Heroes come in all shapes and sizes (IC)

[Annisthyrienne]

Prrip

Prrip watched the flowing waters, lost in her own thoughts until she began to see something emerging from the depths. Her eyes widened in interest and astonishment as she watched the blue skinned beauty slip from the water without a sound and scarcely a ripple. Her fur stood up a little, a little wary of the strange sight, but she soon relaxed as the figure stood before her, yet not coming close enough to threaten.
The feline curiosity got the better of her though, and she stretched on paw out to make little batting motions at the water-female’s thigh, testing to make sure she was really seeing what she thought she saw. The paw never actually touched, but sort of ‘waved’ close to the blue skin.

It was then that the words sounded in her mind. Prrip jumped back with a startled ‘mewp’ her tail fluffed and bristling. She stood sideways to the creature and arched her back to make herself seem larger and more formidable, but in her mind she was half play acting. She sensed no real threat from this lovely creature, and only concern. She let go of her posturing as if letting the air out of a balloon, all of a sudden, as if the moment before she had not really been acting that way at all. She sat down on the grassy sward and let her thoughts come to her, somehow knowing the woman would be able to ‘hear’ them the same way Prrip had heard her.

“I did not seek your aid. I did not know you were here. But you are right; I hurt in my spirit for all those I have been forced to kill to survive. There was no time to ask forgiveness of their spirits. When a hunter has to slay an animal to survive or to feed the tribe, the hunter must ask forgiveness of the animal’s spirit, and offer thankfulness that the animal gave its life to allow the hunter to live.”

“But in the fighting pit of death, there is no reason to kill except to keep from being the one killed. The only other reason is for the entertainment of the Masters. The Masters allowed no time to ask forgiveness of the spirit of the fallen, and there is nothing to offer thankfulness for. It is only meaningless death. This makes my heart heavy and hurt, for I have had to kill many. I lost myself in the killing. I began to crave it as the Masters did. I am no longer the hunter I once was. Now I am only a killer. My spirit is lost to me. I do not think you can help me, pretty Blue-fish-woman.”

+++++++++++++++++++++

Bronwyn

There had been many occasions when she had sought comfort in the spirits to be found in a bottle or mug or wineglass. And there had been many times that seeking the comfort of such spirits had led to seeking ‘other comforts’. This outcome came from wine more often than the other spirits she indulged in. There was something about a good vintage that made her feel sexy about herself, and put her in the mood to find pleasure in others too.

So it was that she eyed the glass of wine that Haldamir poured for her with a hesitant look before accepting it at his urging. She’d heard of the reputation of elven wine, and she wondered how it would affect her. The bouquet aroused her senses, and as the flavorful juice touched her lips, it left them bright red, stained with the vintage and inviting a kiss. She felt the flush of heat rise in her cheeks as the effect of the wine began to make itself known.

"Mmmmm, that is very good wine. I think it's the best I've tasted in a long while."

Her eyes glanced up to meet his over the rim of the glass, and she smiled. She was about to say more when he suggested they should get some sleep. Was this a dismissal? Did he regret bringing a half-blood into his home, and now was having second thoughts? She didn't want the magical feeling to end.

But he hesitated before turning to climb the stairs, and caught her gaze. "You are an amazing person, Bronwyn. Incredible. I look forward to being with you in the morning. I hope you feel the same way."

She realized then that the gallant captain, so sure of himself in charge of a troop, was more like a shy boy when it came to being alone with a woman. But would she be too forward if she made a bold move? On the other hand, if she waited for him to make a move.....well, they were only supposed to be here for a week.

Bronwyn set the wine glass on the table, and let her fingertips linger on the rim for a moment, caressing it round and round like she was touching a lover. She stepped closer to the brave captain, and spoke in a sultry purr. "Haldamir, please don't think me too forward, but I'm not ready to sleep just yet. I enjoy your company and if you wouldn't mind, I'd like to spend more time with you. I think I'd really like....to...." She touched the palm of her hand to his chest, tilting her head as she leaned in, her lips parting slightly, still stained red with the wine. Boldly gathering her courage, she leaned in close enough to press her lips to his, slowly, tenderly, but with enough heat and passion to make her feelings known. No shy girl was she when she knew what she wanted. Too much time in the rough woodlands had made her more direct than dainty city ladies.

 

[Mantra]

Nas

Nas was very aware of the distraction that his eating habits caused...and purposefully did all he could to add to the discomfort. his teeth crushed bone, ripped flesh and scissored through the fish like one of these elves might cut through a warm sweet roll. His golden eyes held the prissy elf lord's eyes as he effortlessly reached out and skewered a five-foot long tuna with one talon. Dragging it near, the talon flicked downward, splitting the scales open like butter before his head bent down to consume it.

Damn that was fun.

Tragically, all good things come to an end, and so did the meal. Then the elf leader came forward finally.

“I believe dragons enjoy a good wine … and we pride ourselves on this particular vintage”. The king stepped back from the barrel so the dragon could try some. "please try some" he suggested.

Nas was not familiar with wine, let alone elvish wine. His head bent forward and nostrils flared as Nas inhaled the thick, frothy and fruity scent. Tiny bubbles were inadvertently inhaled and made this nose twitch. The dragon's long, forked tongue flickered out and dipped into the barrel. The wine had a fruity taste, but also kinda burned, but not like a fire would burn. This was more like a tingly, snapping, sparkling sensation on his tongue.

Nas could not determine if he liked this fire or not. In the end, Nas was a dragon, and patience was not really one of his strongest suits. that being so, Nas's jaws opened and locked onto the barrel around the rim. Lifting his head up, he drew the barrel up with him and with a quick motion, knocked his head back, emptying the barrel into his maw like a shot glass. the wine flowed down his gullet and into his stomach, setting his blood to heating, which soon had the dragon feeling rather warm and calm, quite forgetting his earlier, dark mood.

Well then, perhaps this wine stuff might be good after all...

 

[milkmaiden38]

Bronwyn and Haldamir

She pressed her lips eagerly to his. The first contact was enough to make him want her even more. He leaned into the kiss … their mouth locked in passion … Her hands on his chest, his arms wrapped around her. Her lips were so soft, so warm and wet. He tasted some of the wine's residue on her lips. But what his mind tasted was her desire for him.

