The Sorceror's Staff

[Quiet_Cool]

Fledgrin Sorrow

They were still behind me, but not so close now. I doubted they could hear me any longer, not with the noise they were making.
It was time totry a trick, before I took any more risk of injury running in the dark like this.
I slipped to my left, finding a young oak and beyond it, a cluster of briars. It might hurt,but I needed to stow away somewhere for a few moments. I pressed the briars aparts and climbed carefully amid them, then eased them closed around me. Several stuck in my clothing and a few found my skin, but I held fast and waited.
About a half-minute passed before they were right there, blundering past me, some coming far too close for comfort, a few muttering, "Where did the bastard go?"
Then, they were gone, the horde, which was larger than I'd suspected, moving down the hill and away from the town.
I gave it a moment longer, then eased my way out of the briar cluster, acquiring a few nicks and scratches in the process and headed back up the hill, thinking more of putting distance between myself and those who wished to find me.

 

[The GrandMage]

Sorian

He turned to the newcomer to the little tavern.

"What about you, stranger? You want to undergo a brave and dangerous quest?"

He probably seemed a loon, inviting everyone who was there to come along, but they had to get started quickly, and the added manpower would come in handy.

 

[Abraxas Winterlight]

Tyrian

The serving girl plops down a bowl of unidentifiable stew, some bread, & my ale as the man over by the bar hollars a question at me.

"What about you, stranger? You want to undergo a brave and dangerous quest?"

Looking at my stew, I reply " I may just be about to.", then dig a spoon into the stew, which actually is not quite bad.
" So, what kind of a quest are you speaking of?"

 

[The GrandMage]

Sorian

He left the hired killer to get ready, and carried his cider over to the booth, dragging over a chair. He sat down sideways, so hi domed sheild wouldn't make his sitting uncomfortable.

"Well, I'm a wizard, as one can tell by how I dress. Unless you need more proof, which I could bring out. Anyway, I've been sent to collect a few magic artifact from some dangerous locales, but no wizard can get near them. So I need some help. They'll be some monsters, riddles, puzzles, mazes, that sort of stuff. But big rewards if you help."

 

[Abraxas Winterlight]

I took another long pull of my ale & motioned for the barmaid to bring me another. Then I turned & looked closely at the wizard.
" What kind of artifacts are you speaking of? I'm not all that interested in aquiring riches or fame, but if there are things out there that need to be found, then I may decide to lend my sword to the task."

 

[The GrandMage]

Sorian

"Ancient thing of magic wizards locked away to keep them from the wrong hands. But the wrong hands are groping towards them. The council felt it was time to take them back."

 

[Abraxas Winterlight]

Tyrian

I took a long draught of my ale, & looked at the mage. I have never trusted mages much, but then again I have never had much cal to travel with one either. I sat my now empty tankard down with a resounding thump.
" Very well my good master of arts arcane, count me in."

 

[The GrandMage]

Sorian

"Great! We leave,....Oh,....How's now?"

He looked at the two around here. Appearently the other adventurer was either stabled across town, or had run like a little sissy. To tell the truth, he didn't care.

He stood up, downed the last few drops of his cider, and set it down as he started marching towards the door to get his mount.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Nadia

Skirting the outter parts of the small village I kept an eye out for anything strange or unusual. I had come for a single purpose and that was to purchase a new string for my bow.
Entering the armory, I spoke quietly to the proprietor, haggled a little over the price and paid him in full. He handed over the new waxed string and I felt a small disappointment with it. I had thought this string would be better than the one I had strung myself, but it appeared to be no better.
So be it. I would live with it. Pocketing the string, I picked up my pack and headed back down the trail. I stopped short at the tavern, tempted to go in and puchase myself something to drink, but I felt eyes on my person and did not wish to linger long.
I stopped in my tracks hearing a booming voice from inside the tavern.
Tensing a moment, I decided it was best to scurry myself on to the next town instead of lingering. Somewhere in the forest I was told were some allies who would provide me with a place to rest on my journey, that is where I would head next.

 

[RosevilleCAguy]

Marvak

As the wizard made his preparations to leave, Marvak slipped out of the "borrowed" clothes. Again in his preferred attire, he "borrowed" some provisions from the tavern's kitchen and followed the wizard.

 

[The GrandMage]

Sorian

He threw open the door, taking a deep breath as he looked around. He noticed what looked like a woman running off out of town. He shrugged, and put his fingers to his lips, giving a sharp whistle into the crisp air.

A loud howl that sounded like that of a wolf resounded the hills in response. Sorian grinned, and turned around in the doorway, clapping his hands together.

"Ready?"


Orlander

Twigs snapped underfoot as the blur moved through the forest. The sign had been given, and the well-trained creature was moving to follow the order. The sharp pitch of the sound let it know to stay well out of the town, so as not to make the inhabitants skiddish.

Trees passed by as it moved. It was a large deep grey wolf from the Forests of Gran, which surrounded the mysterious fortress home of the wizards. It was nearly the size of a horse, And had high, pointed ears. It's eyes, focused ahead as it moved, were filled with the deep intelligence of the Collective.

