Isle of the Last Knights

[bobo_daclown]

Bobo le Fay:

Watching the scene before me, I realize that Stormwalker is a very kind man. Although I could not heal the Percible, I probably would not have since he had threatened my friends' lives. Stormwalker, though, seems to have recovered partially and I watch as Azreal stumbles down the road westward. As I chase him down, I feel a heat on my back. Turning, I am blinded by the sun cresting the distant mountains.

In a split-second, I absorb the light, healing myself fully and then concentrating my energies on Azreal and Stormwalker. Just before the pain becomes unbearable, I stop. This time, I will not lose consiousness. I will stay alert--so I promise myself. With that, I finish flying after Azreal and perch on his shoulder. "I daresay that you had best feel better. If you don't mind, though, I will stay here for now, as I'm a bit tired."

 

[delite]

Cara

As Bobo landed on Azreals shoulder Cara caught them up, she was out of breath and could only just manage a " why didn't you wait?" blowing heavily Cara just manged to keep up with Azreal.

 

[Paendragon]

Ian listened to Sir Percibal's story, all the while using his Power to sense his bodily functions, such as heart rate, breathing, and body temperature. He could find no sign that he was lying.

True, the Knight could be lying, but if he was, his skill was unmatched. Still, Ian would watch him. He told him of their quest.

When Ian was finished, he released the flows holding the Knight, and Sir Percibal rose to his feet.

"One more thing, Sir Percibal," Ian spoke softly. "While I do believe your story, I must warn you. If you prove my faith in you wrong, I will make you wish I had not healed your wound. Are we in understanding?"

The Knight nodded, with a frown on his face. Ian realised he was being rude, but at this point didn't care. Time was wasteing.

He looked toward Azreal, Cara, and Bobo. They were walking toward the castle in the distance. He sighed. This was foolish. Our strength was in our numbers, not alone. The young Warriors showed impressive skill, but poor judgement at times. The had no idea what they would find in the castle.

Ian knew, they had been lucky in their skirmish with the Daemon and his minions. The Dark Wizard had not known what to expect when he had sent them out, otherwise there would have been more of the enemy. He would not make the same mistake twice.

"They're young, and they're strong, and they think themselves invincible, he whispered. He looked to the big Warchief, who only shook his head. "We must teach them to temper their bravery with a bit of caution. First things first however."

He sank to the ground, and crossed his legs. This wouldn't normally work over this great a distance, except Mage to Mage. Maybe, just maybe, Imogens latent ability would allow the contact.

He had known she was a Mage when he had first met her, even though her talent was woefully underdeveloped. He had planned to begin her training himself when she was ready, but didn't want to add the trauma of finding out she was able to wield the Power to her already fragile psyche. Now however, need outweighed the harm.

"Imogen," his mind whispered. "Hear me, Imogen..."

The thought flew over the terrain to the Keep of the Dark Wizard, until it made contact with the one he had sought.

He slipped deeper into the trance, and sent out his thoughts.

 

[Lord Kenshin]

Azreal had slowed down, not because of Bobo or Cara, but because he somehow had a strong connection with the Mage. He figured if he wanted to survive longer, he shall keep the Mage by his side.

"He you go small one," he smiled politely as he raised a small berry to the Fay.

He turned and watched the Mage, his energy already being forcused to one certain spot. He looked to the Chief, nodding politely as he waited for Ian to finish. Perhaps both of the "Oldies" (as he and his friends had once called them) would think him as foolish for just rushing off, but he had the Fay and the Fay was an excellent healer.

 

[Hellava2]

"I must prove to you my heart was in the right place. Let me journey with you. I am a very skilled warrior and will prove to be a great assistance."

Sir Percibal looks Ian in the eyes and says "You said yourself that there are strengh in numbers and as you will find I am every bit as strong as the others, possibly stronger."

Ian thinks on it for a minute, processing every word that had went on between them, everything thathas gone on with the war, and also his need to keep an eye on the knight.

He finally reaches an answer and says "..."