As they finally released their kiss, Haldamir smiled at her “I’m not too sleepy either …perhaps some vigorous exercise will help … my bed is just the place … it should be just large enough” He explained as he scooped her up into his arms, his freed hand grabbing the wine bottle and he carried her upstairs.

The night was wonderful, both of them surprised by the other. Haldamir had never thought the more curvy human females were to his liking … but after Isola display at the river before the ambush he had begun to wonder and now Bronwyn … she was perfect … her form and her looks drove him wild. He could not get enough of her. And for her part, the passion and patience of Haldamir had ...made the night equally wonderful for her. They did not get up that morning … because that was finally when both fell asleep.

Prrip and Her Evil Twin

The Water Nymph, Sylandian, studied the strange cat woman before her. She felt sorry for her and the troubles she had been through. So much death … so much killing. She, herself, had faced these thoughts before. The goblin war had been the last of many conflicts. Had all creatures deserved death? Or had only the wicked deserved it? There were no good answers to these types of questions.

The Nymph had decided to try to do her best to reduce suffering where she found it …that in the end … would help make things better. So killing wicked soldiers to rid the world of a wicked leader was justified. For in the end, there would be less suffering.

She looked deep into Prrip’s eyes and saw her pain and hurt. She was suffering. However, she was basically a good creature. The water Nymph smiled the smile that had seduced many lovers. She mind spoke to Prrip.

“You are a good creature. Many of the things you were forced to do were the result of a horrible man. You cannot change the past. It is done. However, your salvation is through actions of goodness. Reduce suffering when you see it. Make as many people as happy as possible.” Her eyes glued to her … trying to make sure she understood what she was saying, trying to ensure she had reached this life changing belief.

“It is sometimes impossible to determine what acts reduce more suffering. You cannot worry about that. Do the best you can. Follow your heart.” Sylandian told Prrip.

Suddenly it got lighter in this deep part of the forest, surrounded by tall trees, and the running water, there was a blue glow lighting the area. “I can do something that might help you … it might rebalance you from the wrongs done to you and by you. You are fighting yourself …sometimes it is helpful if I draw the bad feelings from you …they will form into another you … only this other you is composed of your evils. Slay the alternate you … and your balance is restored … but you must believe in this new way of life. You must want to take this new path. Shall I do this spell for you?” The Nymph asked.

 

[milkmaiden38]

Prrip
Prrip watched the flowing waters, as she thought about what the Nymph had said. Her salvation was through actions of goodness. She would need to reduce suffering where she saw it. It was a noble self-sacrificing concept; she thought she could do it.

Then the water creature asked her about the spell to lighten her heart by creating an alternate … her. She would need to fighter herself … defeat the being and her pain would be less. It was tempting … she was in great pain. But that pain was part of her. It made her who she was. The pain would keep her focused on reducing suffering and making the world a better place. There were no really short cuts in life. She would not take this short cut now. She mind spoke back to the water nymph.

“Pretty Blue-fish-woman … I thank you for offering the magical aid. But I need my hurt spirit … my heavy heart … they are part of me and with their help I will find my lost spirit.”

The nymph smiled

“I think you just found your lost spirit … good night” The Nymph said and slipped back into the stream and was gone. Prrip curled up by the water and fell asleep. It was the best night of sleep she had in years.

The Rest of the Week

The group of heroes spent the week at the Falls of Enos healing, eating and exploring. Each went their separate way, enjoying the elven forest, gardens, streams, and lake as they saw fit. Well, everyone except deathsknight, who remained sitting on the log by the lake for most of the time.

Zarik had his golden armor repaired and his battle axe sharped. He also found a book on elven riddles which he bought at some cost. Isola and her most recent male companion ran into him one afternoon and she asked him if it had been worth it. The big minotaur smiled and said “OH YES!”

Isola had too many suitors and not enough time. The four gentlemen she had met at the feast … each needed to be sampled … fully … to be appreciated. This meant she sent an entire day with each … starting with lunch …dinner … the night time activities … followed by breakfast. Although lots of fun, she made sure each man understood this was not serious … she was there to experience the elven male … and they could try out a human female. She knew that elves did not have concubines in their culture, so it would have been very rare for her next employer to be found here. Thus she told them she would be gone at the end of the week, hopefully with some great memories. She felt she was a one woman ambassador to help the elves understand humans better.

Megan Frostblood returned to her studies of rainbows. She was pretty easy to find … as she looked at the rainbows of the great Falls of Enos, her long, red hair blown back by the winds near the falls. She also took a lot of time to practice with her weapons. She was at the Elven archery range at dawn and dusk … firing her small crossbow with deadly accuracy. She had not forgotten what the princess had told her. The tomb trip was going to be dangerous and she needed her skills to be at their highest levels. This also included use of her sickle, for close combat. An elven fight instructor had been helping her, but was now on patrol, so she had asked Zarik to work with her. The minotaur was a good instructor and improved her quick retrieval skills to lightening fast.

Prrip
Prrip began to look for ways to reduce suffering. In this idyllic, peaceful, elven forest, she thought there would be very little to be found. She had been wrong. She found all creatures great and small which needed help. She did the best she could to help them. Each act strengthened her.

Bronwyn
Bronwyn and Haldamir were inseparable. They spend as much time as possible together. They talked, went on walks, had picnics together, kissed and made love. Each fell deeper in love with the other. Neither thought about what would happen when the week was up and the Moonwell ritual was performed.

OOC (Nas and Deathsknight please add a post on anything you did/accomplished during the week or let me know I can move to the next scene. Thanks)

 

[DeathsKnight]

Maut had no need to move, the little creatures who died when the tree crashed down, started decomposing, the tree itself started to decompose, but none of this bothered him at all, he had no needs, he had no haste, the only thing he did was to look at the distant spot as it seemed to show him the future, yet it was a mixture of the past, the present and slight glimpses of the future. It was a kaleidoscope of life forces which flowed through the tides of time. He was approached by some of the wood sprites, but the aura of death around him sent them scattering away. An Elven healer also approached him, but in the dusk the twin glints of light from inside Maut's helmet convinced him that no healing was needed. It was almost the end of the week when Maut moved for the first time, he got up from his seat and sauntered into the city, there he walked through the streets, the crowds parting for him as he walked into the palace grounds and there he went to the stables. A fight had drawn his attention, a battle for the life of a beloved steed. As he entered, the elves who looked up at him, paled, they knew what he was and the power he wielded. He walked over to the steed and knelt down next to it, he ran his gauntlet covered hand over the horse's head and stood up,

"It is not you time yet. Rise."

