==========oOo========== NEVERWINTER NEWS Issue # 179 Week Ending 3-30-97 ==========oOo========== *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* FRONT PAGE *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* Congratulations to WyrmSilver for winning last week's News of the Realm contest for his story entitled "Rownee Baker of my Dreams". Kudos to Goblinale for 2nd place with his poem entitled "By My Neck!?" and to SOMNeranek for 3rd place with his 3-part story entitled "House Cleaning or Guess Who's Coming to Dinner?". WyrmSilver has earned the choice of 4 Pearls or Access to the GOH (Guild of Heroes). Goblinale has earned 2 Pearls for his effort while SOMNeranek has earned 1 Pearl. Keep up the good work everybody! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> Greets all! I'm pleased to announce that the March in-game testing appears to have been a qualified success and I will now resume full scale staff sponsored in-game events beginning April 1st. I'll be running a full schedule including, Tours, Mini Booths, Location Hunts and Mini Festivals.Additionally, I'm going to allow guild-sponsored events to resume on a limited basis. I will be contacting guild GM's to advise them of the restrictions I will be imposing upon guild sponsored events and banners during April. Unfortunately, while it appears that character corruptions are declining, they still do occur occasionally. Spreading the word about the download "fix" has appeared to help, but at the present time, that is all I'm aware of that has made any difference and we cannot be certain that it was the "fix" that helped the situation. Regarding items on characters that have been corrupted, we've made some efforts to investigate the possibility of an item reset without the need of a software change on the player's end. This would allow the registered Pearl Plan only items lost to be returned to the original purchasers as stated in the Pearl Plan Guidelines (Keyword:AD&D >> Neverwinter Nights Events). However, it appears as if this will not be possible. We are waiting for more information but it just doesn't look promising. Therefore, I'm afraid that means I'm going to need to ask you all to continue to be patient while we wait together. As I stated before, I still am unable to make any guarantees regarding lost items. Regards, NW Events <><><><><> <><><><><> New Players Tour - 3/25 NW Lenox called out to all the people (within the air shot of his voice that is). :D People gather to see what NW Lenox was shouting about. Once the crowd had settled down Lenox pulled out a scroll from his bag and undid the Lace that held it together. Lenox stood on top of the stairs and read to the crowd. "Friends, ladies and men, lend NW Lenox some help for I have heard from scouts in the Northen parts of the Realms that Dracs have taken over. Please join NW Lenox to remove theses beast from the lands North of Neverwinter City." Signed Lord Nasher Lenox folded the letter up and looked over the crowd many where willing to join Lenox but Lenox knew he would need storng people to complete his mission. Rffoster, Six Joxer, Starcon5, Drow Odeth, Sithelance, and I Gratch join Lenox to complete Lord Nasher's Mission. Onto the Armor Shop, to the WareHouse and into Windy Cliffs. Battles raged and some where lost to the Gods. Lenox and the company he left with soon met up with others to help complete the mission. Aes Ms and Calmar145 join the party in LLast and soon they all stood outside the door that Lord Nasher had told them he had learned of the Dracs home. Preping before the battle they met a couple of others to help. At first they where not hom, so Lenox and his party looked for clues. When they had started to leave the Dracs returned home!!! Battle raged on and 2 where lost, when the battle and dust had cleared the members that where left sat down to heal their wounds. NW Lenox thanked them all and bid farewell to return to NW City to tell Lord Nasher that the Dracs where no more and that he could tell the Mayor of Llast that the town was safe again!!! Thanks to everyone that came on my NW Tour and see ya next time!!! -NW Lenox NeverWinter Nights Staff <><><><><> <><><><><> *-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-*-* 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! <><><><><> <><><><><> Greets all! I'm pleased to announce that the March in-game testing appears to have been a qualified success and I will now resume full scale staff sponsored in-game events beginning April 1st. I'll be running a full schedule including, Tours, Mini Booths, Location Hunts and Mini Festivals.Additionally, I'm going to allow guild-sponsored events to resume on a limited basis. I will be contacting guild GM's to advise them of the restrictions I will be imposing upon guild sponsored events and banners during April. Unfortunately, while it appears that character corruptions are declining, they still do occur occasionally. Spreading the word about the download "fix" has appeared to help, but at the present time, that is all I'm aware of that has made any difference and we cannot be certain that it was the "fix" that helped the situation. Regarding items on characters that have been corrupted, we've made some efforts to investigate the possibility of an item reset without the need of a software change on the player's end. This would allow the registered Pearl Plan only items lost to be returned to the original purchasers as stated in the Pearl Plan Guidelines (Keyword:AD&D >> Neverwinter Nights Events). However, it appears as if this will not be possible. We are waiting for more information but it just doesn't look promising. Therefore, I'm afraid that means I'm going to need to ask you all to continue to be patient while we wait together. As I stated before, I still am unable to make any guarantees regarding lost items. Regards, NW Events <><><><><> <><><><><> New Player Tours: Join the following staff members for a tour of the Realm: March 31st Monday 4:00 PM EST - with NW Thorn. April 1st *Tuesday 12:00 AM EST - with NW Mortis. April 5th Saturday 9:00 AM EST - with NW Dain. * Technically, this is Wednesday but it's easier to remember that it's Tuesday night at the stroke of midnight. ;> Those interested in any of these tours should keep an eye out for the banner telling where to meet! ;D <><><><><> <><><><><> ------===<<<@>>>===------ TRIVIA NIGHT!! ------===<<<@>>>===------ Join NW Raven and NW Omar for a night of fun and prizes, while we test your knowledge of Neverwinter Nights trivia! Date: Tuesday, April 1st Time: 10:00 to 11:30 pm EST Place: The Great Hall of Neverwinter (outside the Realms) Prizes to be awarded to winners: First Place - 15 Pearls Second Place - 12 Pearls Third Place - 9 Pearls Fourth Place - 7 Pearls Fifth Place - 5 Pearls AND access to the Guild of Heroes!! Among the rules for Trivia are: 1. ONLY first 10 correct answers are scored! 2. TWO random rolls instead of one! Please review the rules before coming in to play by reading them in the Trivia folder (Keyword:AD&D >> Neverwinter Nights Events). Hope to see ya there... ;D -- NW Omar and NW Raven <><><><><> <><><><><> The merchant pushed open the door and peered in. He was carrying a large, well-wrapped parcel. Looking around, he saw a dark-haired bar maid with knowing eyes, chatting with the patrons. She looked up and smiled at him. "Hello there, stranger..come in and take a seat. Just make sure to leave it when you go again. I'm Mystri, what can I do for you?" "Eh, Miss, tis more what I can do for you, I'm thinkin.' See, I came from Nesme, and I was given this pack and asked to give it to ye by.." "SPRYTE!" shouted Mystri, dancing out from behind the bar. "Gimme gimme! I mean..milord, I am Mystri, and I would be most pleased to provide ye with the beverage of your desire...might I have that parcel, then?" With a smile, the merchant bowed and presented the packet to Mystri. Leaving DragnSlicer to tend bar, she went into the back room and carefully unwrapped the package. Inside were pages covered with Spryte's neat hand. Mystri's eyes filled as she thought of her green-eyed sister, so far away now. Sighing, she picked up the first page and began to read: ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ My dearest sister, I am sorry that it has taken me so long to write, but things have been quite busy in our homeland. I think that they are settling down, but still... My journey home was fairly uneventful. My Lady Meilikki kindly watched over me, and I was able to elude the unfriendly denizens of the forest. Once or twice I could have sworn that I was being watched, and an image of JJ came to mind if you would believe it...but that of course was impossible, must be my passing thought no doubt. I would travel quickly, covering a fair bit of distance. Then in the evening, I would practice my sword forms. I even made a few new ones...one called "Picking Up Empties" and the other "Mixing Lady's Eyes". I thought of you when I danced them, Sis, and it made me happy... There did seem to be an unnatural amount of orcs and trolls seeking through the forest, and it required all my skills and magic to escape their notice. I reached home to find the town in an uproar. You remember King Jimi the Old, of Nesme-next-door? Well, that town across the River from ours had been completely changed when Jimi died. Seems that his son Jimi the Youth had been killed by a troll, and Jimi the Old never did recover from it. On Old Jimi's death, the town was left without a clear heir, and that town, sis, was used to someone to tell them what to do. Not like OUR Nesme, ruled by Peer Council with Papa at its head. Well, Nesme-next-door sought some relation of Jimi's and turned up a cousin studying for a Mage. Had gotten pretty far advanced, indeed, and the townsfolk thought a Mage King would really give them some class and standing. So with much fuss, they brought Rithka the Mage to be their King. Sis, you won't believe it..it seems Rithka decided the Nesmes should be joined together under one rule~his! I don't have to tell you that Papa did NOT approve of this plan..things were quite lively in the Tavern common room when this was discussed. King Rithka had perfect rationale, you see...those roving troll and Orc bands, and he could provide some "protection" from them. If you'd credit it, some of the puddin' heads actually agreed to it! Myself, I thought the arrival of the Orcs and trolls and Rithka all at about the same time was a bit too coincidental... I raised a band of fighters to deal with the Trolls and Orcs, and we had some fine times in the Woods. We managed to clear out many of them. There were some close ones, though, and one very strange thing...I was facing an Orc leader, and a fine dance he gave me..my Sword was singing, and I'd just finished him, when I was struck with a weight from behind. It smashed me flat, Sis..and I thought for a moment that I was through. I breathed a prayer to my Lady, and flashed over, but the weight that held me was dead weight~ a HUGE Troll, with a club in his hand that was as big as me. When I was able to finally get out from under and view the body, I found a Drow blow dart in its neck...with a "K" rune on it. I never saw any trace of any but my band...and no other Drow weapons were found. Well, to make a long story shorter, weapons were found on the Orcs that had been bought with money from the Nesme-next-door treasury. Rithka decided that perhaps he had been mistaken and didn't want to be King, and subsequently left.....and now Papa is working with Fernwood Featherfoot in Nesme-next-door to help them develop their own Peer Council. I'm working with the group I assembled to develop a Town Guard, and we train with the Nesme-next-door group as well. I showed Papa how to mix your "Whatever It Is" and "The Lady's Eyes", and they are very popular indeed. I think that there'd be a good market for some of Thorn's ales over this way, and also for the MacSatan (The Lady forgive me for thinking of such things) if you'd like to pass the word along. Tell Petal hello for me..and also JJ. I miss him, he used to make me smile...I hope that things are well with Tal as well. What are Amra and Song up to? How is Tali working out? I miss you all more than I can say..Skritch Wyrm for me... I love you, Sis..I'll write more when I can.. Spryte ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ ~The Roving ReporterThe Lost Passage - Part 13 Still Climbing (submitted by: Lake Mist) At noon on the third day since leaving Longsaddle, the three rangers came across a small meadow with an abundance of berries. Having made good time thus far, they decided to take time to relax and enjoy the bounty the meadow had to offer. It was not easy work, gathering the berries for their afternoon meal. But the meal they shared an hour later, was well worth the effort. After eating, the three rangers lay back in the meadow and took in the beauty around them. The sky was clear and beautiful, and the land around them a virtual paradise. The meadow gently spread out and up the side of the mountain, a testament to the work of Mielikki. Strange furrows twisted through the rich earth of the meadow, and the ground showed odd-shaped bulges. Barthonis observed that the bulges were to small to be graves, which brought smiles the faces of TroutRasta and Lake Mist. The chaotic pattern of the land reflected the worn and ragged past of the realms, and as their eyes followed the pattern up the mountain, they spotted three caves in a cliff wall. "About a days march, I guess," said Trout, "and they may make a good place to rest for a day or two." Lake rubbed the wound on his left leg at that, and realized that he probably should have stayed and rested in Longsaddle a little longer, if he had rested at all. "Aye," replied Lake, "we could all probably use a little rest. Besides, we can complete our maps and leave a copy for Thorn Hawk and the others." After a few more moments with the meadow, they continued on their way. Bart had a smile on his face and contented himself with humming as he lead the party back up the trail. Lake left a marker behind for those that followed and observed that the path had long since turned to a trail. Probably a deer trail from the abundance of forage they were seeing. Just before dusk, Bart found a good camp site for the night. As they settled down and got their bed rolls out, Trout said, "The trail really started getting steep about an hour ago." "And we are closer to those caves than we thought," said Bart. Looking up the side of the mountain in the waning light, Lake said, "We should be there by noon tomorrow, I guess." "Aye," said Trout and Bart in unison. As they lay down for the night, their fire stoked to ward off wolves and other night creatures, a shadow passed near the camp and moonlight sparked off the horn of the unicorn as it observed the sleeping rangers. As it's head bobbed up and down for moment, all three rangers began the same dream. "A dark cavern.....a long passage, with tunnels branching off in several directions.....bones of many dead creatures, some human, some not.....white pillars, as pure as clouds, rising up, supporting arches carved with relief showing the splendors of the world.....gold plated streets.....a great temple, supported by a single pillar of emerald-inlaid marble.....fountains that poured water filled with tiny stars.....a small tunnel opening into a vast cavern.....piles of boulders and stones cluttering the floor.....something lying among the rubble.....large.....very large.....and dead.....the cloud giant shaman." As the sky started to turn from indigo to pale pink and yellow in greeting to the coming day, the rangers started to stir. Lake stoked the embers of the fire to prepare the morning meal. Trout and Bart looked at each other and then at Lake. "I had the strangest dream" started Trout. "A cavern," continued Bart, "and a dead cloud giant shaman." Lake just nodded in agreement, he to had dreamed the same thing. All three looked up at the caves in the side of the mountain. While eating their breakfast, the three were deep in thought. Trout was wondering about Zeb Canon, why he wasn't in the dream, and if he was still alive? Bart was doubting himself again, could he face the dangers that might lie deep inside those caves, would let his brothers down again? Lake was remembering Primrose's smile and the warm feeling he always had when near her, the smell of her auburn hair after a spring rain, and how much he missed her right now.The Lost Passage - Part 14 Ba'al Brun (submitted by: Lake Mist) As the three rangers continued up the trail, the caves seemed to grow so as to hold giants. The sight of the huge openings was almost overwhelming. They had only traveled a few miles when the trail suddenly opened into another meadow. This one was much larger and the far edge rested against the mountain just under the cave openings. As their eyes scanned the meadow, they noticed what appeared to be an old house in a stand of trees on the west end of the meadow. Approaching the ruins, they could see that roof had long since given way and fallen inward. The walls had started to decay and fall apart, leaving gaps here and there. Wary of danger, they noticed that the birds were still chirping and the meadow was at total peace with itself. TroutRasta peered into the opening of the door while Barthonis and Lake Mist stood guard outside. A quick glance around revealed that a lot of the was still intact. It had fallen into the house, but still offered areas of protection and shelter. Trout started moving toward the rear of the ruins where there appeared to be the best shelter to make sure it was sturdy enough for their camp. Rounding some debris, he nearly knocked the skeleton and table over. Startled, he reached for his sword and then noticed that the skeleton appeared to be that of a child. Looking closer at what was left of the robes and cloak, he realized that his dead companion was actually a dwarf. There was a parchment lying under the skeletal fingers on the table. After he had finished scouting the ruins, the three of them would search more. Taking the parchment, he placed it in his bag of holding and continued on. After Trout was sure that the ruins were safe, he whistled the all clear. Bart and Lake started in through the doorway and were met by Trout. "We have yet another grave to prepare. The past dweller of this house still sits at his table." Trout began. As he pulled out the parchment he continued, "This was clutched in his fingers. We'll bury this fellow and examine what we have found over lunch. Agreed?" Bart and Lake nodded their agreement and Lake said, "I'll start digging a grave if you two want to start gathering stones to cover it with." Trout and Bart agreed and the three started their task. By noon the grave was ready and the three gathered the dwarf and wrapped him in his cloak. Carefully carrying the bones outside to the grave the prepared under a tall ash tree, they placed the dwarf in his resting place. Trout pulled out the parchment and read over it quickly. "Ba'al Brun. I believe his name was Ba'al Brun," he said. Bart looked at Lake and Lake just nodded his head and began, "Mielikki, Goddess of the Forest and she who guides our hands and hearts, accept Ba'al Brun into your council and guide him along the rest of his journey. May his path be more peaceful as you show him the way." The rangers then finished the grave and left the dwarf in peace. They gathered in the rear of the old house to start their camp. Lake said, "We can search the ruins a little better with something in our stomachs. And this may be a good a spot to wait for the others. If they headed to Nightsedge as Bart told us, they can't be to far behind us now." Since they had no fresh game meat, they decided on a cold camp for lunch. Lake was breaking out the owlbear jerky and frenzy when Trout pulled out the parchment. Bart was getting out some of the berries they carried from the last meadow when Trout started reading. "I am beset by monsters from dusk to dawn. They won't enter the cabin, but stay near and howl all night. I commit these few words to parchment so that others may judge my fate. My wounds from the fight with three trolls two days ago, grow worse. If the heart of my destroyer has a name, I know it not. Only that his shaman and legions plague my waking moments and dreams relentlessly. "As I die, let me write what I know for you who find me. With my last breath, I Ba'al Brun, curse them and their god, and the air that bears their foul stench." As Lake and Bart started passing the food around, Trout laid the parchment down and took a deep breath. As the three ate lunch, they decided that Trout would hunt for fresh game, as there was a lot of fresh deer track all around, and Bart would gather nuts and berries to round off the evening meal. Lake was to stay near the ruins in case of trouble with the others and gather fire wood and look for fresh water. As the others departed, Lake made a quick look around outside the ruins and found several dead falls which would supply ample fire wood for many days. As he gathered fire wood, his attention was caught by a flock of birds, no more than dots, cutting across the blue summer sky. He thought that he could hear their contented cries as they moved together in perfect flight. He thought that cities dwellers live by intricate, arcane rules of established life and that they are trapped by their pasts as they create elaborate preparations for the future. We, the followers of Mielikki, do not. We find the life and beauty right where it is, at that moment, and let ourselves go into that moment, and float upon it's bounty. Life is all around us, but most don't know how to let themselves respond to what's happening to them, right then, at that moment. Most city dwellers will flap their lips about life to anyone who will listen. He walked on in silence for a few minutes as he took in the wonder and beauty that surrounded him, and nearly fell into the well that was at the rear of the old cabin. As he sat up and looked at the well, laughing, he noticed that it had completely fallen apart. Possibly destroyed when the monsters were on their nightly raids. He crawled over to the edge and stopped laughing as he realized that what was left of the was very deep. Listening, he could hear water running. Picking up a stone, he dropped it over the edge. One, pause, two, pause, "splash", not to deep, but deep enough. Going back into the old cabin, Lake retrieved a rope from his pack and looked for a bucket or something. He found an old wooden bucket near what was left of the hearth and hoped it would last long enough to fill their water skins. Grabbing all the water skins in the camp, he headed back to the well. After he had tied the rope to the handle of the bucket, he lowered in into the well until he heard it hit the water. The rope pulled to the south as the water in the well dragged the bucket under. Hoping he hadn't lost the bucket, he started pulling the rope back up quickly. He let a sigh of relief when he saw the bucket, leaking, but full of water. Cold water. Icy cold, and spring fresh. The well must be fed by a underground spring from the mountain. It took five more buckets of water to fill all the water skins he had, the bucket held less and less water every trip, and the almost didn't make the last trip down and up. He would have to work on it this evening. Gathering the bucket, rope and water skins, Lake headed back into the old cabin to the camp site. Looking around, he thought it odd that there were no weapons or armor anywhere in sight. Other than the parchment that Trout had found, there didn't seem to be anything else here. In the other corner of the rear of the cabin, he found what he was looking for. The dwarf's armor and weapons were buried under a part of the roof that must have fallen in first. There was a broken bed frame and chair, and what was left of a wardrobe. And there, under one corner of the bed frame, a trap door. He couldn't move the debris enough to clear it. He would have to wait till the others returned. Lake moved back to the camp to wait for the others, and worked on mending the bucket while he waited. A light breeze blew through the camp, and the smell of pine and mountain flowers traveled with it. How wonderful to be alive, he thought. Primrose would love this meadow. He smiled as he continued his work.The Quest (submitted by: Xerdek) The drow warrior was passing through the Triboar Square on his way to the arena when he noticed an elderly man admiring a statue. So he made his way over to the man to see what was so unique about the statue. "Beautiful, isn't she" the elder commneted. "Yes she is, but where did this come from, I have never noticed it before." Xerdek asked. The elder looked at Xerdek and answered, " She has always been here but your eyes could never see her until now. This is Lady Caroline, she was born some thousand years ago. It is a riddle of where the statue was created or even who was the sculptor." "Old man what are these words here, they are from a language I do not know" Xerdek asked "It is an ancient language, without a name, but it reads ' She will return when she is returned' a riddle that has never been understood." the elder replied. The old man grabbed his stick and walked away, while Xerdek remain to admire the statue. The statue was unique, not possessing the usual signs of creation. Every edge was smooth, no signs of chipping. The lady had a terrified look with her arms extended outward. Her facial expression was as if she was screaming. Xerdek was always one of a curious nature and this puzzle intrigues him extremely. So he went to the supply stores and prepared for a long journey. On his way out of Triboar he ran into his abbil Glaeros and explained to him he would be gone for sometime and would return when his quest was over. So he headed for Longsaddle in seek of some information. Xerdek hoped he could acquire some knowledge from the Harpell's even though being a drow might cause some problems. Hopefull their own curiousity would play to his advantage. Upon arriving in Longsaddle Xerdek went straight for the Harpell's house. There a scholar was so fascinated by the drow he played right into Xerdek's hand. The scholar had heard of the statue but could not produce any written documents. This puzzled Xerdek because the Harpell's had gained fame for their resources. However the