Ansravar’s Torment - Part I

[Greek Psycho]

This is an unfinished story i wrote some months ago taking place in Planescape (ADnD)...Njoy.

 

 

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Ansravar’s Torment

 

Chapter 1 ? Awinuzz Village

 

Awinuz Village is monarchy ruled by, Her Benign Lady Melinelda Sandure. The population of this village is about five hundred souls and it was once a part of the Elgosan Empire before that Empire was shattered by the invading hordes of good, neutral, evil, chaotic, and lawful, planar races.

 

This village sits on an open plain and the walls of the village are mostly of wood but some of them have started to be replaced with stone since Melinelda has claimed rulership in the last two years. The other ruler mysteriously disappeared or so the stories claim but only Melinelda knows the truth, but she isn’t telling. To the west is a port and wharf, and the other three wooden gates lead to the north, east, and south. Unlike the other two gates the eastern gate is made of metal instead of wood, since that part of the village is now walled in stone.

 

Craftsman and refuges from all over have come to this village in the last half a year and it has swelled its population. Inside the walls are taverns, inns, wheelwrights, smiths of all kinds, armor makers of all kinds, as well as many other craftsman.

 

There are also a few arcane casters who make their homes here. Most live in towers of grey stone, but a few have cottages or normal homes as well.

 

The temples and shrines that exist inside of Awinuz are (there are of course the demihuman deities, and there are other gods and goddess then these, but these are the only ones that have temples and shrines within the village itself):

 

Aradi, the greater goddess of Justice, Mercy, Loyalty, Judgement, and Honor. This temple is also where the government building currently stands. The head of this church is also the ruler of the village. The building is made out of pure white marble with golden spires.

 

Imitina, the greater goddess of Sea, Water, Weather, and Rivers. Her shrines are usually found on the docks and she has no elaborate temples. But her shrines are usually draped in blue and green cloth with shells, and other items from the sea.

 

Arandon, the greater god of Woodlands, Animals, Wilderness, Flora and Fauna. Only a small shrine exists for this god. It is a fallen tree where people go to offer prayers to the god. His only clergy are a pair of twins, one female, one male, who have been here since the village was founded over sixty years ago!

 

Lirosse, the greater goddess of Hearth, Home, Family, Passion, and Love. Green and pink stone is this building. The priestess and priests of this temple enjoy life as well as have multiple partners, husbands, and wives. Children and young adults are always underfoot here as and the clergy of this temple also know how to throw a party!

 

Venya, the intermediate god of War, Killing, Brawling, and Dueling. Another bright building, this is where the guards train as well as where the nobles go to duel. It has a small arena as well as a practice yard and the building itself is made out of white marble as well.

 

Ilyas, the intermediate god of the Sun, Dawn, Fire, and Light. Red and orange stone fills makes up their temple. Gold and red also can be seen every where reflecting the light of this bright deity. The clothing of this clergy and bright red, orange, and yellow.

 

Lunalin, the intermediate goddess of the Moon, Darkness, Prophecy, and Night. Temple is a pitch black building that is lit with white radiance. The clergy here dress in black robes as well and wear white masks that hide their features from the outside world.

 

Yaniel, the demigoddess/god of the Horizon and Sky. The strange half daughter and half son of the Lunalin and Ilyas. Her/his shrines are usually found on hills or mountains and they are open-air structures where the sky and horizon can be seen for miles around.

 

Cessuril, the demigoddess of Fertility and Child birth. All she has is shrines where midwives practice their skill. All of her clergy are female as well and they have no set dress, but any one needing their help can find very skilled midwives here.

 

Urissar, the demigod of Healing and Medicine. His temples are also places where the sick can go and they are always made out of blue stone. His priests and priestess also wear blue with white sashes.

 

 

The war erupted on this world because two hundred years ago the lower planar races managed to find an ore that when forged could harm and kill those who are good and live in the upper planes. The goodly planes couldn’t let this slide and before the evil races realized it they good races also learned of a different ore that would allow them to do the same to those who are evil incarnate.