 

[faust]

Chief Ortega

Ortega shook his head in dissaproval as the young ones wandered off toward the castle. They were impatient and reckless, but hopefully they would learn better in the coming days. He considered following them, but finally decided against it. The Great Spirit would watch over them for now, if they were indeed part of His glorious plan.

For now, Ortega waited for the mage to finish whatever it was that he was doing. Ortega felt a certain measure of respect for the man - he was experienced, intelligent, ruthless in combat, and more importantly a believer in the Great Spirit. He could have easily become a great chieftain had he been born among the tribes... Ortega frowned as the newcomer Percibal attempted to speak to the mage. "Quiet, young one! Can't you see that he is in the middle of something important? One of the most important lessons in life is to know when to keep one's mouth shut."

 

[Lady Violet]

Imogen of Glastonbury

By now, Imogen's tears had dried on her face. Her voice was hoarse from calling out, hoping someone would hear her. But no one came and she sought refuge in her sleep. Her dreams were filled with dark places, her fathers face haunting her.

Then, a light slowly appeared in front of her and fog tumbled at her feet. Imogen's eyes focused on a figure standing before her as she was no longer tied to the bed, but standing in a white satin gown, her hair piled high on her head, held there by her mothers crown. "Where am I" she asked into the mist.

"Imogen, do you hear me?" someone said. She recognized his voice.

"Ian" she called out. "Ian is that you?"

"Yes it is" and he came up to stand beside her. She looked at him causiously, her faded dreams still a part of her. She reached out and touched the fabric of his cloak. It felt the same as before.

"What... where.. I don't understand."

"I'm diping in your mind so that we can talk to each other."

"Are you here, in the tower?" she asked excitedly.

"No, I'm still with the other in front of your fathers castle." Imogen lowered her eyes, new tears beginning to reach the surface.

"My dear Imogen, please don't cry." Ian took her into his arms, re-ashuring her that everything would be ok.

"We're going to come get you. But it might take some time. You have to be brave and strong, like you were when those creatures came out. You were willing to fight and I need you to continue fighting. No one can hurt you, Imogen. I won't let them." He lifted her head with his hand, and wiped away her tears with another. "Be strong" he said again. "I'll come to you again, I grow weak".

Ian began to recede into the light. Imogen cried out for him to return but he was gone and Imogen was alone once more. She opened her eyes, and reality sunk in as she tried to pull her arms loose against the restraints. The door opened and a elderly woman came in with a tray covered with silver dishes.

 

[Paendragon]

Ian's eyes snapped open. She was alive.

He slowly rose to his feet. Sir Percibal, their newest ally stared at him, waiting. So did the big Warchief.

"I've spoken with Imogen."

Sir Percibal just looked at him, but Chief Ortega nodded, as if expecting something like that.

"I've promised her a rescue." Ian said.

The Chief grinned, and hefted his spear.

Ian actually believed the man was looking forward to it! He chuckled to himself, his spirits rising with each breath. There were definitely forces at work here far beyond his understanding.

His eyes took in the group. They were all looking to him. Waiting.

He spoke aloud, for all to hear. "I've been in contact with Imogen. She is alive, and well." So far, at least.

Relief flooded their faces, most notably Azreal, and Cara.

"We will get her back."

He took a few steps toward Azreal, Cara and Bobo. "Now, first things first. Was there a reason you were set on the castle, friends?"

 

[Lord Kenshin]

Azreal gave the Chief a quick look, then looked at Ian, waiting for him to tell the group what Imogen's fate was.

"She's still alive"

Azreal sighed loudly in relief, his tense expression leaving his features immediately. His shoulders slumped as the tense muscles gave way to relaxation and his eyes closed for a long time, thanking what ever God that was out there and controlled the fates of simple men.

Azreal spoke softly, "There is something very strange about the castle. Because if you noticed, the interior never caught on fire, and the Dark Wizard was risking alot to draw upon the well so soon,"

 

[delite]

Thank god Imogen was alive,
"where is she? and is she ok?" Cara asked Ian,
Cara followed Azreals gaze and again looked at the Castle hmmm it was strange that the fire hadn't effected the inside.
"Is Imogen in there " Cara asked "if she is why are we waiting lets go and get her."

