and hungry wild (and large) boars were upon us. We all charged the beats! But somewhere from behind us, as Renthar began to engage, the Punt Monster stalked Renthar. Sadly, we were unable to help as the brutal monster laid claim to his only victim of the night. Though it showed its face, and bared its fangs, poor Renthar was the only one lost to him. After dealing with the wild animals of the north we headed for The Griffon Inn at Port Llast. We quickly memorized spells, rested, and left the inn for the ghost ship in the harbor. As we neared the harbor, grunts were heard from the shadows ahead of us on the dark path. What looked like a giant centipede crossed with a giant squid suddenly came at us. The carrion crawler was spurred on by a band of bugbears behind it. RandJaegr2 bravely ran forward to meet the ghastly beast. I yelled a warning to "...'ware the crawlers bite!"...but it was to late...the paralyzing sting of the crawler, and the deadly aim of the bugbears' bows claimed the life of the brave Rand. We took a vengeance on the monsters as we pressed on to the harbor. The guard at the pier warned us not to enter, lest we be fools or treasure seekers, which he felt were one in the same. Tirac scoffed at the guard as we pushed past him. We searched the captain's and crew's quarters, finding nothing more than moth eaten clothes and rat droppings. But as we moved deeper into the bowels of the ship, the stench of a troll assaulted our nostrils. As we came through the door to the galley a huge troll and several bugbear met their fate with just speed as Br0ther cast a deadly accurate spell on the buggies and the rest of us took on the troll. Stopping only to gather our wits, Wulfgar shouted, "Tempus!" and rushed for the nearest door. The blood rushed from our heads as we seemed to be lifted from the deck. When the rush of blood from our heads abated, we turned to look down the corridor and saw three hooded women coming at us. As the women began to drop their hoods and stare at us they soon found themselves looking at their own reflection in out mirrors and mirror shields. The hideous meduase were no match for the hardy band of investigators. As we stepped over the falled stone statues of the now dead medusae, we saw the sparkle of small brass buttons on the floor just ahead. PawMcGloin recognized the buttons held the sigil of the the Pirate Captains of Luskan! And we all knew if the Pirates od Luskan were involved, the Mages of the Hosttower of the Arcane had to be behind them. We headed back to Neverwinter to advise Lord Nasher of our evidence. The question now was, how far would the Pirates of Luskan go....? Thanks to everyone that came out for the tour. A great time was had by all! NWA Donagh <><><><><> <><><><><> *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* 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: July 29th *Monday 2:00 AM EDT - with NW Vorpal. July 31st Wednesday 9:00 PM EDT - with NW Vic. August 3rd Saturday 4:00 PM EDT - with NWA Taltos. * Technically, this is Tuesday, because it's after midnight but we kept it this way because it is Monday evening. ;> Those interested in any of these tours should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> The Mallorn Tree (submitted by: Luthyen) Luthyen stood on the balcony by the mighty tree, and watched as Thorn Hawk swung to the ground. As he loped towards the garden gate, he raised his hand in farewell to his lady. She returned the wave, sad at his departure, but understanding of the duty owed to Goddess and guild. Turning from the Garden, she reentered Castle Stalker and went to her room. Brushing her long brown hair, her eyes fell upon a Mithril-chased casket beside the bowl containing the lake lilly. Taking it up, she opened it to reveal a grey-hued nut nestled in a blue velvet bed. Her finger stroked it...the seed of a mallorn tree, brought out of Lothlorien, and handed down through the elven side of her family. Luthyen's thoughts went back to her family, far from Neverwinter. Her mother it was who had held the casket before her, and never planted it. Luthyen and her sister Tynuvel had often speculated on what it held and the history of the case. Tynuvel had left them, marrying Feldir and finally lost in the service of Mulmar of the High Dales. Their mother had given Luthyen the precious heirloom, saying only, "When it is time to plant, ye will know." Closing the lid, Luthyen replaced the mithril chased case next to Thorn Hawk's flower. Lightly tracing the lilly's edge, she thought of the ranger who had stolen her heart. It was difficult for him to be inside Castle Stalker. The huge ediface of stone, while providing Luthyen with the workspace she needed for her training, her baking and her studies, was confining for a Ranger of the woods. Used to the freedom of Meilikki's forests, Thorn felt confined when sleeping within walls. Luthyen sighed. Castle Stalker had been Gambit's, magically transferred from Rhydin to be their home in Neverwinter. Each room held some memory of the Drow and their life together. Before they had met and married, her home had been in a small cottage in the woods outside Windycliffes. Set in a pineforest, with her herb and flower gardens outside the kitchen, the cottage had satisfied her elven heart. It was good to have a space in Neverwinter, a private home in the City, for the Guild Hall was very busy..but in truth her heart missed the forest as well. She thought back to her mother's words, and thought perhaps she knew. Binding the Elfstone to her brow, Luthyen picked up the silver case and went to the stables to saddle Midnight. Leaving the city, she turned towards the Dryads' grove. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Putting down her mug of tea and chasing the last of the brownies they'd shared, Luthyen finished telling Tarma her dilemma. The Dryad Queen huggled her friend. "Why, dear, that's not a problem...I know just the spot..." She led Luthyen to a secluded part of the Grove, where the trees were of pine, close to a waterfall and the paths to the wilder woods. "This clearing held a shrine to Meilikki," Tarma explained. "See, the stones are there..I've been meaning to rebuild it, but with the recent troubles, I just haven't gotten to it..but perhaps Thorn could..and anyway, I think it would be a special place for him." Luthyen embraced the Dryad. "Thank you so much!" she whispered. "It is indeed the perfect place..." Taking the mithril case from her pack, she opened it and took out the mallorn nut. Making a small hole across the clearing from the shrine, she buried the seed, then stood beside the small mound. Closing her eyes, she raised her arms and murmured to the Ladies of the Stars and the Woods, asking their blessing upon the growing of the tree, and all who would be a part of it. The Elfstone began to glow and shimmer. Tarma's eyes grew wide as the glow intensified and focused on the mound holding the new-planted tree. Luthyen begain to sway and move to unheard music, dancing an Elven form and singing in her high clear voice. As the Dryad Queen watched, a slender sapling exited the earth and stretched towards the sky. It grew before her eyes to become a tall mallorn tree, with a trunk of greyish-silver and leaves of the brightest spring green. Tarma knew that in the autumn, these would turn a brilliant gold, then remain until the spring growth came again. As her song ended and the glow faded from the Elfstone, Luthyen opened her eyes and looked at her work. The crown of the tree stretched towards the sky, with branches at an easy height for climbing, and arranged so that a sleeping platform could be built. She was weary, but pleased. "It will do..aye, I think it will do fine."Top 10 Things To Do If You Wanna Show You're a Novice at PVP (submitted by: GARY ORL2) 10. Hollering "HACKER", anytime your opponent successfully saves several of your casts. 9. Casting a Stinking Cloud at you foe and have it fall harmlessly short 8. Targeting yourself... with a Hold monster, Fumble, Feeb, etc 7. Sprinting headlong into a cloud, in your hurry to flee from a Bulette, Griff, etc 6. Casually walking next to a held foe to lay a CAUSE on him, and having his partner "bonus" you with a Dispel! 5. Lb'ing your foe to test his Globe and in doing so.. catch a rebound yourself, with no Globe of your own. 4. Guarding, instead of passing, when you moved and couldn't cast.. and end up killing the last NPC.. and losing. 3. Memming Cure Crits instead of cause Crits,... and casting them on your opponent. 2. Failing to prep Invis last, so it loses its affect... then you enter the battle, get pounded by the NPCs, and are half dead and unglobed.. after 1 round 1. Being clever, you wish to "fake" a Globe, and choose to cast Resist Fire instead of a Protection from Good or Evil. So.. how many of these.. have you seen or maybe done???? Gary Orl2 Royal Knight of CORAdventurer's Day (submitted by: Lake Mist) Among a huddled and murmuring crowd Inside the Vilnask Inn on an early morn, Dwelt two humble travelers, earthen clad and proud, Whose thoughts were on the new day born. To those who listen, they spoke out with a start, The two as one, Be not afraid to trust thy heart, And with us to find young Willo ye shall come. None of you be new or old, And none of you be a knave, On this morn, the truth be told, Ye are all much brave. The thieves amongst thee, Will now and always make advances, Borne of your fears that they see, They will always attempt to steal your chances. Within all this realm thieves exist, So come together to travel as one, And every race shall clench their fist, And travel together into the new day's sun. Do not stay hidden behind these walls, If ye do not travel freely, ye shall despair, Hide here in fear, ye shall answer the thieves calls, Outside amongst the living, ye can love and care. Thieves so full of want and greed, Should not be given any places, To plant their distrustful and fearful seed, Within this realm or it's truly caring races. Just travel with us and ye shall see, That freedom and joy is not forbidden, There are places to explore and places to be, Your fears and distrust of others keep them hidden. The fear of thieves has made ye weak, The only thieves that shall remain, That slow your arms and not ye speak, Are those which sneak and hide within your brains. Worse than any ten demons, Worse than any ten trolls, Worse than death and his summons, Is the thief that steals your souls. This morning burst upon us with open sight, As the world sprang to life all aglow, The faces of the crowd were shiny and bright, They had suddenly begun to understand and grow. With a new confidence and a new trust, Upon the road they set to do this quest, Their shields were slung and swords were thrust, As they set out to see themselves and do their best. Hold each day's joy within your heart, And the presence of thieves, When ye take the chance and make a start, Shall follow the path of winter's leaves. Ye are free to adventure amongst the realm, How joyous and bright the realm shall be, As ye discover yourself and Mielikki's helm, While the sun travels and nears a peaceful sea. Travel well, and may good prevail through the path, As we begin anew on this Adventurer's Day.Adventurers Day by Lake Mist Among a huddled and murmuring crowd Inside the Vilnask Inn on an early morn, Dwelt two humble travelers, earthen clad and proud, Whose thoughts were on the new day born. To those who listen, they spoke out with a start, The two as one, Be not afraid to trust thy heart, And with us to find young Willo ye shall come. None of you be new or old, And none of you be a knave, On this morn, the truth be told, Ye are all much brave. The thieves amongst thee, Will now and always make advances, Borne of your fears that they see, They will always attempt to steal your chances. Within all this realm thieves exist, So come together to travel as one, And every race shall clench their fist, And travel together into the new day's sun. Do not stay hidden behind these walls, If ye do not travel freely, ye shall despair, Hide here in fear, ye shall answer the thieves calls, Outside amongst the living, ye can