 

Those who follow neutrality tried to mediate the two sides but soon they were choosing sides instead. For the past two hundred years war has raged back and forth on this small prime world, tearing it apart and nations have risen and fallen since then.

 

It is a surprise that this village has managed to hold out this long, but that might be due to Lady Sandure’s leadership and because she is a mortal that has been granted powers by the good races. She had power before that but they helped boost her as well and she uses her blade and might, more then her words.

 

Currently there is no winner in this war and it rages back and forth. Evil flourishes for a time, and other times good does the same. Or chaos and law hold power instead. While those who follow neutrality try to keep the balance but they gave up on trying to stop the war long ago.

 

 

CHAPTER 2 ? The Meeting

 

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Day/Month/Year:

Time: Peak

Location: Sigil - Guildhall Ward - Newt Street - Nine and Six Hall

Weather: Drizzling

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This three-story tavern and festhall is a place where the faction politics

of Sigil are left at the door, most of the time. It is a place where all

faction members are equal and it has the might to back up its policy. The

bottom two floors are given over to drinking, games, gossip, and

entertainment. While the upper floor is used for those who want to pay for

sex and pleasure.

 

On the first floor is a large bar and circular tables are also scattered

about. Patrons are drinking, eating, and enjoying themselves while the male

and female servers continuously deliver drinks, food, and change.

 

An elf entertainer stands on the small stage playing his lyre.

 

A hooded black cloak covers another humanoid. It is difficult to determine

if he is tall or short, lanky or stocky, or anything in between, because he

carries himself in just such a way as to be ambiguous. In fact, everything

about him is ambiguous. He moves slowly but easily, with small but graceful

gestures, and if he speaks, it is in a level voice that seems too carefully

measured to say anything that is not completely intended. Attempting to look

beneath the hood, only two large, green, pupilless eyes stare back, and it

is obvious that you were intended to see them all along.

 

Seated not far from the covered humanoid is a female tiefling who stands

about five feet, ten and weighs about once hundred and thirty pounds. She

has dark eyes with crimson pupils and her skin is pale white with long

jet-black hair.

 

Another figure that stands about six feet one, and weighs about two hundred

and ten pounds, is also enjoying his drink. He has white hair and red eyes.

A pair of white-feathered wings juts from his back.

 

Sitting across from the winged figure is another male humanoid who stands

about five feet, eleven inches and weighs about one hundred and sixty

pounds. He has yellow eyes and long brown hair. He is dressed in light tan

to brown robes as well as a light grey hooded cloak. His wrists and ankles

and legs are wrapped in white cloth as well, while leaving his hands and

half of his feet free to show off his nails.

 

The second floor of the tavern is also given over to games, but up there,

there is no bar, just tables.

 

As the patrons of the tavern watch and enjoy themselves, one of the back

doorways flicker and a portal opens to another tavern. Looking through the

clear portal the three here in Sigil can see a moon elf, a human, and a

half-elf, as well as others who are enjoying their selves. The three in the

other tavern look through the portal with shock and surprise at the strange

patrons that they can see through the open portal.

 

The white winged figure turns his red eyes to the portal and watches the

figures on the other side. He then watches their reactions as well while

listening to the comments of those around him. He finishes off his drink and

stands before walking over to the portal.

 

"I wonder where this leads too? Well standing around here won't answer

anything. Perhaps they even have good drink in this tavern!"

 

He glances back around at the tavern, he stands in, one last time before

stepping though the portal hoping this leads him somewhere fun.

 

The female tiefling looks around at the developments taking place. She lets

out a small moanful breath realizing that her quiet time had just been

interrupted. Aware of her facing and keeping her back to the wall she passes

a careful eye over the portal. Nope, not aware of the location she takes

another sip of her wine. She says nothing but continues to examine the

actions of the other patrons. Not one for speaking at the best of times, she

watches carefully, choosing her moments.

 

The elven minstrel sees the portal, and halts his song in mid- chord. He

squints at the portal and says in a melodious voice, "I wasn't aware that

there was a portal here..."

 

He steps off stage and takes several strides towards the portal. When he is

close enough to it, he looks into it and his red eyes seem to brighten.