scholar gave Xerdek a tip, high in the skies was a Hall of Knowledge, if there was a place for answers this would be it. Xerdek was confused for awhile, how could he reach the edges of existence. Then he realized that dragons could fly at speeds and distances that could reach any place desired. The problem being finding a dragon that would agree to such a task. In his lifetime every dragon he came upon was aggressive and a conversation was highly unlikely. So Xerdek stopped in a supply room of the Harpell's and conviently acquired some scrolls that might help. Longsaddle was along the Neverwinter Woods, a place that housed many dragons. So Xerdek headed for the woods in search for a dragon. Soon into the woods Xerdek encountered bandits hiding near a bridge. This annoyed Xerdek, he had no time for such pranks so he grabbed his blades and walked up. When one bandit approached and started to talk Xerdek quickly put his dagger to his throat, displaying the fact that he was not to be messed with. The bandits jumped off the bridge and into the river, taking their chances with mother nature instead of the drow. Xerdek's abbil Abzzcesse had commented on a White Dragon living close to the river so he carefully approached a secluded area near the river. As he turned a corner around a huge tree he spotted the white dragon, but not before she spotted him. His quick reflexes allowed him to dodge her tail, but he was left with his back against the river. Quickly he casted a globe a darkness around her head and he rolled away from the river. Coming up only to feel her claw catch him in the chest as she threw her arms wildly. He figured he had one chance and grabbed a scroll he got from the Harpell's, desperately reading the words he watch the dragon calm down. It had worked, Xerdek had charmed him a dragon. Xerdek now was able to explain his quest to the dragon, telling her he did not wish to ahrm her only to use her great skills. She had mentioned she had heard of the statue but all she knew was it involved dark magic. So she agreed to take Xerdek to the Hall of Knowledge, but this is all she could assit in the quest. Xerdek mounted her back and admired the strength of her mighty wings. In a matter of seconds they were a flying at speeds Xerdek only dreamed of. In less than an hour they reached the hall, and Xerdek asked how far they had travelled, the dragon laughed and answered that he couldwalk for the rest of his life and not equal the distance. Xerdek entered the hall and admired the enormous shelves of books, this could take forever he imagined. Suddenly a voice asked Xerdek, "What is it that you seek?" Xerdek answered," I seek the riddle of the statue, 'She will return when she is returned'" It seemed like forever when a book appeared on the desk before Xerdek with a bookmark. Then the voice returned " The quest you seek is one that can not be finished, there a dark powers at work here that you cannot imagine." That's all Xerdek needed, to be told he failed on fired him up more so he turned to the bookmark and began reading. "Lady Caroline was the daughter of a nobleman, at the age of sixteen she married Sir Angus, son of a weaponsmaster. In two years she was with child, but Angus was forced off to war. During battle Angus was stuck with a deep fear of death and thought he would trade anything as long as he would not die here. An imp overheard his thought and tricked Angus into giving up his unborn child. Upon falling for the trick Angus killed himself, he could not live with himsefl. Unaware of this plot Lady Caroline sat with her daughter when the imp arrived and stole the child from her arms. Seeing this through his magical sight a mighty wizard enchanted Lady Caroline turning her into a statue, relieving her from any anguish. Upon the return of the child Lady Caroline would be released. The imp had taken the child to a matron mother of mighty house that now does not exist. The matron mother captured the childs spirit in a cystal, banishing her to the abyss. From this the matron mother could draw the life force of the child. Where the crystal lies now his unknown, most logical place would be in the ruins of the house." Xerdek noticed a symbol which he figured was the house symbol. He exited the hall and return to the woods with the dragon. Xerdek hoped one of his abbilen would know of the symbol and give him insight. Now his curiousity had turned into a inspiration. Among the ruins he might find some other objects of use and he was curious to see if the legend was true. The Lady's Gift (submitted by: Thorn Hawk) Spring had come to the woods bringing a gentle breeze from the east warming the land while the soft rays of the morning sun filtered down among the branches above drenching the shadowed floor below in gold. A robin flew into a tall tree its branches covered in new growth to greet the morning with a song as a squirrel scampered down a limb to forage along a trail. It was a perfect morning as the woods were peaceful. One of those rare moments that happen seldom in life when everything is in harmony. Into this peaceful setting walked a tall figure, cloaked and carrying a bow, his eyes taking in the beauty around him and a slow smile crossed his face. He was old and grizzled. His hair more white than blonde but his frame still showed the strength to pull the great elven bow he carried in his hand. He blue eyes twinkled with delight as he watched the squirrel scamper among the undergrowth. He carried little besides the bow and the clothes he wore, but the gleam of an axe peaked from underneath the cloak, an axe forged long ago by dwarves now gone and given to him by a ranger when he was but a lad learning to be a man. His hand slipped down to caress the haft of the weapon almost a lover's touch and any onlooker knew which weapon he cherished. Just an axe it was to many, but to him it was more . ., a priceless gift, a symbol of his lost youth, and an honor to those that came before. Taking a deep breath, he moved on. He traveled down the shadowed trail his soft boots never making a sound as his eyes scanned the woods around for danger, but found none. These woods were his home. He had walked down their paths for more years than many of his brethren had lived. He knew their secrets and their ways. Touching the small medallion that he wore around his neck, he smiled as a ripple passed through his body, a feeling he knew well, one he had felt many times in his life. His goddess was calling. The clearing was deep within the woods, lost to all but those familiar to its secrets. Nothing set it apart from the many glens that dotted the large expanse of woods yet as he entered the clearing, he felt a serenity wash over him taking away the many miles he had walked and horrors he had faced and he felt at peace. He had been here many times in his life and each one was like the first. It took his breath away. "I have come milady," said KB softly. Stepping from behind a nearby tree, a slim woman approached with hair of golden moss and leaves, dressed in a sheer robe of green and yellow. She held the wisdom of untold ages in her beautiful face. "I've been waiting for you to arrive KB," she replied smiling as a small sparrow alighted on her hand, "it is nice to see you again." "The pleasure is always mine, milady," as he bowed always amazed that her feet never seemed to touch the ground. "Why have you called me?" Smiling, "I would like you to deliver something for me," she answered reaching to touch KB's cheek lifting his face. "I have a gift I would like you to give to a child of mine in Neverwinter." "I will deliver your gift milady," he whispered gazing into eyes so much like those of a unicorn's. "You wonder why not deliver this gift myself. Let me say it is a gift for you as well my friend. You have walked these realms in my service doing as I've asked or wished." She reached out to touch the axe at his side tracing the runes along its broad blade, "this axe was a gift to you many years ago, one you treasure, and I'm giving you a chance to repay that favor, to honor that tradition." "Tis rare that one is given the chance in life to repay such a favor," breathed KB. Taking his hands in hers, she turned them over so the sun lit his palms and before his eyes a cloak shimmered into existence one of fine weave and dove gray in color. "Tis a lovely gift milady and priceless but . . ." "His name KB," smiled Mielikki, "is Thorn Hawk." A smile spread across his aged face as he thought of the young ranger and knew the giving of the gift was right. "I shall leave at once," exclaimed KB pride showing on his face at the thought of giving this gift. "KB," whispered the lady, "let me help you as he is in Neverwinter as we speak." She spoke a soft word and KB felt the world melt away from under him. Mielikki stood a moment within the glade, her thoughts with her child and as she mused, her friend, "tis a gift for duty and a pledge he made my child." A moment longer she stood before a ripple passed through her and a sparkling mote of greenish gold light floated off into the trees and was gone. Bro KB shook his head to clear the images of the shrine and his goddess before stepping away from the ancient oak that dominated a part of the square in Neverwinter. The sun was as he remembered in the woods just over the horizon burning the last of the trailing wisps of fog from the city. Looking around warily, he quickly placed the gift within the folds of a similar cloak he wore over his shoulders. Just then, he saw Thorn Hawk and his wife, Luthyen approaching. Trying to guess how she knew, he stepped forward to greet his brother and pupil but he had already been seen. "Brother," yelled Thorn Hawk, "it's been a long time. How have you been and what are you doing out of the woods?" "Thorn," replied KB happily, "I'm doing well and I've come looking for you." "What's wrong?" concern evident in Thorn's voice. "Nothing, I was sent me to find you. I'm to give you a gift from the lady herself." "A gift?" asked Thorn as images of Mielikki filled his mind and soothed his spirit. "Open thy heart, my brother and receive her gift," intoned KB taking from within his cloak Mielikki's gift and placing it in Thorn's outstretched hands. Thorn's mind drifted with his goddess and he stood unaware of those around him. A small crowd had gathered around them by chance or something else only Mielikki could say, but as Luthyen put her hand on Thorn's shoulder drawing his thoughts back, Petalflow, a bard and friend appeared along with Loon, a fellow ranger and one of Luthyen's pupils, Azhie. They all stood silently puzzled by the ceremony as Thorn looked down and shook out the cloak to catch the morning light its folds seeming to flicker making it hard to watch for long. "KB . . ." whispered Thorn Hawk his mind awash with questions and searching for something to say as silent tears spilled from his eyes. "Love," exclaimed Luthyen breathless, "it's . . ." Thorn gathered the cloak to his breast over the silver unicorn he wore holding it reverently while he stood in shocked silence. "An elven cloak," nodded KB, "the lady said it was for duty and a pledge . . . and for me, a tradition," he replied to the unasked question touching the axe at his belt. Those gathered around watched as Luthyen helped Thorn Hawk whose hands shook with wonder place the cloak around his neck. "I've no words brother that can express . .," whispered Thorn Hawk, a single tear flowing down his cheek as he thought of Mielikki, "but thank you." "That is enough Thorn." Feeling a need to suddenly be alone with his thoughts and to thank his goddess in his own way, Thorn Hawk said his good byes and with a single motion turned, placed the hood over his head, flickered and vanished from sight. Thorn Hawk Brotherhood of PathfindersShort but Sweet (submitted by: ERS Boyo) Tho a rose may be most beautiful To you it can't compare To try and make it so Is to the rose, oh so unfair ERS Boyo Morning of the 'Morrow (submitted by: ERS Boyo) I arose on the morning of the 'morrow to the Sun breaking thru my window forcing me from my slumber. I stood upon my feet and cursed the daylight and the day. I wished not to see this morning, I had dreamed of eternal night but alas my prayers they were not answered. I gazed across the room with a blank expression on my face as I gazed upon my armor and my sword. Alas I must don them once again, to defend my home, my honor and my name. There is a man within these woods that wishes to do me harm, to burn my home and rape my lands but he is sadly mistaken if he expect to do it wothout a fight. I was not born a warrior nor do I wish to die one but he shall rue the day he did trespass aginst me. My heart begins to pound faster and faster as I grow closer to the door. As I slowly opened the large oak door, I see my destiny as it is laid out in front of me. The path that leads to the Northern woods is unbeaten for only I have tread these lands and only I shall still continue. The trees are twisted from the fierce northern wind that can rip thru the air like a knife, the leaves are all long gone, I haven't seen them for many years. The road now begins to bend and turn as the farther north I travel. I now can see the snow upon the horizon, the warning of a long winter. I can go no further, I must stop to rest. I lie down beneath an oak tree to ease my weariness. I know I must be careful, for there are many demons that reside within these parts of the woods. I can sense their presence, I feel their eyes staring at me from behind the thick brush, I can feel their hot breath upon my neck for they are so close. I rise from upon my resting place for I must press on, I still have farther yet to journey. I see now the sun as it begins to slowly fade behind the clouds, darkness now envelopes me. The dark hours of the evening are the most dangerous in these woods, most of the demons here fear the light and will not attack if it is present but now I am at their mercy, behind every tree and shrub danger lurks, I must remain on guard as I continue on. Up ahead in the shadows I can hear them as they wait for me to enter the clearing, they think I am the lamb and they are the slaughter. I deftly move in silence thru the woods, I flank them from behind. The only sound they hear as I unsheath my sword is their last heartbeat as I send them back to the depths of hell from whence they were spawned. The killing is quick and painless, as their bodies fall limply to the ground, their blood begins to stain the grass. I raise my hand to Heaven and bow my head, I curse that which I have become. I wish not to kill and I do not do so freely. The hand that wields my sword is forced into action but still I can not forgive myself. I pause for a moment to collect my emotions and gather my thoughts for this is not why I have ventured here, a greater danger still awaits me. I begin down the path once again, the air grows colder with every step I take. Guided by only the faint light of the stars and the moon, I forge forth. Up ahead in the distance I see the glimmering light of a camp fire, I smell the old wood burning as the smoke slowly wafts up into the clouds. It was there I decided to make camp behind the cover of a fallen tree, it is there I would wait for the first light of dawn to make my approach towards my would be foe. The evening air was chilled by a frosty breeze wrapping me in it's cold blanket as I lay myself down to sleep. I had hoped the night wouldst pass quickly but it seemed to drag out longer then any I had endured before. The hours passed by slowly but then I saw it. The first few rays of dawn as they broke thru the twisted, battered limbs of the forest. They shined dimly upon my face as I wiped the tired from my eyes. I rose unto my feet and took a deep breath as I readided myself for the battle that lie ahead of me. I stepped back upon the path, a new found strength pulsating thru my veins, my eyes desperately searching for my enemy but he was not to be found. I reached the middle of the clearing, the embers of his camp fire still smoldering. I cried out "SHOW YOURSELF" dare not hide in the cover of the trees for my rage and my wrath will seek you out and when they find you, may whatever god you hold holy have mercy on your soul. There was no answer, no sound or noise from anywhere. Then from out of nowhere, like a ghost in the wind a man appeared before me. This man I did not know, nor had I ever seen before. He raised his sword to me in jest. He beckoned me to come forth and so I did. Our swords clashed with the fury of thunder, sparks flew like lightning. Blow after blow, strike upon strike we parried and dodged each other with the deftness of skilled warriors. As the battle drew on, both beaten and weary, we continued in combat for this was not a contest of skill but a fight to the death. His fight for riches and wealth, mine for honor and pride. I struck a blow upon his chest, splitting his armor like rotten wood, tearing the flesh from his shoulder, the blood began to flow down his arm into a puddle upon the ground. Still he battled on. His courage in the face of death did both inspire and frighten me. I knew it wouldst come to this but didst I really wish to kill this man because of unkind words he spoke upon me? My answer did not matter for his sword did not stay still for long, the momentary silence was broken when we clashed again. He fought with the fury of 10 men his strength astounded me. I now began to fear that I could not be victorious in this fight and that I would be the one to be forgotten in these woods. My fear was my inspiration, for I didst not wish to die here today. I fought back with the might of Giants, my fury and ire outgrew my attacker's, I landed blow upon blow to his body but he would not sucumb to the pain and injuries I did inflict. He would not, he could not surrender nor could I afford him the chance. Then he stopped, looked me within my eyes and lowered his sword for he knew he had been beaten. I looked back upon him and raised my sword for one last blow to finally end it all. I struck with power and speed, his body fell upon the ground quivering and shaking as the last few breaths of his life passed from his lips. I buried this man that I had killed but did not know as the last few rays of sunlight fell upon the Earth. Who was this man, what was his name and why did he assail me? I fear the answers to my query, I shall never know. As I ventured home, I cried tears of sorrow for this man that I had killed but did not know. ERS BoyoGame Login Poem (submitted by: Tripwire) The gate to the realm of dreams is blocked The gatte to the realm of screams is locked, Oh how can this folly of all mankind be?, Please open the gates ,and set us all free ! Too many users are in the great game, Too many "ghosts" are what I do claim!! Can you please tell ol' "user one" if you please; Log Off more often , to save you must first leave ! With right hand doubleclick, and left hand one stroke do I take, On keyboard and mouse its a fine rythym I make ! The rythym be broken once in a great while, As the big square icon I see makes me smile ! But as two more strokes with lefthand are made, "The Gates to Neverwinter are Blocked " OH HADE !!!! Tripwire * The Lost Mage * OGS The Hunt Begins - Part 1 (submitted by: Exed0ranth) Clutching the bolt that protruded from his shoulder, Darrien knew he would soon feel the effects of the dreaded sleeping poison, and he knew that if his eyes were to close now, he may never again open them. The sky pounded its fury, saturating the earth will heavy rainfall, causing mass puddles and blinding rain. Flashes of lightning lit up the area, giving Darrien his only glimpses of his surroundings. "Where am I now?", he whispered to himself as he began to get lightheaded, the poison slowly coursing through his veins. Glancing around wearily, he pushed on, not quite sure what direction he was even going, his mind trying to stay clear of the poison. Creeping slowly, he followed the muddy path the best he could, given that the lightning was his only light source, he wasn't sure how far he was away from his pursuer, but was thankful for the Dimension door scroll he purchased from the thief in Striders, it had saved his life. He stopped for a second to catch his breath, leaning heavily against a tree, gasping for air. "Just a bit farther", he said slowly, trying to focus around him, fighting to stay awake. Stepping forward his legs gave out and he was sent to the ground, his eyes giving out not soon afterward. ******************************************************** He puffed heavily on his pipe, trying to keep it from getting soaked from the downpour, glancing around the area, cursing under his breath for dragging the hunt out longer, when the kill was right there, and now it was gone. Exed0ranth sighed heavily, and sat on a broken rock, tucking his pipe away. The drow went to the folds in his Piwafre, removing the large diamond, one of the biggest he had ever seen. He smiled greedily as he examined it again, marveling at its beauty, his payment for the delivery of the rivvil, the rivvil that had just up and vanished in the rain. Taking the handbow, he loaded another bolt and attached it to his belt. Stretching, the drow rose to his feet, drenched from the rain, he walked along the path, humming a strange melody as he followed the path. ******************************************************** "What do you want from me?", he screamed, letting a missile of magic erupt from the wand towards the pursuer. Darrien watched the missile streak towards the horde of figures approaching him, he took satisfaction in the missile that soared towards its target, striking it squarely in the chest. "Yes!", he bellowed triumphantly, as the missile found its mark. A huge burst of light filled the pathway, and the form of the drow vanished, and Darrien then knew, that it wasn't a horde he was fighting, but 1 drow, who had duplicated to look like several, and his missile had only hit an image, Darrien scowled at his luck. Exed0ranth aimed the handbow, not seemingly bothered by the rain, his eyes locked on the rivvil who was working frantically to remove the false drows, it only took a second for the trigger to click, and the bolt to embed itself in the soft flesh of the rivvils shoulder. The drow smiled, and took his pipe out, lighting it under the cover of a large tree, his eyes never leaving the now poisoned human. Darrien's body jerked as the bolt hit home, sinking into his shoulder. He reached around and snapped off the end of the bolt, throwing it to the ground, he knew about drows, and knew that most bolts were adorned with a strong sleeping poison and that he didn't have much time. He ran down the trail as fast as his weakening legs would let him, glancing behind him, only to find the shadowy figure of the drow not far behind him, the burning tobacco from his pipe announcing his arrival. Darrien ran on, another bolt sailing by his ear and ending up in a tree, quickly followed by another that grazed his arm. Running as fast as he could, he slipped and fell into a large puddle, injuring his ankle slightly, and he turned around to see the drow fast approaching. He quickly took off his pack and untied the knots, and removed an old parchment, he only prayed it was worth all the money it costed him. Exe came closer, putting the handbow away, and took out his black flail. The flail glowed with a light all its own, "Do you kill him now it asked him mentally, or shall you continue to play around as you always do" Exe chuckled as he came closer, knowing that his flail had a bloodlust more dangerous than his own, and still wondered if it was wise to keep a hold of such an intelligent weapon, but its destructiveness couldn't be equaled, and Exe had caved in many skulls with the flail, and the flail reveled in every kill. Darrien held the scroll close, straining his eyes to see the words, and chanted aloud, the feeling of magic in the air. Exe came closer and began to swing the flail, the end of the flail glowing a faint red, glowing brighter as Exe ran towards the rivvil, an eerie moan could be heard as he swung the flail, intent on crushing the humans skull into pieces. As Exe brought the flail down, the human vanished in a flash of bright light, the flail sinking deep into the earth. As the flail embedded itself in the ground, the earth began to smoke, as the flail excreted its acid everywhere, the flail cursed to itself, its hopes of human blood prolonged. Sojourn-Argon The Dark Shadow of Argon (submitted by: MECH Argos) It had been long since the de-activation of Sassy, and given the time to reflect upon it Argon still felt unsettled about what he had done. Killing was a part of life indeed, yet when it came to ones own family it became a detriment to ones inner self to say the very least. Over the last few weeks the time spent with Pearl were beautifully extravagant episodes of pure...love. Often were the times the two would be seen walking down the darkened corridors of the complex arm in arm. A casual smile or nod of approval would greet them as they walked by. It was as if Gond himself intervened and dissipated the former inhuman feeling that was commonplace for Argon. In all honesty, the new attitude and emotions actually aided in his work and developments. Whereas, he used to be rather one-sided and set in his ways, Argon found he was now patient, and almost doting to his brethren.. It was not until one morning over training sessions that he decided his next course of action... *** Seated against a nearby tree, Argon watched Pearl as she practiced her swordplay. While not commonly used among the ranks of MECH, swordplay gave off its own elegant passions..of a much earlier time. "You're getting good I must say dear, but keep your chin up. Lowering your chin limits your range of vision and can cause you to lean forward a bit". Sighing, Pearl settles down next to Argon and leans against his chest... "I dont care about my chin, I'll keep it where I want to", Pearl smiles. You know as well as I that I'll never fight with a sword anyways". Placing an arm around her as she rests against him, Argon observes the scenery around them. Nature in its granduer was always a pleasureable sight to behold, and was so enhanced by the mixed company. Reflecting, Argon was amazed that he ever locked himself in his Antechambers every hour on the hour and hardly ever saw daylight. It was at this moment that