love and care. Thieves so full of want and greed, Should not be given any places, To plant their distrustful and fearful seed, Within this realm or it's truly caring races. Just travel with us and ye shall see, That freedom and joy is not forbidden, There are places to explore and places to be, Your fears and distrust of others keep them hidden. The fear of thieves has made ye weak, The only thieves that shall remain, That slow your arms and not ye speak, Are those which sneak and hide within your brains. Worse than any ten demons, Worse than any ten trolls, Worse than death and his summons, Is the thief that steals your souls. This morning burst upon us with open sight, As the world sprang to life all aglow, The faces of the crowd were shiny and bright, They had suddenly begun to understand and grow. With a new confidence and a new trust, Upon the road they set to do this quest, Their shields were slung and swords were thrust, As they set out to see themselves and do their best. Hold each day's joy within your heart, And the presence of thieves, When ye take the chance and make a start, Shall follow the path of winter's leaves. Ye are free to adventure amongst the realm, How joyous and bright the realm shall be, As ye discover yourself and Mielikki's helm, While the sun travels and nears a peaceful sea. Travel well, and may good prevail through the path, As we begin anew on this Adventurer's Day. Songs of the Wind - Part 5 The Messenger (submitted by: Thorn Hawk) The sun had set long before I entered the inn to be greeted by Lani, the innkeeper's daughter. Traveling far to reach this inn, I was looking forward to having owlbear ribs before setting off again in the morning. "It's late to be traveling, Thorn," said Lani. "I was looking forward to a plate of thine owlbear ribs that thy mother fixes," I replied, kneeling down and kissing Lanis' hand, causing her to blush. "I....will check," she mumbled, as she ran into the kitchen. I messed up her hair as she turned to leave, while moving to a nearby table. Waving to the bartender, a stout fellow I didn't know, I ordered an ale and listened to the talk around me. One conversation, in the corner, caught my attention. "The whole place was ash," gestured one merchant. Shocked, "Everything . . . the house, the barn?" replied his companion. "I said the whole place, nothing was standing." "Didn't you see if anyone lived?" "Of course I did. You think I wanted them sneaking up on me after I passed?" "Well?" "They were all dead. Everything was killed . . . everything," disbelief evident in the merchant's voice. "Orcs?" "I didn't stay around long enough to . . . " It was then that my food arrived along with my ale. Setting thoughts of orcs and burnt farms aside, I began devouring my food. After my meal was finished, I glanced around noting the merchant and his friend had departed. Since it was late, I decided to stay the night. Paying for my meal, I headed for the only room left, a loft above the stables. At least it was dry, I thought, as I climbed the ladder. Lighting a candle, I studied a few spells I thought might be useful in finding those responsible for burning the farm near here. I was raised with a distrust of magic, but since coming here it has proved useful. Saying a quick prayer to watch over my old teachers spirit, Kalean, I promptly fell asleep. Feeling something hitting my head, I woke to find a seagull regarding me with what I can only call disappointment. "What the . . . ?" I stammered, moving abruptly away from the bird. A flapping of wings and a loud squawk answered my question. The gull began hopping around and making lots of noise while looking at me. I think it was waiting for a response. Having no idea what this noisy bird wanted, I casted a spell allowing me to talk with it. With sad eyes, the gull shook his head. "I can't believe you don't speak my tongue." "I...haven't had a call to before, friend." "I was sent by my friend, Ender Bay, to find his brothers and sisters and ask them a question." "Which is . . . ?" "He sent me to the bunkhouse to see if anyone has seen Cerdith. Have You?" "I ah . . . no. I haven't seen her. I have never met her to tell the truth. How did ye find me, since this is not the bunkhouse and I have not been there in sometime?" "It was the symbol you wear," tapping my chest with its beak. "Oh," nodding, "will you carry a message to Ender for me?" "Yes." Digging in my pack, I didn't find any scraps of paper. I did manage to find an old scroll. Casting the spell, one of detection, I began writing. Dear Ender, Alas brother for I have not seen Cerdith nor do I know what she looks like for I have never met our sister. I have been gone from the bunkhouse for many days and do not plan on being back there for many more. I have business to take care of at the moment, but will begin searching for our sister once this minor problem is solved. If I find anything of use, I will leave messages at any beaver pond I come across. Until then, I remain, Your brother, Thorn Hawk. Strapping the message to the leg of the patiently waiting gull, I stroked its feathers and bid it fair winds. "Farewell," it cried as it climbed into the sky and headed eastward. Packing my few belongings, I headed toward the East, as well, with the rising sun in my face. Thorn Hawk, Brotherhood of PathfindersSongs of the Wind - Part 6 (submitted by: Cerdith) The swelling voice of the chorus burst through her unconscious thoughts carrying before it any remnant of reason. The flawless melding of the voices, the harmonies imposed upon the listening mind and soul were devastating in their perfection. Listening with her all, no longer cognizant of her material form, Cerdith felt every movement, crescendo, and transition. Her world had become this alone, her existence intertwined with the songs she had heard on the wind. ~~~~ A fortnight into the mountains Cerdith had discovered the trail. It was old and any tracks which had once given indication of the creatures that used it were long since swept away. The joy of discovery and exploration had brought a smile to her face as she marked the entrance to the ancient track carefully. The Brotherhood of Pathfinders used a very simple code to indicate to fellow members the status and condition of trails such as these. Her message indicated her passage and that the way was presently unknown. Any of her brethren who came after would recognize the message, though most other creatures would never even notice the markers. The passage had not yielded any secrets the first several days, but on the fourth evening the ranger had discovered a barely noticable trail marker. It was not a Pathfinder message and Cerdith had been unable to decipher the meaning -- though she could tell that it was very very old. The next morning she had found an old shrine built a style unusual for this area. Stepping from the stand of trees into a small glade, Cerdith saw a circle of stone pillars. Most stood only man-height, several had toppled over from their obvious positions and all were covered with a layer of moss. Carefully walking around the holy place, she noted the smaller flat stone nearly buried in the turf. After standing silently for a moment in respect, the ranger stepped forward to clean the table top. Carefully setting her pack aside, Cerdith rummaged and then lifted a small earthenware bottle. Uncorking it gently, she began to sprinkle the holy water upon the altar. As the water trickled from the bottle and then began to run off the stone into the grass, the ranger bent her head in prayer to Mielikki. Reconsecrating the shrine in the only manner that she could without being a priestess herself, Cerdith completed the blessing. Stepping once more outside of the circle, she continued on this ancient and very cold path. On the eve of the 9th day, after she had passed the strange markers and spent the afternoon attempting to decipher their meaning, the terrain had given way to truely treacherous footing. The trail was all but gone now, but still she pressed onward. The birds and the small animals of the forest were less commonly seen now, and the ranger began to wonder finally, where she tread that the creatures of nature seemed reticent to make their homes here. She had heard the wind howling its fury as the storm slashed through the trees, tearing branches from trunks with fury. The leaves which tenaciously clung to the trees rustled fiercely with every blast, imitating the sounds of the steadily falling rain. Rushing air twisted and spun taking impossibly convoluted pathways and chilling the ranger to the bone as it whistled past the struggling figure. She needed to find shelter soon before the full might of the weather fell upon her. Pulling her cloak tighter around her, she pressed forward against the barrier of rain and wind that beat against her. This weather had come upon her so suddenly and unexpectedly. These mountains were known for their rapid changes of weather, but this storm felt unnatural in its fierceness. The more temperate lowlands never yielded this sort of resistance and Cerdith felt her strength ebbing as she forced her way along the small track. At last, she had discovered the small clearing and built her carefully constucted shelter of dead wood and downed branches. And not soon after that, she had noticed the first notes of the song on the wind.Songs of the Wind - Part 7 (submitted by: Zeb Canon) The light in the oil lamp started to dim, giving the small room large shadows. With sleepy eyes Zeb Cannon scanned another sheet of parchment. Slowly his head lowered closer to the desk as he read the sheet again. Dimmer the light faded in the lamp as Zeb jerked his head back up and sticking a knuckle into his eyes. Stretching in the chair he reached for the parchment and went back to reading. Eyes closing for a few seconds and then straining back open was repeated several times, with each time a little longer staying closed. Finally as the last of the light died so did Zeb's head hit the desk. A strange glow began to seep out of Zeb's shirt. Starting to pulse with his breathing it grew stronger. Then softly hardly heard a whisper called, "Zeeebbbb Caaannnnoooonnnnn". After a moment it came again but a little louder, "Zeebb Caannnnoonnn come to me." Head flat on the desk Zeb did not even move to the sound of the voice. To make matters worse a slight snore began. With a tone of disgust the voice shouted, "ZEB CANNON!" With his name echoing in his head Zeb sprang back from the desk and as the chair gave way to his momentum Zeb continued to go back. As the chair fell back to the floor taking Zeb along his feet caught the edge of the desk. The crash of the chair hitting the floor was just a little quieter than the crash of the desk going the other way. Papers seeing a chance to mix themselves up and cause all kinds of mischief for poor Zeb flew up into the air and began to drift down everywhere. The ink pot not to be left out of the fun spied Zeb on the floor with his feet in the air and made a desperate jump for his lap. With the unerring accuracy of the local birds, the ink pot spun and just before it hit released its canned. Eyes blinking, Zeb looked around the devastated room and his lap as he called a small light globe into being. Getting up off the floor he could hear the shouts out in the sleeping room of the bunkhouse begin. Reaching for the door knob Zeb started to open the door when it was yanked open by Thorn Hawk. Still holding the door Zeb was pulled forward but the ink pot was not done with Zeb for as he went forward he stepped on the pot and went flying out the door. Crashing into Thorn Hawk, they both went into a roll. Surprised, Thorn Hawk reflexes took over and going with the roll pulled Zeb over him and pushing with his legs threw Zeb into several of the bunk beds. With the added momentum from Thorn Hawk, Zeb hit the beds and knocked the first one over. Needless to say it crashed into the next one and a chain reaction was started. Rangers jumping out of the falling bunk beds up set other beds. Climbing out of the rubble of the beds, Zeb faced several of his brothers and sisters standing there looking at