 

[Paendragon]

Ian had been rummaging through the pouch he wore under his cloak, while he listened to Azreal and Cara. He pulled out a small crystal, about half the size of the nail of his little finger. He held in in his palm, facing the rising sun.

"She is ok," he told Cara. "She's not in there. She is in the Dark Wizard's Keep. But what Azreal said is true. This attack made no sense. Whomever murdered the King was a friend to him, to get so close to plant a blade in his ribs without alerting the King to danger. A trusted advisor, I'd say. The wound was inflicted near the King's right armpit. So whomever did it would have been standing at his right hand... a place of honor. We should investigate."

Ian whispered the Words, and the stone in his hand began to glow, first yellow, then yellow-white, then pure white. He stopped whispering, and turned to look at Bobo, with a smile on his face.

"This is for you, Friend Bobo. Inside it is captured the rays of the sun." He handed the stone to the Fay. "I'm afraid it's strength is limited, but it should give you enough strength to defend yourself in darkness. For a time, at least."

He gestured to the stone and continued. "To recharge it, merely hold it out under the sun, until it glows white. It will hold it's charge for months if unused." He shrugged apologetically. "I don't know why I hadn't thought of it earlier. I only wish I had a pouch, or something for you to keep it in."

He turned toward the group as a whole. "Now, what say we find out what was so fascinating about this castle?"

 

[bobo_daclown]

Bobo le Fay:

Thanking Stormwalker, I snatch the small stone and land on the grass aside the path. Finding the right kind of grass, I bite off a couple of pieces and tie the stone around my body.

"I do appreciate the token, master mage. Perhaps we should investigate this castle further."

I am pleased with the gift. I have never received a gift from a friend before. It is a warm feeling, indeed.

 

[Hellava2]

Sir Percibal was standing in awe at the sights he has witnessed. Magic, psychic abilities, ect. Finally he came to his senses.

"I am all for checking out what is going on in this castle. There might be somrthing of significance inside."

Everyone slowly turned to look at the new addition to their party as to say why are you speaking.

Sir Percibal, feeling some tension, quicky follows up with "If you guys are up for it."

 

[Lady Violet]

Imogen of Glastonbury

The old woman walked with silent feet, as though they didn't even touch the ground. She set the tray on a table near where Imogen was lying on the bed then drew open the curtains wider to let in more sunlight.

Imogen didn't know what to say or do, if there was anything to say or do. The woman made her way slowly to Imogen's bedside, a crooked smile upon the wrinkled face did little to comfort her.

"There now dear, we'll just get you untied then you can have something to eat. Our name is Mrs. Hanson." Her voice was anything but soothing, but Imogen was glad to have someone else with her. Mrs. Hanson undid the knots and Imogen sat up and stretched her arms and legs.

"Oh thank you Mrs Hanson. I was afraid I'd be tied her forever. My name is..."

"Yes, we know what your name is dear, but its not important. Come and eat now before it gets cold."

Imogen gave Mrs. Hanson a quizzical look but the look went unnoticed as she began to take off the silver dome covers. Imogen eye's widdened as she stood beside the elderly woman. Baked ham, sausages and apple dumplings. Scrambled eggs, toast with jam and coffee. "Breakfast fit for a Queen, I'd say" said Mrs. Hanson.

"Indeed" agreed Imogen, as she sat down at the table and began filling her plate. "Will you join me?" she asked.

"Oh no, we had our breakfast long ago. Eat, enjoy. I'll return later to fetch the tray." Mrs. Hanson gave somewhat of a little bow, and Imogen nodded her head, pleased with the old woman.

Imogen sat in silence with her thoughts, eating then walking around the room when she was done. Mrs. Hanson returned as promised to pick up the tray, letting Imogen know when lunch would be served. After Mrs Hanson left, Imogen continued her promenade around the room, searching for any door or a way out. She already established that the door Mrs Hanson used was barred and locked, and guarded by two huge men with swords.

