As the last ogre fell, they group rejoiced. But their joyousness was short lived. A man of average build and size appeared and spoke to the group.
"What goes on here? I've seen many a strange thing in my time, but the events of the past few moments tops them all. Who are you that can change shape so readily, and why have you slain these beasts that become men?" He asked.
"It appears that we have been tricked into killing these knights!" Balgarath said in astonishment.
"Yes... I think you are correct Balgarath. Their appearances are bloodied, but I believe we gaze upon slain members of my own Order before us. A most foul ruse has been played upon us! Innocents are slain! The lifeblood of the Order stains the ground at my feet. Helm’s beard, what have we done?" Sir Elric said as he fell to his knees.
"That is the conclusion I've come to, though the priests of Helm will not believe what has happened. They will seek justice, and only your heads will suffice." said the man.
"That is dire news indeed. What do you suggest that we do?" asked Balgarath.
"I suggest that you take sanctuary with me until you can discover how this unfortunate event came to pass." The man said.
"I shall be honored to accept your hospitality." SIr Elric replied.
"Follow behind me. My cabin is but a short distance South of here. I will meet you there. oh and by the way, you may call me Garren, Garren Winspear." the man said.
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-Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. That is alchemy's First Law of Equivalent Exchange. In those days, we really believed that to be the world's one, and only, truth.
Venex, after the momentary rush of victory, felt the crushing blow of horror as the others when the news was broke to them. They had slain good men, not horrible ogres. He slumped against a rock wall and sat silent, listening to Sir Elric and Balgarath conversing with the suddenly appeared man. "Follow behind me. My cabin is but a short distance South of here..."
The Necromancer didn't like the look of the fellow. Something didn't feel right. Maybe it was this man, maybe it was the world at large. He could not tell anymore, as he bore a constant discomfort. People started to follow Sir Elric and Balgarath as they walked south towards Winspear's cabin. He stood, and followed after them, shaking of his doubt of the man. If Balgarath trusts him, I trust him. Johnny came up beside him, clicking his left arm back into place, as it had apparently been removed during the fight. Kennedy lumbered alongside them, obvlivious to the remorse of the others.
Zubin and Thufir caught up to Venex, and the Monk came later with his donkey in tow. None of them had anything to say. The air was full of solemn unhappiness. Already the world is going awry...
Sensing that I have been hurt, my brothers, who decided not to accompany me to Amn, urge me to rouse or be injured further. After coming to again, Carloseus, who had been ever watchful, ran back off to battle. Soon the fighting is over and we are victorious. I gain my footing and try to attend to all that have been wounded, including myself.
A stranger appears and addresses Balgarath and Sir Elric, and Sir Elric drops to his knees upon receiving whatever information the stranger has brought them. Sir Elric then motions for the group to follow him.
I learn that we have somehow been deceived and that we did not kill ogres but innocent men, members of Sir Elrics own order. What have we done?, I ask myself. We are a somber group now as we slowly make our way toward the strangers cabin.
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Smiling is infectious.
Give, expecting nothing thereof. ------------ BoD - Come have some fun! Folks will always come and go, so enjoy them while they're meant to be in your life.
"I will admit this man's appearance was timely, if not a little suspicious, but he is the only one who can attest to our innocence, we should at least hear him out. "said Sir Elric to the group, who all felt likewise.
"aah here we are. "Sir Elric said as they approached the large log cabin.
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-Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. That is alchemy's First Law of Equivalent Exchange. In those days, we really believed that to be the world's one, and only, truth.
Exhausted and proud of his victory over the several ogres, Carloseus too soon hears of who his enemies actually were. Horror and shock take him. He had hoped to one day become a knight, a great paladin of the Light, and here laid several of the Order slain by his hands, those of cold blood. What chances did he have now of joining that brotherhood and title after this atrocity?
"I will go with you, Sir Elric, and together we will bring whoever responsible for this to a horrible end. Let us pray now, for the souls of your fallen brothers. And may whatever heavenly forces there are forgive us." he says, stabbing his sword deep into the ground and grabbing the hilt with both hands while placing one knee on the ground and his forhead on the huge blade.
The monk looked back at Carloseus and shook his head. The young appearing man would probably never be able to forgive himself. Another trick from that which is the realm of magic. Another misfortune, he glanced at Sir Elric, and possibly another monk to be.