 

"They look like civilized berks to me. Not at all like those bug-men that

came through that Hive portal last week... And my repertoire has been

feeling a mite stale lately. I wonder if that half-elf knows any good

songs?"

 

Turning back to the crowd in Nine and Six Hall he raises his voice. "Thank

you ladies and gentlemen. Unfortunately I have to cut the performance short

due to rampant curiosity on my behalf. You were an excellent audience, and

it was an honor playing for you."

 

The mysteriously hooded figure remains seated, stealing a casual glance at

the new development. Jaam thinks silently to himself, "These berks get so

jangled up over a little portal. Portal to a prime though, a lot of bloods'd

pay some good jink for the dark on this one. It's a two-way to boot."

 

Modifying his plan for this new happening, Jaam realizes that he will need

a bargaining chip to take advantage of the situation. After all, nobody

trusts a 'loth. And given his present situation, he only has one way to earn

their trust.

 

The elf bows, turns with a flourish, and steps through the portal. The grey

cloaked figure watched with interest as the portal opened and the tall

winged fellow and elf stepped through to wherever the other tavern was.

Suddenly as if something had bitten him, he jumped up and strode

purposefully towards the portal without a moment's hesitation he stepped

through.

 

The female tiefling continued to look around. Her features frowned and she

seemed to be contemplating something. She looked around again to check if

anyone is watching her and as she does so she thinks to herself, "This could

be just the escape I'm after, they would never know if..."

 

She stood and strode boldly towards the portal. She flicked a coin at the

barwench to pay for her last drink. With everything she owns on her person

she left Sigil behind by entering the portal. Besides, she was rather

enjoying the music.

 

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Day/Month/Year: Day/Month unknown, Year is the 200th year of the War

Time: Afternoon

Location: Awinuz Village - Veteran's Way - The Squire and The Knight

Festhall

Weather: Sunny

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A second later the image of a building can be seen instead of the open

street and looking through the doorway the patrons now see strange beings on

the other side as well as another tavern!

 

The elf stands while reaching for his bow. "What... is that?" He asks as he

slowly steps forward. His shoulders shrug to resettle his pack at the same

time. "Does this happen often?" He continues to ask as he keeps stepping a

bit closer while focusing on the strange look of some of the folk he sees.

 

The human walks cautiously toward the barkeep, eyeing the portal warily. He

is taken back by the sudden appearance of the portal and he peers around the

tavern to take note of the reactions of the patrons. Most of them are

staring with shock and surprise at the scene on the other side.

Handing the barkeep some coin, the human orders a ale and says, "That wasn't

just here a minute ago, correct?"

 

"No sir," The short balding male human barkeep answers.

 

Still standing and on guard, the human watches carefully as the elf

approaches the portal. He addresses the elf, "I wouldn't get to close that

that thing my friend, I'm no expert on this sort of thing, but my guess is

it cant be good."

 

The human takes a large gulp of his drink and continues to examine the

portal.

 

The elf turns back to the human with a slight grin, " Aye. It might not be

a good thing... But perhaps... Adventure? Who knows what is on the other

side." The elf then frowns, "Who knows what is on the other side... Indeed."

 

Pointing with his bow that he holds in his left hand, the elf continues,

"Anyone know those type of folk?"

 

A moment later the winged humanoid in the other scene stands and crosses

the room to the clear shimmer. His reflection shimmers as he looks back at

every one. Then he steps forward and his image can be seen passing through

the clear magic and he steps out onto the wooden floor of The Squire and the

Knight!

 

The winged humanoid glances around the place and walking over to the bar.

"Tell me, where is this place? And what is this establishment called? Oh,

and do you have anything good to drink?"

 

As he talked he pulled his feathery wings in tighter to his back, though a

large and very oddly shaped blade hangs over his back and between his wings,

limiting how much he can pull in his wings.

 

"Tavern. Squire and Knight. Drinks? Yes. I have drinks," The human barkeep

stammered out in surprise and shock.

 

"Well stop your gawkin and get me the strongest drink you have!" The winged

humanoid shook his head as he looked around the room at all the dropped

jaws. "Primes!!" The male humanoid then turns his attention back to the

barkeep waiting for his drink.