he came to a decison..One that would change his life forever.. *** "I dont believe I embody what my callsign was meant for me any longer my sweet". Sitting up, and knowing Argon well enough not to speak when he was reflecting, Pearl watched him quietly. "I will change my callsign, and make it so that I cannot be reminded of my former dark thoughts and ideas. I can no longer be as inept and one-sided as once was found. I want to join my brethren in all ways and manners. My love for you has sparked that I believe, and it is my hope that I can continue to be with you as you desire. You could not specifically link with Argon, he was pure destruction, whereas I am destruction yet feeling upon my own kind. Gone will be my blank stares as I disassemble and re-assemble. Yes, I will go through with it. And I will do so not only for you my love, but for MECH as well..We are the masters in all, and we shall continue to be.. Now walking through the green pastures of the woods, Argon and Pearl talk amongst themselves and grin and laugh in their revelries. When the complex was finally reached, Argon turned to look out at nature as if to say goodbye in part. For there would be a part of him that would not emerge from the complex, yet there would be a part that would soar amongst the clouds in search of the eternal wisdom of Gond... *** His goodbyes complete, Argon opened the door for Pearl never taking his eyes off of her. A sacrifice such as this he would make again if he could, anything for the eternal beauty that was MECH Pearl. Recognizing it at all made the inner Argon shudder..But it was a decision now that he would stand by, to eradicate those feelings of ineptitude. Feelings were not a weakness as he commonly thought long ago. They were an inspiration, and in proven tests had multiplied greatly his battle prowess. Few of the servants of Gond could face Argon in single combat, and now it would become even more so a challenge for them. Entering his private antechambers, Argon placed down his travel gear and sat on his table. Many changes were made to his own rooms since the last deactivation. This time the process would be swift and quick, removal of a few banks here and there would be all that was required in this instance. Smiling at Pearl who watched from nearby...Argon tapped his communications array and spoke. ****************** Argon 1-F Phasecycle scramble- 2-D4 The folowing MECHs are to report to the Chamber of Horrors. MECH Cisco MECH Wolff MECH Judas **************** Now awaiting the others to arrive, Argon sat back on his table and glanced up at the ceiling. Concentrating on the small red dot Argon eventually fell into a trance. All was in ready.. To be continued..Jewel and Aztek - Part One (submitted by: MECH Jewel) Striding into her chamber, Jewel slams the door behing her, removing her plazma rifle and tossing it carelessly onto the table. Pacing the room in barely suppressed frustration, her sensors working at optimal speed, she reviews the events since her purification. Sitting down at her control panel, she loads her memory logs and closes her eyes. Vivid images of the past months flash in her mind and before her optical sensors. She smiles slightly as she views her meeting with Aztek just prior to her purification, how she was so eager to serve both Him and the Empire, so idealistic about MECH, Gond, and her own abilities. The log continues, and Jewel gasps in surprise as she sees herself outfitted in her uniform for the very first time, her ebony hair pulled back loosely, her saphire eyes shining with pride, eagerness, and determination. Her early days of training come next. The grueling work with Argon to heighten her battle skills... The practice sessions with Mourg and Fiend... But the most happy, and perhaps the most painful as well, were the hours spent with Menac. As young and inexperienced as she was, Jewel had begged Aztek to not install the emotional dampeners during the purification process. He finally succumbed to her pleas, and allowed her to keep this one very human part of herself; but not before counseling her extensively on the perils of retaining her emotional responses. Now that decision had come back to haunt her, to disrupt her every waking moment. The logs continue, causing tears of pain to slide slowly down her ivory cheeks... Too many images of Menac and the love and plans that they had shared... Jewel frowns slightly as the newer logs begin to run. Her tears are soon replaced by a sense of failure and frustration so great that she is nearly doubled over with shame. All of her grand aspirations, her dreams of serving the Empire flood her memory banks as she realizes that because of her selfishness, she has not accomplished her mission. She cannot honestly remember, nor find in her personal logs, the last time she served the Empire in battle. While it is true that her recent promotion to Vice Admiral has kept her busy, she knows that even THAT has not received her undivided attention. Her emotions have kept her from her duties, and she promised the Emperor that she would never allow that to happen. Viewing the last of her logs, her ruby lips tremble slightly. She forces herself to watch again as she and Menac talk quietly over wine at the Triboar Inn. The scene replays in her mind, as they talk about their neglected duties and how their new responsiblities have been suffering because of their relationship. She smiles sadly when they reach their decision to end their involvement and concentrate on serving the Empire. Slowly opening her eyes, Jewel picks up her Communication Device. Sighing heavily, she contacts Aztek. "Emperor? Vice Admiral Jewel here sir. I must speak to you immediately, it's about my emotional dampeners." Jewel =============================================================== His tour with Quelan complete, he left the human in the capable hands of the Purification Techs. The man was still hessitant to become one of the MECH, but when the Emperor informed him that no human that enters, leaves the Complex in one living piece, he quickly decided that Purification would be in his best interests if he wanted to continue living. A little coercion never hurts to sway a decision in your direction. Besides, he was already succombing to the glories and marvels of the MECH and their operations. Though he disapproved of the methods, he loved the feeling of power. So, Aztek left the man in capable hands and continued on with his Imperial Business. Which was about the time he received a Comm Call from Jewel... Emotional Dampeners....Jewel wants to speak with him about her Dampeners. Something wasn't right and Aztek couldn't place the problem just yet. He asked her to meet her in his Quarters. He strode off towards his Quarters and Offices deep in thought. What was wrong with Jewel? She sounded troubled...And he'd do anything to have her troubles taken away..... Aztek =============================================================== Breaking the connection with Aztek, Jewel quickly dries her eyes and runs her fingers through her hair. It wouldn't be good to have him see her in this condition... Collecting herself somewhat, she strides from the room and heads for his private chambers. Upon arriving, she knocks quietly on his door. "Emperor?, It's me, Jewel... May I enter?" She hears his footsteps, and within seconds the door is opened and he is looking at her with concern in his eyes. "Jewel, come in from the hall and talk with me. I can tell something is troubling you Sister." At his kind expression and softly spoken words, tears immediately spring to her saphire eyes. Crying softly, she enters and begins to tell him her troubles. Jewel =============================================================== Unsure of how to proceed with this Conversation that Jewel obviously needed to have, Aztek led her into his Lounge and sat her down on the couch. He then crossed the small room and sat in a chair nearby. "Sister, You are obviously distrought at something. I'm not sure what it is that is wrong, but I am more then glad to take time out of my busy schedule and listen to you, and perhaps give you a word of advice." He took a close look at her then. The rudy streaks her tears had made down her cheeks. The red pained eyes looking back at him. Her lips normally wrapped in a smile...pursed into a grimace. "I hate to see any of my brethren like this Jewel. What is wrong? I will do what I can to help." With that, he sat back and listened to her tale unfold... Aztek =============================================================== Her voice barely above a whisper, Jewel sat and talked to Aztek for what seemed like hours. There were times when tears threatened again, but for some reason she couldn't quite explain she couldn't bear for the Emperor to see her weakness and she managed to keep some control over her emotions. Her voice quavered as she told him of her feelings of inadaquacy, and the decisions that she and Menac had made about their future. Of how she wanted so badly to serve the Empire in the best way that she could, and to devote her time to the Monks and their goals of purifying the realms. Seeing the kindness and understanding in his soft purple eyes, she felt better somehow, able to share more of her thoughts with him. She then spoke of her greatest fear... the fear that the lack of emotional dampeners had caused all of this... how she was afraid to be without emotion, to be cold and unfeeling... "I realize now that I was wrong, Aztek", she whispered softly. "I believe that the only way for me to serve MECH and to accomplish my goals, OUR goals, is to install the dampeners." Looking at him sadly, she finally lets the tears rise to her eyes. Feeling them spill down her cheeks, she looks into his eyes and says the words she has been dreading... "Perhaps it's time you sent me to Argon for reprogramming" Jewel =============================================================== He listened to her without saying a word...letting only his eyes communicate to Jewel that he was paying attention and that he understood the problems she was now facing. At times, he could tell she was on the verge of a breakdown, but somehow, through some hidden strength within her, Jewel managed to regain her composure and continue on with her speech. At those times, Aztek wanted so much to stand from his chair, walk over to her and sit beside her. He wanted to put his arm around her and let her know everything would be all right, that the problems she faced were common to many of the Brethren. She wasn't the only one to decline the Emotional Dampeners, though they meant sanity when the new cybernetics meshed fully with what remained of the organic lifeform within. Aztek wanted her to know this and to know that he, as well as the Monks, would help her get through the tough times ahead. But then he thought better of it. His eyes glittered momentarily, and the harsh, sometimes cold side of his Imperial self regained command. She must make it through this of her own accord. As much as he wanted to help, she would learn nothing and gain no knowledge if Aztek coddled her and did everything for her. Jewel must work thru this and find the truth of what lay in her heart. He hoped she hadn't caught that momentary lapse that flitted through his eyes. Sometimes the coldness he found there scared even himself, but he learned the necessity of 'tough love' very quickly after taking on the Imperial Robes after Deuce's disappearance and upsetting demise. Jewel continued to speak...the tears in her eyes glistening, but refusing to break from their prison. "I realize now that I was wrong, Aztek", she whispered softly. "I believe that the only way for me to serve MECH and to accomplish my goals, OUR goals, is to install the dampeners." Looking at him sadly, the tears finally break. Seeing them spill down her cheeks, Jewel looked into his eyes... "Perhaps it's time you sent me to Argon for reprogramming" He pondered momentarily as Jewel stewed in her turmoil. Steepling his hands, he stood from his chair and walked across the room, his back to her. Now, his eyes, too began to glisten. His back still to her, he spoke..."Reprogamming? No, that is not an acceptable solution Sister Jewel. I can not have every MECH asking to be reprogrammed when they encounter a minor set back in their operation. If I allowed that, no one would be the same from day to day. NO, Jewel, You will not be reprogrammed." Pausing, his attuned hearing picked up nothing from her. Silence followed. No Sigh? No reaction whatsoever? A single tear broke and ran down his cheek. "You will, However, face these problems you have now encountered. If you find that the Dampeners is the only solution to this problem. So be it. I will order them installed. But YOU WILL NOT take the easy way out here Sister. You can overcome this. I will NOT accept failure. MECHs have surrvived without the Dampeners, and they have gained much power and wisdom from their personal trials. Some have failed and were sent for reprogramming. You will not...Dampeners or No...YOU WILL NOT FAIL! Dismissed." Aztek continued to stand there, facing away from her. He felt her stand. Felt her take a step towards him, as if hoping for some comfort. "I SAID DISMISSED!" He heard her steps quicken and the door open...the last thing he heard was a soft sobbing coming from Jewel and then the door closed, blocking off all sound. Aztek fell to his knees with his face buried in his hands. He hoped he had made the proper decision. Only time would tell... Aztek =============================================================== As she stumbled from Aztek's chamber, a small sob escaping her lips, Jewel's thoughts began to race... How could she possibly overcome her problems without the aid of the dampeners? His refusal to allow her reprogramming confused her... Didn't he want her to be successful in her service to the Empire? Didn't he understand how her heart ached each time she caught a glimpse of Menac? How she longed to make her Emperor proud. To offer her service and loyalty without having all of these confusing emotions clouding her judgement... She had glimpsed the tear in his eye at one point... surely he must understand how she was feeling... how alone and afraid she was right now... how unsure of her abilities and her usefulness... Dammit, there had to be a way to fix this! To have those eyes look at her with pride and admiration instead of sympathy and regret... Wiping her tears, she realizes that tonight there is a gathering. One which she, as Vice Admiral of Events, had arranged. There was much to discuss and much to prepare. Making her way quickly to her chambers, she tries to block the image of that single tear from her mind... to focus on the job at hand and her preparations for the evening... Jewel =============================================================== The Emperor remained in his office and apartments for the remainder of the cycle. He took no COMMs nor did he deliver any orders for the Staff Officers to take care of. Aztek sat in his lounge, wrapped in his favorite chair....pondering the decision he'd made. Eventually he went into his office and retrieved Jewels Personnel files and read over the data of her before Purifcation and after...She'd been brought to the Empire for a reason...Her strength of character and strength of mind and soul were ideal for the Purification Process...she should have been among the top MECHs...strong in all things she was trained in.. What had gone wrong then? He double checked her Purification stats...nothing had gone wrong in the process...so what had happened? She'd lost something vital to her being and he had no clue how to retrieve it. Now, was he damning her by forcing her to see this thru alone.... Doubt...a very bad feeling that an Emperor should never have...now he was questioning his own decisions. No...he thought...I'll stand by this decision...Jewel needs to be tested and she will pull thru. He prayed to Gond that she would. AztekOde to the Paladins of TP (submitted by: Lady JNar) Herein lies the tale of a toss gone sour, Some rangers have claimed it could be blamed on the hour. Twas early in the morn at the Arena in Tri, A few evils were about but they soon passed on by. Rangers and Paladins from the guild of TP Were determined to find who the best tossers be. For the Pallies were tired of being tossed in the moat, And seeing the Rangers make a post just to gloat. As the day of the toss grew increasingly near, The Paladins went to train while the Rangers drank beer. The teams were assembled and battle cries rang out, The Paladins began to toss Rangers about! The Rangers were flying at an alarming rate, And soon ranger-shaped dents appeared on the gate! The Rangers shaped up and battled with skill, But those darn Pallies were too hard to kill. The Paladins ruled the day and very few got tossed, While Rangers could but claim "At least we didn't get lost" A grand time was had by all who showed up, And the Pallies did earn the Victors Cup. The parties that followed, the Rangers did host, For when push came to shove, they got tossed the most! Lady JNar A humble TP Ranger : ) Message from a Fallen Brother (submitted by: HR LAN) Thunder crashed overhead as Lan made his way through the lost hills, causing the ranger to momentarily stop to gaze at the sky. Far above, billowing masses of black gurgled and churned, threatening to explode at any moment. Grest, Lan thought wryly, rain is just what I need right now. It had been a hard day already; WOH had reared it's ugly head, gating several of Lan's friends. They had escaped--barely--as had Lan...but what now? He was seperated from his guild brethren, bleeding still from the wound that he'd taken to his left shoulder, and was beginning to feel lightheaded. The trail through the Lost Hills was not easy to follow, even for a ranger, and this buzzing in his head wasn't making it any easier. Crouching, Lan examined the ground. There were signs of recent use, which was an encouraging sign, and he stood, continuing on the faint trail, praying that he'd find the gate to Triobar soon. The wound was hot, and the pain was beginning to spread. It already hurt to breathe. Perhaps he'd broken a rib or two, as well. Presently, it started to rain. Large, cold drops of water started pelting the world with much more force than was absolutely necessary, and Lan with it. He plodded along, closing his cloak tighter against the chill. "Having problems?" The voice--a male one--caused Lan to spin around abruptly, hand going to the hilt of his sword in alarm. He relaxed when he recognized who the voice came from. It was Mayhem, the same fellow who had recruited him to the Order of the Heroes of the Realms. Lan smiled, "Mayhem, I'm glad to see yo--" Lan never saw it coming. Something hit him on the head, there was a flash of light, and suddenly he found himself sprawled out on the cold, wet ground. An abstract thought, totally inappropriate, flashed through his mind: My cloak's going to get all muddy. And Mayhem was upon him, sword drawn and a wicked gleam in his eye. Lan tried to speak, tried to ask him what in the name of the gods he was doing, but reflexes took hold, and he found himself facing a charge from his old friend. Quickly, unconsciously, he chanted the words of power, sending a magic missile streaking for his assailant. The missiles dissapated before they ever touched the man. Idiot, Lan chided himself, should have known he'd be globed. There was enough time for his brain to tell his body that he shoud dodge his attacker. Unfortunately, there was not enough time for his body to recieve the information, process it, and carry out the good advice. Mayhem hit Lan--hard-- throwing him back to the earth and driving the breath from his lungs. Thunder crashed overhead, and as it died down, he could hear mayhem laughing. Suddenly, Lan realized there was a sword to his throat. "Lan...poor, disillusioned Lan," Mayhem purred, his voice a mixture of hatred and mirth, "Some great warrior you are. I thought rangers were supposed to be perceptive." Lan opened his mouth to speak, but nothing came out. he was dizzy...too dizzy...and darkness was beginning to encroach upon his vision. Mayhem continued, "I'm going to let you live, Lan...and you're going to do something for me. You're going to deliver a message to your master. My former master. Tell him, and all of the order, that they have crossed the line. They have taken their oaths to me, and violated them! Violated me!!" Mayhem's voice was filled with a rage now that was frightening in it's intensity. The man stopped, then, and it took an obvious effort to compose himself. Lan managed to speak, his voice coming out as a hoarse whisper, "but mayhem...I..." mayhem cut him off with a gesture. "Just do it, Lan." Lan thought he detected a note of sympathy in the man's voice, but before he had the chance to wonder aloud, the blackness finally found perch in his mind, closing the world around him and sending him into unconsciousness... "Is he going to be alright?" it was a female voice, and it took Lan a few seconds to place it as Bash, his old friend. He opened his eyes to see Bolt standing there. The cleric was bent over Lan, hand to his forhead, and smiled when he saw his eyes open. Bash was behind him. "Lan, you had us scared there for awhile. What the heck happened to you?" Bolt was relieved, obviously. That fact would normally have made lan smile, but he had more on his mind at the moment. he sat up, despite protests from Bolt, which he rebuffed, shaking his head and moving Bolt back with a hand. "Listen up, guys," he began weakly, "I've got a message to deliver..." And thunder crashed once more, an ominous undertone to the beginning of an ominous time...The Lass Kissed me Cheek (submitted by: Gumples) Me was 'avin' a gud day, Me was 'avin' a gud week. Bu' things got e'en better, When tha lass kissed me cheek. Me wuz sweatin' so much Me was afeared me wou' reek. Methinks she nae minded Cuz tha lass kissed me cheek. Me was skairt ta look, Me was skairt ta peek. Me kept me eyes closed, As tha lass kissed me cheek. Tha sky 'ad been cloudy, The weather looked bleak. Bu' tha sun did come out, After tha lass kissed me cheek. Tha most meanest dwarf Wou' suddenly turn meek If'n he'd e'er 'ad Dis lass kiss 'is cheek. After it 'appened Me cou' nae speak. Me wuz so 'appy Miss Nalynn kissed me cheek! Reeks of Rotten Meat - Part 3 (Luck, Luck and More Luck) (submitted by: WG Wage) Lorse jumped as hard as he could! Into the air, with his eyes cramped shut not daring to look at the long way down. The bird flew past him and Lorse began to soar wildly downward. He didn't scream becuase he was afraid to do anything other than wave his arms wildly trying to catch something. Lorse bounced off a branch and forced his eyes open, suddenly finding himself heading straight toward another tree instead of the ground. Dishmail was yelling something, asking what was going on. Lorse flew toward the tree and figured,"Welp, this is the end. I'm gonna die. My heads going to crack open as soon as it hits that tree. Goodbye creul world. Lorse could swear the wind had gotten stronger, pushing in the direction he was going. That wind WAS getting really rough. Amazingly rough! (SNAP!) The tree he was heading for couldn't handle the wind and snapped! What was going on? Lorse suddenly found himself being carried by the wind. Heading straight for a huge pile of leaves. With a huge grunt Lorse fell headfirst into it and pulled leaves out of his mouth that was hanging open from surprise. Dishmail happened to be nearby and helped Lorse up,"Y'all right Reeks?" "I'm fine, thanks. And please don't call me Reeks anymore." "Ah jus' be a-callin' ya what yer folks went 'n' named ya fellah." "What happened?"Lorse wheezed,"Why did the wind blow down that tree, why did I happen to soar into this safe pile of leaves?" "Them Gods, they work in mis-ter-yous ways, dey do. Tymora musta done taken a likin' to ya. Yas were awfly lucky up dere! When i realized you was fallin' I thought you were a gonner fer sure!" "Really? Tymora likes me?"Lorse was smiling,"I hardly know anything about Tymora." "Well Tymora knows bou' you!" "I see... where are we anyway?" Dishmail looked around,"Ah dunno whether it's Tymora's Good Fortune or not but y'all landed right down near a road!" "A road?"Lorse stood up, there WAS a road there, a clear one that undoubtably led straight to a town! Three amazingly unlikely strokes of luck in less than a minute!" "Ya know wut fellah?"Dishmail stated, mistaking an oak tree for Lorse,"Ah betcha that since Tymora lahkes ya so dern much, she'd be more den a-willin' ta make ya a cleruc o' her order!"He patted the Oaktree's back,"Say, you gettin' mighty stiff fellah!" "Really?"Lorse looked at Dishmail with wonder, he'd never imagined himself clerical material,"How would I get to become a cleric of Tymora?" "Ah'll teach ya a soon as we follow dis hea road ta wherever it goes, Ah will. Ah'll teach ya dem ins and dem outs aaaaall abou' bein' a cleruc o' Tymora! It won't be easy though! Nuh-uh! Y'all'll go through mighty tough trainin' day afta day afta day afta day. And afta that day too, Ah think so. But is it a deal fellah?" "It's a deal!" "Great! Lets shake on it!"And Dishmail shook the oaktree's branch.A Prelude to Anarchy (submitted by: Kyle Bain) I wake up in my room in the BDA cavers, my body twitching. My bed is soaked, dripping in sweat. I feel so dehydrated, as if every last drop of liquid from my body was now slowly soaking into the sheets and the bed. I sit on the edge of the bed, and take the sponge from the bucket of fresh water by the side. I wring it off over my head, letting the clean water rinse off the sticky sweat. I wipe my body off with the sponge, and lay down on the hard, cold floor, thinking. This is the third night in a row. The third time I've had that nightmare... No, not a nightmare. Just a dream. There was nothing fightening about it. But what does it mean? I try to remember what it was about, but it's useless now. The dream has slipped from my memory. But as I think about it, I begin to feel scared. I haven't dreamed in so long. Not since I arrived here in Neverwinter. The last dream I had, so many years ago, was what brought me here. Here to NeverWinter, and to the EverNight Citadel. I'm almost afraid to go back to sleep, afraid of what this dream might mean, where it might take me. But I guess the last one wasn't