Skylor fell in line behind Sir Elric and with Karym in tow would walk on without speaking. The monk did not hum as he had been doing normally, but you would not see a frown upon his face either. No, hope was still etched there, somewhere.
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If a moderator asks you to change your signature, don't question just do it.
Zubin walked quietly with no words to say. Suddenly dave came and sat on his shoulder. ''I wonder where you go and from where you come'' Zubin said. The hawk moved his neck in a wierd manner and suddenly Zubin said : ''Oh, i forgot i sent you. Tell me what you want to say?''. The hawk again moved his neck and Zubin let out a sigh and said : ''We know that dave, we know that.''
Zubin kept walking close to Johnny just when Johnny started looking at Dave. Suddenly dave flew off and sat down on Johnny's shoulder bone. ''This world is getting wierder'' Zubin said.
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''May the Gods give you the strength and power to bear the madness which flows through our minds.''
''Zubin, I've always imagined you as a crazy raver. The kinda guy that spends all night dancing to trance music while waving glow sticks and popping ecstasy.'' - Murderface
"Ahh, you have arrived. I thought you might. Best that you learn all you can of your situation before you go off getting killed. You have been cruelly tricked." said Garren Windspear to the group.
"My honor is tainted by this disgrace. I must redeem myself in the eyes of my god." replied Sir Elric. "I'm sure you will have your chance. Take heart that you are not the first to have your name unfairly maligned. I too have been through such circumstance. I was once lord of this land, and had many holds across the heart of Amn. Taken from me, it was. It was almost overnight, and I still bear the scars in my dreams. I am content now, having found solace in the quiet of the wood, but I will forevermore curse the name of Lord Jierdan Firkraag." Garren Windspear said with much agner in his voice. "Firkraag!" Sir Elric shouted in rage. "Then it was he that plotted my downfall! He was the one that hired me!" It is true to his style, organizing an elaborate plot to discredit a rival. I do not understand why he would target you, however. My case was obvious. He sought my lands, so he discredited me. There were missing people only he could find, banditry only he could stop. Solutions to problems I am sure he caused." Garren said. "In the end my properties were razed in a single night. The people lost faith in me, and my influence crumbled. Now, it would seem, he has targeted you." "He sounds like a right evil monster" said Balgarath. "I will seek his end for these crimes!" exclaimed Sir Elric. "This is mere speculation, but perhaps you slighted him in some way, without even knowing. He seems very single-minded in his grudges." said Garren. "What I do know is that he is not the worst of your worries. The Most Noble Order of the Radiant Heart will seek your death if something is not done quickly." "We would be most appreciative of any aid you could render." Balgarath replied. "I have friends among the order. I will speak with them as quickly as possible. Perhaps I can persuade them to look on you with mercy. I can but try." Garren said. "Your efforts are much appreciated, but I cannot pay you for this service." Sir Elric replied. "I would not ask for payment." Gaaren said. "Any enemy of Lord Jierdan's is a friend of mine. I will return as soon as possible. Make my home yours, I won't be long." The group entered the cabin and were greeted by Garren's two children, Iltha and Jum. "Can I get you all anything my good Sirs?" Iltha asked, with her head bowed as the enter, then she looked up to see Lady Cinara. "Opps, my good Sirs and Madam, I did not see you there m'lady, my apologies." "You all look weary, please sit, eat drink and be merry." Jum said. "though you will have to excuse me, for I must take my leave, with father off to talk with the Order of the Radiant Heart about your predicament, the duty falls to me to scout for bandits and other such cockroaches."
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-Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. That is alchemy's First Law of Equivalent Exchange. In those days, we really believed that to be the world's one, and only, truth.
Again the monk relayed to Sir Elric that he would be spending the night outside with Zarym the mule. He nodded good evening to all of his companions and to the news Hosts and he and Zarym the mule found a nice spot to rest for the evening. He fed from dryed meat he had stored in the packs and for Zarym the mule, nothing but the best in carrot.
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If a moderator asks you to change your signature, don't question just do it.
Outside of Garren's home we all listen to what he has to say about the treachery of Firkraag. Garren then leaves to learn of more news and to possibly get us pardoned.
His children come out and offer up nourishment. "Yes Iltha - I would like some bread and drink please. Would you like some help?"
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Smiling is infectious.
Give, expecting nothing thereof. ------------ BoD - Come have some fun! Folks will always come and go, so enjoy them while they're meant to be in your life.