 

"Strong sir? Right. Sorry sir!" The bartender said as he filled tankard with

a thick black liquid.

A few seconds later, after the first appears in through the portal, the

group sees another one of the figures step off the stage and looks through

the portal. The group sees him turn back around and bow to the audience that

fills the tables in the other scene. Then the elf steps forward and passes

through the portal.

 

"Um, I did not know I was that good. But a new audience I always like. Come

and see my show," said the half elf as he went on with his show.

 

After stepping through the portal, the elven minstrel looked around.

"Greetings my good primes. I am Tanager, a bard of some renown where I come

from, which is back thataway." He gestures to the portal with one hand.

 

"I have ventured here to hear your fine music," a nod to the half-elf, "and

to sample your beverages, which I believed the winged wanderer here also

expressed interest in."

 

The elven minstrel looks at the elf. "You can put that bow away my good

sir, as I am neither a fiend, nor here to harm you. To prove my good

intentions, let me buy you and your fellows here," He paused to nod at the

human and the half-elf, "a drink."

 

The elven minstrel looked back to the winged man who proceeded him through

the portal. "Come then my feathered friend, as it appears that you are as

curious and optimistic as I, let us sample the local hops."

 

With those words the elf then walked towards the bar.

 

Comfortable that these newcomers mean no harm, Rigizan relaxed and finished

his ale. He eyed the elf and gave him a reassuring glance.

 

Nodding graciously toward the newcomers Rigizan said, "My thanks to you my

friend. Another ale would do me well, and it is appreciated. Forgive me if I

seem taken aback by these current events, but, portals appearing out of

nowhere is not commonplace where I am from."

 

Rigizan stepped to the side to make room for the newcomers at the bar he

extends a hand to the bard. "Allow me to formally introduce myself, seeing

as how you're buying a round... I am Rigizan, a mercenary in between

campaigns at the moment. I was heading into town to see if anyone was hiring

a sword, and thought I'd stop in for a drink. I am curious to ask, by the

way you folk carry yourselves, this thing is a common occurrence among your

people?"

 

Tanager replies, "The city of Sigil," He waves towards the portal, "Is

called the City of Doors due the number of portals that can be found there.

You can find portals to virtually every plane that you would ever wish to go

to, and more that you wouldn't."

 

"That however," He waves again towards the portal, "is a two-way portal.

Those are a bit more rare..." He muses to himself, "I wonder what the key

is?" Shrugging his shoulders, he looks again at Rigizan.

 

"At any rate, if your looking for mercenary work, there's no better place

to find it than Sigil," the elf finishes.

 

"My thanks elf, I would like some drink," the half-elf says to the elf that

just appeared in the tavern. "Bartender can I have another wine?" the

half-elf continued.

 

The bartender shakes off his surprise and fills a glass with wine and sets

it on the counter. The half-elf points his finger in the direction of the

glass. All of a sudden the glass rises from the counter and drifts into the

half-elf's hand. "Cheers to you all," the half-elf says before draining the

glass of wine.

 

The other elf looks at his bow for a moment, then nods his head. "A drink

sounds fine." He follows the bard towards the bar, looking at the wings of

the other.

 

Another figure appeared in the room and this one was one of the females

that could be seen through the scene. After the female form steps through

the portal the elf with a bow in his hand stops once more and looks to those

he had been spending time with. "Is this a good thing? To be able to cross

the over from where ever you came from at will?"

 

The grey hooded figure looked around and casually scanned the room, as if

looking for something, before moving away from the portal that still

shimmered behind him. His features were partially obstructed by the grey

cloak, which covered his head. He purposefully walked towards the bartender.

"I will require lodging this night in your establishment if it is available.

What and where is this place?"

 

The hooded figure put his hands on the counter as he waited for an answer.

His yellow eyes peered out from under his hood. His hands a have a yellowish

tint to them as well and occasional brownish spots, his finger ends in long

sharp looking nails.

 

"Lodgings? No um sir..." The bartender said with a gulp. "No rooms here...