so bad, was it? Sure, the Citadel faded after a while, and the other inhabitants had left, but I'm happy aren't I? Here in Neverwinter? My thoughts comfort me, calm me, and I allow myself to doze off on the hard floor. The cold doesn't bother me. A student. A teacher. The teacher is beating the child. Why? I don't know. A classroom fades in around them. The other students are laughing. Except two, who sit at the back. They don't look happy. It looks as though they feel every blot the child takes, cringing, whimpering, at evey strike. Why is he, are we, being beaten so? No reason. The is practicly a daily ritual. The teacher picks a different one of us every few days. Just to entertain the class. I can't take it anymore, but what can we do? The others will know. The one's who no longer have parents to force them to go to school. They're stronger then us three. They would do something. And they did, we did. And suddenly they're all gone. The classroom ins gone. The teacher is gone. My friends. Our enemies. And their faces appear before me. I recognize them all, but all names are just beyond my grasp. My eyes shoot open, I sit straight up. I remember now. I could never remember before my father died. Before he left me in that huge castle, all alone. Now I remember it all. How they segregated us. How they threw stones at us when we passed them on the street, called us names, pushed us around. The whole town hated us. But we got sick of the hatred. And we fought back. At first, we only did small things, annoyences. But soon, it got worse, and it was their own fault. They created us, and created their own fate. They even named us, after only a few days, with their "newspapers," and their "headlines." "The Bane Children Strike Again!" I could never, and still can't, image how anyone, much less an entire town, could be so cruel. They blamed us for everything. The dying cows, the church that burt down, the deaths. What made it worse, was that they didn't even know it was us who were causing the "accidents," they just needed someone to blame. Of course, they didn't name any names, but everyone knew who they were implying. They thought it would be okay to blame some nameless kids. They thought that no one would get hurt that way. But they couldn't have been more wrong. Because the funniest part was, that is was us. The dregs of society. "The Bane Children." They cluelessly blamed the guilty. And we found that humorous. And with every incident, there was another article. And each article caused us to do more. Until it got so bad, people started moving away. My father was one of them, one that moved away. But he didn't do it soon enough. We got together on night, after people had started to leave. And we made a pact. A pact to drop our last names, and use the name "Bain" instead. And to forever be known as "Bain." And we spelled it wrong just to mock them. Some even changed their first names, not wanting and rememberence of the town, and their families. I can't even remember if I had changed mine. It's been so long. We also decided that someday, we would return. Return to the town that had made us who, what, we were. No specific date was set. Just, someday. The dream is a sign. It is my time to return. I pick myself up off of the floor, and look into the mirror next to my bed. I look at the crude "tattoo" of a dagger that had been carved there. More of a scar now. It barly resembles a dagger. I never remembered what it was supposed to mean before, but now, I remember everything. I scribble out a note, and leave it on my bed. It states that I have to leave for personal reasons, but I will return. I don't take much with me. Just some dried rations for a week. And I head out to find my past. After three days of travel, I come upon the dead town I once called home. Brought back here by only a dream, and memories, I'm not sure what to expect. Will the others be waiting? Are the even still alive? All would be found out in time. But for now, I rest. I would rather sleep the day, and enter the town at night. I'm safe in the night, the darkness is my protection. I lay against a tree, loking at the town. There doesn't seem to be any movement. It looks as though no one has lived here since it died so many years ago. Perhaps non of the others have returned yet. I'll have to stay until they do. I allow myself to fall asleep, for the first time in three days. Father? Where? Why? The town is in chaos, people are dying. You don't trust me? Your own son? I don't want to leave my friends. They're the only ones that care about me. You don't. To Grandfather's castle? But that's in the middle of no where. He'd dead. We'll be there alone. How will we survive? Father. I don't what to go. I want to stay here... please. Please? Please! I slightly cry out in my sleep, waking myself up. Another dream. Not quite a dream though. It was more like remembering te past, while sleeping. I hear something, a distance away, in the forest. Footsteps. Now whispering. I think it was more than my dream that woke me up. I quickly stand, without making a sound. I don't see anyone, but it sounds like they're coming my way. Or heading toward the town, and I happen to be in their path. I quickly jump into the tree, and swiftly and silently climb to a safe height. Could it be them? Or is it just travelers, happening to pass by? I wait, and they come closer. It sounds like three, maybe four. A few seconds later, three come into view. I know, even after all these years, I would recognize the other Bain's, but I recognize non of these three. I let out a slight sigh, afraid that I may have to wait around for a while. That I may not be returning to NeverWinter, for months, even years. But then a fourth appears from behind the trees, dragging the corpse of a deer. And even from this distance, I know the face. "Damen..." I whisper to myself, and smile. I'm flooded with relief. Damen was one of my closest friends, and this means at least four have returned. I'm still not sure who the other three are, but I'll find out. I may not be waiting around very long after all. I wait for them to pass, and silently decend from the tree. I stalk them noislessly to the edge of the forest. I don't want to startle them. They may act before they think, and someone could die before any of us know what's happened. I crouch behind a tree, and wait for the four of them to gain a fair distance from me. Then I step out. "Damen," I say, and they all turn, ready to attack. Instant recognition floods Damen's face. "Kyle," he smiles. "I knwe you'd return." But the other's aren't sure, so I roll up my sleeve, and show them my crude dagger tattoo. They smile recognition, and welcome me back. They take me back to the abandoned inn where they are all staying, and I find that there are three others waiting. Damen cooks the deer, and we all talk while eating. We all tell our stories. It's obivous who's been here the logest, and the shortest, by how they tell thier stories. I figure out that Damen was one of the first to return, from his short recap. He's getting sick of telling it for everyone that returns. And Blood had probbly returned shortly before me, because he was still interested in telling his. I find that Damen is sick of waiting around for the other's. He's probably been here at least a year. He wants to leave, get out, and the other's agree. And from my tale, they decide that NeverWinter is the place to go. It's profitable, dangerous, and most of all, chaotic. After a week, no one else has shown up, and we are ready to go. I approach Damen before we head out. "What about the other's?" I ask him. "There have to be more coming. How will they know where we have gone?" "Kyle... We are linked by more than our names now, more than the daggers engraved in our arms. They'll find us."A Blessed Knight (submitted by: Augustus 5) Augustus had travelled for two days southward now, leading a small party of Nasher's guardsmen in the delivery of crucial supplies to the forces guarding the far approach .. And then he remembered Iser's words spoken in private confidence a few days before his departure.. There was to be an astouding sight in the skies this night, and she had encouraged him to find a secluded spot to witness this display of heavenly oddity.. If he missed this astronomical event, he might never have such occasion again. And so, Augustus called the entourage to an early stop to set camp for the night, and as the guardsmen began to unpack the tents and prepare their evening victuals he quietly guided his steed away from the campsight to watch in solitude... As his compatriots voices faded into the night behind him, Augustus ascended through the forested hillside.. Finding a clearing at it's peak, he thought.. "Ahh, this should do nicely for the observation of the heavens.." He knew that Iser's knowledge of the movement of heavenly bodies was extensive, and her predictive powers were mysterious.. further, her subtle words of advice in the past had been suprisingly insightful and accurate... Yet still, Augustus was not prepared for the sight he was about to witness... The full moon directly above shone with greater clarity than ever he had witnessed.. And the canopy of stars bore not only the familiar constellations which had guided many of his travels, but also seemed sprinkled with a multitude of tiny sparkles which had never before revealed themselves.. Slowly.. one edge of the bright, full moon became shrouded in darkness.. Augustus frowned worriedly as the shadow gradually began to swallow the beauty of this silvery sphere.. He wondered what meaning this might have and if such a progress of darkness might bode poorly for the good of the realms... Then, as the moon was nearly fully darkened, a flaming star from the southwest came streaking into view... like a chariot it soared, and as suddenly as it appeared, the darkened moon began to glow in warm golden hue.. and a swath of white light, naye in fact a crescent halo formed at it's edge, and the smiling expression of the moon beamed down.. seeming to gaze directly at Augustus... A feeling of peace and well-being flowed through him as he was bathed in this near-holy light.. and Augustus stood in awe as he gazed into this beauteous night sky.. then, With hardly a rustle, from the surrounding forest came a fawn... followed by another.. and then a stag of emmense proportion... and then three doe.. one after another he was joined by the deer of the forest until there was more than a score in the clearing with him... Not grazing.. not wary of his presence... they seemed to have no other purpose than to be present.. They would occasionally glance his way and seem to give an approving nod.. Then as quietly as they came, they singularly wandered back into the forest.. As he stood there alone in the clearing, Augustus watched as the darkness receeded from the silvery moon until it shone again in full brightness.. His mind drank in the moment, and his heart tried to fathom it's meaning... He drew his sword and placed its tip in the soil before him, kneeling and with head bowed... "By all that I know to be good.. this night has indeed been blessed.. Our path is true and sure. By this sign am I reassured.." With a deep breath, Augustus stands and steps to his steed, mounting.. With one last look around this blessed grove, he rides down the hillside back to camp.. renewed in his resolve to continue his campaign for Unity.. and somehow he felt safer in this pursuit. ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~` My Brothers and Sisters... As many of you know, I have been travelling the last few days in a move to a new city.. This tale is in fact based in fact.. The main differences are my steed and entourage were in fact a Hertz-Penske Truck towing my car behind, and rather than the south of Neverwinter, I was in Alabama.. Hehe.. But those are minor differences ;) Right..? There really were 20-something deer that came out of the woods..!!! Anyway.. I felt this trip was blessed ;) Augustus Knight-Baron of the Table Round Guild Elder Ambassador to the Dryad Grove P.S. And *who* can say that I live in a "dream world"..? Hehe.. Mysteries abound in our midst every day.. ;)For Whom the Bell Tolls (submitted by: Exegete) Sir Corwin Americus' defense of the northern frontier was a complete victory if not an inexpensive one. The routed troops broke their ranks and fled for the hovels and dank caves they called home in the cold far reaches beyond Luskan. What was unexpected, and particularly brutal was the toll they exacted from the citizenry and humble farm-folk along the way. The hastily assembled Militia gleefully chased the retreating Ice People as far as the southern border of Luskan before their sergeants and lieutenants could reign them in sufficiently to restore order and make the area north of Windycliffs secure. Corwin met with his officers to assess the victory and to be sure that all that needed doing had been done. "Augustus, old friend, it is good, tho surprising to see thee here" Corwin said in surprise as he entered the tent where the meeting was to be held. "Aye Milord Corwin" Augustus replied. "I dinna expect to be here meself, tho it certainly seemed to be the right place to be." "Aye, and he was needed, so I hear" Windgrey piped up. "He solidified our flank when we needed it badly." he went on. "His magicks made the difference and turned back two charges so my Company Commanders report." Corwin only smiled. He remember many a time when the might of Lord Augustus 5, one of the senior Knights at the Table had a made just that kind of difference in the past. "Well, I was here..." was Auggie's humble comment; given to the general amusement of all present. Corwin looked around at those who had helped him train and lead the force that had just won such a stunning victory. Windgrey, the fighter whose sword and fighting rage was feared throughout the realms. Ganzelle, who soft-spokeness and quiet demeanor belied his prowess as one of the foremost Mages in the Realms. The page Aldrous, the Dark Paladin who demonstrated such fierce skill with the blade as to take one's breath away. He looked for Exegete, the quiet scholar who had done such a good job with the Cavalry, and did not find him. "Where is brother Exegete?" Corwin asked, looking inquiringly at the others. The others all started, as if this was the first they had noticed him missing. They looked at each other in amused confusion, as Exe was known for disappearing at odd times. Only Corwin was not amused. "I wanted all commander here for this briefing" he pouted. He scratched his chin a bit and looked around. "Augustus, would you be so kind as to seek to find our wayward friend?" he asked. "But of course" Auggie replied. "Be glad to Bro" he said and headed out the door of the tent. "I swear, if this has anything to do with rabbits..." was Corwin parting comment as Augustus stepped out into the late afternoon sun. Augustus' search took the best part of an hour. Various parts of the Militia pointed him this way and that way as he went about the broken countryside in search of the wayward Scribe. As he rode, he looked about and his old heart broke to see the ruins of huts and buildings that the retreating evils had left in their wake. Past increasingly devastated country he rode. Burned huts and farm buildings. Dead animals, obviously slaughter for the sheer wickedness of the deed. Burnt fields and weeping wives and mothers were sadly the norm as her rode slowly along. The children saddened him most of all. Desperate mothers clutching mutilated children to their breast, weeping hysterically; or frightened children kneeling over the bodies of what must have been loving parents, now taken from them by senseless evil. As he rode, he wept openly and unashamedly for the loss of the people, and of the land. That this was the nature of evil and of chaos was once again brought home, with bitter emotion. His life had been lived as best he was able, being a scourge to those who perpetrated such things. And he had seen no little success over the years. But seeing all of this, he was nearly overwhelmed with the sense of immenseness of the task that confronted KORT, and the other Good guild of Neverwinter. One could argue the need for tolerance and balance in the warmth of a philosophical discussion in a comfortable Inn. One could make a solid logical case for the inherent goodness of all people, from a dry classroom or in the endless intellectual discussions that sometimes flew around the table on cold nights as Camelot. Somehow, those argument seemed patently false in the context through which he now rode. Not only false, but ridiculous! His thoughts turned inward as he rode along. How grateful he was that Tyr had spared him such heartache over his life. He had surely had his hurts and his difficulties, that was certain. But he had been blessed with abilities far beyond those of other men. He always been able to hold his own and fight his own way. He had never been the victim of such ruthlessness. While saddened for those whose misery he was witnessing, his heart was also tinged with a bit of gladness and great gratitude that he had been spared such heartache. As he rode, he grew certain that Exegete, as sensitive or more to these same ideas as he was, was doing as he; riding and weeping over the loss he was unable to prevent. Thus, he was not surprised to find Exe's horse, Jester, standing at a gate leading to a house with no roof, it having been burned away, leaving only smouldering embers and walls looking as if they should fall any moment. He found Exegete in the back of the house, standing motionless in the wind, cloak billowing about his body in the heavy breeze, his noble personage framed in setting sun. As Augustus neared, he saw that there was a long handled shovel in Exe's hand, which he leaned on heavily, as if he had suddenly grown very old. Before him were 5 graves, newly filled and carefully arranged, a tidy row of stones surrounding each. Three of the graves were obviously children's graves, the other two for adults, probably the parents of the children Augsutus thought as he took in the scene. It had a solemness and an intense sadness about it and Augustus was loathe to break it, and so approached silently, respectfully. He was startled to hear Exegete sobbing softly, but with strong emotion. He saw the slight shaking to his shoulders and ragged intakes of breath that punctuated his crying. Augustus was taken aback by what he heard, more than he could describe. He stood and watched for a moment, unable to decide what his actions should be. He wanted to rush and be of some comfort to his dear friend, but he knew that Exe was an intensely private man and this was most definitely a private moment, so he hung back, and watched. Moments passed as Exe struggled to regain control of himself and finally, winning the battle, drew a deep sigh, as if his very soul had been torn in pieces. He stooped beside the closest grave, one of the adults and laid his hand on it gently. Sobs racked his body again, silent this time and he bowed his head and gave vent to them for long moments. Dark had nearly descended when he finally stood and turned, and was startled to see Augustus standing near the corner of the house, awkwardly waiting for him. Exe snuffled a bit and wiped both eyes. He gave Augustus a small, sad smile and grasped his forearm as he walked by and into the house. Augustus followed him in, where he found Exe taking a drink from a mug of water, and cleared his throat. "Bro...I..." he started uncertainly. Exe turned and raised a hand as if to stop Auggie in his attempt to comfort him. Another small smile creased his face, this one not quite as ghastly as the first. "I didn't expect to see you here my friend" he said with a sigh. "I'm glad you're here tho. It's gonna be a long ride back to Neverwinter and I wasn't looking forward to taking it alone." He moved around the small hut gathering a few things into a small pack. He paused over several of the items and looked at them. Augustus saw real love and sorrow cloud his face once again each time. It took but a few moments to finish the gathering and soon, he and Exe were mounted and standing in front of the house once again. Augustus knew something terribly wrong had happened, but was at a loss as to how to be of comfort and use to his friend. "All my life, I have been blessed and spared from the hardness that many have suffered around me" Exe said after a few moments, as they turned an began to move toward home. I stuck at evil, and it had little power to strike back at me." he went on, echoing Auggie's own earlier thoughts. He lapsed into silence and they rode on together for a bit longer. "They moved up here to be in the country." He said finally, emotion choking his voice. "I told them it was safe here, and they believed me..." he went on. Silence reigned for more long minutes. A final ragged and deep sigh escaped Exegete's lips. "One cannot know the future Bro" Augustus offered in a tender voice. "Evil is everywhere and wickedness abounds. It is the way of things." he said quietly. Exe nodded sadly. "I thought I knew the ways of evil Aug," he said brokenly. I've fought evil most of my life and done well!" he said. He began to sob quietly once again. "To have my own powerlessness and foolishness thrown in my face is a bitter, bitter thing Bro." He finally went on. "I always thought there would be another day, another time" he continued, as if he expected Augustus to know of what he spoke. Augustus, with a flash of insight and a sharp dart of dread suddenly realized what scene he had stumbled on. "Oh Bro..." He said tenderly. "Oh my dear Brother..." he said, realizing that the graves he had seen must have been from Exe's family. He thought for a moment and realized that It could not have been his immediate family, as they lived close by to Camelot. That only left ... "Thanks Bro" Exe said, as he looked at the night sky. "I appreciate Tyr's leading bringing you to me. I wouldn't have wanted to take this ride alone." They crested a hill and looked back at the ravaged countryside, now all but hidden by encroaching darkness. "Good-bye my dear, dear sister" Exe murmured as he looked to where the destroyed cottage must be. "Good-bye my flesh and blood. I wish we had had more time to make right the wrongs of the past." he went on, as if making a confession. "Rest peacefully and know that I shall make this wrong right. Forgive me dear Lynda and know that thy brother loved thee and that thee will always have a place in my heart and mind." The silence that followed was long and profound by any standard. Exegete and Augustus, Knights of KORT and fast friends rode quickly onward as if trying to leave this new sadness and hurt behind. *********************************************************************************************** Written in loving memory of my dear sister, Lynda and her family, killed by a drunken driver five years ago. I look forward to seeing thee again dear sister, and finally enjoying the peace and fellowship together that eluded us in life.Mellow's Dilemma (submitted by: ABK Mellow) After entering through the gates of Neverwinter, Mellow heads first to his dear wineceller. As he approaches he spies the door slightly ajar. Fearing the worst, Mellow draws his axe. Then, with a roar he charges the room. After smashing through the door he gets into a defensive crouch. Then he lets out a sigh. "Must have been the wind that opened the door. Am I glad about that." Then hanging his axe on the wall, he turns to wear his ale and wine barrels are kept. Mellow lets out a pinched, high pitched, squeal of horror. There, right where his wine should be, there is..... A small note written in a drunken scrawl. It read "Wedin' now, barroed sum ov yer wine for da par-tee. Sorre, Shadow" With a roar of rage Mellow ripped up the parchment. Fixing a scowl on his face, he heads straight for Lord Storm's quarters. After reaching the door he pounds on it heavily. A muffled voice shouts "Come in!!!" Mellow opens the door, enters and slams it shut. Seeing Storm sitting down at his desk, writing something, Mellow charges over. "That snake-in-the-grass Shadow used all my wine, what am I to do for the rest of the celebrations for the next few months?! The graps have just started growing!!!!" Storm, pondering this for awhile, responds "Well, maybe you should talk to Shadow himself about that?" With a snarl, Mellow shouts "It shall be done!!!" and he heads out the door, to look for Shadow. As he passed the gate, he glanced out. Out there were the fields where among other things, grapes were grown. Squinting to see if anyone was out harvesting ripened graped yet, Shadow ran straight into him. With closed eyes Mellow shouts "You idiot!! Watch where you're going!!" Then as he clears the dust from his eyes, he spies Shadow looking quite frightened. "Shadow!" hissed Mellow. "Mellow!" squeaked Shadow. Then Shadow was up and running with Mellow close behind. Mellow strained to reach him, but his years of drinking had made him slow so he stopped after 500 yrds. and sat on the ground, panting, as Shadow ran away. Uncorking his wine flask, he drank the last of the Bloodred wine that there was. "There must be a way to get some grapes, or wine. With nothing in my cellers, I won't get my delivery to the pubs." Mellow sat on the ground, head in hands and did some serious thinking. "EURIKA!! I got it!!! All I need is a time portal and I can go back to before the wedding and save some of my drinks!!" With that Mellow heaved himself off the ground and decided that he needed to learn some magic. *** Mellow trotted off, looking for someone who looked like they knew what to do. Then he spotted someone sitting on an overturned barrel. "Hey Ray! What are ya doing?" He glumly responded "Sitting on a barrel, watching the ants eat a dead fish." Mellow quickly responded "Well sounds like your having load of fun willyouteachmemagicIneedmoreale'causeShadowdrankitall have a nice day." Ray, looking puzzled, said "Magic? Oh right. What do you need?" after a pause (for dramatic effect) Mellow says "How to create a time portal." Ray asked. "Past or future?" Thinking about this, Mellow answered "The Past.". Muttering something and waving his pinky Ray opened a small door in time. "Enjoy, wipe your feet on the mat before you go in." Mellow quickly stepped through--- and was back in the Keep only it was night and