"My lord, your presence is a boon to my heart. You are just as I pictured a Bringer of Light. Your shining spirit will guide us, even in your time of darkness. I cannot imagine the horror, of having had your will ursurped in the trickery my father described. I know you will prevail though. Your spirit must surely be boundless. I am sorry, I did not mean to gush, but I was raised on tales of paladins and chivalry. To meet one in person is exhilarating. You are as impressive as any storybook." said Iltha to Sir Elric Sigmundson.
"I thank you. I do try to be a model for others to emulate, even in times of trial." Sir Elric replied. "Even now you should not despair. A true paladin takes heart in his suffering, knowing that others take strength in his example. Remember what you are to people." said Iltha. "You see things through inexperienced eyes, m'lady. I only wish it were so." Sir Elric said with sadness in his tone. "But it can be. You are a champion of light, despite your trials. Your sweet sorrow will strengthen your faith. I do not wish to stoop to theatrics, but it is warranted. I wish I could restore your name and spirit with will alone, but that is something you must do. All the stories of paladins I have read speak of such trials. You have all that you need from a classical standpoint: trials to survive, evils to eradicate, and innocence to protect" Iltha replied. "Yes, I suppose that I have." said Sir Elric. "Then consider ours a tragic affection that will never be realized. Just as the tales of courtly love are all about unrequited romance. It is a time-honored tradition, or so the books say. I just want to restore some grandeur to your position. Your shoulder the weight that others might walk unencumbered." Iltha said. "You will prevail. Of this I am sure." "I will take great comfort in your faith." replied Sir Elric. Just then Jum burst in through the door. "Bandits are coming!" he said. "arm yourselves!"
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-Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. That is alchemy's First Law of Equivalent Exchange. In those days, we really believed that to be the world's one, and only, truth.
The monk sprung to his feet from outside when he heard a crashing noise and the boy speak.
"Did someone say crumpets?" He rushed to the door with Karym the mule close in tow.
"I rather enjoy crumpets, might I have one? You did say crumpet didn't you boy? Skylor looked to the young man in waiting for a pleasant response.
"No you old fool I said Bandits are coming!" the boy replied.
"Bandits?! Hide the silver, bury the gold!" The monk drew his staff from the packs carried by Zarym the mule and awaited his comrads to join him outside in wait of the foul bandits.
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If a moderator asks you to change your signature, don't question just do it.
"Not more fighting... Don't we ever get a break to think?" thought Thufir, getting up with a sigh. "Bandits, eh? They should be easy, as soon as they see trained warriors they will run like the cowardly bastards they are"
"So Garren's 'as 'ired some muscle then aye. Silly ol' man. Right boys. Ya know wha' ta do." said the one in the middle of the small contingent of bandits.
The bandits charged. several were easily done away with, others presented more of a match, but were as easily dealt with.
"Conster! Get in there an' get the child" the lead bandit called out. Shortly before Sir Elric's sword was driven through his chest.
"And how do you suppose your going to do that with all of us standing here." Sir Elric said pull his sword out of the dying bandit.
"Oh no how will I ever get passed the great paladin, Sir Elric. Like this, you fool!! Praeses, Alia, Fero. muwhahaha" Conster chanted and teleported inside of the house next to Iltha, whom he could see through a window from the outside. "Praeses, Alia, Fero" he chanted while he grabbed her and teleported away.
"Bastard!!!!" cursed Sir Elric. "Damn spell casting bastard. That was incredibly stupid."
"prehaps not my friend." Balgarath said.
"what do you mean prehaps not!" exclaimed Sir Elric "he took Iltha."
"If he posesses the ability to teleport, why did he wait so long to do it? he could have done so any time he wished. Why did he wait till after we had killed so many bandits?" asked Balgarath.
Sorry about the background in the thief pic above, couldn't find one without the churchy background, sorry.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
-Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. That is alchemy's First Law of Equivalent Exchange. In those days, we really believed that to be the world's one, and only, truth.
"He could have done it before we even engaged them, use them as a distraction to get us outside, then teleport in... But, wait, don't mages need to use some, spiritual energy or some such thing? Maybe he thought he could get away without sing it, preserving it for later use..."
Venex had been sitting out back when the bandits arrived, playing cards with Johnny and Kennedy. Venex had little interest in the system of the Paladins. They were too one-sided in his opinion, fighting strictly for the light, not for a proper balance. He pulled a terrific set out and laid them on the stump they had substituted for a table.