Imogen sat on her bed and thought about Ian and Azreal and Cara. "Please" she called out. "Find me."

 

[delite]

"If Imogen is in the Wizards keep Why aren't we going there? I want Imogen back, Where is this Keep ,cann't we go and get Imogen then come back and investigate the castle?" Cara asked Ian.

Cara looked at the rest of the group then back at Ian "I know you said she was fine but I'm worried, this wizards dangerous and he's got my cousin,you don't really know Imogen she can be extremely stubbon and exacerbating, she just might annoy him that much that he well kills her or something." tears were starting to form in the corners of Cara's eye's she brushed them away angrily with the back of her hand.

 

[Paendragon]

Ian looked at Cara, and smiled sympathetically.

"He will not kill her. He needs her, otherwise he wouldn't have bothered to capture her."

His face darkened. "I can assure you, the Dark Wizard has many women to sate his lusts upon. He doesn't need Imogen for that." He shook his head, and shook away the memories of his mother with them. "He expended a great deal of Power to capture her. More Power than he has used for any one action in decades. We must find out why. If the answer can be found in the castle, than we must pursue it."

He reached out, laying a hand on Cara's shoulder. "I know you want to rush into the Wizard's Keep and save her. So do I. The Keep is like no other castle you've ever seen, it's defenses too horrible to contemplate."

He turned toward each one in turn. "I must ask you to trust me in this. I will soon ask you all for more assistance than you would have ever thought possible. I will ask you to go to your people..." he turned to Ortega, "I understand this will break a strong tradition with you in particular, War Leader, but I fear it must be done..." he turned back to the group as a whole. I will ask you all to use whatever influence you have left to bring your people in battle against the Dark Wizard's Keep. It is my hope, that with an enemy host at his door, we will be able to slip by his defenses and get Imogen out."

"Now however, is not that time. I won't rush in blindly without knowing the reason for this attack on Imogen's family." He thought he knew one reason, but the secret of Imogen's Power is not his to reveal. He pointed to the castle. "That castle might hold some answers, although I don't intend on staying there too long."

"Now, I would hear all of your thoughts." He looked at Sir Percibal, with a smile. "ALL of you."

 

[Paendragon]

OOC: Double Post and it won't let me delete this one. Sorry!

 

[bobo_daclown]

Bobo le Fay:

"My thoughts," I announce, "include the sincere thanks that I owe to you, master mage: Riversaver and Giftgiver. Therefore, I will follow you whereever you lead."

 

[faust]

Chief Ortega

Ortega carefully considered the mage's words. There was much truth in them - they would need all the allies they could get for the final siege. This would indeed be a battle to remember!

"You speak truthfully, friend. Of course, as you well know, I can never return to the Nighthawk in this life... It was the Great Spirit who Himself proclaimed: 'And so the warrior, in the dusk of his life, must forsake his home forever, so as to seek the True Path in his final days.' However, there is something I can do... Not too far from here, there is a small settlement of Nighthawk warriors. Like me, they have all left the tribe, never to return. The Great Spirit does not forbid us old ones to meet together, so I shall presently go there and talk to my brothers. They are all seeking the True Path, so they will gladly follow me this one last time. We will return by tommorow's dusk. Until then, wait here, my friends, and may the Great Spirit watch over your souls."

 

[delite]

" Well I can try but there's no point asking my brother if there's nothing in it for him he wont help. However the captain of the gaurd is a very old friend He might be persuaded to come and help especially as it's for Imogen, "
Cara repied looking at Ian
"however first I have to get in to and out of the castle with out my brother knowing, other wise you might have to come and rescue me as well."
Cara smiled a weak sort of smile as she said this trying to cover up the fear that gripped her at the thought of going back.