He turned and walked out of the stable, a cry of surprise behind him as the horse rose from what everybody was certain to be it's deathbed. Maut looked around, then headed back to his tree, a mount soon to be revealed to him, he was certain of it.

 

[milkmaiden38]

The Moonwell

By the week’s end Nas had tried many wines and become somewhat an expert on the strange beverage. He had decided he liked the drink and when he returned to his lair … this was something he would need to add.

The talk of the palace was deathsknight saving the sick stallion. The beloved steed was back to full health. Trotting around the fields, eating the lush green grass and even chasing after some of the young mares! The elven scholars and healers puzzled over what spell Deathsknight had used. And explored the deeper question … what was his true nature … evil or good?

Midnight approached and the heroes gathered for the moonwell spell. Everyone was there to include deathsknight. Somehow the knight had sensed it was time and gathered with everyone else. The King led them all to the well.

As they reached the glade they could see there was a stone circle exactly in the middle of the glade. In the center of the stone circle was the small well, the moon well. The princess asked everyone to remain outside the stone circle during the entire casting of the spell.

King Enos spoke “what you are about to see are images. They can be from the past, the present, or the future. Some may even be fantasies … that will never happen, or only happen in your mind. If you see a future event … beware … they maybe unavoidable. At the conclusion of the spell … please share your thoughts on the images. It will help all of us to understand the meaning of the images.”

The princess went to the center of the circle and looked into the cool still waters of the well. She pulled out a small green crystal from her white robes. She smiled as she placed it in the water there was a faint hissing sound. The green gem started to glow in pulses. Almost like heartbeats before it gently lit the well up in a stead green glow.

The princess then walked away from the well to the top of the circle and directed Megan to the bottom of the circle. Each held scrolls in their hands. Both nodded and began to speak the magic words … it was a chant and the meter had to be prefect for the well to expose its secrets. At the end of the reading the circle flared with a blinding light for a moment. The light engulfed the princess and Megan. But when the light faded away, both were still there … and a fog rose from the well …lights appeared in the fog. Glowing, shifting.

Suddenly everyone watching the fog had a momentary feeling of vertigo. As if space and time themselves were bending … shifting … swirling. The feeling ended as an image appeared in the fog.

The image was Nas flying in the sky … his wing healed … or was it a vision from the past? The viewers could not tell. The image zoomed in on just Nas’ head. Nas turned towards the viewers … as if he could see them … an evil grin took over his face and he blasted a massive flame at the people watching. The image was so real … Isola ducked to avoid the flames.

The scene melted away and there stood deathsknight. The knight was in a suite of armor of green and gold (his family colors) with his dagger belted to his waist. In his hands was his sword … the sword was held over something … something next to him … it looked like altar … as the image became more clear … a dark robed figure was laying half on and half off the altar … the figure had no head!

That vision floated away … replaced by a winged demon creature talking to Prince Marslug (the goblin prince killed at the battle of bulkenhold). The demon was laughing … as he handed the prince a bag of gold … and then handed him a magic sword! The sword looked exactly like the sword Bronwyn now carried.

The image faded … replaced by a hooded figure in a red cloak. Delicate hands pulled back the hood to reveal Megan Frostblood’s face with her fire-red hair. Her eyes focus on something … her eyes told of its great importance … she reach down and picked it up … it was a large green key … Behind her … Nas’ face appeared … his face was also full of emotion … something about this key had him in amazement, his large golden eyes were luminous in awe of this object.

That vision was suddenly cut in half by a black sword … the blade was so pure black … it looked like it did not exist … it seemed to be made of the black abyss of nothingness. The crossguard and pommel were of pure silver and the grip was black leather. The motif was of skulls. The weapon vanished in blackness.

The blackness filled the fog for a few seconds … at least that is what everyone else saw. But not Nas or Deathsknight … in those few seconds … Nas and Deathsknight saw the 5 demon lords seated around a semi-circle stone table, the centeral demon lord spoke … and Nas and deathsknight heard him! “Join us! Betray the humans and elves … kill the rest of the heroes … it is your only hope of survival!” That image faded for Nas and Deathsknight

Everyone now saw from the blackness, Bronwyn and Captain Irtheel faces … they were kissing …it was a very passionate kiss … some of the elves watching gasped at the image … then they were both together … tears running down both their faces … the tears washed away the scene … out of the water came a blue water nymph … the creature was next to Prrip. The leopard woman seemed happy … truly happy … Then viewer angles shifted …

And the nymph and leopard woman were out of the field of view … the forest turned swamp like … there stood a human dressed in a forest green cloak … bow on his back, long sword at his waist. His eye were intense with determination … flames appeared around the image … and the scene was consumed by flames.

As the fire dies down … An arieal view of the city of Palamar can be seen …. The great city was surrounded by a massive army of garliks. Parts of the city were in flame. The image zooms … until a single human man stands on a high tower of the city. In his royal battle armor, his breaded face comsumed by worry … Zarik appeared, his hand clasped on the man’s shoulder. The minotaur looked impressive in his golden armor, he seemed to be saying something to the breaded man. The bread man face grew hard with determination.

The fog turns to a dark glow … an image formed out of the mist. It is some kind of horrible creature, it floated in the air ….unlike the other images this one made everyone’s skin crawl … even Nas! The creature was evil to its’ very core. The creature had a round orb like body with a large unblinking central eye. It looked directly at the viewers. Below the eye was an immense mouth full of razor sharp teeth. Smaller eyes were attached to wriggling stalks placed on the top of the orb, as if they were hair. There was no body. The non-eye parts had skin color that was a dirty red and brown. A beam of light blasted out of the centeral eye … and the fog disappeared. The moon well spell was complete.

The glow around the magic circle died out … in the light of the full moon … everyone heard a small whispered voice “may the gods help you … help us all!” It was King Enos talking and he was shaking in shock and fear. “You will be facing a Mesobulbron!!”

 

[DeathsKnight]

Maut turned towards the king, moving closer, he casually brushed people aside, his left hand half-raised to grab the king's shirt and pull him closer, but he lowered his hand and instead the king found him face-to-face with a faceless helmet, two lights staring out from behind the visor,

"This is the second time I hear of this Mesobulbron, the first time when a demon threatened me and again now from your mouth. What is this creature who can not be killed my blade or magic? How can the demons control it and send it to kill me? Speak King Enos."