a few people were headed towards some celebration. Peering at the square Mellow saw little of the Keep there. He decided that now would be the time to find Shadow and stop him. "But if there was a wedding, where is everybody?" Shrugging, he headed back towards him room in the wine celler. As he got there he peered through the door. Then he opened it fully, the room was full. Mellow breathed a sigh of relief. Then decided to take watch in the darkness of the corners. As time dragged on, Mellow started growing tired. "That run really gave me too much exercise." he thought. Just as he was about to fall asleep, the door creaked open slowly. Then in the partial light of the lamps outside, a shadow fell across the floor. Mellow got into a crouch. Then the darkened figure camt into full view. WHAMMO!!!! Mellow flew headlong into the stranger. After he had knocked the figure to the floor, he walked over and sat on it. "That is for trying to steal my ale and wine without my permission!" The figure replied "GET OF ME YOU FAT LUMMOX!!!" Hmmm. Funny, Shadow must be disgusing his voice. Just then, someone with a light walked into the room. The person with the lamp gasped and said "Bo!! What happened???" The figure on the floor now known as Bo responded "I have been attacked by a raving, crazed cow, Zombie." Mellow quickly leaped off of Bo and stood at attention "Sorry Bo, my apologies, sorry Zombie." The two left Mellows room, glancing back and talking with each other. Mellow decided that he would have to settle for bringing the barrels back now through a portal, rather than wait for Shadow and give him the beating of his life. So he attempted the same thing that Ray had done. He waves his forefinger in the air and yelled out what he had heard. A Drac, the size of a gopher, appeared in front of him. "No,no that's not right. Awww. Look how cute it is. Come here little drac." The tiny critter took a step forward and bit Mellow's foot. Screaming with pain Mellow yelled "I can't remember those darn words!!!!" *** Hopping around with a small drac on your foot wasn't much fun at all, decided Mellow. He ripped the creature off his foot and threw it outside, unfortunatly for ABKHilandr it grabbed his face and held on tight in fear. Mellow paid no heed to the muffled shouts outside his door. "What were those stupid words, what did he do with that one finger. Oh well, trial and error I suppose. Mellow began waving his thumb in the air and chanting an Irish ditty. In a poof of smoke, his long dead Grandmother appeared before him. Alive and well. "Grandma!" Mellow exclaimed "You're alive!!" As Mellow's grandmother squinted at him she asked "No, not you. Didn't your mother feed you to the wolves like I told her to do? Bah. I enjoyed being dead. Put me back." Mellow said "Um I don't know how to Gram." His grandmother responded "Then I'll do it myself you lazy bum." And she waved her thumb and sang the song and dissappeared into thin air. "Whew, that was scary." Mellow tried many combinations that night, he ended up with a two-headed Beholder (That one he had to kill), A box of cookies curiously wrapped in a box entitled "Thin Mints" and severl unidentifiable globs of colored goop. Mellow, exasperated, sat down on his bed. Then, his axe fell of his stand and the handle fell on his pinky. He shouted in pain and began muttering explatives under his breath as he waved his pinky about. Then a small door appeared in front of him. Yelling with joy, he opened the door which led to a replica of the room he was in except that one had no Drink in it. Mellow began rolling barrels through the door and left only a barrel of ale and a barrel of wine for Shadow. Then he slipped through the portal himself. Little did Mellow know that the tiny drac had followed him into his room of the present. After Mellow closed the door behind him, he began to restack his barrels. A knock came at his door. "Mellow are you there?" Mellow turned around, there was Lord Storm. "I just heard that the last two barrels of drink that you had were finished at the wedding and......Oh. Well I guess I heard wrong then. Continue your work. With that he left. Mellow finished his stacking. He laid down on his bead. Then the small Drac crawled up and laid down on his chest. "What? Oh no. You went through the door too? Well I guess I'll talk to Blood or Storm about keeping you." Then the little creature blew a small fireball and roasted Mellows nose. He grabbed his nose and started screaming again. A giant sized chicked landed on his floor. Mellow stopped his raving to say "I wonder how many of those eggs it would take to feed an army." The sun set on another eventful day at the Keep. The EndInspiration (submitted by: ERS Boyo) As I grow weak, From lack of strength, I now know, What the wise man meant. For the wise man said, There shall come a day, Though the night grows dark, We all must be brave. For though we are one, We are never alone, When someone is waiting, For our return home. Weeks may turn to months, Months may turn to years, Have faith in ourselves, Never your fears. For though we are apart, Across deserts and seas, For your love my dear, I would cross them, upon my knees. For life without you, Is a slow dying death, That is why I exclaim, Our love with every breath. For your love for me, Is a joyous celebration, Yes your love for me, Is my inspiration. ERS Boyo Interrogation (submitted by: MECH Tiger) Entering Aztek's office with Jewel, Tiger picks up via his emotional sensors what little emotion Aztek still possesses despite his emotional dampeners and frowns inwardly. Aztek's emotions are a mix of anger, desperation, and a hint of jealousy and Tiger knows he is in for a rough time. Aztek begins the interogation: "Tiger, I've been very lenient with you since your return to the Empire. The questions of your whereabouts and your exploits forgotten and left alone. I've known all along that you were holding back, that much was obvious...but the information that you are with holding from me is of such importance that I'm going to have to ask you once again. Your loyalty to Rasta is exemplary, but he is gone...I am the Emperor now and it should be to me that you show your loyalty. MECHs that have long been MIAs are now resurfacing...I know you are aware of that. But what I must ask is what you know of the time frame? Who else is scheduled for reappearance? Rasta Himself? I need details Tiger...I know you've sworn some kind of oath to Rasta, but here I am...pleading with you for answers. There is a vital link missing and I am lost without it. If I must Beg for it Tiger, I will...If I must tear it from you I will..BUT I MUST HAVE IT." Tiger looks at Aztek and allows some of his sorrow show on his face at his unability to help his Emperor and says, "Emperor Aztek, you have my loyalty, if I could tell you I would. My duty was merely to create the series of MECH androids of which the body I have inhabited is the first. You must realize all my programming is hardwired it is not merely an oath. Rasta has placed programming blocks, I cannot tell you what you wish to know and if you attempt to take the information from my memory banks without Rasta's authorization, it will result in my destruction, leaving you with nothing. I can tell you this much, there are more MIA in suspended animation and they will return as they are able. I do not know who or where they are or when they will return. As for Rasta himself, only he knows where he is and if or when he will return. Be proud, my Emperor, Rasta himself would approve of where you have taken the MECH. Be patient and lead my Emperor and Rasta's plan for the MECH will take care of itself. Harper's Life (submitted by: HG Divine) What is a harper? Or more exactly, What exists within the heatr of a harper that makes him (or her) act the way we do? Here's my brief explanation: A harper is Truth with lipstick on his collar, He is wisdom with a mug of ale in his hand, Industry durring a nap, and gennerosity in a time of greed. She is beauty unadulterated by a frock and leggings, A scholar, a solider, a bard, a fool in a fool's paradise. No one can out talk, out drink, out eat, out boast,or out live us. We are the freedom of the winds, the honestness of nature, To the Strong, we're annoying scoundrels, who train, And arm the weak of neverwinter, so that they may stand on equal footing. To the weak, we are a guide through hostile lands, a bearer advice to the inepts. To the Noble Evil's of Neverwinter, an honorable challenge, to the younger Miscreants, a feeb for a feeb, and gawsh, here's a few jewels to recover at the temple, and one more invis to get ye there. To other heroes, we are steadfast allies, and old friends. Always willing to join a Sewer cleaning, or take a new "goodie" guild member out for a few levels. We find strength in others weaknesses, and exploit them in the cause of Good. We run among the ancient trees of Myth Drannor, where the elves call us friend, And Drink in the bustleing taverns the cities in equal spendor. The good things in life, freedom, love, happiness, ale, fresh air, clean water, We fight for, and whence the good things in life are no more, so shall we be... Taken from HG Divine's "Tresties on The Reality of My Surroundings" Tanthalas (submitted by: Retrah13) Upon the wings of death, Above the Valley of Light The hero Tanthalas surpassed, The fear of evil and found a new fight This time it would not end, without a staff of might To forever follow the crooked paths; of the undead and the blight Upon the dawning of a new day Another hero set out in dismay He discovered that only with this staff; could his brother become a man and he dealt with it carelessly He tried to lend a helping han' Shrine (submitted by: ZalabarT) Shrine to the Gods of Thievery: I had spent a great deal of coin and many hours of toil building the shrine to the gods of thievery. I had scoured Neverwinter and the surrounding area for the furnishings and building supplies needed, gathering "contributions" from a number of adventurers, guildhouses and temples. My only disappointment being that someone had beaten me to the Black Hand's throne. All that was left to do was to collapse the construction tunnel and to conjure the gates and wards to allow/deny access. After hour upon hours, the spells had all been cast and the tunnel was brought down. I entered the tavern at Lurker Hall, looking haggard and bedraggled. I proceeded to the back corner taking out a small item and holding it in my hand, and disappeared.... I reappeared in the Shrine... "It worked... it all worked... the gates are the only ways in or out of here..." I leaned heavily against the altar. "Mask, I have done all this for you. I have never asked for anything that I could not take myself, but now I ask for a boon. If I could purge the human taint from my half elven blood, I would. I ask you, my Patron, to grant me this. I wish to be elven and to purge any remnants of my father from me, or to pass into oblivion." I laid a small scroll on the alter. "This was my first steal, a scroll of my father's. I offer this and... .... leave my fate in your hands." I collapsed and was wracked by convulsions. I regained consciousness much later. My wrist had healed leaving a nasty scar, but I could cover that with another tattoo. I tried to stand but was still too weak. My throat was parched and dry. "Musta been out for a day or more", I thought to myself. As I came to my senses my weakness faded away. I stood a bit awkwardly at first. "Did it work?" My hands touched my face. "No stubble..." I began to get excited, and searched frantically for a mirror, but I hadn't hung one in the Shrine. "The gate key, where is it?" I searched my pouches, finally finding the item that would trigger the return gate. As my hand enclosed about the small item, I stepped behind the altar, and suddenly materialized in the back corner of the Lurker tavern, startling a few of those still about. I walked to the bar and started to ask for a drink in a hoarse croak, but Edmund handed me a drink before I could finish the first sylable. "I could tell ye needed it Zal," states the barkeep. "Ye look........ I dunno...... different Zal." Edmund replied as I finished my drink. "I do.. really! Thank you Edmund!" I said as I rushed from the room to my chambers to look at myself in a mirror. I burst into the room, and caught sight of my reflection. "I'm of full elvish blood now..........." I collaspsed in tears of joy. "Thank you Mask. The shrine is built, and I am no longer tainted by that pretender of a father. Thank you Mask........" I am Zalabar Tonka, Spirit Lurker, Faithful Servant of Mask, and Custodian of the Shrine. *Mask is one of the numerous gods of thievery in the realms. If any wish to worship or to learn more of these gods feel free to visit the Shrine. * ((http://members.aol.com/zalabart)) Rites of War (submitted by: VonWildcat) The brass brazier smoldered. Pungent, acrid plumes of sulphurous smoke wafted from it, filling the meditation room with their odor. Sitting cross-legged with eyes closed in the lotus position, the outside world did not exist for Strongbow Firehand. His voyage, was a sojourn of the mind. A cleansing of the body. And, a strengthening of the soul. The three days of meditation had cleared his mind, and now the dojo resounded as Strongbow performed kata after kata. Sweat drenched the heavy practice tunic, and the wooden bokken was slippery in his grasp, but still he did not quit. Twelve uninterrupted hours later, some water, a quick nap, and he was at it again. The air crackled with the arcane energies being expended, and the walls bore the scars of his fury as he battled unseen foes. The strenuous workouts continued for three more days. Exhausted, Strongbow finally took a well-deserved rest. When he awoke on the seventh day, the final preparations began. He opened the secret door known only to him and one other, and descended the stairs to his lab. There, the warrior-mage began sifting through various alchemical ingredients until he had gathered what he needed. Mixing, measuring, checking and rechecking, in a few hours he was done. In his hand he held a small vial containing a special ink to be used to write runes of power and protection for the upcoming battle. He took one last look. Satisfied, Strongbow returned with the vial to his lair above. He went outside to find the elf-maiden Rayella. He needed her help for the application of the runes, for her skill in runic magic was considerable. At first, he could not find her.. then, he heard a screech from overhead. Looking up he saw a strange but familiar pair, and Strongbow smiled. Ray, in albino-silver dragon form, and Elwing, his silver-winged griffon, were playing a game of tag in the clouds. Amused, he hated to break it up, but there were matters of import to attend to and little time in which to accomplish them. He contacted Ray's mind gently, "A'mael, it is time." He then whistled for Elwing, and abruptly the pair dove to the earth. He walked up to the large griffon, and whispered, "Were you having fun my friend?" "Skerak ss krra kooorskraa!", cried the griff plaintively. Grinning, Strongbow replied, "Ahhh.. not playing fair was she? Well, I suppose that's a matter of opinion, but I'll speak to her," he winked at Ray, " Go now, and find yourself some lunch!" Casting a scathing glance at his now Elven tormentor, he took wing, then Strongbow and Rayella returned arm in arm to the lair. The pair entered the meditation/altar room. Strongbow, with an armful of items, and Rayella with several quills and a small vial of magical ink. They began placing the items on the altar, a cloak, a golden ring, a pair of finely wrought bracers, a blue crystal wand, the vial of ink, and lastly, a ruby-red glassteel longsword. The two knelt before the item-laden altar, bowed their heads, and Strongbow started intoning the words of prayer. "Corellon, father of all Elvenkind, I beseech thee! Bless these items I have lain before thee, that they may serve me better to smite thine enemies and emerge victorious in our upcoming battle! I would ask also, heavenly Father, that your son, Tethrin, god of the Bladesingers, might bestow his special blessings upon my blade, so that it will strike unerringly, and cause fear in the hearts of our foes. This I would ask my Lord, not for myself, but for my toror, Errandir, who has suffered greatly at the hands of the Drow, and must be avenged! Father, hear my prayer, Amen." As Strongbow spoke the last words, a low hum began to resound in the small room.. and a pale blue glow began to form around the items resting on the altar. As they watched in awe, each item in turn, levitated of its own accord off the altar and sparkled internally with a divine light. When the last of them had ceased to shine, Strongbow knew it was time to begin the final preparations. He stood and removed his tunic and breeches. Dressed in only a loincloth, Strongbow whispered to Rayella, "You may begin, melamin, I am ready." The beautiful Elven maiden went to the altar and retrieved the now glowing vial of specially prepared ink, and taking up one of the quills, began etching runes of power and protection onto her ashke's body. Starting at his neck, his chest and back, and both legs were covered with the graceful magical script that Ray knew so well. When she was finished, she left the room, then returned moments later with clothing made especially for this occasion, and began to dress Strongbow. Then the items were donned in order: Bracers, ring, cloak, the wand tucked into an azure blue sash, and the sword. Finally, Strongbow nodded to his beloved, and she finished by applying the war paint that would strike the dischord of fear into any who beheld him. Rayella stepped back and gasped, "There Ashke'! Now you could strike terror into the heart of any creature who dares stand against you. You shall fight unerringly." Strongbow did not speak, but only smiled grimly. The Bladesinger was ready for war. Gurth gothrim Tel'Mithrim! Strongbow Firehand The Shadow Stalker Bladesinger, Ohtar, Istar Tel'Mithrim >>>=====>First Days - Part 3 (submitted by: MECH Aztek) ****Personal Data Files**** Archive Record 237.652i Personal Journal Entries Aztec...Private of the Napalm Monks The thought of never knowing who I had once been has been haunting me since the day I confronted Rasta about it. Everywhere I go it is as if I can sense someone or something right behind me, just clear of my line of sight, but when I turn to confront the shadow there is nothing there. Paranoia seems to rule my days now. Last night I came to a decision...one that could see my new life destroyed even before it begins, but I must know the truth of who and what I was. I've made plans to steal a copy of the cerebral files that are taken of all initiates during the purification process. There I will find what came before Aztec. What brought me to the life I now lead. I figure it should be fairly simple. The Guards...security..are very laxed around here at the moment. Since essentially there are only a dozen or so of us in the complex at the moment, everyone knows where everyone is at any given time. The tapes are kept in a secure pressure sealed room off of the Purification Chamber. I'll complete the theft during everyone's off cycle. I dream of success and learning the origins of who I have become. First Days - Part 4 (submitted by: MECH Aztek) ****Personal Data Files**** Archive Record 240.337e Personal Journal Entries Aztec...Private of the Napalm Monks It took several days of planning, but I believe that I finally have found a working plan to get to my cerebral files. The guilt of doing this act, which by all rights has been drummed into my enhanced mind that it is wrong and punishable by deletion or reprogramming, has not stopped me from wanting to carry it out. At the beginning of my training as Private Aztec of the Napalm Monks, I was informed that Purification enhances the essence of what you are. Your skills and talents, emotions and intellect are all compounded into the 'Pure' form. The flesh that held your soul captive, keeping it from achieving its perfection is shed in a figurative way as well as in reality. Of course, for some, the necessary removal of their flesh comes in varying degrees. It was thru that lesson that I realized that most of these feelings and insights were what I was..sure, I'd forgotten my name and any of my life experiences, but the essence of me was still there. My identity had been stolen from me and replaced with a new one, but what I was was still in existance, merely in a new form. So, as I pondered those ideas, maybe stealing the cerebral tapes wasn't necessary after all. The logic failed. My curiosity and need to know overrode any such thoughts of giving up on this act. The key to my existance was there somewhere. I had to have it. So, with plans in my mind, I went on with my days routine. More training. But today was special. Today the new initiates finally got to meet one another. We'd all been kept in seclusion in private training, but now, we'd train and live as one. I was excited. I'd been told there were several other Napalm Monks that had been purified several days after mine was complete. I was their senior, though not by much. I belonged here...despite the mysteries of my past. And once I finally met my brothers, I knew that sense of belonging would grab hold of me and never let go. One part of my destiny had been fullfilled. Ivory Towers Crumble - Part One (submitted by: BKATREENA) Standing just inside the gates to Never Winter, Katrina watches as the Magic ship disappears. With the death of her husband, Prince Erich Von Wolfstein, and the destruction of her homeland only months behind her she must now find her husband's trusted friend....Mage Hcamllets. She has never met Hcamllets, but knows that he and her prince were very close. She has heard wonderful stories about him, and her mission here in this strange new land called Never Winter is to find the great man and learn from him as her dying husband requested. She has already decided she will study with him and become a great wizard one day, but first she must find him..... WilderBill She wanders into Never Winter and passes many adventurers who pay her no mind. She tries to ask questions and she pleads for their help but they scoff at her and call her "Newbie." She puts on her brightest smile and with hope in her heart continues to ask, "Anyone willing to help a lady?" Her eyes sting with tears as she hears one fellow respond with an evil laugh, "We'd hafta' find one first!" She continues walking on to another group and calls out again, with much less spirit, "Anyone willing to help a lady?" After several failed attempts a very handsome man approaches her. Her heart pounds as she looks into his eyes and studies him. She can sense his sincerity as he approaches, she immediately decides he must be a hero. He introduces himself as WilderBill, bows ever so slightly and lightly brushes her hand with a kiss. She melts. With careful, gentle, instruction he helps her prepare for battle. He will protect her and she will learn how to fight. He gives her some magic scrolls and tells her she will learn to use them. She is giddy with excitement. They go to battle and she valiantly tries to at least wound one monster! In her one effort to help a hero not needing her help, she is seriously wounded. Even in a ferocious battle the hero WilderBill sees her, calls out to her and uses his magical power to heal her. Standing away from his fight near a stone wall she watches him and cries out, "How did you get so strong and so powerful! As he battles he speaks kind words to her. As the last swipe of his weapon ends the battle she cheers him on, "My hero!" She watches in awe as WilderBill with one sweep takes them all down and they lie dying. The first battle is over in minutes. As Katrina and WilderBill travel they become acquainted She thinks she is in love. He teaches her how to stay alive and out of the way. By the days end she learns that he is very happily married to another. She learns his flowery words and kind actions are just his way, and he has not even noticed how beautiful she is and it doesn't seem to matter at all that she is a princess. Through their travels he vanishes several times, always returning within minutes mumbling something about a punt monster. So happy to see him again she does not question why he has left or where he has been. WilderBill has helped her and assures her if she needs him again all she need do is call out his name and he will come to her aid. She has made her first friend, but he does not see her in any other light as she had hoped. And then again he vanishes, taken away by the thing he called a punt monster. Feeling more embarrassed then rejected Katrina travels on alone. Gambit Wandering in circles trying to learn where to go, what to see, what to do, she quickly becomes discouraged. All alone in a strange land she does not know what to do. Trying to remember all WilderBill taught her, she stops to rest and tries to understand the magic scrolls he gave her, but she rests too long in the wrong place and is attacked by monsters. She must fight alone, but she cannot and she flees. She travels on alone and is attacked. A friendly dark elf named Gambit appears and helps her win a battle. Just as they begin to introduce themselves to each other Katrina is attacked by something that whirls her around. She is spinning helpless, in a tunnel of gushing winds, that toss her round and round teleporting her to Lord Nasher's Lounge. Regaining control of her senses, shaken, but unharmed she enters the lounge. Standing quietly taking in all the sights and the sounds, she hears only bits and pieces of conversation. This place she has found is full of all types of adventurers. She sees lots of Knights, and thinks of how mean they were to her. Still studying the Knights and seething, she catches a glimpse of the dark elf who helped her. He smiles and greets her as he approaches. They get acquainted. She tells him how she came here and about the death of her husband. Gambit, the dark elf, befriends her. She studies him and asks him of his adventures. He too has become discouraged adventuring in this place called Never Winter. With questioning eyes she politely asks what manner of being he is. He explains he is a Dark Elf but half human and he too has been called a "Newbie." Katrina squints her