him. Before he could say anything Zeb's foot found some of the jello that was missed in the last jello fight. Falling forward he stuck out his arms to catch his balance and hit one of the young rangers in the chest. Turning around to apologize, Zeb saw a fist heading right at him. Dropping to the floor the fist shot over his head and connected with one of the other rangers. This lead to another poorly thrown punch which didn't connect with the intended party. Soon fists were flying, legs kicking, and heads butting. In general a free for all had started. Just as things were getting good the bunkhouse door opened and a commanding figured watched for a minute before shouting, "Stop fighting right now!" Like a bucket of water on a small flame the fighting stopped. More like one massive hold spell was cast, for everyone froze in there spot. Hands drawn back for a punch, fists with shirts in them, arms around heads, all action stopped. Into the still room walked Neerdowell, guild master of the fighting rangers, looking sternly into the eyes of everyone. With a tinge of anger in his voice he asks, "Who started this?" All eyes turned to look at Zeb. Then one by one arms move and fingers pointed to Zeb. "Zeb, I want this placed cleaned up. NOW! And tomorrow I want to speak to you." Neerdowell said as he turn to leave. "Zeb go get cleaned up. I will get things straight in here." said Thorn Hawk with a smile. "Thanks Thorn. I'll explain later....I think." Taking the path down to the creek, Zeb starts to go over what happened in his mind. As he reaches the creek a sudden tug on his neck makes him reach into his shirt and pull out the ancient medallion. Seeing a glow about the medallion, Zeb sees that it glows brighter as he turns it toward the west. Intrigued he starts to move further into the woods moving the medallion back and forth. Entering a clearing he sees a woman sitting on a stump petting a fawn. Looking up from the fawn the woman says, "Well tis about time thee got here. What be that on your lap young Zeb?" she says with an impish gleam in her eyes. Sliding a hand down to his lap, Zeb starts to turn red in the face as he answers, "Jus...Just some....Just some ink Mother." "Aye, Thee must tell me the tale of its appearance," Mielikki says with a laugh and a grin. "But not right now. Thee and I have much to discuss and time runs past us. So pay close attention young Zeb for thy life my depend on it." "First I be happy with the lesson you gave to the others. Thee has grown in more than just thy body. Tis good to spread my word to others. Never forget that you lead others to me by your words and actions. Now where be thy sister and my daughter?" "Which daughter are you asking about Mother?" "Try not to be dense young Zeb. Who is missing from thy brotherhood? "At last report Mother all are accounted for." "What about thy sister whose blood boils for trolls. Where be she on your so called report or thy brother who greets the fish?" "Trolls? Fish? Mother what are you talking about?" "Think young Zeb. Think!" "You mean Cerdith and Ender. Why they were to go out on a little picnic on the river. I sent a message to Ender by his gull a few days ago saying she was not here and probably on her way to meet him. Why Mother?" "Trollsbane never found the river young Zeb. She found something else. Something old Zeb. Something that should not have awakened. It calls to her and soon it will call to others as it grows stronger. Even now it lures the fish speaker also. You must find them young Zeb and help them. I do not command thee to go but ask. For there is danger along the way as well as the possible loss of thy life. And that I will not command thee to do. But know this my help will be small and at times not given when needed most. For I can not interfere with what will pass but when things are darkest remember that my love goes with thee and all my children." "Close thy eyes and listen to the wind young Zeb. Listen past the sounds of birds. Past the sounds of the crickets. Past the speech of the trees. Listen to the wind." One by one the sounds of the forest fades and just as Zeb was about to fall asleep a faint note is heard like the beginning of a song. Straining to catch the notes, Zeb tunes out all sound even the sound of his heart beating. Just when he is about to give up again he hears the sound of music. Faint and barely heard but it is there and enticing. "Young Zeb! Come back to me." whispers the Lady of the Forests. Hearing that voice breaks the hold of the song on Zeb as once again he starts to blink his eyes. "What was that Mother?" asks Zeb. "That tis the song that draws the others. Tis the song that you must find if you are to free the others. Find it Zeb but do not listen to it for it will ensnare thee as tight as it traps the others. Now you must go for I have done all that I can." "Wait Mother where should I start to look?" With a smile on her lips she says, "Look to thy heart young Zeb and what thy know of the others. And Young Zeb clean thy self up how can ye represent me looking like that." Leaving the clearing, Zeb takes one look back over his shoulder and finds that the clearing is empty. Running back to the stream and on up to the bunkhouse Zeb sees that all the lights are out. Quietly he enters and finds that most of the room has been cleaned up with loud snores coming from several of the beds. Entering his room, he changes clothes and stuffs more into a pack. Grabbing his spell book from the floor and taking the flail off the wall, Zeb goes to the kitchen for some supplies. Scratching a quick note and putting it on the table he heads to the back door of the bunk house and into the night.Songs of the Wind - Part 8 The Lady of the Woods (submitted by: Lake Mist) The sky above the woods, now full of rain clouds, seemed to swirl slowly. My body shook and ached, and I thought it would be better to be dead. If I could have reached my dagger, I might have finished it. Looking around, I saw a young woman, or what appeared to be a young woman, staring up at the sky and chanting in a flat, detached voice, "Rain, rain, rain. Wash away and soothe the pain." Beside me, I saw my long sword and elfin chain. I didn't remember taking it off after the battle. The battle. What had happened? I didn't remember getting hit. Something had come up from behind. Had slithered through the underbrush. Yes! A punt beast had attacked just as an evil dagger had slashed toward me. The second battle. I remembered, I had finished the first battle, and another had started. But what else had happened. There must have been poison on the dagger's blade. I felt terrible. Looking at the woman again, I noticed that she wore an emerald green robe, trimmed with gold piping. There was a fire blazing nearby in the clearing. The woman's long auburn hair was loose around her face and hung down past he shoulders. She was lovely and I thought that I should know her. Skin raw and muscles brittle, I could do no more than close my eyes and fall back to sleep. When I awoke again, the woman had moved closer to the fire and was watching me. "Feeling better?" she asked. I shook my head "No" with great effort. "Well, you will soon. Your wounds are clean now. You just need time now." She sounded confident, but I wasn't sure. Poisoned wounds started at the point of penetration, and if they didn't kill you immediately, they often festered slowly, draining all life from you, draining your health, until....until what? How do you actually die? I didn't know. Maybe my body would just grow tired and not go on. Suddenly, a drop of rain hit me on the temple. My muscles tightened for the deluge I knew was going to hit. But the rain began slowly with big drops that splashed into the fire and turned to steam. They began to land on my face, cold at first, but soothing somehow, as if they were not only cleansing my body, but my soul as well. I raised my hands and smeared the rain over my face. The rain tasted wonderful. I was starting to feel refreshed. As I looked down at the wound on my left arm, I noticed that all that was left was a black scar. This rain was somehow washing the poison from body. I looked over at the woman once again. This time she had a stern look about her. She pointed her hand at me and said "The most serious of crimes has happened to these woods. Tolls to travel freely have been demanded by those who have no right. An evil is at hand, and the future is not clear. I fear for the forest and the creatures that dwell there in. And your brother Calinor is on a quest to seek answers about your missing sister, Cerdith." "Before you make a stand, seek the counsel of your leaders and brothers, and follow the path that best serves all free people. Remember that you are a Pathfinder." With that, she rose and moved to the far side of the fire. "Remember this, you cannot fight alone. Seek counsel." By the time I had gotten to my feet, she was no where to be seen. Just vanished, as if swallowed by the forest. I laid back down near the fire, and was almost instantly asleep. When I awoke the next morning, the skies were clear, and I felt as if I had never been injured. I fixed a quick meal and ate. Then, remembering what the woman had said about Calinor, I donned my armor and strapped my long sword to my back. I would travel through Nightsedge to reach the Rankled Boar. My step was unusually brisk this bright spring morning, and as I walked, I passed some wild lilac and immediately thought of Primrose. Maybe she would be near Floodblest.The Hunter - Part 3 (submitted by: Thorn Hawk) Evening was fast approaching as the figure moved silently through the woods following the trail of his prey. Stopping, looking for a place to camp, the figure moved onwards deeper into the woods. A large tree stood surrounded by smaller trees, maybe its offspring, providing the perfect place to camp. Shadows had lengthened until the woods where covered in near gloom. A figure huddled among the fallen branches under the great tree. Not willing to risk lighting a fire for fear of alerting his quarry, the cloaked hunter ate a cold meal and fell asleep listening to a night bird's call. Cool mist shrouded the woods early the following morning as a group of men broke camp and prepared to move. A day's journey to the West, a man moved through the woods in silent pursuit of this group. He ran effortlessly and the great cloak he wore blended with the foliage giving him a ghostly appearance. A small hawk or falcon hunted overhead as the figure stopped by a diminutive brook to take a drink. Peering into the water, he saw a face that needed a shave and white hair now darkening to blonde, a testament to his time spent under a clouded sky. Unaware of the small fish that had suddenly poked its head out of the water to regard him with searching eyes, the man began his hunt in earnest. He could feel the presence of his prey. Overhead, the hawk dove . . . ~~~ Callus ran westward across the shifting sands and rocky outcropping of the sword. As he neared an oasis, his heart heavy with guilt and shame, he was unaware of the great cat that hunted near the pool this day. Rounding a rocky spur, he ran into the crouching form of a sand lion. The lion didn't move, just staring with large golden eyes, as Callus slowly moved to the side. Sniffing the ground where Callus had stood, the great cat, roaring a challenge, prepared to leap. Callus slowly let fall the desert hen he had killed earlier in the day and backed up. The cat, sensing an easy meal, moved toward the bird and began to eat, while Callus left the beast to its meal. Arriving at the oasis, Callus hid behind a large bush some distance from the pool. An oasis, such as this one, was rarely without a guardian. They were rare in the Sword and much prized when found by a tribe. This one didn't have any goats around it though, which was a good sign. Waiting to see if any would show, Callus thought back on recent events in his life. Just under two weeks ago, he had killed a wyvern, one that had destroyed many goats, while returning from a patrol. This beast had plagued his clan for many months before it could be tracked to its lair. He, alone, had seen it