 

[milkmaiden38]

“A demon has also threatened you … mentioning the Mesobulbron … That confirms the moonwell's image. I know very little about the creature we all saw in the last image. Among the legends and histories of this world, there have been some mystical beings which held great power, the ancient dragons … once lorded over all … almost impossible to defeat. The Sphinx on the southern continent … wise … sagely … almost all knowing … able to control the minds of any that wish to do it harm … almost impossible to defeat.

While those beings demanded … respect … and sometimes fear … they do not have the reputation of Mesobulbron. It is a creature of legend. It is said that it cannot be killed. I do not know what means it uses to block all forms of attack … both magical and physical … but the stories say neither have any effect on it. The first sighting of this creature was in the great battle of Axxion. The forces of good had pushed back the garliks and the minor demons. All the way back to their last fortress stronghold, then the Mesobulbron arrived. The carnage it wreaked on the combined forces of human, elven and centaur was horrible. This was long before my time … but as a young man, my great great grandfather had seen it. He had been at that battle. He told me it was not a battle … it had been a slaughter! Everything the forces of good tried … fire, ice, sword, arrows, spells … all failed to slow the creature. It barreled through their formations, flattening all before it. The screams of those unfortunates who had been in the creature’s path … still haunted him … he shook as he told me the story. He said it used a beam of light from its central eye to suck the life force from those caught in the beam. Horrifying to watch. The havoc, the bloody corpses, the ferocity, broke the forces of good. Then the creature was gone.

To face such a powerful being …with an entire army at your back … is to look upon your own almost certain death. You will have no army when you face this creature. I cannot help you … maybe others know something else about this thing” … he looked over to Megan, Zarik, and Nas … “But that is all I can tell you” The King said.

 

[Mantra]

Nas

The week had passed ever so slowly for Nas. Yes, the elf-place was peaceful, restful, idyllic...and boring. The others seemed to each find a place for themselves, the dragon could smell the rampant pheromones in the air and so had pared up or drifted away or found like-minded creatures to be with. All except the Death Knight.

The dead man had simply found a place to stay and like the dead, stayed put, slowly decaying or whatever it was dead people did when they wouldn't pass onto the next world. Nas could still not find it in himself to trust the dead man, and still had visions of swooping down from the sky and crushing the iron skin of the abomination into scrap to avenge his earlier defeat. While Nas knew he would not act on such feelings, the images were a good way to daydream away the hours.

The elves were no good either. While they had twice come and changed his bandages, helping to nurse his damaged wing back together, Nas could tell that they were afraid and displeased with his presence. Nas really couldn't blame them. With his wing still keeping him earthbound, the tracts where he had taken to roaming were soon filled with broken trees, uprooted brush, torn ground and becoming notably devoid of living creatures.

No, the elf-lands did not sit well with Nas at all. Everything around him reminded the dragon that he was out of place and no purpose here. The creatures shunned him and so, Nas shunned them back. When the time had come for this moonwell ceremony, Nas had practically run to get there quickly.

The visions came, swirled and went, but Nas could not determine the value of them until he saw an image of the fire-haired female and himself, looming over the key. Nas's head tipped at an angle while he reviewed the image. He made a strange noise in his throat, a sort of soft growl, followed by a quick, choking sort of sound; "Heereel kuruck.."

Other images swirled, again meaning little to the dragon, until the image of the floating eye-thing came and went. Nas held the thing's gaze until it vanished, then his neck folded, dipping lower until Nas's forehead pressed against the dirt.
"Oy, damnation and hell-fire..." he grumbled.

At that moment, Nas really, really wanted to be back home in his mountain caves, and cursed the fact he had not just killed everything the day when all this foolishness had begun...

 

[milkmaiden38]

Everyone looked over to the dragon. His forehead pressed against the dirt. Then they heard him grumble “damnation and hell fire!” Very little else needed to be said. Whatever this Mesobulbron was … even Nas seemed bothered by it. Nas, a massive fire breathing dragon, one of the most fearsome creatures in this world.

Zarik spoke next “The minotaur have similar stories about this creature, I cannot add anything to what King Enos has stated. I can also say that in the images I was atop a tower … in a great city being attacked by garliks … that is a future event. I do not know the city or the royal person I was standing next to.”

King Enos smiled “That was the city of Palamar and you were next to King Ronar Stoneshield … it appears a war between the garliks and humans will happen in the near future.”

Megan Frostblood was the next to speak. “I have no knowledge on the Mesobulbron, but the image of me holding that strange key … is also in the future. I do not recognize it” She said firmly.

Prrip signed to Zarik and the big Minotaur told everyone about the blue water nymph and Prrip new life course ... Prrip seemed very happy.

Then it was Bronwyn turn and she said “looks like the baron will be happy … the goblin attack on Bulkenhold was clearly started by the garliks. This sword is proof of it.” She held up the sword. Then she looked over to Captain Irtheel “I cannot explain the scene of the captain and I kissing” she said … it was a good lie … but everyone that knew her could tell right away … she was lying to protect the captain.

Captain Irtheel smiled and shook his head “Bronwyn, I appreciate your efforts …but the enemy wants elves and humans to fight …The garlic attack on these heroes was designed to get the elves and humans to fight. Our own prejudices are being used against us.” He paused for a second.

“It is time for the elves to stop being so …untrue to their nature” he said and he grabbed Bronwyn’s arm and pulled her to him. “We all must act as true elves … respecting all life and honoring all creatures irrespective of their shape or size.” He bent down and kissed Bronwyn passionately before everyone gathered.

It was the scene from the moonwell. Bronwyn and Captain Irtheel kissing very passionately as they pulled apart ... they both had tears of joy running down their faces.

There was silence for a few moments until Princess Allontree smiled “The captain is right … and I for one will follow his council.” There was a series of grunts and nods of agreements from the elves at the clearing.

Isola spoke next “Deathsknight … was the headless man on the alter … a future or past event? And does anyone know who the handsome man in the forest green cloak is?”

Megan jumpped in with her own question “and what of the black sword? … and the key?” she asked looking at Nas.

 

[DeathsKnight]

Maut looked at his companions as they spoke up, then he glared at Isola,

"My name is Maut, I will apreciate that you start calling me by my name."