"Ha!" he said, triumphantly. "Beat that!" He eyed his companions thoughtfully. The game seemed much to complicated for the golem, who was very poor at bluffing. He gurgled something and threw his cards at the ground. Johnny smiled and lay his stack on the stump. He laughed quietly as Venex examined the cards in shock. He had lost to a skeleton!
"Dammit!" said the Necromancer. "That's the third game in a row. How do you keep winning?" Dave, Zubin's pet hawk, landed on Johnny's shoulder again and whispered something to the skull. Suddenly, it all clicked in Venex's head.
"You've been cheating!" he said, pointing an accusing finger at the skeleton. "You've been using your new friend here to look at my cards the whole time!" He stood, and kicked over the stack of cards.
Suddenly there was a crash from inside, and someone shouted. He cautiosly made his way over to the back window and peered through. Everyone was standing and shouting. He saw Thufir and Zubin run out the front door with the others. What the hell is going on? He thought.
"Dave," he said to the Hawk, feeling just as silly as he used to talking to Johnny. "Go fly out front and see what's going on."
The hawk sprung instantly from the skeleton's shoulder and flew over the roof to the front. The sounds of battle were quiet from this side of the house, and the Necromancer waited anxiously for the hawk's return. Suddenly and unexpectedly, a man appeared inside the house and grabbed someone. It was Windspear's daughter. The man chanted something and disappeared again.
"What in the name-?" began Venex, but was cut short by a noise behind him. He saw the man who had previously been inside running over the top of the low hill behind the house, laughing maniacally. "Oh this is just great!" said Venex, wondering what to do. The man can teleport, apparently, he reminded himself. But I have an obligation... Dammit!
He grabbed his gear and ran off in the direction of the hill to search for the man and the girl. Finally reaching the top of the hill he looked out, seeing nobody. The man had escaped with his prize. The Necromancer kicked a tree and shouted in anger. He felt helpless, and the sense of unbalance surged through his body again, knocking him to his knees. He sat on the hill, weeping, for what seemed like hours, but must have been merely minutes. He had barely known the girl, but he felt a deep connection to her - as with all the world.
Johnny came behind him and tapped his shoulder. Venex looked up, and accepted the outstretched arm. The skeleton pulled him to his feet and walked back towards the house with him. As they rounded the corner, stepping out to the front of the building, Venex filed up beside Zubin, who was listening to Balgarath and Sir Elric speaking.
He knew he had to tell them what he had seen, but knew not how to say the words. He stood there, waiting for someone to ask him. Hoping he would have the courage to tell them how he had failed...
After all had passed and been done the monk looked up to the heavens and shook his head. His view would appear somber now. He had finally been pushed a little too far. He was getting tired of seeing good people lose.
"Torm to what extent will you push these people?" The monk whispered.
Skylor found Karym the mule once more and placed his weapon back on the packs. He grabbed the lead rope and joined the group.
"I guess this is a rescue mission now, the Hawk should have no trouble tracking the mage. His energy will only last so long, especially using a spell like that one."
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As the comotion died down, Garren Windspear returned, and was shocked at what lay before him.
"What has happened here. My daughter is gone! I left this place in your care! I... I... no, no, I know it was not you... I know who my enemies are. Damn that Jierdan Firkraag! What is his grief with me?! This must end! I cannot live under his shadow; under his heel!" Garren said.
"I would know what he wishes with me as well! I will seek him for both our sakes" Sir Elric replied.
"I thank you, though I don't know where you will find him. His hooligans prevent searching. I don't know... Perhaps the ruins in the north east? I don't know..." said Garren Windspear.
"I will take vengeance for you as well, no matter where he hides!" Sir Elric proclaimed loudly.
"I thank you." said Garren. "You will travel unmolested, for my pleas of your virtue were heard at the Radiant Heart. They demand justice for the slain, so that is your task now."
"Ha Ha, Fortune smiles upon us. With this selfless act we could restore some small part of our stolen honor. Helm and Torm have not forgotten us!" cried Sir Elric.
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-Humankind cannot gain anything without first giving something in return. To obtain, something of equal value must be lost. That is alchemy's First Law of Equivalent Exchange. In those days, we really believed that to be the world's one, and only, truth.
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"What goes on here? I've seen many a strange thing in my time, but the events of the past few moments tops them all. Who are you that can change shape so readily, and why have you slain these beasts that become men?" He asked.