descend into a fissure among the rocks and went to investigate. The smart beast had sensed him and attacked Callus from the rear. Luck and not skill had saved Callus in that fight. He gained much honor among his clan with the killing of the wyvern. Callus gave a gift, an ivory bracelet, to a young woman named Vayess. He didn't know that his own brother also sought the attention of the same lady. One thing led to another and Callus had fled his clan. He would not fight his brother for the love of a woman, nor would Callus die in a fight which would bring shame on his clan and family, so he had fled only dishonoring himself. Not knowing where to travel, Callus fled to the West. The wells and springs were known to him in that direction, and in the desert water was life. A strange high-pitched call brought Callus out of his reverie. Looking, Callus found a bird sitting in a thorn bush only a few feet from the pool. Fearing the call to be the warning cry of a tribe of bedine, his distress was alleviated. Taking a closer look, he noticed the bird was a type of hawk. It was only slightly bigger than a sand thrush. With a light gray underbelly and tan body, the bird was hard to see. There was a bit of brown around its neck and throat, but the most striking feature was the black mask it wore about its eyes. Lowering the black mask that covered his mouth from the frequent sand storms, Callus smiled. With a sudden blur of motion, the hawk was in motion lifting high into the air only to dive abruptly from sight. Waiting, Callus watched as the hawk reappeared from around a dune carrying a small bird with its beak. Landing, once again in the thorn bush, it persisted in an attempt to impale the bird on a large thorn. Succeeding, the hawk began to eat its midmorning meal. Later, Callus felt reasonably secure in taking water from the pool. He rested under the same thorn bush the hawk used earlier until late in the day. As the sun dropped into the West, Callus began his long run westward. He was starting a new life and needed a new name. Callus was a name of the Alaie' and he was no longer one of them. With a light step in his stride, he moved swiftly away from the oasis. He had found a name along with a kindred spirit. The setting sun found Thorn Hawk many miles distant from a small bird with the same name . . . Thorn Hawk, Brotherhood of PathfindersMemoirs of a Paladin - Part 1 (submitted by: TP Havok) There was, Havok decided, something unpleasant about the tavern he sat in. The Copper Cow was not the cleanest tavern Havok had ever had the pleasure to drink in. Maybe it was the stale vomit oder that permiated to establishment. The Copper Cow named after the life sized cow made from copper that sat in the center of the main room, belonged to a halfling named Fester. Fester was short for a halfling, he had dark brown hair and wore a green doublet, trimed with black. Fester made frequent rounds throughout the tavern, visiting with patrons and keeping their mugs full. During one of Festers rounds Havok stopped the little man as he waldled by. "Pardon me small one, I am looking for a certain priest of Tymora.", Havok pronounced. "Hmmm... fat guy, balding, really dirty, with a red beard?", the hobbit responded. "Yes, thats the one, have you seen him?" "Never heard of him. Would you like some more ale?", the halfling said, changing the subject. Havok nodded, reached into his pouch and pulled out a small gem. "Maybe this will help ye remember friend.", Havok handed the gem to Fester. The halfling peered through the gem at a nearby lamp. "Oh, you mean Ramalamar.", he put the gem in the pouch at his belt. "He'll be in an hour or so." "Why thank ye small one, thy cooperation is most appreciated." Havok had been waiting for nearly two hours for Ramalamar. He was to meet the priest here to purchase a map to a hidden Zentrium base. Ramalamar was a local spy, keeping tabs on all the Zentrium activity in the area. Sometime later, a bald, obeese, dirty man dressed in the robes of a Tymorean Priest entered the tavern and took an empty table on the far side of the room, furthest from the door. Fester immediatly had food and drink taken to the large, smelly fellow. Havok finished his ale and walked over towrd him. As he approached the large man Havok noticed chunks of food stuck in the man's beard and food stains on the front of his robes. The stench of this large man was repulsive. "Milord, art thou Ramalamar?", Havok said as he pushed back the urge to gag. "That depends on whos asking.", the large man responded. Havok thought for a moment. " I am Havok, paladin of the Protectorate, squire to Phantra, who is of the Elite Guard and also Warlord of the Protectorate.", Havok stated proudly. " I was sent here by the elf, Rhiannon Strongbow." "You keep powerful company Havok of the Protectorate. I am who you are seeking.", the large man said, motioning for Havok to sit at his table. "How may I be of service to you milord?" " I require a map to the location of the Zentrium hidout in Berun.", Havok whispered, sitting down at the table. "That my friend is an expensive service.", Ramalamar said as he shoved food in his mouth. " I have that what you are asking. My prices are non-negotiable and final.", he spat chunks of food as he spoke. "How much does thou ask for such a service?", Havok asked, scanning the room. "Ten thousand gold and a minor magic item.", he said bluntly, shoving more food in his face. "Ten thousand gold?", Havok asked, looking suprised. "Doest thou take jewels?" "Jewels are fine Milord." Havok pulled from his pouch a small bag. He reached in the bag and pulled out a small coffer. The paladin gently pushed the coffer toward the priest. "There art more than enough jewels to meet Milords price.", Havok whispered. Havok reached in the bag again and pulled out a silver ring. "This is a minor Ring of Protection.", he handed the ring to Ramalamar. "I see you travel prepared Milord.", the priest said opening the coffer. Ramalamar made an attempt at wipping his hands off on his clothing, then pulled a scroll tube from within his robes. He tossed the tube to Havok and started to shovel more food. "I thank ye Milord. Ye have done a good thing this day." "Will you not join me for some supper Havok of the Protectorate?", the Priest asked with food and drink running down his beard. "I am sorry Milord, but I cannot. I must leave at once.", Havok proclaimed with a sense of relief. "Then I bid you farewell Havok of the Protectorate." Havok rose, gracefully bowed toward the large priest and disappeared into the night.Top 10 New Names for the Happy Halfling Inn (submitted by: Wgbt) It's the LateShow with Wagebolt, bringing you t'day straight from the home office, in the Triboar Arena, tonight's Top Ten list! Well, Mother Lifegiver, needless to say is fed up with her lack of customers at the "Happy Halfling Inn," Not surprising. I mean, what kind of name is the, "Happy Halfling" eh? Well, she's planning to change all that, she's thinking of names to make it's title a little more notable and something that will make her inn stand out. So Tonight we have: TOP TEN NEW NAMES FOR THE HAPPY HALFLING INN AT WESTBRIDGE 10)The Delirious Drow 9)The Crazy CLAM 8)The Bouncing Bacteria 7)The Perculiar Paladin 6)The Klunkity KAAOSer 5)The Dumpy Dwarf 4)The Skitty Itty Bitty 3)The Munching MECH 2)The Pugnant Pirate "And now the #1 new name for the Happy Halfling inn at WestBridge!" 1)Hooters!!! ::Wagebolt turns and throws the card out the window:: (WorldWide Plate) "This metal really gleams!" Battle of Berun's Hill (submitted by: Sol Arthur) (Sung to Led Zepplin's, Battle of Evermore) o/~ The Soldier of Light took his bow..... and then he turned to go... o/~ o/~ The God of War embraced the gloom and walked the night alone... o/~ o/~ Ahhhhh..... dancing the dark of night.... sing to the Soldiers of Light..... o/~ o/~ House ITB rides in force tonight.. and time will tell us all... all.. o/~ o/~ Oh... oh... throw down your plow and ooooh..... o/~ o/~ Side by side we await the night.... of the darkest of them all.... o/~ o/~ I hear the soldiers thunder.... down in the valley below... o/~ o/~ I'm waiting for the cry of Tempus... waiting for the eastern blow... o/~ o/~ The apples of the valley hoe.... oh.. the seeds of happiness... o/~ o/~ The ground is rich from tender care... repay do not forget... o/~ o/~ No... no..... dancing the dark of night.... sing to the Soldiers of Light..... o/~ o/~ The battle turns to brown and black... the tyrants face is red... o/~ o/~ War is...... don't cry.... prep your spells and fight... o/~ o/~Berun's Hill, is filled with good and bad... and mortals never know... o/~ o/~ Hold on the night is long.... the beads of time pass slow... o/~ o/~ Tired eyes on the sunrise... waiting for the eastern blow... o/~ o/~ The pain of war cannot exceed... the woe about the man... o/~ o/~ The armies will shake Berun's walls... House ITB rides in black... o/~ o/~ Ride on....... ride on..... shoot straighter than before... o/~ o/~ No comfort here the final night.... the lights that face the cold... o/~ o/~ Dancing the dark of night.... sing to the Soldiers of Light... o/~ o/~ Magic moves a million fold... to bring the balance back... o/~ o/~ Bring it back...... o/~ o/~ Bring it back...... o/~ o/~ Bring it back...... o/~ o/~ Bring it, bring it, bring it, bring it, bring it...... bring it back...... o/~ o/~ Alas the sun is shining.... the clouds of blue are white... o/~ o/~ With flames from the dragon of darkness..... o/~ o/~ The Soldiers of Light win the night!.... o/~ Elven Saga - Chapter 5 (submitted by: Nilgeit) In the bedroom across the hall, Nilgeit found sheets and a blanket, and used them to stuff into the seams around the door to the behiir, hopefully blocking it's escape. He moved quickly down the hallway, away from the room, checking rooms quickly. The rooms were mostly the same, general living quarters. After he discovered a large, communal privy of sorts, the elf realized the function for such a place. It was a retreat, a shelter for the townspeople when things became too dangerous to live on the surface. Apparently, the Times of Troubles had caused even farmers and merchants to think ahead a little. Finally he turned a corner at the end, and was confronted with a hastily constructed brick wall which blocked the passage. On brief inspection he found one loose brick, suspiciously about head level in the middle of the wall. After a brief struggle, it crashed to the ground, and the elf peered through. On the other side was a small room, about thirty foot square. Nilgeit counted four children in the room, one sleeping, two fighting in the corner over some small object, and one looking his way. The boy, about 5 years old with cornsilk blond hair and light complexion, moved towards him, but struck an unseen barrier, and in frustration beat his head against it. The elf gestured commandingly to stop, but the boy ignored him. He stood back, and considered his options. After a second, he stepped back up to the wall, and began chanting. A shimmering gateway appeared before him, and he stepped into it, appearing from a matching doorway on the far side of the room. Immediately the children flocked around him, making strange crying sounds and scratching at him with their small hands. He wished for a moment he'd brought more food with him. He stepped up to the barrier, and mime-like, the elf discovered a wall of force across the passage, blocking any exit. The children clustered around him, obviously wanting out. He stepped back, and began chanting again. He cast the spell right at the wall, attempting to negate the magics which held it together. It did more. As the spell triggered, the children wavered for a moment, then grew at an amazing rate. In seconds the elf realized his error...these weren't children at all, but four very adult wyverns polymorphed into "hostages". Freed of their useless child-forms, they turned on him. His sword deflected the first poisoned stinger that arced towards him, but the block was slow and graceless without the blade's usual enchantment. In horror, the elf realized any offensive spells like lightning bolts or fireballs, would