It came to a halt, feet digging into the ground as it stopped, raising it's nose, it sniffed at the air before crouching in the underbrush near the road to the town.

 

[Quiet_Cool]

Fledgrin

I finally came upon the town, having moved in various directins in the woods to ensure no one was following me.
I entered cautiously, the small container I'd "acquired" hidden away beneath my cloak.
As I headed toward the tavern, deciding it best to wash down some of my miseries. I moved quickly toward the tavern door, my head down, and as I heard a loud voice emanate from its doors, I walked square into a young woman, moving at a quickened pace in the opposite direction. I took a staggering step backward, unsure if I'd injured her in any way.
"Are you alright, Miss?" i asked, barely moving my lips.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Nadia

I was abruptly knocked backwards as I body stepped into mine.
"Excuse me.." I went to move around the stranger when he stopped to ask if I was alright?
"Yes, I am fine. No worries."
Hat perched on my head, I looked just like anyone else but I still felt I could be discovered at any time.
"Good day Sir." I moved around him, my eyes lifting to catch his face. Pausing I halted in my steps and looked at him.
He was elven also? I did not recognize this stranger, but he was definately of my kind.
The voices grew louder as the group of men stepped outside the tavern, a wolf howled in the distance. Alright what was going on around here?
"Don't you know it is not safe for us here?" I questioned him instead of leaving as I intended.

 

[Quiet_Cool]

Fledgrin

Not safe around here?
She was't kidding, but I felt certain she did not know of my recent troubles. Something else was on her mind.
I looked closer at her.
An elf?
No, it wouldn't necessarily be safe for an elf here, nor in many places these days.
"You are mistaken, miss," I replied. "I'm human. But I can see your concern."
Oddly, I felt a comfort standing near her. Perhaps it was that I had been alone for so long, and that she seemed more vulnerable than i felt at that moment. I glanced around, feeling the need to ensure that the men were no longer behind me. I felt a fool for taing on this job, but the money would be good, if I managed to drop the item off that was.
"Perhaps it would be better for both of us if we found somewhere less public to be," I suggested, not wanting to be alone, nor to leave the girl alone with as defensive as she had acted.I debated a friendly smile, but knew I couldn't pull one off. Smiling was my weak point.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Nadia

"My mistake Sir, do forgive me? I am headed into the woods, there is a Goblin camp a day away from here. They offer me shelter whenever I pass through, would you like to come? I did see the horde chasing you. Let's get off the streets at least?" I moved quickly, through the town and into the near by brush, this would cover me from prying eyes. I felt a little uncomfortable in that town.
"My name is Nadia and whom are you?" I smiled, naturally I was kind to all who I came across, until something set me to be wary. I halted talking and held up a hand to indicate silence. Something was in the bushes, I could hear it panting or breathing heavily.
"There is something.." i whispered pointing just behind him to the thick greenary.

 

[Quiet_Cool]

Fledgrin

I heard the sound then, and my hand went straight to my long sword, more out of instinct than anything. On second thought, I reached over my shoulder with either hand, each gripping the handle to the short swords I held there.
I waited, the weapons undrawn, and listened to see if I heard any more aggressive sounds.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Nadia

It sounded like a large beast of some kind. But why was it hiding in the thicket? I moved around the human to peer a little closer, I could hear the breathing and see something like fur between two limbs.
Stepping back, my features twisted in wonderment, I had no idea what to do now? I would guess leave it be and get moving elsewhere!
"I think we should move along... quietly and quickly as possible.. Whatever it is, its large!" I whispered to my newly acquired companion.

 

[Quiet_Cool]

Fledgrin

I looked to her, nodding carefully, then shifted a glance around myself, to assure whatever it was was alone.
I moved quietly through the brush, taking steps that consisted of barely removing my feet more than an inch from the ground.
I wondered what the beast was, but not so much to stick around. Whatever it was, it would be better to leave it alone.

 

[The GrandMage]

Orlander

The large wolf turned it head, lifting itself onto all four paws as it caught a scent nearby. Crouching low, it silently began to follow whatever was out there an elf and a human, by the scent.

Couldn't have spies lurking around. He'd give follow them until he got the second signal. No need to wait around.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Nadia

With a known destination in mind, I headed towards the goblin camp. A smelly ugly lot, but they welcomed me and gave me anything I asked for. Good allies to have and bad enemies to make. What ever it was back there in the forest I wanted no part of.
I had a weird feeling off and on we were being followed and my companion was a silent one for awhile. I stopped now and then to check directions and gather herbs. Bow always handy if I needed a meal before reaching the goblin encampment.
Finally tired of hearing my own thoughts rolling inside my head I asked the wanderer, "Why were those men chasing you?"
Climbing over a fallen log, I stood on top and glanced down at him before landing in the moss on the other side. I paused and waited for him to join me.