"It appears that we have been tricked into killing these knights!" Balgarath said in astonishment.
"Yes... I think you are correct Balgarath. Their appearances are bloodied, but I believe we gaze upon slain members of my own Order before us. A most foul ruse has been played upon us! Innocents are slain! The lifeblood of the Order stains the ground at my feet. Helm’s beard, what have we done?" Sir Elric said as he fell to his knees.
"That is the conclusion I've come to, though the priests of Helm will not believe what has happened. They will seek justice, and only your heads will suffice." said the man.
"That is dire news indeed. What do you suggest that we do?" asked Balgarath.
"I suggest that you take sanctuary with me until you can discover how this unfortunate event came to pass." The man said.
"I shall be honored to accept your hospitality." SIr Elric replied.
"Follow behind me. My cabin is but a short distance South of here. I will meet you there. oh and by the way, you may call me Garren, Garren Winspear." the man said.
The Necromancer didn't like the look of the fellow. Something didn't feel right. Maybe it was this man, maybe it was the world at large. He could not tell anymore, as he bore a constant discomfort. People started to follow Sir Elric and Balgarath as they walked south towards Winspear's cabin. He stood, and followed after them, shaking of his doubt of the man. If Balgarath trusts him, I trust him. Johnny came up beside him, clicking his left arm back into place, as it had apparently been removed during the fight. Kennedy lumbered alongside them, obvlivious to the remorse of the others.
Zubin and Thufir caught up to Venex, and the Monk came later with his donkey in tow. None of them had anything to say. The air was full of solemn unhappiness. Already the world is going awry...
"A trick has been played my friend, another trick." That said the mule seemed to be saddened with the new news. The two followed the group.
A stranger appears and addresses Balgarath and Sir Elric, and Sir Elric drops to his knees upon receiving whatever information the stranger has brought them. Sir Elric then motions for the group to follow him.
I learn that we have somehow been deceived and that we did not kill ogres but innocent men, members of Sir Elrics own order. What have we done?, I ask myself. We are a somber group now as we slowly make our way toward the strangers cabin.
Folks will always come and go, so enjoy them while they're meant to be in your life.
"I will admit this man's appearance was timely, if not a little suspicious, but he is the only one who can attest to our innocence, we should at least hear him out. "said Sir Elric to the group, who all felt likewise.
"aah here we are. "Sir Elric said as they approached the large log cabin.
"I will go with you, Sir Elric, and together we will bring whoever responsible for this to a horrible end. Let us pray now, for the souls of your fallen brothers. And may whatever heavenly forces there are forgive us." he says, stabbing his sword deep into the ground and grabbing the hilt with both hands while placing one knee on the ground and his forhead on the huge blade.
Skylor fell in line behind Sir Elric and with Karym in tow would walk on without speaking. The monk did not hum as he had been doing normally, but you would not see a frown upon his face either. No, hope was still etched there, somewhere.
Zubin kept walking close to Johnny just when Johnny started looking at Dave. Suddenly dave flew off and sat down on Johnny's shoulder bone. ''This world is getting wierder'' Zubin said.
''Zubin, I've always imagined you as a crazy raver. The kinda guy that spends all night dancing to trance music while waving glow sticks and popping ecstasy.'' - Murderface
"No my friend the world is not getting more strange, you are having your eyes opened to it is all"
"Ahh, you have arrived. I thought you might. Best that you learn all you can of your situation before you go off getting killed. You have been cruelly tricked." said Garren Windspear to the group.
"My honor is tainted by this disgrace. I must redeem myself in the eyes of my god." replied Sir Elric.
"I'm sure you will have your chance. Take heart that you are not the first to have your name unfairly maligned. I too have been through such circumstance. I was once lord of this land, and had many holds across the heart of Amn. Taken from me, it was. It was almost overnight, and I still bear the scars in my dreams. I am content now, having found solace in the quiet of the wood, but I will forevermore curse the name of Lord Jierdan Firkraag." Garren Windspear said with much agner in his voice.
"Firkraag!" Sir Elric shouted in rage. "Then it was he that plotted my downfall! He was the one that hired me!"
It is true to his style, organizing an elaborate plot to discredit a rival. I do not understand why he would target you, however. My case was obvious. He sought my lands, so he discredited me. There were missing people only he could find, banditry only he could stop. Solutions to problems I am sure he caused." Garren said. "In the end my properties were razed in a single night. The people lost faith in me, and my influence crumbled. Now, it would seem, he has targeted you."