He pointed at the moonwell,

"That was the necromancer who raised me from my honorable rest. I killed him like the princess stated. The man in the cloak is a human Ranger, most likely we will meet him in the future as nobody recognized him."

He turned to Megan, his voice as whisful as it could be,

"The sword is called the Deathsong, it was the weapon of the very first champion of my lady. It was forged by magiks beyond the ken of recent times, it draws the life force from anything it touches and sends it directly to the realm of my lady. It is the ultimate weapon in the hands of Death's champion."

 

[milkmaiden38]

Several in the group of heroes felt bad about not using deathsknight’s correct name. However, Isola felt the worst. She had been trained to be tactful and skillful in social situations and this mistake was a basic one.

Her eyes large and her face red in embarrassment, although that was hard to tell in the moonlight, she nodded her head and said “Sorry, Maut … I shall strive to use your given name. Please forgive my folly”

Several other people also grumbled sorry for not correctly addressing the knight.

Megan Frostblood turned to the dragon “Nas … do you have anything to add?”

 

[Mantra]

Nas

"I know that we cannot kill this thing." Nas said, not bothering to lift his head up.

"They are the stuff of nightmares and frustration; frightfully powerful and ridiculously difficult to defeat."

The dragon's head finally came up, although Nas's mood did not. "That is what I know. If this thing lies before us, then perhaps we might wish to re-think our goals...."

His head swiveled towards the elvish king. "Can your pool tell us how this creature is meant to cross our paths?"

 

[milkmaiden38]

King Enos shook his head. “The spell is complete. It cannot be done again until another full moon. I got no sense from the image when this thing would attack.” He looked at the dragon and asked “What are your goals?”

Princess Allontree spoke up again. “The moonwell is not the only tool I have used to explore the future. I have seen … two magic items of special importance … the key of Heereel KuRuck, from the dragon language meaning “stone breaker”. And the Codex of Ardel” She explained. “The goal … for those heroes that chose to continue … will be to go to the last known hiding place of these items, The Tomb of Ardel.”

King Enos had a hard look on his face “Daughter you speak incorrectly and jump to conclusions too quickly! These items are important in the coming struggle … that is true … but they could be important for the garliks … not the humans!” He turned to the heroes “Do not pursue these items … it will only result in your deaths and aid the enemy!”

“Father would you have us take no action … while the cities of the humans are overrun and consumed by the garliks. These heroes must find these items first. It is the best course of action.” Princess Allontree said glaring at her father.

“I …once thought action was better than inaction … that cost me my wife and your mother. Inaction is a viable choice, and often the best choice. Rash youth charge into battle … what does it get them? Only death!” He said “I rule here and I have decided that no elf shall chase after these magical items. Do you challenge my rule?” He asked his daughter.

The princess looked at her father, and then she bent her head “No father.” She said sadly. Then she looked up and at the group of heroes “My father cannot make the choice for you however … each of you need to decide what you shall do next.” She said. There was a moment of silence.

Then she smiled and said “Although the choice has been taken away from me, and the rest of the elves of this city. I can still choose to tell you what I know … The Tomb of Ardel is located to the south of the Palamar in the dense swamps of the Dead Forest. The swamps are wild and full of lizardmen, nagas, and other dangers. A place of mystery that we elves know very little about. The closest human town near the Tomb is Fourwinds. The tomb was built many years ago by a very powerful Wizard name Ardel. The Tomb has a series of passages and chambers that descend from the swamp deep underground. The wizard had been friends with many creatures … including dragons, so the passageways are wide enough for even a dragon to traverse. In fact dragons treat the site as a shrine … a most revered and important place for them” She looked over to Nas

“It will not be an easy task …there will be dangers, some of you may not make it. But I believe you are the only hope we have to defeat the garliks!”

King Enos looked over to his daughter shaking his head “I do not agree with this action … however, if you do go …Let me provide some additional information. The Wizard Ardel built a 4 story tower in the swamp several decades ago. His magical powers were remarkable. For years it was his sanctuary where he could pursue his magical studies in solitude. His solitude and isolation was his choice … he was working on magic so powerful … that if something went wrong … he did not want to endanger the local population.

Thus, he chose a location deep within the dead forest. A swamp so dense and dangerous there are few populations nearby. After a long life and many great magic deeds … Ardel passed away. The wizard had been friends with many creatures as my daughter has said. To include dragons and lizardmen. A tomb was constructed under this stone tower and his body was placed there, along with numerous other magical items of great power.

The wizard had a special relationship with dragons. I remember talking to him once about it … he called dragons, “the prefect killing machines”. He said it was why humans and many of the other races feared them, and hated them, and called them evil. But he argued dragons were in fact defenders of this world. He felt they had been wrongly called evil. I think this is why dragons respected him.

The tower and the tomb have various defenses in place to prevent intrusion. I believe it has not been visited in many years. It may have become a home to a variety of dangerous creatures; some from the wizard's creation and some from the wilderness.” He explained.

“These magical items my daughter speaks of … are very powerful and may prove useful against the Mesobulbron. But I do not know. Another small advantage you might have is Maut would not be affected by the life sucking ray the creature uses; at less I do not think so.” The king said in conclusion.

 

[DeathsKnight]

"King Enos, I have learned a lot during the years I have spent wandering this earth."

Maut turned to face the king again,

"True, I am not as old as an elf, nor will a man ever reach the same age, but I know that no future is set, it can be changed. You will allow man to fall, you will allow the Minotaurs to fall, just to preserve your people."

He stepped closer,

"You think yourself to be safe behind your magical barrier, keeping out evil. But the garliks can summon dead and I know for one that these lands of yours are covered with the dead. I have seen your precious city fall in flames, I saw the death of your people. Act like an elf King Enos, prepare yourself for war."

He paused,

"I may be immune to this creature's ray, but I will not be immune to it's physical attacks. My armor is strong, but not that strong. Even Nas can rend my armor if he so wish."

Without a further word he turned and walked away

 

[milkmaiden38]

Megan Frostblood

She pushed her long, red hair behind her back exposing her beautiful face. She looked at the group before her, and then she spoke “I agree with Maut. I chose to fight. I chose to help any that wish to go to the tomb. My kind specializes in magic items.” She paused for a second and her voice filled with bravado as she said the next part “If it adds courage to any here … I would point out that a Mesobulbron has never faced an Illumian in battle!”