Is what I meant to say. But this is The Squire and the Knight. Where? Why

the Village of course..."

 

"Is this not an inn, and if not perhaps you could be so bold as to point me

in the direction of the nearest one if it is not. As you obviously saw, I am

newly arrived to this land, and will need a place to rest. Or is it that you

simply do not rent rooms to those who are not human?" The grey cloaked

humanoid said a moment later as he continued to rest his hands against the

bar.

 

"No, no. I have no problem with those who are not human! This is not an

inn, it is just a tavern. You can find inns up and down the street outside.

The Sleeping Hawk has good rooms. Head up the street about a block or two

and look for a blood red sign with a hawk on it."

 

The winged humanoid looked back to the portal and he sees the creature step

though. "How long is that blasted thing going to stay open for?!" He takes a

moment to view the new person in the room and he nods as he figures out what

the creature is, and he realizes it was also sitting across from him a few

seconds ago.

 

The elf that is now at the bar turned his head to those who are gathered. "I

am Ivian Nightblade. I am scout and I find things..."

 

After ending his performance the half-elf went to the group at the bar.

"Hello there I'm Ryan. All of you together look like a great adventure.

Maybe we can create a new tale, which I can use for a new song. Any

suggestions?"

 

"Triel Darkwither. I too scout for things, both of value and beauty. One

could say I like to acquire only the most precious of things... especially a

good mans heart," The female tiefling says as she sends a sly wink, which

seems to be meant for all the men in the room. Her voice is soft and sweet,

slightly melodic and full of hidden innuendo.

 

Glancing at Ryan, Rigizan coolly replied, "As long as there is coin

involved, I'm not one to shy from such things." Addressing the bartender

Rigizan asks, "Well barkeep, where does one find work in this place?"

 

"Ah, any where sir. With the war going on and all, you can find work just

about anywhere. Pray tell can you be more specific on what you are

interested in doing. There are ruins to explore, caravans to guard, weapons

and items to be made, ships to load or unload, the temples are also looking

for help, as it the guard and militia. So you see sir, there is work every

where..."

 

Triel walks the length of the room to the bar and spins to lean up against

it. "So," she continues, "You all seem quite interesting, perhaps someone

here might offer a lady something to drink, perhaps to, ah, wet my

appetite..."

 

Tanager, the elven minstrel turned to look at Triel Darkwither and said,

"Twould be an honor to buy a fair lady a drink."

 

The elf strode to the bar and ordered a drink from the barkeep at the same

time the other elf that is playing with his dagger says, "Ansravar. I am

feeling rather down tonight and so I shall not talk about myself. Nice to

meet you!" What a word, the mere sound of it conjures up so many images in

his mind and such a plethora of different emotions in his heart.

 

The other elf nods to the woman as she speaks, but he sees another fellow

fetching a drink. His eyes turn to portal and he walks closer to it. "I

wonder if they know about this in the Dalelands," he says to nobody.

 

Turning back to the bar, the elf that just spoke takes his free drink with

a nod of thanks to the buyer and asks, "Anyone or thing could come through

there. Am I right? Friends, foes, and miscreants..."

 

Ansravar stood up as well and joined Tanager at the bar. Ansravar nodded to

the bartender for two drinks. The barkeep sets two full tankards of ale down

on the bar, after they are filled, as well as a third that the minstrel

ordered.

 

Ignoring Tanager and Triel, Ansravar grabs the two drinks and hands one to

Ryan. "So..... I suppose you like music? Well, we are in Sigil. The city of

Doors is unlike any other city in the world. The city is known as the center

of art. It is a beautiful city. Many a poet has said upon setting foot in

Sigil that they have died and this is heaven. The nobles of the city are

very competitive and have informal contests to out do the others. Architects

and artists flock to the city to peddle their trades. The city may be a

capital for art but there is one thing that outshines even the most

beautiful tower, the cities love of music. Bards, musicians and dancers

stream into the city in larger numbers than the artists in hope of becoming

famous someday," Ansravar said to Ryan with a smile in his face.