"He sounds like a right evil monster" said Balgarath.
"I will seek his end for these crimes!" exclaimed Sir Elric.
"This is mere speculation, but perhaps you slighted him in some way, without even knowing. He seems very single-minded in his grudges." said Garren. "What I do know is that he is not the worst of your worries. The Most Noble Order of the Radiant Heart will seek your death if something is not done quickly."
"We would be most appreciative of any aid you could render." Balgarath replied.
"I have friends among the order. I will speak with them as quickly as possible. Perhaps I can persuade them to look on you with mercy. I can but try." Garren said.
"Your efforts are much appreciated, but I cannot pay you for this service." Sir Elric replied.
"I would not ask for payment." Gaaren said. "Any enemy of Lord Jierdan's is a friend of mine. I will return as soon as possible. Make my home yours, I won't be long."
The group entered the cabin and were greeted by Garren's two children, Iltha and Jum.
"Can I get you all anything my good Sirs?" Iltha asked, with her head bowed as the enter, then she looked up to see Lady Cinara. "Opps, my good Sirs and Madam, I did not see you there m'lady, my apologies."
"You all look weary, please sit, eat drink and be merry." Jum said. "though you will have to excuse me, for I must take my leave, with father off to talk with the Order of the Radiant Heart about your predicament, the duty falls to me to scout for bandits and other such cockroaches."
His children come out and offer up nourishment. "Yes Iltha - I would like some bread and drink please. Would you like some help?"
Folks will always come and go, so enjoy them while they're meant to be in your life.
"No thank you m'lady, I am fine" Iltha said.
"My lord, your presence is a boon to my heart. You are just as I pictured a Bringer of Light. Your shining spirit will guide us, even in your time of darkness. I cannot imagine the horror, of having had your will ursurped in the trickery my father described. I know you will prevail though. Your spirit must surely be boundless. I am sorry, I did not mean to gush, but I was raised on tales of paladins and chivalry. To meet one in person is exhilarating. You are as impressive as any storybook." said Iltha to Sir Elric Sigmundson.
"I thank you. I do try to be a model for others to emulate, even in times of trial." Sir Elric replied.
"Even now you should not despair. A true paladin takes heart in his suffering, knowing that others take strength in his example. Remember what you are to people." said Iltha.
"You see things through inexperienced eyes, m'lady. I only wish it were so." Sir Elric said with sadness in his tone.
"But it can be. You are a champion of light, despite your trials. Your sweet sorrow will strengthen your faith. I do not wish to stoop to theatrics, but it is warranted. I wish I could restore your name and spirit with will alone, but that is something you must do. All the stories of paladins I have read speak of such trials. You have all that you need from a classical standpoint: trials to survive, evils to eradicate, and innocence to protect" Iltha replied.
"Yes, I suppose that I have." said Sir Elric.
"Then consider ours a tragic affection that will never be realized. Just as the tales of courtly love are all about unrequited romance. It is a time-honored tradition, or so the books say. I just want to restore some grandeur to your position. Your shoulder the weight that others might walk unencumbered." Iltha said. "You will prevail. Of this I am sure."
"I will take great comfort in your faith." replied Sir Elric.
Just then Jum burst in through the door.
"Bandits are coming!" he said. "arm yourselves!"
"Did someone say crumpets?" He rushed to the door with Karym the mule close in tow.
"I rather enjoy crumpets, might I have one? You did say crumpet didn't you boy? Skylor looked to the young man in waiting for a pleasant response.
"No you old fool I said Bandits are coming!" the boy replied.
"Bandits?! Hide the silver, bury the gold!" The monk drew his staff from the packs carried by Zarym the mule and awaited his comrads to join him outside in wait of the foul bandits.
"So Garren's 'as 'ired some muscle then aye. Silly ol' man. Right boys. Ya know wha' ta do." said the one in the middle of the small contingent of bandits.
The bandits charged. several were easily done away with, others presented more of a match, but were as easily dealt with.
"Conster! Get in there an' get the child" the lead bandit called out. Shortly before Sir Elric's sword was driven through his chest.
"And how do you suppose your going to do that with all of us standing here." Sir Elric said pull his sword out of the dying bandit.
"Oh no how will I ever get passed the great paladin, Sir Elric. Like this, you fool!! Praeses, Alia, Fero. muwhahaha" Conster chanted and teleported inside of the house next to Iltha, whom he could see through a window from the outside. "Praeses, Alia, Fero" he chanted while he grabbed her and teleported away.