Zarik

His golden armor reflected the moonlight as he placed his big hand on Megan’s shoulder. “I too agree with Maut. There is a minotaur saying for a moment like this … where the future of the world … hangs in the balance …it goes …Now is not a time for sadness and despair, but a time for heroes, champions, and great deeds” … I would also like to point out that a Mesobulbron has never faced … ME …in battle!”

Bronwyn and Haldamir

Bronwyn and Haldamir stepped forward. Haldamir looked sad and in great emotional pain. “I cannot go on this quest.” He said and he looked over to King Enos. Then he continued “However, I believe I can make the trip to the city of Palamar … The humans should be warned.” He stated. Perhaps the words of Maut had gotten to King Enos because he nodded in agreement, condoning Captain Irtheel trip to Palamar. Bronwyn smiled and had tears in her eyes. “I will be traveling with Haldamir … I do not know if it is this place … but it is as if the gods have spoken to me. I wish you all the best of luck, hopefully we will see each other again in Palamar." She went to each remaining member of the group and gave them a hug including Nas!

Prrip

Prrip signed to Zarik and he spoke for her. “Prrip will remain here. She will be battling her own demons and working to reduce the suffering around her. She hopes to rebalance herself from her years of captivity. She thanks everyone for freeing her and bringing her to such a wonderful place.”

Isola

Isola was the next one to state her decision. “I based my decision on the following facts: One, I did not see myself in any of the images from the moonwell. So I have no more significant role to play in this story. Two, I’m not sure what a concubine can do against a Mesobulbron? Fuck him to death? I’m not sure how to tell if that thing is male or female? and Three, there are far more rich male employers in Palamar than the Dead Forest.

Therefore … I chose … to agree with Maut!!" There were a few surprised gasps when she said that. She continued "Let’s get these magical items and kill as many of these garliks as we can. I have two important conditions however before I will agree to go. The first is, the bullheaded traveling bag cutting oaf” She pointed to Zarik “still owes me a shopping trip for new cloth and the second is, I get first shot at that hot ranger guy we saw in the image!” She looked at Megan Frostblood as she finished.

Zarik laughed “We can shop tomorrow”

Megan laughed too “he is all yours … but if he resists your charms” She looked down at Isola large chest “It is not my fault!”

Everyone looked at Nas … wondering what decision he would make.

 

[Mantra]

Nas

The voices of the others fuzzed out, leaving Nas alone with his thoughts. He knew about more than just the nightmare creature they had seen, but Nas wasn't entirely sure he wanted to tell anyone. Worse still, there was a strange, icy feeling rolling around in his stomach and heart. It brought no comfort when Nas finally identified this feeling; Nas was afraid, and of more than just the Mesobulbron.

Ironically, it was the death knight's voice that finally cracked through Nas's mental walls to reverberate inside his head, shaking him out of his chill thoughts.

"Even Nas can rend my armor if he so wishes."

Nas gave a faint half-smirk. "Oh, I think I could rend more than just your armor if I wanted to, Deadman." Nas quipped. Then looking around, the dragon realized that everyone was staring at him, waiting. The ice in his stomach returned.
"I will go with the LifeDancer." he said flatly, then turned and followed the death knight out of the clearing.

Nas wandered back towards the pond when the group first arrived in the elf lands. It was still a peaceful and idyllic place, except for the rather large footprints around the bank and a lack of any large fish remaining in the pond. By whatever fate, the Deathknight had also returned, standing immobile as always waiting for some action to compel the thing to move again.

The dragon lay back down causing a rather sizable ripple to flow out across the surface of the water as he did so.
"I do not think I like this place," he sighed, speaking to no one in particular. "Everything here is so...fragile. I will enjoy returning to my hills, where the stone and earth can at least accept my passing without flinching and shivering."

He looked over to the armored statue. "And what of you Deadman? If you insist on standing in one place, day after day and decomposing, I could have a tombstone brought out to mark your new habitat."

 

[DeathsKnight]

He turned his attention to Nas and after a moment of contemplation, he chuckled, strangely it sounded much more human and carried mirth, the sound even carried on his cold voice,

"I do not decompose Nas, you're only feeling the magic wich raised me. When I die, I will fade away like mist, leaving only my armor behind."

He sat down on the fallen tree and looked at the dragon,

"I think we are the only ones who stands a chance against the Mesobulbron, with our powers combined though, we increase our chances."

He waved a taloned hand towards the moonwell,

"I do not question the might of the other's, but when the demon said it will be imune to magic and blade, it was so smug that I have to trust those words..."

He sighed a very human sigh and looked at the trees,

"Your flames are natural, your claws and teeth are not of metal...my weapons will be useless against it, my magic will me useless against it, but I can keep it's attention on me since it's killing beam can not kill me."

He turned his eyes back at Nas,

"Together we can kill this abomination Nas. Then after killing it's masters you can return to your home and I can go in search of an honorable death"

 

[milkmaiden38]

Meanwhile ...

The next day, Zarik and Isola were at the small open air market near the royal gardens. Several tents had been set up and Isola was having a great time wandering through the area looking at all the clothing, weapons, and travel gear available. Zarik had been with her when she started, but now he was sitting on bench watching her.

Zarik was thinking … “What the hell is wrong with cows?” Isola was viewing this entire shopping experience as a “what do other people think” event. Everything she tried on she would ask him “what do you think? What would the others think about it? … Is it practical? … Does it have enough pockets? Does it have too many pockets? Does it show enough cleavage? … too much? etc. It was like she did not want to disappoint anyone that would view her clothing. Isola constant consideration of the implications of her purchases what driving him nuts! It seemed like a complete waste of time.

Finally he had to say something “Isola … You need to view this as a hunt. Go in there and kill the beast … and drag it back here … let’s be done with this!” Isola looked over to him a smile breaking across her face “That is such a male thing to say … this is not a hunt … it is like gathering berries, roots, and vegetables. You need to enjoy the experience … looking for new items … trying them on … seeing if they work together … it is all part of the fun! You need to savor this experience … like a fine wine!” She smiled.

Zarik stood up, flexing his massive muscles. “How can I savor this … it seems like random meandering from one merchant to another. And then the endless questions!!!! … UGHHHH!” he grunted in frustration of the wasted time.

“Now you promised … and you are starting to ruin this experience for me. You need to give this an honest try. Come over here … I’m going to buy something for you too.” She giggled.

“WHAT!! NO!!” he yelled … scaring some of the elven merchants by his loud answer.