eyes at the Knights remembering their cruel jokes and the names they called her. She becomes angry. She has never been cruel to anyone. She did nothing to cause the other adventurers to treat her so cruelly! In tears she turns back to Gambit and devises a plan. She will get them to help her! She will let them see how beautiful she is. She will charm them and when they take her to battle she will "steal from them" if she has to. She will steal their hearts and then their treasures and weapons and magic!! How can she become a thief, she asks Gambit. She will find what she needs and she will let them fight for her. Let them fall in love with her then she can take what they have and run. She will share with her new friend Gambit! She will show them! Gambit cheers her on and laughing he says, Ah, but M'Lady that is why I travel alone. You do not need to give me anything Princess. We shall be friends!" Gambit prepares to leave. Katrina thanks him and they agree they shall meet again. She wishes him well and he trudges out the door of the lounge ready to once again fight the monsters without anyone to help him. John She watches as Gambit goes through the door hoping she will meet him again. As she turns around a Knight is standing beside her and politely asks if he may sit down. He asks if she is new here commenting he has not noticed her before. And he would have noticed such a beautiful creature he thinks to himself. Frail, yet strong, with fire in her beautiful green eyes that sparkle like emeralds. He must find out more about her! Katrina, lonely and discouraged turns to him, searching his eyes, "I would be happy to share with you my Never Winter experience thus far and a little of how I came to be here," she says meekly. "Please go on M'Lady" he says sitting down and ordering the bar maid to bring two ales. Lonely, discouraged and in desperate need of a friend, Katrina tells him of her mission. "I am here in search of a great Mage named Hcamllets. He is also a very powerful fighter.." Her eyes brigthen and she smiles as she speaks of the Mage. "At the death of my dear departed husband, the Prince of Platycoden, I came here by way of a magic ship." John sips his ale watching her as she tells more... "My husband's familiar, Chang, brought word to us that our homeland has been destroyed and that I am to go to Never Winter. Twas my husband's dying wish." John studies her beauty with one eyebrow raised in interest to hear more of her story. How beautiful she is! Petting the Siamese cat on her lap, Katrina continues, "I am to find Mage Hcamllets and learn from him," bowing her head as she speaks. Feeling a trust for this man she has just met, she only hopes he will but listen to her. How her heart aches that she has made only a few friends and she may never even see them again. Most of her encounters with adventurers so far have been most disappointing. Hoping he will be kind, not like the others, perhaps even advise her, she continues, "But thus far I have offended those who could possibly help me." Thinking what a burden she must have been to the hero WilderBill, and how most everyone else either ignored her or scoffed at her, she sighs. "Experienced adventurers do not welcome..." shyly bowing her head again she whispers "pampered princesses." John, intrigued with her story as much as her beauty, drinks his ale and studies her. How could anyone want to harm this delicate flower, he wonders. "You have yet to offend me," he says sliding a mug of ale in her direction. Was that a gesture of friendship? Her hopes rise as she looks up. Encouraged by the gesture Katrina continues, "I cannot help it sir that I was raised by a King! That my love was the Prince Erich Von Wolfstein of Platycoden and that I lived in ivory towers all my life!" she sighs, shoulders slumped, pouting lips, and tears welling up in her eyes. "There, there, M'Lady, all is well now." Tears stream down her exquisite cheeks as she looks at him hoping he will really be her friend. With an encouraging smile John assures her, "I am at your service, Princess." "Thank you kind Sir." Feeling a bond of trust between them, she continues her story. "When I first arrived I went to a camp and learned but one magic spell. This I was able to do from the instructions of Hcamllets on old scrolls I brought with me. I will need help to find Hcamllets. I was assisted by a very handsome young fellow named WilderBill who allowed me to follow him, but he was whisked away by some evil power!" Looking proud John turns to her "I don't trust magic myself, too unpredictable....but my sword and wits are at your disposal!" Not really hearing his offer to help her, Katrina just wants to tell of her heartache and sort her thoughts out by speaking them aloud. In her excitement to tell all she does not even notice the proud look on John's face. "I was hurt and when I awoke all of my possessions were taken! Later I met a very nice dark elf who also tried to help me and he too was taken away by the evil! The adventurers I have come upon other than these two scoff at me M'Lord! I joined their battles by mistake and could not fight!" Studying her he asks, "Was there a dense fog preceding this great evil?" "No Sir." Katrina's eyes lock onto John's wondering what he knows of this evil. "There was no warning what so ever." He does know something she thinks! With a knowing look he confirms her suspicions, "Ahhhh a truly terrible creature is this." Wanting to know more, her statement a question , "Those with me disappeared and I was whisked away only to awaken here at this lounge." Nodding his head in understanding, "I have heard tales of this creature....some call it a punt monster." Her eyes brighten and she leans toward John almost whispering... "This same creature now blocks the gates to Never Winter, but I am determined to get back in. I must! Tis my destiny!" John and Katrina stay in the lounge sipping ale as he tells her of his adventures, but he does not go into detail. She is curious about him. As she grieves telling more of her late husband and of her broken heart he reaches out to her with gentle hands, but she is afraid. She knows nothing of him. She addresses him formally as "Sir," and he encourages her to call him just "John." He sees her fear and tries to assure her they will be friends. She wants to believe him for she is so lonely. Katrina tells him of how she plans to not be so good, but will find a way to get the Knights to help her. Being honest and good got her no where fast and she must get to Hcamllets. She is weak and will need lots of help. John gently convinces her that she will be able to complete her quest without evil or deceit. Katrina sees that he is honest and good, and she believes him. He suggests they will even travel together soon. John tells Katrina he will meet with her in a private place called Vistani the next day at dusk and they will make plans. With the flick of his cape he stands, bids her farewell and disappears......... Morbidez: Encouraged by John, Katrina dries her tears and sets out for Never Winter. Determined to sneak past the punt monster she uses all her magic to slip through the gates. She goes to an inn and rests. Once again looking for someone to help her, she calls out to the adventurers. No response. She walks on and coming upon another large crowd of adventurers Katrina smiles and greets them. She again timidly asks if anyone would be willing to travel with her. Quite unlike her previous experience many Knights are now willing to help her. Katrina does not notice the Knights turning in awe at her beauty nor does she understand she is no longer considered a "newbie." She barely sees them, for her gaze is on one they call Morbidez. Something in her tummy flutters, and as her blood races she cannot take her eyes off of him. Morbidez sees her enter their camp. He is spellbound at her beauty and grace. She must be a goddess. Her hair shimmers in the light of the sun like gold and her eyes are as green as emeralds. The grog of ale in his hand falls to the ground when he sees her smile and ask, "Would anyone be willing to travel with me?" Rushing to her he pushes several other Knights out of his way. This has got to be the most beautiful woman he has ever seen! Where has she come from? He decides at that moment he will indeed "travel" with this beauty. He would give his life to save her. And she is looking at him!!!! Those eyes, those incredible eyes! He rushes toward her, but before he can reach her the rest of his band are already offering her gifts, crowding around her like starving dogs going for meat. She is thanking them profusely and this little flower is so polite and enchanting they are stumbling over each other to get to her. They will crush her! As he reaches her, Morbidez gives a strong arm motion for the others to step back. They eye him with envy and move away. This is their leader. They watch as Katrina and Morbidez gaze at each other as though no one else was there. The last sound Katrina hears from the others is someone mumbling as the crowd moves away-- "Hmph, alone again! When will I ever have anyone to travel with!" She sees only Morbidez as he comes to her side. The others in this large group of adventurers are hazy in her mind as though in a cloud and far in the distance. He bows and greets her, she curtsies and with eyes locked on each other it is love at first sight. She has found someone to trust. She sees past his muscular form and gentle eyes straight into his heart. "Where have you come from, my flower?" as he lifts her hand to his face and gently brushes his lips on her delicate skin. Aglow with the emotions surging through her, she smiles brightly at him and introduces herself. "I am Princess Katrina Von Wolfstein and I have come here to find Mage Hcamllets." For the first time since the destruction of her homeland and the loss of her husband, Katrina feels joyful as she explains to Morbidez that she does not know this land, how to survive or how to find Hcamllets. All fear leaves her as he tells her she will be safe by his side and he will teach her and help her find Hcamllets. Morbidez lovingly instructs her and teaches her to fight. They travel together with his band for days. They fight and win many battles. As they start out in a large group having eyes only for each other and the monsters they defeat, they barely notice that one by one the other adventurers have gone off and left them. They travel alone. Stopping to rest Morbidez teaches her all he knows of how to use the scrolls WilderBill and the others gave her. Not being a magic user himself, he explains he has seen a great Mage and watched him. Digging in his bag, Morbidez pulls out a tome and hands it to Katrina. Grateful for his efforts she smiles at him and holds his gift to her chest wishing she knew how to use it. Standing on tiptoes she reaches up to him and kisses his cheek. As they journey on to fight orges, giant crocodiles, kobolds and stirge, Morbidez tries to teach her how to fight. Katrina clings to him fully trusting in his every word, eager to learn and eager to please she fights with all of her might when they are attacked by a band of thieves. She has been stabbed and falls. In fear and anger Morbidez slashes the last thief to death with one swipe of his sword and runs to Katrina. Scooping her into his arms, he carries her to an inn, his adrenaline rising with every step. Limp in his arms, Katrina is dying. Morbidez pays the innkeeper and carries his love to a room in the inn. Placing her gently on a bed , tears sting his eyes. He cannot help her.... *** *** *** *** *** *** *** He must find a cleric! Morbidez races through the inn, his tears clouding his vision. He finds a cleric. Together they rush to her side. The cleric begins casting a spell and within moments Katrina, still dazed turns to Morbidez and smiles then drifts off to sleep. Morbidez does not leave her side. After days of pacing the floor by her bedside, reciting poetry to her, bringing her food and drink, and willing her to live, Katrina heals. As she recovers she has grown even stronger. Together again they travel and fight. He takes her to train in Never Winter then on to battle again. Katrina and Morbidez both become stronger. They deposit jewels and gems in the Never Winter vaults. These treasures they have gathered from the dead monsters they have battled. They laugh and they sing and they gaze upon each other with love in their eyes. Without warning the lovers are attacked by the evil punt monster. They are thrown apart time after time each recovering without the other in front of Lord Nasher's Lounge. Several times they find each other in Never Winter only to be tossed apart again and again. Each time Katrina finds herself in front of Lord Nasher's Lounge she leaves messages for Morbidez. She travels to Vistani to find John, but he is not there. Alone again she is sad that he has not come. Determined to go on alone without friends and without love she decides she must continue her journey. No matter how lonely she feels, or how poorly she fights she must learn to be alone, for it seems to be her fate. Grieving for Morbidez, Katrina loses her wits during training. She becomes weaker and even forgets what he has taught her. Weary and ill from the many fights she has fought alone, safe at the inn now, she writes... My Dearest Morbidez, How I long to be in your arms. I fear I have taken ill. Do not weep for me, my darling. Continue your quest without me. Build your skills, my love. For when we are together we will journey farther and fight much more dangerous evil than we have seen thus far. Fight with the Knights. Do not go alone. For when we are together you will need to be very strong. I am getting weaker. I have not trained properly. I must take time to study my magic, my darling, so I can fight by your side. I have much to learn. Did I ever tell you that once in battle all alone I cured the monster and set fire on myself? I have learned how to find the right spell, but I fear I still have terrible aim. As soon as I have gained my strength I must also find a way to concentrate on the battle and not on how much I love you, my gem. If only we could go to a hideout...so you could hold me in your arms. Then we could plan our battle and be better prepared. When the sun sets and I am weary I lie down to rest knowing you will come to me If only in my dreams, we shall always be together Katrina With love in her heart Katrina rests. When she awakens a weary traveler comes to her with a message from Morbidez. With shaking hands she opens it and reads: My Dear Princess, Would that you were here so I could return the gesture. I wish I were as eloquent as you...for then should truly be able to express my affection. Perhaps I will be able to gaze in awe at ye this evening. Time after time they miss each other as the great punt monster whirls them around with an evil determined to break them apart. On each journey back to Never Winter they must fight their own battles without each other. Knowing they will be together soon, they fight harder and become stronger. They each continue to train. She writes him letters, but he seldom responds. Finally at the mercy of the punt monster they are able to telepathically communicate again and decide to go to a hideout where they can be alone. Katrina runs to a hideout she alone knows of and uses her magic to bring Morbidez to her special hiding place and as he arrives she greets him, "Welcome!" "Hail Princess Katrina." Glad to see him she exclaims, "I was not sure I had enough magic to get you here!" Eager to tell all and too excited to know where to start she quickly rushes her words, "I have had a wild adventure alone!" Proudly she tells him, "I have risen to the third level of training as a Cleric!" Smiling his lips form a whistle, "You have been busy!" Returning his smile with glowing cheeks, sparkling eyes and a thought that can't wait to come out, "Yes! I have and I want to tell you all about it!" Happy for her and eager to know, "Can you memorize and cast wizard spells yet?" "Yes, and as soon as we get back to Never Winter I need your help with that. I have learned that the reason I was having such a lot of trouble with my magic was that I did not get enough rest! I was so excited to go on that I did not think. It is amazing I have survived! I can now kill packs of wolves and those nasty red monster Syrges that remind me of giant mosquitoes." "Wooo. I have trouble with wolves, the trees that crush are a problem." "I have had the very life sucked out of me, but I used my magic and went back. I took on a pack of six wolves and killed them all alone!!! After three tries", she shrugs, "but I did it alone"!!! "You are lucky." Impressed with her tale... "I have tried seven times with wolf packs and have not succeeded." Laughing out loud at herself remembering she tells him, "I screamed for help, but very inexperienced adventurers came and just stood there, like I used to do"! Pleased with her story almost as much as the sight of her Morbidez laughs out loud. Then turning to her and taking her hand, "We shall conquer the puppies tonight, eh?" Excited at the prospect but wanting to make sure he knows her skill or lack of it, "I am getting much better!!! Let us try to go there again! But first I want to tell you all I need to do"... "Speak on fair one." "I need to really understand what to do to make sure I have my spells right. For that, I need to learn to use the tome you gave me." They devise a plan and decide to meet on the morrow to begin a journey back to Vilnask where they discovered the wolves, but they are again separated by the evil punt monster, and Katrina is truly alone again. Depression sweeps over her, but she fights back. She must go on! She must learn to fight alone. She must train! Katrina hurriedly trains. But, she has done this too quickly and has not gained all she needs. Weary from her travels, she stops at an inn to rest. Blackcoral: Katrina's heart is broken. Morbidez does not respond. She has even sent her husband's familiar, Chang to him. The cat found him and used it's powers to give him her message, but still he does not respond. She has asked other adventurers to help her find him and they just shake their heads no, and pass her by. She has even asked for help from the great BLACKCORAL, but he is no where to be found. She uses her magic scribe and all the power she can muster....but, he is gone......The Evils have overcome him. She grieves.....Even the many adventurers she has now made friends with cannot help her find him. She has missed her rendezvous with her friend John in her desperate search for Morbidez. She must apologize to John and desires to tell him of her latest adventures. Later she will find him somehow, but now she must fight! She must continue her quest. She has tried to fight, tried to learn her magic, but she is weak and now she is angry! She will not be weak! She will learn her magic and she will fight alone!!! Always alone.... She has learned she must rest to be able to study her magic, but she gets terribly lost. This strange place of Never Winter is full of crooks and turns. Every time she comes to a dead end she must decide which way to go. She continues to turn only to end up back where she started. She becomes desperate and discouraged. She finds herself in the midst of battles with horrible creatures. She can fight the Crocodiles now and even the Syrge and the Kraken Spies. She fights Kobolds, and Orcs and survives so her hopes rise, until she is caught in a battle with many giant lizards and a fiery snake. She is all alone and cannot survive, but will not run. She will fight till her death! In the midst of battle someone calls out to her and asks if she needs help. Yes! she screams, full of relief that she may not have to die after all. She is saved by Blackcoral, a creature who calls herself "Coral." Blackcoral heals her, blesses her and kills every monster. Katrina, in awe of the great Blackcoral shyly asks if she may follow her. She must find an Inn and rest and she must find the Vaults and she does not know how to return to the Trainer! Blackcoral graciously helps her, taking her on a wonderful journey. Katrina follows Blackcoral. Through some powerful magic she cannot perceive she is floating along and can see the whole land as though looking down like a bird from the sky. She expresses her joy, her awe and her gratitude to the great Blackcoral. Eager to learn the great mystery of this awesome creature, Katrina asks who she is and where she has come from. Blackcoral but smiles, brushing her skirts, even blushes and says she fights with the Knights. Katrina wants to know more. How long have you been adventuring, she asks. "M'Lady longer than you have lived" she replies with a smile. Blackcoral instructs Katrina on how to use a magic map and shows her all the places she had not bee able find. As they part, Blackcoral gives Katrina a powerful gift of magic called a hammer and explains this will help save her from the evils of the Punt Monster. Still in awe of her greatness, Katrina thanks her profusely and they part. Traveling on, fighting many battles, Katrina continues her search for Hcamllets. She tries to be polite and asks for help from other adventurers when she finds them in large groups. She calls out a greeting and politely asks if anyone would be willing to help her, smiling brightly and hoping they will even notice her. Some speak to her, some even call her by name and call out their greeting, but still they scoff at her and are so busy with their own plans of attack, trading, and adventuring that they don't even look at her. They do not wish to travel with the weak little princess. She continues her journey alone, getting lost and wandering in circles. She comes to a well and turns. She knows she has seen a well like this before. Her spirits begin to rise and she laughs out loud when she realizes it is the same well she has passed time and time again. Ivory Towers Crumble - Part One (Cont) (submitted by: BKATREENA) John As she is resting she sees JOHN! She calls out to him, but he does not respond. She calls again, and again and again. She sends him ESP messages in spurts telling him of her location, she is in battle, she continues to fight and call his name...Then the answer comes. He yells at her and says It is JOHN!!!! She shudders. She believes he does not know her, as his telepathic answer was a shout of his name leading her to believe he was angry that she had tried to use her mental powers to reach him. For a brief moment she is afraid thinking she by accident sent her message to the wrong traveler. She sees his name on her magic scribe, but he does not answer. She looks again at her scribe and sees his name twice. What does this mean? She has heard other travelers speak of evil ghosts who come into the land taking on the names of adventurers. She hurries back to the inn and continues to send messages to John. She tries every way she knows using all her magic to reach him asking him why he is angry with her. Time passes and she does not give up. In tears she concentrates on sending him messages. She sneaks past the gates to NW and calls out his name over and over until the failure of her search brings her to tears. Her shoulders droop and she sobs. Then a messenger finds her and gives her his letter. Drying her tears she reads:....."Dearest Katrina, I saw you in NW we brushed shoulders and yet you walked on. Summoning all my mental powers I sent a message from my mind to yours via ESP. You did not respond. I looked all over NW for you. Looking through tear blinded eyes I searched. I got the aid of a Paladin named Ocoeefun. Together we searched for you and battled many orcs and goblins. Just as I thought the tides of battle were swinging in my favor the awful punt monster opened its tooth filled maw and swallowed me whole. It chewed me up and spit me out. Guess I tasted bad...good thing too. I cannot believe you did not see me in NW. I am NOT angry with you. I hope we can hook up tonite. I miss you immensely. My heart is empty when not in your presence. Till our paths cross....John. She hears John's voice in her head. Finally the magic is working! He tells her he is not angry and wishes for her to come to him in a nearby hideout. She runs as fast as her weary legs will move, finds him and rushes to him with open arms. She is so weary from her efforts to contact him and her battles with monsters that she does not stop to think what could happen next. Remembering their previous meetings, John guards his emotions. The last time they met she blushed, hid her face and declined his gentlest approach. This delicate flower would be crushed if he should act upon the emotion surging through him. He decides he must wait and allow her to make the next move. As she runs to him he does not embrace her, but waits. Realizing what she has done Katrina pulls away. Their eyes meet. She sees such powerful love in his eyes...A great turmoil stirs in her very soul. Still gazing into his eyes she reaches for his hand and places it on her cheek. Thoughts of Morbidez and her Prince and WilderBill rush through her mind. She closes her eyes and lets the tears flow down her cheeks. She cannot bear the anguish of love. Every time she does the pain is deeper and deeper. John watches her sadly, determined to let her make all the moves, but his heart wrenches with the pain of not being able to show his love. His body stiffens as his restraint takes every fiber of his being to control his desire. He watches intently as Katrina lifts her head and gazes into his eyes. What is in her eyes?? Could it be??? She moves her hand from his cheek to the back of his head. His blood rushes, his heart pounds. He lowers his head and their lips touch, slowly ever so gently, hesitantly their lips meet. She responds with passion and returns his kiss. He wraps her in his arms and kisses her deeply. She is floating , her body goes limp in the strength of his arms and she responds greedily to his kiss. Trembling as the kiss ends and their eyes meet, Katrina again buries her head in his chest with her arms limp around his waist and lower back she begins to weep softly. He lowers his head and brushes soft whispers of kisses on her ivory neck. Slowly they pull apart. He does not want to chance frightening her away again. He must give her time to grieve her lost husband and not think of himself. She opens her eyes and lifts her