do as much damage to him as it would to his attackers. The four monsters attacked viciously.The Vampire's Land (submitted by: Shenazia) The time speeds by, Blurred before our eyes, The faces of loved ones wither and die. Mortals in awe, My face that they saw. But none truly know me because of our Law. Why must this be? My form they can see, But those that I love wont know the true me. What sould I choose? My blood to infuse?! The beauty of innocence forever they lose. Choices to make. Their lives to forsake, Or my eternal loneliness never will break. What do I do? I leave it to you. The choice that very few of us knew. Join me in hell... Your soul you will sell... The horrors you'll know I can't begin to tell. But wonders that be... Throughout time will you see. Be with me for all of eternity. Now take my hand, And give your command. Join the darkness; The Vampire's Land. The Beginnings of a Hero - Part 5 (submitted by: TrueShield) Once in a realm far far away from the mainlands of Faerun, there was a group of islands. They were unknown to all, but the few peoples who lived there. This is the story of one Darrian Trueshield, and his quest to find his place in the world, and the long forgotten Isles of Windermere. Last time we left Darrian, and his companions Kanusy had sent twelve shadow assassins to slow Sarwin, Griffin, and Valik. They survived, but can they pass the ambush before Kanusy's remorhaz catches them? Will Darrian reach them in time before they close the pass with an avalanche? What will Kanusy do if his army can't get past the Yinred Pass? This time we find out. Chapter Sixteen "Well they took this pass alright, Hunin." Darrian said to his horse that he named after the halfling priest that gave him the horse. He had been tracking Griffin, and Valik for the last day. he could tell that they had another traveler with them, and they were being followed by a group of twelve people. "Well Hunin, what should we do? Follow them, or take the faster route, and meet them." Darrian asked his horse while feeding him. Darrian noticed that Hunin was scratching the group near a patch of clay. he walked over, and found a mysterious set of tracks. It was the tracks of a eight segmented creature that used its tentecals as a way to find its food's scent. He knew it couldn't be a carrion crawler because they never go into light, and this creature was much to big. He began to walk down the trail, taking Hunin by the reins. He looked for any sother sign of what it ate, how much it weighed, and how it affected animals. He took some of the clay, and put it too Hunin's nose. Hunin reared, and almost escaped his grasp. "Well it certainly is a predetor." he said to himself. "Since Hunin, a full bred war horse was afraid of it, it had to be something unusual to him." Then, he saw the last clue he needed. Apparantly, it had battled with a mountain lion on its way. The front half of its body had been incinerated by something that was extremely hot.He examined the area, and he found the perch where the lion had leapt from. The lion had leapt from a perch, and bit the thing's back. It was a remorhaz. They live in cold climates, and their body heat was far hottter than even a red dragon's breath. Their blood was hotter than molten stone, and they had a huge artery that ran the length of their backs. They were richly valued among frost giants for their hunting prowess. Not to mention, they are practically magic immune. With that he mounted Hunin, and followed the trail at full speed with only two thoughts in his head. First, the twelve men following them were to slow them down so the remorhaz could catch up. Second, he had to get there before the remorhaz did. As he rode down the trail he found another battlesite. He could see the light footprints of elves in the mud, and from what he could tell, he found that the group of elves were ambushed by the remorhaz. He saw the bodies of twelve elves around the site, but he saw thirteen sets of feet. He could hear light steps from behind him. He faked a sneeze, and grabbed his sword hoping the person would not see the gesture. He could see the figure of the stranger from his shadow. It was thin, and tall. Its ears were pointed so it had to be elven, and the elf was holding a sabre. The elf raised his sword for a killing stroke, but Darrian whirled around with his sword, and knocked the sabre out of the elf's hand, but the elf was no stranger to combat Darrian soon learned. The elf push Darrian over, and the elf did a flip over Darrian, and pulled out a rapier. Darrian flipped up onto his feet, and the elf threw a dagger from his sleeve. Darrian stepped slightly to the side letting the dagger fly past him. The elf acted upon Darrian's surprise, and rush forward. Darrian parried the elf's rapier, and kicked the elf squarly in the center of the rib cage. The blow could have killed even an ogre, but the elf didn't fall back. Instead he absorbed the energy behind the blow by letting himself fall backwards, and he slid under Darrian. He stood up, and thrusted the rapier at Darrian's neck as he turned around. Darrian ducked backwards, and slung out a leather loop. It caught the blade, and pulled it out of the elf's hand. The elf then drew out two long, wickedly curved daggers that gleamed with newly applied poison. Knowing that he couldn't approch the elf for the elf was far better at fighting than he. Darrian threw his long sword, and threw it in the air. The elf's eyes followed it for only a moment, but that was all Darrian needed. He charged forward, and he kicked the elf squarely in the chest angling upward so the elf couldn't absorb the blow, and sent him flying. The elf's head landed on a rock, and he was knocked unconscious. He then backed away from the elf. He knew that he couldn't move the elf with a concussion, and he couldn't leave the elf here. He turned, and found the decision was made for him. The elf had drugged Hunin, so he could do nothing but wait. He could only hope that Griffin, and Valik would be alright. * * * * * * * "I think Griffin should use a fireball sweep pattern to flush them out. Then, Sarwin, you could use those crossbow bolts to shoot them down, and I can conjure magic hammers to throw at them." Valik suggested. "I disagree," Sarwin said to Valik, "It would drain Griffin too much, and it might block the pass so we can't get out. Besides, I believe he sent those things to slow us down so something more powerful could catch us." "He's right. We have to find another around these things, but if that something catches up, we will need everything we have. Otherwise, I would agree with you Valik." Griffin said. "Sarwin, how old are you?" Valik asked. "What?" Sarwin said in surprise. "What he means is how are you so experienced in this sort of thing," Griffin said, "You know far more than we do. Valik has served in one war, and I have served in three. I have seen field generals with less knowledge." "It's a long story. You wouldn't want to know," Sarwin said looking away shamefully as if he was seeing some old memory, "Besides, we have a more important task at hand." The shadows had taken a small terrice that stood over the only navigable path to thew other side of the two mountains that surrounded them. They had short bows with poisoned arrows aimed at strategic locations. There were no paths to get above them, or ridges to keep from being seen. The only thing that was around the area was thick shrubbery. "Valik, do you have any more of those flaming oil flasks, and holy water vials?" Sarwin asked. "Plenty of them." Valik answered. "I want you to give me you staff sling, five oil flasks, and seven holy water vials." Sarwin instructed. "I see what you going to do" Griffin said, "Let me help here." Griffin pulled out a black rock, and a slip of leather. The rapped the leather around the rock, and carved runes of magic on it. "Put it in a flask, and it will produce a huge flame in a fraction of the time it normally would." Griffin instructed. Sarwin put the leather covered rock into the flask, and put it into the sling. He lifted the staff up, and twirled it around he twisted his wrist to gain speed. He let the flask fly across the canyon into bushes around the shadows positions. The flask burst into a flame, and Griffin's haste spell caused the flame to surge at a remarkable rate. He placed a holy water vial into the sling, and flung it toward a shadow that ran out from its cover. It hit the thing's shadow armor, and melted through with a hiss. The shadow fell over, and soon faded away leaving no trace of its existance. Valik conjured a spiritual hammer, and aimed it at another shadow. It tumbled once, and struck the shadow it the chest. Both the hammer, and shadow disappeared in a flash. Sarwin loaded another holy water vial when Griffin pulled out a ball of clay, and a vial of water. he poured the water onto the clay, and spoke an incantation.. The ground under the shadow's feet turned into mud, and their feet sank into the ground. Sarwin, and Valik took advantage of their delay. Sarwin sent another vial flying through the air in a high arc before it landed sqaurely on one's head, and the shadow disappeared. Valik's hammer struck two shadows who were lined up in a row, and they disappeared in a flash too. Griffin cast a second spell before they could escape the mud. He turned the mud back into rock, and the shadowssassins' feet were trapped in stone prisons. "Well what do we do with them?" Valik asked. "We should kill them before they dig themselves out of that rock." Sarwin said. "But how do we do that without waisting spells, or water vials?" Valik asked. "I have an idea of how to kill them without getting hurt, or using supplies." Griffin said. Then he turned, and pulled out a small wooden shield, and cast a spell. A sphere surrounded Valik, and then disappeared. "What did you do?" Sarwin asked. "I cast a spell of protection from missle weapons so Valik can get close enough to turn them without being turned into a pin cushion by their arrows." Griffin said. "Alright. I'll do it, but in exchange, someone besides me cooks tonight." Valik replied. They all laughed, and atfer Valik finished, they all walked through the canyon, oblivious to the danger that was following them. * * * * * * * Kanusy was at his desk reviewing maps when his two generals walked in the room. "Sir, we have come to report that the shadowssassins have succeeded in slowing the trouble makers enough for the remorhaz to catch them" Freewind declared. "The remorhaz may not be enough to stop them," Kanusy responded, "We didn't count on how dangerous the paladin is to us. He's no ordinary paladin. I looked in my library, and I found that Sarwin's name is mentioned in one of my tomes." "Read this." Kanusy said as he pointed to a paragraph in a book. "Impossible," Horusk said, "There were no survivors in that battle." "Now I see what you mean." Freewind whispered. "Do you have any suggestions as to what we can do if they do succeed in blocking most of the Pass?" Kanusy asked. "Yes, we did consider the possiblity that this might happen. Are you familiar with the castle known as Mountrock?" Freewind asked. "Yes. Of course I am.," Kanusy answered, "When Gertynackius tried to get though a pass he was trapped, but instead of turning back, he built a huge fortress in the pass, and raided other cities with his dragons." "That is what we intend to do. Mercanaries will come from all corners of Faerun to join us, and then we can raid Neverwinter after we weaken its defenses. As long as we have the shadowlords, and the pit fiends we have nothing to worry about." Horusk explained. "Good. Do exactly that. You are exused." Kanusy said, and the generals then left the room. Chapter Seventeen Darrian had waited five hours for the elf to regain consiousness. He was brewing some tea when he was looking over the elf. He was wearing a green, and brown leather tunic over an elfin chain mail. The elf had dozens of weapons on his person including five daggers, two short swords, twenty odd looking star shaped weapons that he knew to be throwing stars, and an assortment of lock picks, to name a few. He also had