“You always wear that golden armor. Give it a rest. I want to see what you look like in something different. Think of it like a riddle. You are going to solve the clothing puzzle!” She walked over to him and grabbed his arm and dragged him over to the tents. “Take off your breast plate …you are going to be trying on these shirts” She ordered him.

As he pulled off his chest armor, and exposed his human torso, there were gasps from some of the female shoppers, but the loudest gasp was from Isola. She just stared at him for a second. Finally she said “Wow Zarik … you are ripped! You have muscles on top of muscles! Why do you wear a shirt at all? You look great just like that!!”

He grunted and picked up a shirt and tried it on. It was way too small, but Isola imagined what it would look like if it was altered to fit him. This went on for a while, with different shirts, tunics, vests, bracers, even some nose rings, the minotaur had to tried on. Zarik seemed to tolerate it better as the day went on.

When they were done Zarik and Isola walked away from the market. He carried all her new clothing and his armor. He wore his new outfit … a tight fitting shirt, with an open tunic made of leather (tied in front) that showed off some of his muscular chest, leather pants and a thick belt at his waist to hold it all together. He looked very “lordly” … well except for his minotaur tail and hooved feet!

“So shopping this way was not so bad … right?” Isola ask him as they walked to the pub to meet the others.

Zarik moaned “I’d rather have my life force sucked out by a Mesobulbron … then do this again!”

Isola laughed, but she knew that Zarik had learned something from her about shopping and secretly he had not had such a bad time.

 

[Mantra]

Nas and Maut

Nas raised one eyebrow in mild surprise. It actually laughed, how intriguing. He at first wondered how a dead man could laugh at all, wondering if the deathknight even still had functioning lungs or not. A dozen questions, probably most of them being notably inappropriate, sprang into the dragon's mind but faded as the Mesobulbron was mentioned.

"I have never encountered a Mesobulbron. If I had, I doubt that we would be having this conversation now. I do not think my fangs, talons or fire will be of any more use than your sword."

"A Mesobulbron is a creature of legend beyond other legends. They are the ultimate foe in that they cannot be struck down. Burn them and they turn to stone, strike them with your sword and they become water, net them and they turn to mist."

"While I am no scholar, the only stories I have ever heard of in defeating a Mesobulbron was done with great cunning and trickery. But I have never heard of anything ever killing one, even in fables."

 

[milkmaiden38]

The next day the heroes headed back to Bulkenhold. The journey was swift and uneventful. They made a stop at the ambush spot and Haldamir said some words in honor of the dead elves. Bronwyn stood beside him, her arm around his waist. She added to his statements … thanking the gods for the people that had survived and noted that it was unfortunate that it took this tragedy to open human and elven eyes to their prejudices.

The site also reminded everyone of the dangers they were about to face and to stay on their guard. Several days later, it was Bulkenhold guards that saw the group approaching from quite a ways off. A dragon the size of Nas was pretty hard to miss! As the group approached the now famous western gate there were lines of people waiting … all cheering them. It was like a ticket tape parade! The baron was under the gate and greeted everyone, shaking hands or bowing appropriately. Isola induced Megan Frostblood to the baron. Who greeted her warmly. Isola quickly followed up by flirting with the baron.

The baron was prepared this time and fended off her advances. He asked the group to report on their adventures and tell the crowd what the elven King had said. Everyone in the group looked towards Isola. She told the tales… and did a great job. One of the skills of a concubine is to be an entertaining story teller. Other group members added parts that Isola had not witnessed. In the end … with the dragon and deadthsknight passing through the elven barrier, the magic sword, and the image of the moonwell spell everyone believed the goblins had been hired by the garliks not the elves.

None of the heroes needed to buy anything … as towns folk brought food and offered to house them for the night. Well … everyone except Nas. He was brought all sorts of food … but the best offer he got was a farmer offering him his hay bales as bedding.

The next day, Haldamir and Bronwym said their good byes and headed north to the city of Palamar to warn the human king. (Prrip had stayed behind, remaining at the Falls of Enos). While the other group headed southeast to the great swamp and the town of fourwinds.

The trip southeast was pleasant as the spring weather was cool with a few afternoon showers. In this part of the kingdom spring weather is not always this nice. Massive rain storms were common; however luck was with the heroes as none of these appeared. The vegetation started to change and became more jungle like, the air more humid. Soon the path they followed entered the dead forest, with standing water on either side of the trail. This was the great swamp. With the vegetation and water came the bugs. Mosquitoes were the biggest problem. Zarik, Isola complained about them the most. “Blood suckers!” the big bull kept calling them. At one of their rest stops, Megan studied a mosquito on her arm. Her eyes were so focused it was almost like she was in a trance. Then suddenly she looked up.

“I understand the magic of these creatures.” She told everyone. Her right hand started to glow a strange blue color … almost like the color of blue you see in a spark. She placed a hand on her chest and all the Mosquitoes flew away from her. Then she walked over to Isola “this magic will keep them away. Shall I cast it on you?” She asked. Isola agreed. Again the Mosquitoes flew away. Soon everyone in the group except Maut and Nas who were not bothered by the bugs were thanking her.

 

[milkmaiden38]

They made good progress reaching the town of Fourwinds. As they saw the town’s buildings they could tell it was not large. Located along trading routes that went north, south east and west, it was a place caravans stopped to resupply. Therefore the town prospered during the summer and fall trading months. Without the caravans to help support the town of Fourwinds would have been a simple small hamlet with a few farms.

The nearby swamp presented the biggest danger to the inhabitants of the town. There were bands of kobolds, goblins, and frogoloks that occasionally tried to raid the town. The local militia of Fourwinds was experienced in repelling these attacks. What they were not ready to address was a massive fire breathing dragon, an undead knight, a minotaur, Illumian, and a concubine!

20 of the militia met the visitors at the entrance to the town. Many of them were still adjusting their armor. Also of interest the militia was mainly human, but there were several lizardmen, and one Halfling. The captain of the Militia, a human, asked the travelers to halt and state their intentions.

Isola came forward “Good Captain, we are on a mission that is important for the Kingdom of Palamar. We shall only be here for tonight and plan to leave first thing in the morning.” She explained.