face from his chest to gaze into his eyes. Softly she speaks his name, John? He looks back at her, Yes my dear? Her heart pounds, her blood rushes, her body tingles as she snuggles to him with her face on his chest. John, she again says softly, "My John". He plays with her hair brushing her hair back softly, over and over, still not too sure he should be doing this. I do not want to lose you, she whispers. She again begins to cry. He holds her, "You will not lose me, I am here for you." Softly sobbing, she looks up at him releasing her hold on his back. He takes a step back. She gazes into his eyes, seeking, trying to be certain what is there. He looks into her eyes and he lets her look into his very soul. She reaches for him and takes his hand, still gazing into his eyes she lifts his hand to her cheek. She wants to tell him, tears come again, how will she find the words. She does not want him to leave her. He brushes away the tears with his hand and he sees turmoil in her eyes and wishes she would speak her mind. Still holding his hand to her cheek it all flashes through her mind. The pain, the suffering, she knows she cannot bare it again, she wants to love him, but she is afraid. Desperately she searches for the words. He lets her think things through. Wanting to go slow. For her sake. Slowly she forms the words. .John, I care for you deeply. He looks into her eyes without speaking. She hesitates. Questioning her with his eyes, "But?" He waits in agony for her to respond. Again she sobs, "I lost my husband"....She struggles to find the right words. Straightening up she is determined to explain. Do you remember the first time we met, John? Yes I do he responds. Do you remember me telling you about WilderBill, she asks, hoping he will remember. No, just Hcamllets. Frustrated because he does not remember, "I was afraid not." Fear surges through him, Is WilderBill your lover?...."No." He breathes more easily. "What of WilderBill" he asks, not certain he wants to know. She continues to speak the words slowly more easily now, seeing fear in his eyes, "I traveled with him when I first came to NW. I am afraid my heart was stirred by his protecting me and fighting to save me and"... she hesitates. "I felt", her mind reels, her heart filled with pain, "feelings for him." "I see", he says, but she can see in his eyes that he does not understand. She continues, wanting to bare her soul, "I think I had some kind of hope that we would be together, but he did not feel the same. He was just being kind. I have seen him again and learned that he is married. Listening for the moment, he thinks she is ripping his heart out. Oh, John!, she cries this is coming out all wrong. I am only trying to say that I thought I was falling in love and it was awful. I think this happened because I just lost my prince. I need time to grieve. "I feel nothing for WilderBill!" she states emphatically. Turning her eyes directly to his, Please do not look at me that way. "What way", trying to disguise the fear shown on his face, I only look upon you with kind and caring eyes, he says with a smile. Seeing right through him... "I saw in your eyes you fear I love another and that is not what I am trying to say. John I am afraid of myself, not of you. I fall too easily for every kind word. My heart has been ripped from me many times in just a few short weeks". Not wanting to hear more he sits up straighter and with a huskier voice replies, "Well then," he takes her hand in his, "Perhaps you need time to think." Desperate to let the hurt out, hoping by speaking the words, the wounds will heal, she continues... "No John. I need to tell you what it is I feel. Will you let me?" Yes, of course, relaxing a little he leans back. Will you not fear of how I feel toward you, she asks eager to explain. "Yes", he waits for her to continue. I am trying to tell you that my soul is in torment. She becomes animated as she speaks, determined to try to tell how she hurts. I was determined not to let any man get close to my heart. I have a mission, a destiny. My heart has been broken so many times I cannot bear it! But, John, I feel your love, her voice softer now she looks up to pleading with her eyes. She hesitates as the tears come again and she sobs. It all happens so fast. I have been wrong before, as she speaks thoughts of Morbidez race through her mind. I tried to just flirt with the men to get them to help me, but they... He sits up and interrupts her, "Know this Katrina,we have been brought together by powers more powerful than I..." Still sobbing, and not hearing his words, "It all turns around and I am the one who is hurt and unloved. It has never been what I imagined it was. I vowed to not care, raising her voice, upset not with him, but herself, she proclaims, I need protection from myself! I tried so hard not to love you, not to be hurt. I have lost everyone I ever loved!!! The pain is too great! Oh John, she cries searching his eyes once more with her own, pleading with him, "Please love me." "Look into my eyes and see that I do. Hear it in my voice and know that I do," she must believe him! Tears still rolling down her cheeks she looks into his eyes. She wants to believe him, "But tonight in Never Winter that horrible pain came to me, John. I thought you were yelling at me. I thought you were angry. I never seem to know what people really think of me. I think they love me when they do not"...He grasps her shoulders with both hands holding her out in front of him and stops her words with his, "I say that I do love you", how can she not believe him! As though his words had no effect she continues, "And when I know they love me they are ripped from me as was my Prince" and Morbidez she thinks to herself. Please be patient with me John. Determined to prove his love, "I will take that chance," he must convince her, "and true love will overcome" he will not give up, he will win her love, he will prove himself to her..."believe in that." She dries her tears hearing his words this time. "Trust me" he employs, "I deserve at least that." Looking at him with dry eyes now she replies, I need a true friend, John. When we first met I thought we would be good friends. What I most fear is that if I fail you I will have nothing! For once you have loved and lost that love, you have no friend. Katrina, If I do not expect anything from you, but to be you, than you cannot fail! She smiles, Thank you John. I do believe you. He returns a smile, Thank you for that. John, each time we have not been able to meet, have you felt as I... Katrina, Yes! But, I must take my leave She knows he must go now, "John, My John," she whispers and she is no longer afraid Will I see you tomorrow? He asks. Knowing she can trust him and eager to see him again, she replies, "Please tell me when we will meet and I will be there." "Till then..... my love to you". He turns and disappears Here or Vistani? she asks, but he is gone She hears him say, "Here my love." Full of hope, Katrina decides to continue her adventure. At peace with his love in her heart she journeys on to Floodbless once more determined to find the way alone and discover the depths of the realms. She sends John a message vowing her love and begins her journey. Morbidez Katrina battles her way to Floodbless, stops at the inn for rest and in the middle of a battle she hears him call out to her. MORBIDEZ!!!! He is alive!!! In the middle of a battle she calls out to him. Jubilant that he is alive and looking for her. She cries his name out loud and the knights fighting this battle with her continue to struggle with the monsters but are distracted and question this name she has screamed and so loudly even the monsters turn eyes toward her. The Knights with her fight harder and ignore her as she does them. The battle is difficult, she cannot concentrate on the fight, when it takes all of her concentration to send messages to Morbidez telling him where she is and how to find her. She must not die in this battle, but even more she must not lose her love, Morbidez!!! They continue their telepathic communication. He asks about how to get to Floodbless. She cannot explain. She is always lost in this strange new land. She is still in battle as she tries to keep in contact with him. She fights her way back to NW not even stopping to pick up the treasures of the slain beasts. She tells him she will meet him at the castle. Being a princess she can always find a castle she thinks and a smile crosses her lips. She gets to the castle and he finds her. She runs to his arms. They embrace. They kiss. He calls her his flower. She calls him her gem. The adventurers around them scoff at their romance. She blows kisses at him, tells him she loves him and makes this proclamation in the midst of many Knights and warriors who scoff at her. They are here to fight and they are with her Morbidez. They encamp, excited to be with him it is hard for her to concentrate on her magic. He waits patiently while she memorizes her spells and rests. They hook. He talks about fighting a Minataur. She cares not where they go so long as it is together. As they fight she sees she is stronger than he is, but not as quick with her skill. She tries to stay back and let him fight. Many Knights and warriors have joined them. She watches as half a dozen or more fighters fight the same battles she has fought alone. Smiling to herself, she does not care. She knows that Morbidez will gain strength and hone skills through the battles he faces. He dies and she uses her magic to restore him. Not having good aim she blesses others in the group not even knowing who she has hit with her magic. She smiles to herself remembering the battle where she hit the monster with her cure spell and hit herself with fire!!! Remembering this she knows that many a skill can be developed with the three P's - practice and patience and persistence. She smiles at her own humor, perhaps good things do come in threes. After the battles they meet in her private hideout and talk about their battles and their love. They go into battle again and being weary she leaves him there and goes to rest and build her strength. She sends him messages of love and promise. Then she sleeps. Before she sleeps it crosses her mind that she may have sent John and Morbidez the same message. She cannot meet them both at the same time!! First no love, and now TWO. She sleeps soundly. She awakens and returns to her quest. Frustrated with her training. She is weak. She has trained as a Fighter by mistake. She has lost her magic. Her vault is full of the things she has collected, but most of it is not useful to her. Her skills are not good. She is still the weak little ivory tower Princess and she is angry at herself for not being able to learn. She wanders through the streets of Never Winter. Determined to learn her way around. She fights alone and looses. She rests and continues to fight. Weary from battle her shoulders slump and she trudges on. His voice.... She hears him calling to her! Morbidez tells her he is coming to her. The punt monster attacks over and over and over throwing them apart. Each time she returns to NW he is there, but they cannot find each other. She panics. The thought crosses her mind that he does not care to find her, he cares only of himself, but she pushes the thought aside. Why does he not answer her? She wastes precious training and battle hours looking for him. He says he is coming, but does not appear. For weeks she wanders through NW looking for him. Finally he arrives at her side. He romances her and she gushes at him. Wanting so badly to not be alone, looking for someone to lead her, and help her learn the right skills she thinks she cannot bare to not be by his side. She pleads with Morbidez to take her into battle to regain her skills. He takes her to one battle. The other Knights scoff at him for she has not thought to speak to his mind and speaks of their love where the Knights can hear her. She tells him she thinks they should be alone. "I know of a place," he says as he scoops her into his arms and carries her to the docks where they are alone. Thinking only of loving him she melts in his arms. Wanting so badly to not be alone, she allows him to take all that she has. He takes her heart and asks for her magic. She thinks to herself she needs her magic for she is weak and has so little, but his flowery words convince her and she gives all that she has. She gives him her magic ring of protection. She tells him she wants him to again hold her in his arms. But she speaks to the wind, for Morbidez has vanished. Katrina is in shock. She does not believe he left her at that tender moment. She panics. She cries, and he does not return. Terrified she calls out to Hcamllets. Hcamllets sends an immediate response that he will come to her if she but gives him the word. He will hunt down Morbidez if need be. Katrina hesitates. She does not know that he has left her. The evil one has taken him away before. But how could this happen with such incredible timing that he would be whisked away the moment she gave all she could give?? Still shaken, she hears him and as she does she tells Hcamllets all is well. Morbidez calls out to her and comes to her. She smiles at him hiding her fear and waits for him to explain. He tells her the evil one has taken the ring and he appears upset. She thinks this is a likely story. She wore the ring through many punts and never lost it. But to Morbidez she says they will just find another one and assures him not to worry. She says it, but does not believe it and fears she has been duped. Is it possible that Morbidez only used her because she told him her vault was full of treasures? As she wonders, he disappears and does not return. Gambit, Wildoldwiz and John Determined to fight her pain, Katrina continues to battle. She puts all of her energy into fighting and learning and honing her skills. She goes back to the trainer and tries to learn. But it does not look good. She must have her magic back so she again trains as a Cleric with the ability to become a Magic User. Determined to work with what she has she continues her journey. She has had enough now. The pampered little princess has got to fight! She is at turmoil. She knows she is not to jump into battles she is not invited into. She graciously apologizes to the adventurers whose battles she enters, fights, takes the treasures left by the dead monsters and leaves quietly. She continues to deliberately enter battles only to learn that she does have some skill and the others in battle with her would surely have died without her. They want to follow her! She has been accepted. She tells them they may join her. They try to follow her, but they are too young, and too slow. She rests at the inn, goes to the vaults to withdraw magic scrolls she now can use, and trains to a higher level. She fights alone in battles she has seen half a dozen young adventurers fight with all their might and she is victorious, gathering treasures the whole while sending telepathic messages to the young travelers telling them of her whereabouts. She is eager to help them and pleased that she can. She has learned the way to Floodblest and will take them there. Gambit, her dark elf friend is among them. Eager to get to them she hurries along in her quest. She has made friends, but she cannot even remember their names. Intent on her mission she devises a plan. Wildoldwiz, one of the adventurers she fought with earlier, is waiting with Gambit and others for her to come back and help them. She tells them to meet by the Castle, and smiles to herself how befitting it is. When she arrives they all greet her and exclaim delight as she tells them all she has done as they wandered lost trying to find her. She teases them gently and says, "Now will you follow the Princess?" An eager response and cheers bring a smile to her lips and she laughs. Being a poor navigator herself, she understands the time that is wasted trying to find your friends to join them in battle when you do not know this strange land. She carefully instructs them of her plan. They will travel from the back of the castle and straight through the gates until they reach the hedges. Not knowing the land or remembering the names of the places she has been she is determined to show them the way. She is not ready to lead, for she has not enough skill. She cannot keep track of her little band without getting lost herself. She cannot even remember their names, except Gambit and Wildolwiz. The young travelers, even her friend, Gambit lose her. Only the one called Wildoldwiz remains by her side. She tells Wildolwiz to follow her, to listen and learn, hoping he can later help the others. Weary but determined she shows him the way, stopping ever so often to point out landmarks. She stops often and travels slowly determined to take him to battle. She instructs him to follow his map and pay attention because they are going to go to a battle where he will have to know how to return to Never Winter on his own. For after the battle she plans to go on to rest alone. She teaches him well. They battle, they win, she bids Wildoldwiz farewell. She returns to the inn and she rests. She sleeps and she dreams of John. A Place Of Heroes Refreshed, Katrina begins to journey again. She is determined to find the big blue monster who defeated her! She journeys alone and discovers a brand new place. She has never been here before! Her eyes devour the new land. She sees other travelers and they are powerful! And they have magic! That which she seeks is here. She tries to talk to them. She politely asks if someone can heal her. She meets Paladins, Magic Users and Wizards. They bless her. They heal her. She is in awe. This is the place! This is where she has tried to come and time and time again she was defeated and had to flee. The evil one has whisked her away from this place, but she is back! What is this place?? More than one hero offers to help her and it looks almost as though she gets to pick which one. But not being sure, she asks several times for assurance to hook to one of the heroes. They don't seem to be listening to her. What she does not know is that they are discussing her among themselves using their telepathic powers. Still timid she asks again if she may hook. Not being sure if the hero she chooses really wants her to follow him. She hears others scoff and joke about her being a "Newbie." She is afraid, but tries her best to charm them. They ignore her. She sends mental messages to the names appearing on her scribe one at a time until some of the great heroes respond directly to her. So excited she is, that she cannot remember who is taking her where. She is whisked away by the Punt Monster. She returns and several of the heroes are calling out to her but she cannot remember who she was with. She follows them, but forgets how to sneak around, loses her way, gets caught in other battles, flees to safety and ends up in front of big red pillars where she sees a pretty well. Someone named Woljethawk calls to her using powers of mental telepathy. Katrina answers Woljethawk and tells what she has found. Curious and excited she wants to explore this new place. "NO!" he says to her in her mind. She backs up and waits..." "Well not pretty---- ------well kill you." Delighted with his humor Katrina responds telepathically "Curiosity kill Kat"???...She hears his raucous laughter and grins. He comes to her and she is delighted. She tells him of the big blue monster who defeated her. She wants to find the monster and have her revenge but she is always so lost. She has wandered for days to find that monster. Confused and disoriented by the punt monster she wonders if this was the place that Blackcoral rescued her from. Woljethawk takes her to the monsters hideout, but the cloud monster is not there. He explains that they need to be patient for this monster only comes out at night. Katrina, impatient asks if they may travel on and come back. With her hooked to him, Woljethawk takes her to battle. She enters his battle and soon sees she will be a burden to him. This new hero she has met has great strength and power. He can kill every beast with a single blow. She dies getting too close to his battle, he blesses her, restores her to life, revives her and she is transported again to an unfamiliar place. With all these hero names appearing on her scribe, Katrina becomes confused. She cannot even remember who said what to her and who took her where, but she is too delighted to care. She can remember Woljethawk but she knows there were others. Someone called out to her and told her of a great secret to help fight the punt monster, someone blessed her, someone told someone else to show her how to get to the inn, but she cannot remember. She will just be very polite, stay out of the way and pray they will come back for her when she is teleported away from their battles. But for now, she decides she must find an inn where she can rest and memorize her magic. Being possibly the worst navigator in all of Never Winter and the lands surrounding it, Katrina gets lost in the hedges. Determined to find her way back to Never Winter she wanders until she comes upon the gate she remembers, enters and travels quickly to the inn where she rests and heals. Excited to find this hero again she summons her most powerful magic. As she tries to memorize her spells she is interrupted. John is calling to her. "How fare thee, my love"? She answers him..."John! I have found the most wonderful place!" Excited to tell him where she has been and hoping he can come there "Where is this place, my fair one?" With her poor sense of direction she knows she cannot tell, so she tells him of Woljethawk a Hero name she remembers and someone called Jayhey whom she knows can better tell him and she sends quick mental messages to this one who claims he loves her. John. So excited about the heroes and the way they helped her she can't even remember which one was when and where! But immediately she senses John is not thrilled with the mention of other "heroes." Through her telepathic contact with John she feels he may feel threatened by her excited explanation of how she has met these new heroes. She asks John to meet her in their special place. With a flourish she teleports to Vistani. Katrina runs to John, eyes bright with excitement and asks "Have you heard of this one they call Woljethawk??" He gazes at her with love in his eyes, "My dear, I have missed you. I am sorry I have not heard of Woljethawk." She searches his eyes thinking for a moment she sees into his very soul, and responds "And I too, have missed you." Excited to tell all, Katrina's eyes sparkle with delight. Rememberances (submitted by: Cerebus) A young man walked into the main room of an overcrowded inn. He made his way into an empty back corner and found himself a seat. Unlike the other travelers he kept his cloak pulled tight around him. All that could be seen of him was that he appeared to be a tall, thin human. He kept to himself in the back of the inn, watching as the patrons came and went. Once a waitress came over to him and asked what he was having, but he gave her a handful of gold and she left him alone. He continued his scan of the inn. This was the type of inn that was kept open every night because the innkeeper liked to cater to the adventurers that happened by. It was situated on the Trade Way, south and east of Longsaddle. Because of this it always saw a great deal of business. The mysterious man in the corner kept a watchful eye on everyone, and his gaze finally rested on a boisterous young women. She was dressed all in red, trimmed in black. Over her right breast was the symbol of Loviatar, goddess of pain. He waited patiently as she finished her meal, and when she rose so did he. As he left his chair he placed another small pile of gold on the table. He followed the lady out the door and out into the dark night that lay beyond. He kept following her until they were in a somewhat untraveled section of the small town. "It's dangerous for anyone to be out on a night such as this." He said with a calm, relaxing quality to his voice. The priestess looked back. She had intense blue eyes, and hair that was a shimmering red. Her features were pale and angular. "I am no novice to danger." She said in a whiskey soaked voice. "It is my goddess' desire for her subjects to seek out pain so that they can rise to power within her hierarchy." "Well, dear lady." The cloaked man said. "In that respect you're about to become a full bishop..." He lept at her suddenly, and as he did so the cowl on his cloak fell back revealing a pale man with long, raven black hair. He opened his mouth as he flew at her to reveal two pointing incisors. She gasped in horror, trying to scream, but no sound came forth. The vampire flew at her, and picked her up. That act seem to have broken the shock that the young priestess was experiencing. She screamed as she felt the vampire bite her neck and draw out her life blood. He still had her in his grasp, high up in the air. When he finished gorging himself on his meal he let her lifeless body fall hundreds of feet to the ground. He let out a laugh of delighted pleasure, and melted into the form of a bat. He flew a quick circle, then went flying off to the west. Towards Longsaddle. * * * It was close to an hour before dawn when the bat finally got to the next town along it's course. There was a cave near it where he could rest during the daylight hours. The bat fluttered to the entrance, and flew into the back of the cave. Time passed, and before long night fell. With the onset of the night the vampire walked outside of his refuge. He looked around and breathed in the wonderful night air. It wasn't long before his everlasting hunger urged him onward to another inn. He had chosen the location of his cave well, there was an inn not too far away. He walked through the dense woods that surrounded this particular inn, and stopped on the outskirts of the forest. He gazed upon the wood structure, trying to decided whether or not to enter. He decided to play things safe this time. The closer he got to Longsaddle the more likely it would be that someone could destroy him. Therefore he would have to take extra precautions. He silently willed himself upward into the boughs of the trees above him and waited. It wasn't a long wait. A young woman left the comfort of the inn to walk around. She was