several leaves that could be used to make poison. Darrian finished making his sun tea, and Hunin had been awake for half an hour when the elf began to wake up. Darrian reached over, and grabbed his bow. He nocked an arrow, and aimed for the elf's throat. The elf began to rise quickly, but then he saw Darrian's bow aimed at his throat. "What's your name, and clan?" Darrian asked. "I am Chinkos Kain of the Daggers Clan." the elf said seeing that his only chance was to win the human's favor. Darrian almost choked at the name of the legendary clan. The Daggers Clan was the deadliest group of assassins that ever walked upon the soils of Faerun. They were supposed to be legends, but he could plainly see that the elf before him was one of them. "I am Darrian," Darrian said, "Why did you attack me?" "Because you are cowards hiding behind your pet demons." the elf hissed, and spat. "I am not a member of Kanusy's army, Chinkos." Darrian said. "How do I know you aren't," the elf asked, "And call me Kain." "You're alive aren't you," Darrian answered, "I have to go now. I have some friends that need help, and I have wasted too much time here." "Hold on, Darrian. I have the blood oath of my Clan to kill Kanusy, but I also owe you a debt that cannot be repayed." Kain explained to Darrian as he fetched up his weapons. "What debt, your life?" Darrian asked. "No. Not my life, but mercy. Still, you need ..." "Are you saying that you want to accompany me?" Darrian asked. "Yes. I can serve both my oath, and debt if I help you. You have my loyalty, and you can trust me in all circumstances." Kain pledged as he mounted up on Hunin. "Well, we had best be going." Darrian whispered to himself as they rode off to find Valik, and Griffin. * * * * * * * Sarwin heard rocks tumbling over his head as Valik climbed up above them. They were killing a cliff that stood over the intersection. It was a wall of sheer granite that, acoording to Griffin had a fault crack in it. "Ouch. Valik, watch where you step before you stone me to death." Sarwin yelled. "I'm trying, but as I said, I've never climbed before." Valik answered looking down at the five hundred foot drop below, and quickly looked away. "You're afraid of heights aren't you?" Sarwin asked. "No, I'm not, I'm just nervous." Valik said as he stopped climbing. "It's nothing to be ashamed of Valik. I was afraid of heights once." Sarwin said. "Ooh, sure, or are you just trying to make me feel better?" Valik asked. Then, Griffin whizzed up using a levation spell, and grabbed both Valik, and Sarwin. He took them to the top,and then smoothed out the wrinkles in his robes. "What was that for?" Sarwin asked. "If I didn't do something, Kanusy would have dominated the whole world by the time you time got up here. Ferthermore, we don't need to be dealing with private problems right now. We have a more important task right now." Griffin answered. Valik beag to talk when suddenly he stopped. He moved his eyes to tell him that Griffin had spotted something. Griffin was pointing toward a group of bushes at the back end of the cliff with one hand, and pulling out a wand with the other. He didn't see anything, but he did hear something hissing like it was burning a plant with a hot poker. He reached for his sword when it came out. It had an eight segmented body, with centepede like legs, and it had a huge jaw with long tenticals on its face. He had never seen anything like it, but by seeing Griffin's face, he knew he did. Griffin, but up his hammer, and began to pull out an eyebrow, and wax. Before he could finish, the thing charged Griffin. Griffin was knocked back to the edge of the cliff. Sarwin could see some blood leaking from behind his head, and he prayed that Griffin wasn't dead. "Get to Griffin, Valik. I'll cover you so you can heal him." Sarwin yelled as he moved away from Valik, and Griffin. He pulled out his crossbow, and aimed at the beast's jaw. He fired, and just before the bolt hit, a tentecal reached out, and grabbed it. It threw it back at Sarwin, and his elfin chain armor was the only thing that kept it from going into his intestines. He changed approach, and pulled out his sword. He took two steps left, and then three right. The beast lunged at him as he turned. He thought the thing would fly by him, but it didn't. It managed to turn its great bulk like a snake, and smashed into Sarwin's rib cage. He hurtled back, and he hit a large slab of granite. He felt something was knocked out of place, and he was losing part of his sight. He knew that meant he had a concusion, and he wouldn't last long. The creature was far too agile for him to fight up close without being smashed, or stabbed by its legs, or tenticles. An idea came to him. He pulled out a hand axe, and used a piece of leather to bind it to his hand. He threw his sword, and its runes flared as it prepared to pierce the thing's steel hard skin. It reached up with three tentecals, and they were seared off by the blades magic, and the blade struck the second to last section of its segmented body. It buried itself too the hilt, and the creature screamed in pain. He then put his plan into work. He ran under its head, and swung the hand axe at the base of a leg, and it flew off it a spray of molten hot blood. He repeated until the thing relized what he was doing. With its remaining legs, the thing leaped up in the air, and pointed its remaining legs at Sarwin. Sarwin tried to jump away, but it was too late. Then he heard he heard a squelch as his sword, still buried into the thing's back, sliced into the thing's back artery. It's back exploded with such force that it hurled the creature to the side. It landed on one side next to the edge of the cliff. It laid there yelping in pain, and tried to stand when Vailk appeared from nowhere. He raised his hammer, and brought it down on the ground. The earth shook, and the creature fell back to the ground. Sarwin also saw a crack appear in the cliff. Valik brought his hammer down again, and the crack widened. Valik brought his hammer down one last time, and the cliff fell away with the creature on it. "Is Griffin ok?" Sarwin asked running over to the unconsious mage's form. "He'll be aright. It's only a small fracture, but we shouldn't move his head until it heals." Valik said. "Too bad I lost my sword though." Sarwin said as he looked over what was left of the cliff. "What do you mean," Valik asked, "Its in its sheath." "By Torm's armor, it is!" Sarwin exclaimed. "Griffin knows what's he doing when it comes to magic, Sarwin. It may surprise you, but he was once the main aide for Elminster." Valik said. "Really, well its agood thing he's on our side then." Sarwin said as he layed down. "I'll make camp. You just tend to that concusion, and don't go to sleep." Valik said while making camp. "Who shot that arrow?" Sarwin asked. "What arrow?" Valik asked. "Must of been my imagination," Sarwin said, "I wonder how we are going to find out what city Kanusy plans to attack, and what he's going to do now that the Pass the closed." "Maybe Griffin will have an idea." Valik suggested. "I hope so. I hope so." Sarwin mumbled. ___________________________________________________________ Will Sarwin, Griffin, and Valik find a way to learn what city Kanusy plans to attack? Will Kanusy's army stay behind the Yinred Pass, and follow Horusk's plan? Find out next time.The Making of a Knight (submitted by: DocRidge) As the sun began to fade into the night and the moon began to cast a glow upon the square of Neverwinter, my good friend Bauvlin and I chose to stop into Strider's for an ale and a grifffon steak. We were welcomed by Strider himself who exclaimed, "Well met strangers, make yourself at home for some rest and relaxation." Bauvlin and I looked at each other and exchanged glances. I said to my friend, "We have been coming here for so long, does Strider still considers us strangers?" We both grinned at one another and chose a quiet table where the breeze from the summer day offered a hint of refreshing air. As we sat down and sipped our ale, the conversation turned to that of our guilds. Bauvlin, a true warrior from the Jedi Praxium Guild eventually asked me how I came to the Crusaders of the Realms Guild. I began to tell my history from my earliest recollections as a child. A long time ago, my family took a seven day ride north of Waterdeep. My parents, along with several others, were pioneers in their days. Finally, they settled upon a beautiful ridge which was once crowned a landmark because of the brilliant red stand of larches. With their new beginning they took a new name and in honor of the surrounding area they took the family name Ridge. Today, we know this town to be Red Larch. My parents were simple folks, considered by most to be commoners. They were both clerics with very little magic abilities and as a young boy they shared with me their limited talents. As I grew, I was able to lay my hands and cure the simplest of wounds upon the others of our village and those who were journeying through Red Larch. At one time, there was a band of adventurers who were in search of a powerful orb that was rumored to be in Red Larch. Weary from there unsuccessful quest for this orb, they returned to our village wounded looking for a priest who could tend to their ailments. Noticing their condition and wanting to help I was certain I could assist them. With a twinge of anxiety I declared, "I can help." With a wry smile, their leader stated, "sure kid, do what you can." When I placed my hands on their wounds, they immediately began to feel their pains subside. In a matter of hours, their wounds had completely healed. They were amazed that such a young boy could perform such tasks. In jest, one of the adventurers said, "he's a real life little doctor." My parents were proud and to the townspeople I became Doc Ridge of Red Larch. Although my father was an honest man who worked hard making fine weapons, I was always taught that brawn and muscle were not the greatest of powers. Growing up I was often an apprentice to my father in his trading post and it was here, that I first learned how to manipulate a flail. However, it was my mother's deep religious belief and her praise of Mystra, The Goddess of Magic, that eventually led me to the study of magic. Recognizing my gift, my parents encouraged me to satisfy my hunger for more knowledge of mystical powers. Through study and meditation, I prayed often to the Goddess of Mystra and I dedicated the next few years to pursuing this innate quest. Bauvlin asked me, "Is the reason for your blue and white attire a result of your devotion to Mystra?" "Exactly my friend," I declared. "Priests of Mystra often wear blue garb sometimes trimmed with white in honor of the Goddess," I explained. I noticed that Bauvlin was staring at my hand so I showed him my ring. "Notice the circle of stars with a red mist flowing from the center this is in honor of Mystra, it was a gift from an elder" I stated. As the years passed my abilities enhanced to the level that I was able to cure the most critical of wounds. However, my abilities were not limited to simply the healing of others. Instead, I also gained the ability to destroy evildoers and those whose actions were not becoming to the good of the surrounding areas of Neverwinter. Knowing that there was strength in numbers I sought the company of fellow individuals who shared these capabilities. Feeling somewhat limited in being one, I explained to my parents my plan to leave home and seek others who were similarly blessed. Assured that my intentions were both noble and wise, they wished me well. As I made my way to the city of Neverwinter in search of others who shared my common goal, I met a gentleman who goes by the name Tianlus. As we spoke, he explained to me the purpose of the Crusaders of the Realm Guild and its members. "COR is a rallying place for the forces of good. It is our duty to stop the spread of evil in a manner that is comparable with our own ethics." The thought of a guild that had the same beliefs as I, grabbed my attention. Soon I sought out other members of the COR guild such as PanzerMagi, Jackwar, Volant and Lilithemm