 

[Quiet_Cool]

Fledgrin

Ever graceful were elves. I noticed this for what must have been the thousandth time as she bounded over the log.
I climbed it with less grace and hopped down next to her.
"They wanted something," I replied, then started walking again. "How much further? Where is this Goblin camp?"

 

[Sweetp4u]

Nadia

Glancing around, I searched out the landmarks to make sure I was in the right location.
"The goblin's camp is just over the rise. We'll be there in a few minutes.." I jumped over a small stream and stopped to wait for my companion.
Heading up over the rise, I couldn't help but smile. Tonight I would have a decent meal and entertainment.
Heading down the other side of the rise, the walls came into view as did the guards stationed outside the only way inside. Now hopefully they recalled who I was?

 

[The GrandMage]

The Goblin Camp

It was a small encampment. Goblins didn't like to leave their home mountains, and the few outlying camps they did have were used as military facilities to help hold the hordes that existed in the lands surrounding their home.

It was almost a small town. High stone walls surrounded a basic structure. Barracks were just inside the open gates, to either side. A large hall, usally used as the mess hall was on the right beyond the barracks. A blacksmith, stables, and a small inn for passing travelers were also on the main road. It branched off, a feww small stores for essentails, and some private homes for a few of the families who made the little area their permanent residence, although there were few of them.

"Halt!" Standing tall on the thirteen foot wall were a pair of sentries. They were thin, and tall, but hunched over. They both wore the same deep forest green uniforms. The sleeves went down to their hands, which hads long, slim fingers wrapped around their thick spears. They had large, thick black boots on their feet, protecting their large feet. Their uniforms had simple brass buttons, and no adornment, rank known only by their helmets. Both had large, domed sheilds strapped to their backs. The one on the right of the enterance had on it's helm. Simple metal, it corved around the round head before it reached the eyeholes. They slanted out all around, moving forward to allow for the species large thin noses. Raising from the helms was the pair of ram horns of sergeant rank.

The other had the helm of a single spike, (private's rank) in it's hands. It's nose stuck out from its face, long and thin. It's head was round, flanked by a pair of long, pointed ears vaguely resembling that of an elf. It was completely bald. It's neck was thin, and it's large nead sat awkwardly on it, giving a large drop from the chin, making the head seem to protrude from the creature as if liable to fall off at a moment. Despite stations across the wall, the two were standing on a flat area that seemed to have no access. They'd jumped up. Goblins were amazing jumpers, and known for their politeness, especially towards elves.

There was a bit of a clamor rising inside, as long table were being set up. The goblin women, who resembled elves except for being green with black hair and having the same long fingers and noses of the males of their race, were setting out platters of food for the oncoming Feast of Reverence, one of their few holidays. The head of the encampment, a Major named Grippledigg, was overseeing the set-up as He sat at the head table, polishing his lavish helmet sporting a long spiral and set of wings.

 

[Quiet_Cool]

Fledgrin

I halted, as asked, and looked up to see the two goblins standing there.
"Friend sof yours, I hope," I commented, lowering my hands to my sides, away from the handles of the swords on my back. Hopefully, they wouldn't notice the one at my side. I had no intention of drawing the weapon on a full encampment of goblins, but knowing it was close gave me some comfort, at least for the time being.

 

[Sweetp4u]

Nadia

Shedding my hat, I let my long blonde hair flow out and down my back. My ears stood out noticably letting them know I was elf.
"It is I, Nadia. I have come to seek shelter for the night?"
I waited as they glanced back and forth at each other.
"Don't move, I'll be right back." One called down from his perch above.
Sighing I turned to my companion, "This will only take a moment. Dont worry." Offering a smile to ease his woes, I waited until I heard the clank and rumble.
The doors were swining open as the very short guard came waddling out.
"You may enter, You have been asked to join in the cellebration festivities tonight. Come, come! Always welcome." I smiled, slipped on my hat and began to follow the green guy.
Things were the same as before when i had taken time to stop. They liked to believe themselves to be kin to the elven families.. I never dissuaded that thought.
In the center of their little make shift town things were being set up for this cellebration. I could only guess what would come tonight for this one?
We were shown to a set of seats as I made my way up to greet the elder.
"Grippledigg, it is good to see you hale and hearty." I bowed my head and smiled friendly at him.
"Yes, it is.. Who do you be again?"
"Nadia."
"Ooooh yes yes.. Well, have a seat and cellebrate with us!"
"Thank you. I seek shelter for the night if that is permissable?"
He grinned and nodded, "yes, that is fine. heh? Uh who is your friend?"
I turned to glance at my companion, "He is accompanying me for safety. I trust he is safe here as well as I?"
"Hmm what?" he glanced back at me, "Yes yes.. he is safe, He is of no consequence so me. Sit, eat. later we shall talk."
I bowed and left, thankfully they did not raise too much of a ruckus over a human being in their encampment.
I sat back down and waited, watching people come and go.
"We are safe here and welcomed. Do be careful and wary, they are an eager lot for alot of strange things."