dressed in a plain green and brown robe. Her long chestnut hair was tied back behind her with a small strip of leather. She started to walk toward the trees edge, muttering to herself. The vampire slowly drifted down behind her, making not a whisper of sound. He walked up behind her, and felt his hunger push him on compulsively. He rushed forward suddenly, one hand going around her mouth to keep her from yelling out. With blinding speed he bit into her throat. He relished in the sensation of her blood rushing into his body. Buying his life with her own. "Just what do ye think yer doin' there?" A voice asked behind him. He abruptly tore his teeth out of his meal, spraying blood onto the nearby trees. The young girl fell to the forest floor, not quite dead, but dying with her life blood draining out of her. The vampire turned to face who had spoken, fresh blood dripping from his mouth. He found himself facing a member of the smaller races. Upon closer inspection he found that he faced a dwarf. The dwarf had a cloak pulled tight about him, but nothing else really stood out about him. When the dwarf noticed the blood dripping from the humans fangs, he nodded. "So yerself's a vampire then?" The vampire just leapt at the dwarf with his mouth open, fangs bared. The sturdy dwarf merely reached up when he got close enough and flipped the human over in mid air, slamming him to the hard earth. The human sat where he lay, amazed that a mortal had managed to take him out of his flight. "By the way," the dwarf said. "Me names Elgar." He then looked at the nearly dead young woman. "I can't believe ye ruined that perfect meal." The vampire looked at him strangely, but then gasped in shock as the dwarf turned to face him. Elgar's features had sharpened, and when he opened his mouth to speak a pair of fangs showed in prominence. "Ye bloody fool!" He rumbled. "I don't like competition fer me meals." His form blurred into that of a dark colored wolf, and he sprang at the amazed human. Still a vampire, the human dissipated into mist, and reformed several feet away. "My name is Gavin, I'm just passing through these lands, and I mean you no harm." But the wolf lunged at him again, and this time just before he reached the human he dissipated into mist. Gavin started looking around, trying to find his nemesis. The dwarven vampire appeared behind him and kicked the legs out from under the human. Gavin tried to twist around, but the dwarf turned into a berserker and started punching and biting the human underneath him. The human managed to get one leg underneath him and used his unholy strength to hurl the dwarf away from him. As soon as he could, Gavin stood up and broke off the branch from a nearby tree. As soon as Elgar hit the ground he leapt into the fight again. He didn't see the make-shift stake until it was too late. He tried to turn around in mid-air, but Gavin flew up to meet him, ramming the stake deep into the dwarf's chest. He then grabbed hold of the dying vampire and turned him around, impaling him on the jagged end of the tree where he had gotten the branch from. Gavin reached up to the dying dwarf, and tore his throat out. With that finished, he looked over to where his dinner lay. She was obviously dead by now, but he could see from the fright on her face that she had witnessed at least some of the fight before her life fled. He shrugged, turned into a bat, and flew into the night. * * * Several weeks later, an elf walked through the wide streets of Neverwinter. He wore dark clothes, with his cloak and dark black hair blowing out behind him. He was simply out, walking around, and enjoying life in general. Wanting to spread his good will he headed toward Mataga Inn. It was early night time, and the streets of Neverwinter were filled with adventurers of various types. Some were newly come to Neverwinter, others had been here for years. He turned a corner and walked near the Temple of Oghma. He watched curiously as a young man escorted a woman out of the inn. He smiled upon seeing them, content to see young ones in love. But then he noticed the young man, and the tickle of memory crept up on him. The elf hurriedly hid in the shadows of the temple, praying silently that the young man hadn't seen him. His good mood evaporated, to be replaced by a healthy dose of fear. He knew that human. * * * "So you recognized a human, big deal." Simian was telling his elven cousin the next morning. "You don't understand," Cer said. "I met him nearly forty years ago, that he still looks the same as when I met him is unfathomable." Simian sighed and peeled a banana. "You're blowing this out of proportion, it is possible for a human to become as long lived as an elf, ya know." "Not when that human is a fighter that has always disdained the use of magic!" Simian shrugged and bit into his banana. "Then he used a potion to regain his youth or something, I don't know. But I fail to see the reason you're so upset." "For one thing, that young woman I saw him with has disappeared. I tried to scry her, and saw her corpse, torn and mangled on the outskirts of Nightsedge woods. There have also been reports this past week or two of bodies being found, completely drained of blood." Simian put his banana down. "So what you're trying to say is that your old friend is..." "A vampire!!" Cer exclaimed. "Well, assuming that he is, what do you intend to do about it?" Sim asked. But his elven cousin had no answers. Later that night Cer went once again to the Mataga Inn in Neverwinter. He waited by the door, patient. It wasn't long before he saw his first human friend walk up to the inn. "It's been a long time, Gavin." Cer greeted him. Gavin looked surprised. "Cer! What are you doing here?" Cer just looked at him, conveying his thoughts with a glance. "We need to talk Gavin." The human nodded, and followed Cer into the inn. They found an out of the way table, and ordered some wine. "I saw you last night." Cer began. "It surprised me to see you still alive, mind telling me how you accomplished that?" "You always were rather blunt." Gavin laughed softly. "Since you probably already know what I am, I have no reason not to tell you." He sat back and looked into nothingness, recalling old memories. "When I saw you that last time in Waterdeep I had been hired along with a handful of others to raid this small keep and get some of the treasure out that this wealthy noble had wanted. What he hadn't told us was that the keep was controlled by a vampire." "We fought it, and everyone died except me. Since I had been the last to survive, the vampire offered me a choice. 'Join me', he had said 'and live eternal life, or die where you stand.' I had no illusions that he could easily kill me if he wanted, so I agreed. Anything to escape death." "So I've been wandering the realms for nearly 35 years, trying to find a way to end my curse." He looked at Ceribus, who had taken in his story. "So what are you going to do now?" Cer sat back and thought. Finally, "I don't think I could bring myself to destroy you, and I won't tell anyone what you are, but in return I ask that you leave the town of Neverwinter. I like this area now, and I don't want to see everyone scared of attacks from a vampire." "You will have what you ask," Gavin said with a small bow. Then he excused himself, and walked out of the inn. * * * "So you just let him go?" Simian asked incredulously. "He was the first human that I ever befriended, I can't bring myself to harm him." Cer said. "I don't believe this! You had the chance to destroy him, and you opted to let him loose to feed off of anyone he chooses?!" Cer got defensive, "I made him promise to leave Neverwinter!" "Oh yeah, lot of good that'll do! There's still a lot of places around here that he could prey on!" Simian paced as he spoke. "Would you really object to him feeding on the people in the sewers?" Cer asked. Simian stopped his pacing, and thought about it long and hard. "Tempting...but no." He turned to the elf. "Cer, you have to destroy him, rid the world of some evil, man!" "It's just not that easy Sim." * * * The next night Cer walked the realms looking for his former friend. He had decided to look in the region of Nightsedge since he knew there were cave's nearby, and that was also where some of the bodies had turned up at. It was nearing daylight, and Cer was beginning to be thankful that he hadn't found any sign of the vampire, when a cry rang out from the woods ahead of him. He ran towards the sound, but before he got there, his friend stepped out of the shadows. "Well met Cer, I had not expected to see you again." "You have to leave, Gavin, as soon as possible." But the vampire just smiled. "And what if I say no? I kind of like it here. And besides," he said with a crafty grin, "I know you won't harm me, so I can take whomever I please!" Ceribus bowed his head as the vampire's laughter rang out around him. When the elf finally looked up, he spoke, "You're right, I can't do anything directly to harm you." He said the last words of a waiting spell, and great black bands of energy suddenly sprang into being around Gavin. "What? What is this?" Gavin tried to break the bonds, but found that not even his great strength could break them. "What will this gain you? All you have made it possible for me to do is not move or shift shape, what good is that?" Just then the sun decided to crest the horizon, and one finger of light broke through the gloom. "No!" Gavin whispered in horror. He turned to Cer. "I thought you said you couldn't harm me!" Ceribus drew himself up. "In the end it wasn't my magic that killed you, it was the sun. That's not breaking my vow." The vampire started yelling about the injustice of it all, but then the sun crested the horizon fully. Ceribus sat and watched in quiet vigil as his former friend caught aflame. He seemed to age, to grow older. His clothes caught flame, and torched the body. As the body died, Ceribus just barely heard it utter some words. He had to listen carefully, but they sounded like, "Thank you." When there was nothing left but ash, Cer took out some holy water and washed them away. With that done, he turned and headed back to his house in Floodblest, a heavy weight upon his soul. -Ceribus the Wonder Monkey, Current jester of the SOM, and Assistant Scribe To Meet the King (submitted by: Thorn Hawk) The two rangers entered the coach while Luthyen climbed into the driver's seat and took hold of the reins. Thorn Hawk looked at Elne Clare and both of them smiled wondering if Luthy was bound to get them lost. Thorn moved to sit next to his wife if she needed some help reading the TP map. They set out at a fast pace hoping to arrive before the others reached the manor of the king knowing that Fireforged, known for his skill at leading a team of horses, was most likely driving the other carriage. The roads were clear but for brief patches of snow and ice that had fell earlier in the day and they made good time only having to read the map once along their journey, a map that Thorn Hawk had to turn over to read correctly before Luthy took a short cut over a nearby bridge. Soon, they arrived at the home of the king and all thoughts of their journey was lost in the promise of a cold frenzy and a rowdy song. They found themselves being ushered inside by Squiggy, the court jester and led to another room where they met wench Tesse their serving wench for the evening. Surrounding the king's manor was a town called Canterbury where Thorn and Elne were served cold frenzies and Luthyen opted for a chilled wine. It was in this small town that they awaited their companions and the arrival of the king. Short was their wait as in bounced Skribbles with hugs for all followed by Fireforged and Jedi Chris. As they stood and talked and laughed and drank, the small town filled with others wishing to meet the king. He soon arrived and they were escorted into the manor by the lovely Tesse. They took their seats around the throne as Bill the minstrel played a song to ease their travel weary bodies while Tesse was quick to point out certain rules of conduct that were sure ways to invoke the king's wrath if not followed, but then the pitchers of frenzy and carafes of wine soon followed and Thorn Hawk forgot all as he began filling his mug with the dark, heady brew. The king appeared and the crowd came to its feet in thunderous applause hoping to win the kings favor and be granted a pass back to Canterbury or be trapped in the manor where certain luxuries were not in existence. The king was wise to their ploy and told them to sit and be quiet while he talked. It seems the king likes to hear himself talk, Thorn Hawk thought as he refilled his mug of frenzy. What soon followed was a whirlwind of songs and dances by the court to the cheering of the occupants and the playing of the minstrel Bill. Food was brought out, Fireforged and Thorn Hawk were quick to consume more than their share of the meal even taking some from the travelers from the far off island of Ireland. During this feasting, the serving wench Tesse came by and gave Fire a pair of socks that he had left the last time he visited the king or more aptly Tesse. As we drank, we noticed the red glow that came over the face of our ranger friend as he held his socks, but then even that was drowned out as the king reappeared to tell us another tale along with the help of his jester, squiggy. More pitchers of frenzy were brought out as more food arrived on platters for the revelers to consume, while the court continued with their stories and songs. The king had something up his sleeve though as he called out to guests to join in the songs and stories. There was a catch to this fun. If you did a poor job, you or your table didn't get to travel to Canterbury. The travelers from TP and BOP laughed as others were called on to perform some task and either succeed or fail. There was poor Willie who just wasn't quite up to the task, and Franny who had tooted a horn in her time and kept pace with the court during their song and the joust where the men outlasted the women. It was no surprise that the king soon arrived at the table of the TP'ers and pointed out some volunteers. Thorn Hawk and Luthyen took the stage along with two others, one from a local town another from Ireland. They all stood awaiting when Tesse and the king told them the song them must sing in order to leave for Canterbury, "I'm a little teapot." So as they stood there in a line on the stage with all eyes turned to them they began to sing. I'm a little teapot, short and stout. Here is my handle, here is my spout.
When I get all steamed up, here me shout Just tip me over and pour me out! When it was over, Thorn noticed that Luthy had been drinking a fair share of the frenzy as she staggered off the stage, but the king was most excited with their performance of the ancient song and gave them all leave to travel the trail. I'm the best little teapot ever, thought Thorn Hawk as he set off down the trail to Canterbury and the little ranger room that awaited him there. Arriving back at the manor, Thorn refilled his mug of frenzy and offered some to his wife Luthyen as platters of squabs were brought in. It was about then that a short plumb man walked in from the kitchen and sat near the throne. Eating on their squabs, they watched as he began to tell a tale in a slurred speech. It seems the poor fellow had more frenzy than the TPers, and they listened closely to make out his words as he told the tale of Prindarella. Thorn sat confused for a time as he didn't know who this Prindarella person was or what the little man was talking about but Thorn laughed at times and this seemed to make the man happy. At one point he paused and gazed out at the crowd and said, "wipper." Then he seemed to grow serious and exclaimed, "fiddn't dit." Not knowing what else to do, the crowd laughed to the joy of the storyteller who repeated himself again, "fiddn't dit," before continuing with his tale. At the end, he changed slightly and looked out at the crowd and said happily, "that wipper fid dit," before standing to the roar of the crowd. About then the queen arrived back at the manor to the chagrin of the court. It seems she forgot her key during her travel and soon the story of her key was told to all before the hour grew late and they had to depart for the town of Canterbury and their carriages. Before they left, Elne produced a small black case from within her bag of holding and had everyone gather around. They looked at their sister skeptically thinking she had too much frenzy as she told them of its power to produce a painting at a simple command word. Gathering around the king and the jester they awaited as Tesse said the simple command word, "cheese," and a brief flash erupted from the box to the delight of Elne. "There," she said, "we now have a painting of us all." Skribbles was quick to give the court hugs before they departed the manor while Fire, to his delight, sat in the throne with Tesse on his lap. Jedi Chris led one carriage out of Canterbury as Luthy, Thorn and Elne had enough frenzy in them to keep them from reading a TP map. Soon they were on their way back to Skribb's house and then to the inn to meet up with their wayward brother, MB who had a story to tell them of his trip up north. Thorn Hawk Brotherhood of PathfindersThe Elements of Love (submitted by: HC Fazz) I wish to be the Earth beneath your feet, Supporting you; The place your roots call home. A rock, forever solid for you to lean upon when you tire from your journey. I wish to be the Air you breath; The life drawn into your body. The wind that caresses you softly And hugs you in its embrace I wish to be the Fire in your veins, Burning fierce, igniting your passion. The flickering flame that lights your eyes; Dancing for the world to see. I wish to be the Water that gives you life; That washes away your fears, And drowns me deep within you In crashing waves of rapture. ------===<<<@>>>===------ TRIVIA NIGHT!! ------===<<<@>>>===------ Join NW Raven and NW Omar for a night of fun and prizes, while we test your knowledge of Neverwinter Nights trivia! Date: Tuesday, April 1st Time: 10:00 to 11:30 pm EST Place: The Great Hall of Neverwinter (outside the Realms) Prizes to be awarded to winners: First Place - 15 Pearls Second Place - 12 Pearls Third Place - 9 Pearls Fourth Place - 7 Pearls Fifth Place - 5 Pearls AND access to the Guild of Heroes!! Among the rules for Trivia are: 1. ONLY first 10 correct answers are scored! 2. TWO random rolls instead of one! Please review the rules before coming in to play by reading them in the Trivia folder (Keyword:AD&D >> Neverwinter Nights Events). Hope to see ya there... ;D -- NW Omar and NW Raven (submitted by: Power swd) Around a month ago, I made my first post to the news, stating that for beginning players, there are lots of eaiser ways than dracs to get xp. Now, I post my article for some of the more advanced players. (Maxxed people with 42 mil xp, I give you full permission to disregard this.) At the higher levels, it is often required to obtain 250K or more to level up. Also, equipment becomes an important factor, as for all you clam's know, PvP becomes rather intricate, and those +2 weapons just won't hit that iron golem. Neither will that battle axe+1. So, what do you do? About Getting Equipment Rule # 1: DO NOT, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE, GO TO THE VAULTS AND BEG FOR SOMETHING YOU KNOW YOU WILL NOT GET ANYWAY. I was around looking for an rop today, when someone was standing in-between the two vault enterences, begging for a "+3 flail, mace, plate mail,. or some Gaunts or a Bag." He acknowloged that he was a "newb" and needed good equipment. When you are level 1, you do not need a +3LS to hit that sneaky kobold. These Items are very valuable, and the only thing begging like this will get you is a feeb and an "accidently misfired fireball." Rule # 2: Always make sensible offers. Please, do not offer that rare and valuable dart+1 for a COD. This just annoys players, and wastes their time. Rule # 3: Be careful with whom you trade. Check a player's background before you go making sweet deals. If that QS+2 for a TRI+3 looks too good to be true, it probably is. (Saw this happen.) Rule # 4: Go adventuring. Where do you think these players get their stuff? If someone is trading something, they obviously did not buy it with pearls, and they somehow acquired it. IF you can save your AC3's, do so. But a word of advice on this: Orcs are not the treasue trove of NWN. Do not go to them hoping to find a shield+3 buried in that TAKE list. A Note on Experience Points (xp) If you are tired of the 2K those owlbears give, try the kraken spies or banshees. They're not much harder, and give 3K. If you're looking for the big stuff, CG's give 6K and a soloed buelette fight in Llast will let you walk away with 11K. In Windycliffs, the basilisks yield 4K, while the rock reptiles give another 3K. Umber hulks leave 2K, and Iron Golems leave 4 or 5 K, even with a full battle. However, there is a place in the Neverwinter Sewers, where, if done right, can max you easily. How does 40K sound? Beautiful? Then listen. In the sewers, a way past the Golems, there is a secret door. Go through it, then navigate a bit until you get to a room where the wall colors change. In the center of this 3 square hallway there is a CG-giant rat-Great Vilstrak fight. Soloing this could put you well on your way to leveling. Need 500K? No problem. 13 battles and you're there. They're many places besides dracs, which I DID NOT mention here, to level. Be inventive and you could find yourself starting a whole chain of events. :) Till Next Time, Power Swd P.S.- My thanks are extended to Bloodglade for his very nice, comforting response to my apology letter. ;)(submitted by: Loraque) SYLVAN PROCUREMENTS <<<<>>>> Specializing in Rare and Fine Artifacts <<<<>>>> Recent Acquisitions allow us to offer our discriminating customers some truly fine items. * * * * * * * * * * * * * * From Mirabar: ioun stones Deep Red From Silverymoon: mystical swords Flame Tongue & Dragon Slayer <<<<>>>> Two Locations Neverwinter - across from Kroegel's Arms and Armor Orlumber - near the docks <<<<>>>> Open now and then, and by appointment Contact: Loraque Pirates of Neverwinter Proprietor and Fence ********************** (submitted by: JDstar1) HEALER FOR HIRE!! Experienced 8th lvl cleric for hire as side-kick/healer.... Great at parties and loves to stand in the way of monsters during pvp.... Works cheap and just needs exp.... Esp today to set up an appointment!!!!!!!!! jdStar1(submitted by: Bloodglade) Greetings adventurers! Are you ready for more newbie advice? Well today's article is dedicated to Beholders (or Holders as most people refer to them). I have heard numerous questions in my travels about the powerful Holder: "What is the Holder dance?" "Can I cast spells on a Holder?" "Do Holder's have any good treasure?" Well let's answer a few of these questions, shall we? The Holder dance itself is the act of running right next to a Holder, then stepping away allowing it to attack you, and then stepping next to it again, and stepping away, and so on. The Holder dance dates back to long, long ago in Neverwinter. Believe it or not my friends, a Holder was affected by a hot shield! Yes, it's true. You could cast a hot shield, and every time the Holder attacked you, it would receive double the damage. Of course, in some battles this would affect treasure availability, but hey, you knocked off holders easily enough. Well then it happened little newbies! The NW Staff Gods got together, and decided to remedy this little hot shield quirk in the game. No longer would your hot shield affect the deadly Holder. Can you imagine? You would actually have to attack the Holder! And discovering this after you let the Holder belt you around first, trying to get your hot shield to work! But was this to be the end of the Holder Dance? NO! The Holder dance continues to this very day. You see, a Holder won't cast on you, if it has already attacked (tentacle to hand) you in the same round. So if you run up and dance to draw a couple of attacks, you won't face the terrible death, stone, fear, slow and disintegration rays that round. Of course, if you lose initiative on the following round, you can still kiss your newbie butt goodbye. It may interest you to know that the Holder Dance is still performed for one other reason, albeit superstitious. There is a niche of warriors who believe that the more injuries you incur during a Holder fight, the better your treasure will be after the fight. Now I have personally spoken to several NW Staffers about this and they have all assured me that the amount and type of treasure is completely random. Injury has nothing to do with it. However, I know many a warrior who swears by their injuries. So is magic completely ineffective against a Holder now? So you would think. And this is what I thought until I met a friendly CLAM in Westbridge. Much to my astonishment, my aggressive little friend went charging right up to the Holder, and cast a Slay Living spell. Sure enough... the Holder was killed! He explained to me that it isn't successful very often, but on occasion the Slay Living would work. So that leaves treasure. Are the stories you hear about Holder treasure true? Yes, they are! A Holder can randomly leave any non-pearl (and excluding some quest items) item in the game! Gauntlets, bracers, cloaks, rings... the list goes on and on! Does this mean that I have successfully completed an article without any playful insults to newbies? No, relax... let's look at a couple of common predicaments and solutions: Glade, when I do the dance... the Holders hit me every time and after I gate, I notice my armor is gone? -- You forgot to ready your armor! Glade, I'm a CLAM and every time I cast Slay Living, I die? -- You have to target the Holder, not yourself! Glade, I've completed hundreds of Holder battles, and have never seen a magic item? -- You have to cast Detect Magic after the battle! Any other questions? Don't be afraid to ask : D No, no, no. No need to thank me. Helping newbies is thanks enough. Bloodglade (TGC)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)! Second place recieves 2 pearls and third place 1 pearls! Submit all text to screenname: NW NEWS. <><><><><> <><><><><> MONTHLY CONTEST!! 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! <><><><><> <><><><><>