"Bastard!!!!" cursed Sir Elric. "Damn spell casting bastard. That was incredibly stupid."
"prehaps not my friend." Balgarath said.
"what do you mean prehaps not!" exclaimed Sir Elric "he took Iltha."
"If he posesses the ability to teleport, why did he wait so long to do it? he could have done so any time he wished. Why did he wait till after we had killed so many bandits?" asked Balgarath.
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Sorry about the background in the thief pic above, couldn't find one without the churchy background, sorry.
"Ha!" he said, triumphantly. "Beat that!" He eyed his companions thoughtfully. The game seemed much to complicated for the golem, who was very poor at bluffing. He gurgled something and threw his cards at the ground. Johnny smiled and lay his stack on the stump. He laughed quietly as Venex examined the cards in shock. He had lost to a skeleton!
"Dammit!" said the Necromancer. "That's the third game in a row. How do you keep winning?" Dave, Zubin's pet hawk, landed on Johnny's shoulder again and whispered something to the skull. Suddenly, it all clicked in Venex's head.
"You've been cheating!" he said, pointing an accusing finger at the skeleton. "You've been using your new friend here to look at my cards the whole time!" He stood, and kicked over the stack of cards.
Suddenly there was a crash from inside, and someone shouted. He cautiosly made his way over to the back window and peered through. Everyone was standing and shouting. He saw Thufir and Zubin run out the front door with the others. What the hell is going on? He thought.
"Dave," he said to the Hawk, feeling just as silly as he used to talking to Johnny. "Go fly out front and see what's going on."
The hawk sprung instantly from the skeleton's shoulder and flew over the roof to the front. The sounds of battle were quiet from this side of the house, and the Necromancer waited anxiously for the hawk's return. Suddenly and unexpectedly, a man appeared inside the house and grabbed someone. It was Windspear's daughter. The man chanted something and disappeared again.
"What in the name-?" began Venex, but was cut short by a noise behind him. He saw the man who had previously been inside running over the top of the low hill behind the house, laughing maniacally. "Oh this is just great!" said Venex, wondering what to do. The man can teleport, apparently, he reminded himself. But I have an obligation... Dammit!
He grabbed his gear and ran off in the direction of the hill to search for the man and the girl. Finally reaching the top of the hill he looked out, seeing nobody. The man had escaped with his prize. The Necromancer kicked a tree and shouted in anger. He felt helpless, and the sense of unbalance surged through his body again, knocking him to his knees. He sat on the hill, weeping, for what seemed like hours, but must have been merely minutes. He had barely known the girl, but he felt a deep connection to her - as with all the world.
Johnny came behind him and tapped his shoulder. Venex looked up, and accepted the outstretched arm. The skeleton pulled him to his feet and walked back towards the house with him. As they rounded the corner, stepping out to the front of the building, Venex filed up beside Zubin, who was listening to Balgarath and Sir Elric speaking.
He knew he had to tell them what he had seen, but knew not how to say the words. He stood there, waiting for someone to ask him. Hoping he would have the courage to tell them how he had failed...
"Torm to what extent will you push these people?" The monk whispered.
Skylor found Karym the mule once more and placed his weapon back on the packs. He grabbed the lead rope and joined the group.
"I guess this is a rescue mission now, the Hawk should have no trouble tracking the mage. His energy will only last so long, especially using a spell like that one."
"What has happened here. My daughter is gone! I left this place in your care! I... I... no, no, I know it was not you... I know who my enemies are. Damn that Jierdan Firkraag! What is his grief with me?! This must end! I cannot live under his shadow; under his heel!" Garren said.
"I would know what he wishes with me as well! I will seek him for both our sakes" Sir Elric replied.
"I thank you, though I don't know where you will find him. His hooligans prevent searching. I don't know... Perhaps the ruins in the north east? I don't know..." said Garren Windspear.
"I will take vengeance for you as well, no matter where he hides!" Sir Elric proclaimed loudly.
"I thank you." said Garren. "You will travel unmolested, for my pleas of your virtue were heard at the Radiant Heart. They demand justice for the slain, so that is your task now."
"Ha Ha, Fortune smiles upon us. With this selfless act we could restore some small part of our stolen honor. Helm and Torm have not forgotten us!" cried Sir Elric.