 

[Morgoth]

Lokken walked in upon the group quite suddenly. Long black robes swishing softly, a sword at his side, he wandered in, humming a tune to himself. "How are you today? You're not bandits? Everywhere I go in this world, someone tries to either kill me or rob me. It's wierd. But by your clothing, I gather your just simple adventurers. So am I, but not really so simple. I'm here to save the world!" he stated proudly. One of the men faced him. "What the hell are you talking about?" he asked. "I'm Lokken, Emperor of Taros, and after facing a severe case of Ebola on Earth in 2567 in which I almost died, Belial sent me to this world in whatever year this is to save it. Only my head doesn't feel too good because had a really severe fevere and my brain almost boiled", he ranted, arms flailing wildly and eyes taking on a dreamy look.

 

[Paendragon]

Ian didn't even bother to turn to the newcomer before wrapping him in air and immobilizing him.

He looked to the Warchief, who hadn't batted an eyelash at the newcomers arrival. "I thank you War Leader. We will meet you here on the morrow." The Chief nodded, frowned at the newcomer, then, secure that Ian had him under control, turned and trotted off.

Ian now turned toward the newcomer. He prepared the same spells he had used to detect the truth from Percibal. Might as well get any misunderstandings out of the way now. Cara, he had noticed, was already fingering her dagger, and looking at the newcomer as if trying to find a good place to sheath it. Bobo and Azreal also eyed him warily, ready to offer aid to a friend, or death to a foe. Pericibal merely looked... interested.

"Hail stranger," Ian spoke. "Forgive the restraints, but my friends and I have little trust left in us, I fear. IF you would be so kind as to repeat yourrself, word for word."

The man did.

Ian released him. Whether the man came from another world, or not was anyones guess. He did, however, believe that he did, which either meant he was telling the truth, or mad. Ian knew enough about portals between dimensions to give him the benefit of the doubt.

"Very well. Since you are here to 'save the world', you may join yourself with us, and prove yourself in battle. I am Ian Stormwalker. This is Cara, Azreal, and Bobo Le Fay." He gestured to them each in turn.

He turned back to the group. "I suggest we all meet back here tomorrow. Anyone who believes they can not bring others to our cause, I would appreciate your help in searching the castle, or you can accompany Cara to her home."

Ian looked to Cara. "I thank you for your offer of assistance, and I reiterate... we WILL get Imogen back. The more warriors you can bring, the better." He nodded, and turned away.

He walked near Azreal, and spoke to Bobo. "I am happy you will be staying with us, friend Bobo. You are a credit to your people." He smiled at the Fay, and placed his hand on Azreals free shoulder. "You and I, must talk of things," Ian stated, glancing down at the cross Azreal wore. "When, is up to you." He lifted his hand from his friends shoulder, and strode toward the castle, staff in hand.

 

[Hellava2]

Feeling more confortable...

Sir Percibal's tesions are somewhat eased upon hearing that a new recruit has been added to the party because he is no longer the new guy. Well newest at least.

"I'll stay here" Sir Percibal said without thinking. He would do about anything to prove himself"

Everyone turnd to face him.

"Yeah, to keep watch and see if anything strange goes on here. Then I'll fill you in when you get back tomorrow."

Sir Percibal spoke no more and waited for an answer..

 

[Lady Violet]

Imogen of Glastonbury

OOC: I'm not sure how this thread it going. Are people still interested?? Its starting to get way off course and really confusing with the added characters.

Whats going on with the story?

 

[Paendragon]

OOC: It's starting to get a bit bogged down. We'll get it going again. The problem occurred with the new characters popping in during a pivotal scene, and we had to stop to introduce them.

Also, we're all on different schedules, and some od us can't get on as much as others. It causes some problems when we're waiting for everyone to speak (like my idiotic "I'd like to hear all your thoughts" speech. It seemed like a good idea at the time, but it took us three days to hear from people, and we still haven't heard from everyone! lol) I'm planning on offering us the option of splitting up the group (one reason why I suggested we split up to find help), so we all won't be waiting on one or two people to move forward. Those people who can't contribute as much will be secure in the fact that they'll be travelling with the group, even if they're not able to log in everyday.

I'm enjoying this thread, and I want to see it continue.