who happens to be Tianlus' wife. Eventually, I petitioned for membership of this great guild and shortly thereafter their leader LightsEdge, informed me that I was now a member of the Crusaders of the Realms. The aforementioned, who I once met as friends, I now called my brothers and sisters at arms. As time passed by in the guild Volant, the Justiciar of COR and the person in charge of the Royal Knights, recognized my efforts and abilities in teaching younger members and he asked me if I had an interest in becoming one of the four Royal Knights. Without hesitation I expressed that I most certainly did. Soon thereafter, I pledged to COR to uphold the code of honor which Royal Knights live by. To this day, I consider this the proudest moment in my life. "Well Bauvlin, I guess you could say that this is how I became what I am today." Bauvlin took the last sip of his ale and said to me, "Well friend 'tis an honor to travel with you and an even greater honor to know you." I raised my glass to Bauvlin and declared, "and you as well my friend...and you as well." Doc Ridge Royal Knight of CORGift to Lloth - Part 2 (submitted by: Mavralyn) <<<<>>>> Mavralyn watched the large paladin without his notice of her. When he finished his meal and left the inn, she also rose and signaled to the sargtlin to remain behind. She ignored his look of protest and silently left the inn shadowing the unaware human as he made his way deep beneath Triboar's small town. Mav's attack came swiftly and the unsuspecting knight had only a moment to realize he had company. As if sensing her presence at last, he turned abruptly with sword drawn and ready. His startled look at finding a priestess to Lolth stalking him evident on his handsome features. As he prepared to defend himself and readied a spell to slow her down she greeted him with an assured air of one who knows her own power. "Hmmm," she chuckled thoughtfully in a low husky voice. "Vendui' inlul Palamu. Dos are just what I need, a slave." Slightly angered at her manner he growled, "I will be no one's slave. Especially not a drow elf's slave!" As he raised his hand to release the spell he had prepared she too summoned magic and a nauseous cloud of stinking fumes enveloped him. Gasping and choking, blinded by the acrid fumes, he stumbled slightly and tried to search for the dark figure. He could hear her chanting slightly to his left and moved towards the low sound. As he cleared the vapors still coughing from the fumes, a binding magic surrounded him. His body froze where it stood and he glared in anger at the laughing vision before him. The knight's anger changed to a feeling of unease as she walked up to his immobile body. "Now dos will be ussta inlul rothe. A fine inlul SARGTLIN rothe." Her words and the smile that played about her lips sent another shiver of unease through him as she led his stumbling frozen form back to the inn he had just left. When they entered the inn, the crowds had dispersed to a low number of the more seedy type. Hoping to find one to help him, his heart sank when he saw no help there. Mavralyn led him to a back room of the large inn where another drow waited. The look of relief on the male's face at the sight of his Ilharess returned safe brought a gleam of amusement to her eyes. Turning to the knight, the priestess pulled forth a shining silver collar studded with several gems. This time she stepped close to fix the item about his neck and a heady scent of jasmine filled his nostrils with a pleasant aroma. Then moving back a bit, she released the spell that bound him. Since his sword remained clenched in his fist, he leapt forward intending to kill the male first then the evil priestess who thought to enslave him. Before the thought could move his body to action, searing pain fired every nerve in his body. So sudden and intense was the fire that flashed through his body he dropped to his knees with a scream of anguish. The two drow just smiled down at the writhing form upon the floor before them. To be continued.... Mavralyn Elythanar Ilharess d'ElythanarDark's Story (submitted by: DarkScar X) Sk Farah stood before Dark, confident that she would win the battle. He searched her soul, he read her thoughts... in an instant she sprang forward, casting an array of spells. Dark did the same, the battle went on for some time. Farah was well trained in PVP, she claimed to be in the top four of her guild. But even that could not save her, Dark was fierce and unforgiving. She was quickly brought to her knees. He walked behind her, and began to speak. "Well well, what should I do with you...?" he grins "How do you feel about crucifiction madam?" the was no answer "When someone asks you a question, you answer back... now would you prefer to be alive or dead?" again no answer... "Tsk tsk tsk, I am going to have to teach you some manners" Dark grabs Farah, lifts off the floor and throws her against the wall. She made quite an impact... but she arose and began to flee. Dark was quick to catch up and trip her. "My my, you are a fiesty one..." he grabs her by the next and twists it. "That should keep you still" he drags her body to the courtyard where 2 crosses await. He quickly pins her to the cross, and wipes his hands... then he rips open her shirt and places his pentagram upon her chest. He chants the runes and her soul is sucked into his pentagram. He then punches through her chest and rips out her heart. "Better cover that up, donna want to give the other devils a peep show" he takes some cloth and places it upon Farah. As he turns around he sees Sk Hawkeye before him. "You s.o.b..." he says in a low, unforgiving voice. "Oh hello, how are you this fine eve?" Dark grins. "Shut up!! Prepare to die mage!!" Hawkeye lunges forward but Dark catches him and tosses Hawk to the ground. "Oh dear... another one is gonna bite the dust..." Dark grabs Hawk throwing him against the empty cross. In a flash he pulls out some rope, lined with razor sharp thorns. He loops Hawk's wrist against the wood, pulls and tightens. "AHHHHHHHH!" hawk attempts to punch Dark, but instead his punch is caught and his hand is slammed against the wood. "Hehehe... I believe I broke it..." He loops Hawks other wrist, and tightens. "AHHHHHHHHHH!" the thorns dig deep into Hawk's wrist... blood spills everywhere. Dark then loops the ankles of this foolish Sk, and tightens.... Hawk groans in pain, but refrains from screaming. "Good boy, take your punishment like a man" Dark walks behind the cross and pulls out some nine inch nails. "Now this is where your elbow would be, right?" he punches the nail in from the back, Hawk writhes in pain. "Yep, that was it..." Dark continues to punch nails in from the back, then a little while later he walks around to survey the damage. "Your a bloody mess!!! Naughty naughty boy... lemme clean those wounds" dark pulls out a bottle of vinegar, and pours it all over Hawk. Hawk clentches his jaw, and shuts his eyes in agony. "I'm getting board with you" Dark rips Hawks heart out, places it in a bag. He then pulls out the all mighty pentagram and sucks Hawk's soul out. "Having fun again Dark?" Primedev1l booms. In an instant Dark swings around facing his lord. He grins with delight. "Help yourself M'lord" he hands the pentagram to Dev1l, who sucks out both souls... "Now lets see here... thats five, isn't it?" Dev1l grins, Dark hands him Farah's heart. "Oh, thank you Darkmage66(6)... you will be hearing from me shortly.... you are dismissed" Dark bows to Dev1l, and walks away.................ElvinPride's Quest - Part 6 (submitted by: ElvinPride) Thoughts of a Half-Elf ElvinPride awoke this cloudy morning, feeling very well rested. The sweet talk with the Half-elf maiden, and the mugs of ale had insured this. Stretching his arms, then rubbing his eyes; he lumbered out of bed. ElvinPride thought again of the maiden, KateGary; as he splashed water on his face from the washbasin. Her words of the night before worried him. "ElvinPride..as your beloved friend; I here and now, swear an oath on all that I hold dear; to assist you to the far ends of your world. To find the fate of Krysthiial and pay the dragon Musre'Loki his just reward!", she had told him. The wood-elf was very reluctant to begin a quest back to his homeland. He truly believed that Krysthiial had met her fate in the clutches of the foul beast; as did the Elders. Had any doubt about her fate existed, he would not have been sent here to NeverWinter. "How will I go about telling her? Hmm...maybe she will forget!", he thought to himself; fully knowing that one as brave and sincere such as she; would not forget so easily. "It is decided! We will not return to BrassCrown. I will tell her tonight!". ElvinPride slipped on his battlegear, also thinking, "Today would be a good day to travel to Vilnask." Double checking his weapons and equipment, he struts out of the inn. Those of the Camarilla Another routine day of battle was now behind ElvinPride, as he slowly trudged towards the gate from Vilnask. A thick, chilling fog had set in this night; obscuring any light from the moon. Weary from battle, and shivering from the unseasonal cold; the young elf made his way to the inn. A dimly lit window greeted the wood-elf as he neared the inn. The sign above was swaying back and forth in the breeze as ElvinPride pulls open the thick door. "Welcome traveler!", says the barkeep; looking up as he clears empty mugs from the small wooden tables. "Vedui', barkeep", chatters the elf, shaking from the cold that has settled in his bones. "A mug of your finest please, sir". The barkeep nods and walks to the bar. ElvinPride looks casually around the inn. It was empty, save for one warrior sitting at a table near the fire. Elvin grabs his mug, flipping the barkeep a platinum. "Thank you, barkeep. Quite slow tonight, eh?" The innkeeper nods. "Think the weather is keepin' ev'ybody at home. Warm y'self by the fire if'n ya wish". The wood-elf smiles and heads for some warmth. The lone warrior turns his gaze from the dancing flames as ElvinPride nears. "Hello, Elf. Join me. I could use some company", smiles the warrior. "Best Aim be the name! And yours?" ElvinPride studies the worn face of this warrior. His piercing, yet friendly eyes; the broad smile; the stubble on his chin. "ElvinPride, friend. Well met!". Best Aim chuckles. "Well met Indeed, ElvinPride!". The two toast each other and begin to tell the other of thier adventures. "I was given this name, elf; because of my ability with bow and arrow. Believe it or not, I have put many an elf to shame with my expertise!". Elvin smiles, partly out of courtesy, and partly out of respect. The fire's flame flickers momentarily as the inn door creaks open. A tall, cloaked, elegant woman enters. ElvinPride and Best Aim turn thier heads at her. Her lithe, elegant form seems to float towards the bar. "Innkeeper, a glass of red wine for the lady?", she croons; charming the bartender. The wood-elf watches suspiciously as the barkeep; who seems to be entranced by this woman; pours the wine. This seemed very odd to the elf. "She seems to hold control over him!", he thought. "M'Lady!", boasts Best Aim. "Care to join us by the fire for a drink? You can warm yourself". She swirls her body around to face the two travelers, then pulls back the hood of her cloak. "No thank you. I would much rather prefer to stay cool over here", she says seductively. "That is odd", ElvinPride whispers to Best Aim. "Why would someone want to stay cool on a night like this?". Best Aim again speaks out. "I insist M'Lady. Come join us". She glares at the warrior, a hint of evil in her eyes. "Very well, brave one. But you shall be needing to buy me another drink". Best Aim smiles. "All right. Barkeep! Another ale for the lady!!". "NO!! I only drink red wine!", she voices menacingly. "With my special additive, I might add!". She laughs a sinister laugh. "This is really, really odd!", thinks the elf again; now fidgeting uncomfortably in his chair. Her female form floats effortlessly over to their table and sits. "ACK!!! Her legs didn't move AT ALL!!!!!", ElvinPride thinks to himself; uneasiness now showing on his face, his eyes as wide