“But … you travel with a dragon!” he said pointing to Nas. “And some kind of knight who hides his face …” Again pointing to Maut. “and …a … Minotaur!!” He added “This is most unusual” the Captain seemed quite confused for a moment, and then he seemed to make a decision. “Wait here … I will get the mayor … he should make this decision ... about entrance into this town.” He explained and turned ...heading back into town. The halfing was the next in command and stepped forward “Just stay right there …and don’t try anything!” he said a small rock loaded in his sling.

 

[SwiftPeter]

Couched in shadow, Blin watched the party of adventurers from beneath a spiderfern on a hillock. Swallowing a handfull of the plants bitter seeds (they truly were a usefull tool and, best of all, could survive anywhere near water) for later, he made note of their packages. The horses were laden and they'd changed clothing.

He couldn't make out any jewelry, but the dragon was all he needed to see to know there was some nearby. It also explained their pace. If he were leading a warband in ambush, he'd have passed them over for easier fare.

This was a different sort of troupe however. No attendants or retainers aside from the obvious threat posed by the dragon, and each carried their own outfit. It was the lean retinue that bespoke a quest.

After realizing the dragon must have numbed it's nose to the smell of it's motley crew, Blin risked venturing nearer, always downwind or mingled among the stench of human settlement. He didn't risk trying to steal anything outright (information was enough to scratch the familiar itch...for now) but was able to take a few coins from the merchants they visited when the opportunity arose.

They bore the stamp of all the known lands.

If not for his collection (and dislike of alcohol) he would not have noticed how unique the coincidence was. Places mentioned in war-song and legend weighing down his palm, hallowed words waiting to be spent like real money.

Having no use for more than a few copper pieces (spend more than that and a human merchant was likely to become suspicious), the small hoard was worth more than he was likely to need in his lifetime. Easily more than enough to abandon his current contract.

Goblin bravos take their pay daily, given their life expectancy in an actual encounter. Drink and narcotic powders send them into a suicidal frenzy, allowing them to shrug off all but the most critical of injuries. Shaman's make a fortune selling these powders to young, foolish braves.

Blin didn't partake, but wasn't above their use. A few wax pellets to drop into a glass of alcohol made the stoutest dwarf into a ripe target for pick-pocketing. He had two left after obtaining an enchanted set of scissors. The shopkeeper's wife had been using it to win sewing contests.

He had two left. He'd spent his time watching them, wondering how he'd use them. One for the Minotaur and one for the girl was his favorite daydream. In it, the dragon wasn't there and outsmarting the rest would have been easy. What followed wasn't much fun for the girl, but she got into it eventually.

But, that was this morning.

Behind him, the sickening stench of swamp was undercut by another smell of rot and mold. The collar began to itch. Soon it would tighten and the overseer would be on him. He faded back into the swamp and moved toward the pinprick of heat in his head.

When the eye of the betrayer opened, it was staring into the blank, lifeless faces of the overseer's own forward scouts. When the overseer spoke, it was not out loud, but through the inner voice of the collar now burrowed into Blin's neck.

a n y t h i n g t o r e p o r t ?

 

[DeathsKnight]

Devon Hillsong

He had just finished packing his provisions when he heard the ruckus spreading through the town, he heard snatches and found that they were scampering from a...dragon? This made him frown, the dragon kin never came this far. Using randomly placed crates he made his way to a roof top and leapt from one roof to the other. He of course saw the issue the moment he got on the roof, it was huge and the militia stood no chance if it did pose them a threat. He knew his movements over the roofs will attract it's attention, but then again, why was it walking? The tracks behind it a clear indication. He stopped short when he finally got to see the dragon's companions, elves, humans and...he could feel the cold icy fingers of death touching his spine when he saw the family crest the knight wore. Various whispers carried through the land of the undead knight and now he has seen it, him...whatever. He crouched down and waited to see what will happen, things would get interesting if the major got all snooty.

Maut al Feres

His head swiveled to the side, magick, nearby, magick which was not aggresive, he tilted his head and kept a lookout. If they were to be attacked he was sure that he would be ready for it this time.

 

[Mantra]

Nas

Nas was only too happy to leave the elf- lands and journey back towards what he considered his home. It was a relief to come back to familiar lands with their high, hard rocks and wind-swept hill tops and air currents. The people of Buchenwald ushered out to meet them, offering Nas food which he happily accepted, but a pang of sadness struck his heart when the town's healers unwrapped his damaged wing for inspection and declared that while the wing was healing, it would not support the dragon's weight and thus, Nas could still not fly.

Nas grumped about that, but also because without his wings, he was reluctant to return to his hidden lair to rest in his own bed and be among his prized treasures. Sure he could walk and climb up into his den, but that would be highly notable by the locals and leave too many traces of his passing. Nas had agreed to assist these two-legged mammals, not trust them. So he slept outside the town in some fool human's weed-filled and still singed dirt field.

The travel towards the human place of Forefront, or Foreplay, or Four Leaf Clover or whatever the humans had named their hovel was again, boring. The LifeDancer chatted amiably with the glowing female and minotaur to which Nas occasionally listened in on, but he determined that the thoughts and habits of mammal females was just too odd for him to follow. I mean really, how long could women go on about clothing accessories?

The Deadman too, was silent. Nas was hoping that it was contemplating what Nas had said about the fiend that loomed ahead of them, but so far had not shared any thoughts on the matter. Nas was sorry that the cat-female had not come along. That one at least, was always interesting to watch.

Nas could tell that the swamp was nearing. It brought with it a million new scents and sounds. Nas was not overly fond of swamps, they were sickly sweet smelling, like rotting flowers and sweetmeat. Plus they were dirty, all mud and squishy things. Still, Nas respected swamplands. they were much heartier than the delicate elf woods and human houses. The swamp ever accepted, adapted and overcame whatever anyone could do to it and it kept on growing. Swamps were stubborn, always full of secrets, surprises and treasures, but loath to give any of them up. Yes, Nas could respect that.

So finally they had arrived at Forefront, or whatever and Nas was trying not to burst out laughing at these tiny little creatures and their silly demands. He was strongly tempted to knock over a house or something, just to see what the teeny-tiny man would do with his little pebble-tosser, but decided against it. Diplomacy and all that.

Finally, Nas spotted a trio of lizardlings near, but not quite with, the pack of militia.

*"Greetings serpent-kin"* Nas rumbled and hissed in his own, deep language. The rumbles making many of the humans jump. *"Tell me, what news of this place and the wet lands beyond? Why is it that the serpent-kin work with these mammals here?"*