as a Beholders. Elvin nudges Best Aim in the ribs, and whispers into his ear. "My friend!! I think she is not human!! Did you see her legs move as she walked? They DIDN'T!!". Best Aim casts a stern look at the wood-elf. "Excuse me M'Lady. I am Best Aim, and this is my friend ElvinPride. He is wary of strangers....being an elf and all. And what may I ask is your name?". "V Mynuette, my friends." Her gaze shifts to the wood-elf. "Why would you be suspicious of me, dear elf?". ElvinPride watches as she pulls a vial of red liquid from her pocket; opening it and pouring it into her wine glass. She lifts the glass to her mouth; slowly sipping the liquid contained therein. ElvinPride could have SWORN he had seen fangs in her mouth as she drank. "No..No worry V Mynuette", he replies nervously. "Good, elf. I would like us all to get along. Come...come sit next to me, Elvin!", her soft whispering voice sung out, soothing the young wood-elf. ElvinPride studied her face as she spoke. Sunken eyes that sparkled, "oh so bright!", he thought, ::A whispering in his mind::......"Join me ElvinPride".......... ruby red lips, as red as royal tapestry................."We can live forever"................. pale white ashen skin..........................."Just you and I, elf.........forever".............. dead skin, like a corpse, "ACKKK!!!!!!" ElvinPride snapped out of the trance she was putting him into. He quickly jumped up from his chair. V Mynuette's facial features turned instantly evil; eyes glowing red, a fiendish grin exposing the two sharp fangs in her mouth. "YOU WILL REGRET THIS, ELVINPRIDE!!!!!", she screeched. "BEST AIM!!! Flee! She is a vampire!!", yelled Elvin. Both travelers had already reached the door before ElvinPride had completed his warning; the Vampire's hollow, sinister, chuckling; echoing out into the street. ElvinPride ran, and ran, and ran some more until he safely made the nearest temple. He sat and prayed to the Gods, never sleeping a wink that night. Of Temples and Safety Targoth sat in comfort as he watched the elf flee from the inn. Normally this would not have caused any concern, but the sensitive ears of the Methuselah also detected the word "vampire". This DID cause some concern as Targoth had seen Mynuette enter the inn. He knew she sometimes travelled there, the innkeeper and his family having long since been in the employ of Targoth. Only noting one figure fleeing the inn, Targoth knew that were any others present, Mynuette was even now dealing with them. The elf would be Targoth's. As he watched the elven warrior, Targoth admired the grace with which he fled, a grace outmatched by only a few. But Targoth also knew the realms better than most and was as fast as a bat; literally. Stepping off the balcony of his second haven, Targoth transformed into a bat, winging his way behind the fleeing elf, the shrouds of fog concealing his form as he sped along. As the elf neared the temple that was his destination, Targoth flew to the ground, transforming in the blink of an eye into the form of a huge black wolf with gleaming red eyes. Loping along the path, Targoth could easily follow the elf without drawing too much attention. Dark, foggy nights commonly saw the wolves of Neverwinter about. The fact that this wolf also drank the blood of the living would certainly have turned heads, but only as long as they lived. The elf stopped short of the temple, his eyes darting this way and that in order to spot those that might have followed. However, a dark figure, dressed in dark reds and blacks slipped silently into the temple, the whisps of fog rolling around his cloak as he used the shadows to conceal his now human form. He watched the elf enter the temple, obvious relief washing over him as he thought he reached sanctuary. Targoth looked about him further, grinning as he saw the trappings of the church; the holy symbols and alter, the candles, and the reliefs of the gods worshipped here. Targoth thought to himself, "How the mortals cling to their gods when they face their nightmares. How fitting that this one will be visited in this place." The elf sat quietly, his breathing calming as the perceived safety of the temple relaxed him. It seemed that he would sleep here and that pleased Targoth to no end. As he drifted off to sleep, Targoth moved silently around the temple, admiring some of the paintings and artwork present. Finally he went to the elf and, using those powers common to the Ventrue clan, entered his mind, rousing the elf from his slumber. Taking the drowsy elf from the temple, Targoth made haste for the inn in Vilnask, his charge casually thrown over his shoulder. Walking in, Targoth nodded knowingly to the innkeeper and walked upstairs, the lateness of the hour ensuring none but the foolish or hardy were about. Laying the elf on a bed, Targoth sat next to him, carefully unravelling his memories and replacing them with but one..the memory of having taken too much of the spirits offered by the inn. Splashing a small amount of the liquid on the elf's tunic, Targoth went downstairs to issue his final commands before departing again. Speaking with the innkeeper, Targoth ensured that the elf, ElvenPride, would be told of his intake of spirits, of having purchased a room, and of having been aided upstairs by the innkeeper. ElvenPride would remember nothing of the evening but his dreams..the dreams of a huge black wolf staring at him through the fog. The Shrine of Meilikki (submitted by: Luthyen) Luthyen looked over the edge of the platform high in the mallorn tree. Down below, she could see Thorn Hawk laboring in the clearing, rebuilding the shrine of Meilikki. As he worked, he sang a hymn of praise to the Lady of the Woods. Luthyen sang the descant above, as she arranged her belongings on the platform. The sun was hot on the summer's day, and Thorn had removed his shirt and wore just short breeches. A cool breeze stirred the leaves and cooled him as he worked, seeming to bring Meilikki's blessing on the project. Looking up, Luthy could see the blue sky thru a gap in the branches. In the evening, moon and starlight flowed softly down upon the sleeping platform, illuminating it with silvery light. Below, across from the Shrine, was an outdoor oven where she could do her baking. It was a perfect spot to meet both the needs of the Pathfinder and the BrownieBaker. "Helloooo, Luthy!" she heard a voice call. Looking down, she spied Tarma at the foot of the ladder to the platform. "Tarma! Come up for some brownies!" Luthyen invited. A voice from the other side of the tree hailed her as well. Marla had brought a thermos of chilled cocoa. "Hello, sister! Welcome to your home in the Grove!" said the Dryad Queen on reaching the platform. Cocking her head, she continued, "Thorn at work?" "Aye," smiled Luthyen. "See?" "I thought you'd never ask!" came Marla's voice as her head popped up thru the opening around the bole of the tree. "Cocoa, sisters?" "Oh, thanks!" Luthyen exclaimed warmly. "Please, sit down and be welcome here," she continued. The Dryad Queen sat on the edge of the platform and swung her legs. "I'll just sit over here and enjoy the view," she said. Marla sat beside her, and gave Tarma a grin that Luthy did not see. "Got any more brownies?" piped up a voice. FaerieKitn appeared at the platform center and soon joined her sister Dryads along the edge. Luthyen passed a plate of Brownies of Welcome (Frosted) around and all shared some of Marla's cocoa from the Everfull thermos. The afternoon wore on, and more and more Dryads found there way to the mallorn tree and mounted the platform. Trippye, Ariel, Zarsheiy, Astarte, and Gynafay all joined the original group. Luthyen noticed that all seemed clustered on the northeast corner of the platform. From that angle, a commanding view of the clearing showed both the nearly finished Shrine to the Goddess and the flowing waterfall which fed a series of bathing pools beneath. Thorn Hawk's strong baritone had progressed from hyms through sea chanties he'd learned from Ender Bay to drinking songs well known by all rangers. He was currently belting out a drinking song detailing the delights of frenzy, the Ranger beverage of choice. Luthy descended the tree and brought Thorn a pitcher of clear cool water from the stream and some spice cupcakes with pomegranite frosting. "Thanks, dearheart," he smiled as he drank. "Did I hear voices in the tree?" "Aye, " she replied, " The Dryads have come to call, isnt it nice? Ye can see them on the platform edge. " The Ranger, quick on the uptake, noticed the angles of vision from the platform where the Dryads were seated to the Shrine, and to the waterfall. He thoughtfully munched on a cupcake. Then he smiled at Luthyen and took her in his arms and kissed her thoroughly. Her eyes opened wide as she heard the Dryads giggling in the tree. "Ah, love.." she stammered when she could speak again. "It um..seems that there is an audience..." "Aye," he grinned, "It seems there is..and I bet they've been enjoying the show all afternoon, too.." As he spoke he stretched his sore muscles, and they could hear appreciative murmers from the platform above. "Now, milady, if ye will,...ask your Dryad friends to move to the other side of the platform..the breeze is better there, ye know..and I think ye might let down the sunshade that faces the waterfall to further make our guests comfortable." Luthyen laughed. "I will do that, milord..tho I bet that they would prefer a little discomfort to have such a nice view as the waterfall, " she grinned mischeviously, "..and anyone who might be within." ~Luthyen The Protectorate Academy Leader ~Thorn Hawk's Lady(submitted by: ABK Nemsis) I would like to post the wedding between ABK Nemsis and Alesha on Aug 7th at 1:00 am est. The wedding will take place in Port Llast (14,9). All friends are invited to come.(submitted by: ITB Teddi) The Mighty ITB War Machine(tm) rolled into Triboar and the troops dispatched themselves immediatly. ITB War Parties quickly took positions, both the positions that ITB choose as its strongholds and the TP trenches were instantly filled with blood thirsty ITB warriors. Before the TP even arrived at their own chosen places, the ITB's entrenched and the blood lust was intense. By the time The protectorate troops arrived, the ITB killing frenzy was at a incredible level. Instantly the first two Protectorate units took the brunt of the wrath, hearing "Feel the Power![R]" as they fell quickly beneath ITB boots. The battle reports came in quickly. For every ITB casualty, 2 TP lives were taken. For every small victory that The Protectorate managed, ITB won 3. As Tyst himself fell at the feet of Lilyth and her team, Skorp ran around asking for the TP's surrender. Finally, as Beast dispatched 3 TP's and the ITB team known simply as "The Grinder" dispatch 3 more, the few remaining TP's surrendered. Xavier happily counted the bodies, calculating in his head the amount of sausage and jerky the kills would yeild. Skorp took Tyst's lifeless form back to the House ITB Dungeon to be reanimated and displayed in shame to the general public. Skorp would be sure to have Tyst nursed fully back to health, before dragging him in chains in front of all of Neverwinter, and allowing the general population to cast upon him. Look for the booth August 7th!! Sponsored by your friends at House ITB. ;> Skorp Grandmaster of Bondage<><><><><> <><><><><> 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. <><><><><> <><><><><> MONTHLY CONTEST STARTS IN JULY!! Win Pearls for your Guild! Participate in the monthly News of the Realms "Newsworthy" contest. Each month, 4 pearls will be awarded to the account of the Guild with the most "newsworthy" articles for that month! We're looking for works of art, articles of fine literature, helpful hints of extraordinary brilliance, poetic works which stir the soul, etc. The key word here is "newsworthy"... only articles with substance will be counted in the contest! To participate you need to: - Indicate with your submission the name of your SANCTIONED guild. Only Sanctioned Guilds are presently eligible to receive pearls for a Guild pearl account. - Write something!