 

Taking the drink, Tanager left the bar and presented the cup to Triel

Darkwither. "Take this drink my lady, a small token of my esteem."

 

The humanoid shrugged and watched the entertaining show that the female

tiefling is putting on, noting she already conned someone quite easily into

getting drinks for her and he laughs lightly at that.

 

The winged human took a swig of the thick black liquid that tasted like

clover and sludge. "What is this stuff called? And what is the name of this

town and local area?" He looked back down into the thick black liquid as he

waited for a reply.

 

"Thanks for the drink Ansravar. I drink at your health." After drinking

Ryan ask the bartender, "What kind of help do the temples need and for

what?"

 

"As I said to the newcomer earlier, this is the Village and what you are

drinking is Deep Black," The bartender answered the humanoid. He then turned

to the other and said, "Most of them are seeking adventurers or strangers

who wish to help out in the battles. At least the more militant temples are

requesting aid like that. Urissar's clergy are also always looking for new

herbal or nature medicine's as well as new ways to heal or bodies to

practice on. Of course there is Lirosse's clergy but they are pleasure

seekers as well homemakers."

 

Triel graciously accepted the drink with a sly wink. As she takes a gulp

she darts her eyes around the room to take a quick survey of the happenings

and she sees two other humans, both male, that are disinterested in the

glowing portal or the newcomers. She is quite happy that many eyes of the

newcomers as well as the rest of the patrons have fallen upon her. She takes

a seat, still keeping her back to a hard surface, and crosses her legs. She

thinks to herself, "What an interesting situation, perhaps there may be

steady work here. A war to boot, ah the spoils of war."

 

She looked back at Ansravar, "Are you handy with that knife? Do you want to

play a game?"

 

Ansravar stood next to Ryan as the barkeep answered his question. "Temples

are looking for adventurers, interesting. I hope they pay well," Ansravar

thought to himself. Suddenly he heard Triel talking to him and he spun

against her and said, "A game? With my dagger? Are you sure? What's the

bet?"

 

Triel smiles a sly smile and looked the gentleman up and down.

 

"Well that all depends on just how much you are willing to gamble."

 

Ansravar stared at Triel thoughtfully for a few seconds and then replied,

"What about thirty gold pieces..... Agreed? Otherwise you name the price!"

 

The shock of the invaders began to wear off and the elf's eyes studied the

newcomers. He also watched the strange lady begin to work the crowd. He

frowned and watched the gate once more, then moved to the wall and kept his

eyes on the new folk, every now and again he watched the folks he was

drinking with to see if they would be ready to repel the invaders if

necessary.

 

Finishing his second drink, Rigizan nods again to Tanagar. "Thanks again my

friend." He turns toward Ryan he says, "I think I will accompany you, I've

been sitting idle too long already. I would say head to the temple, find out

what they need done and possibly find out some history about these ruins."

 

Gathering himself up, Rigizan nods toward the congregation of people that

has now gathered in the tavern.

 

"Guys and girl listen. I'm going out to look for some work at the market

place. Maybe I can find an interesting job for us. Does someone wants to go

with me?" says Ryan.

 

Before Triel gets to answer she becomes aware of Ryan and his offer to find

some work. She is distracted by this and stands to her feet. "I'm sorry

Ansravar something has just come up," she says as she turns to address Ryan.

 

"Count me in," she informs Ryan before looking back towards Ansravar. "Looks

like you get to keep your thirty gold this time," She teases playfully with

a wink.

 

Ansravar smiled at Triel and he replies, "Okay! It seems you are lucky

then, so, I think I am going to join you and Ryan. Count me in as well."

 

The winged humanoid listened to the man as he speaks. He then slammed down

his mug on the counter and the human barkeep glared at him before averting

his eyes from the strangers inside. "Now, that might be some fun!" The

humanoid says.

 

The white winged male turns to the barkeep and asks, "Is there much fun to

be had in this place?"

 

"Fun? Define fun? As I said to the other, there is the temple dedicated to

Lirosse if you are looking for pleasure and flesh. If you are into dueling

or fighting for fame or wealth then seek out Venya's clergy. They run the

arena that is in the south end of town. Of course there is the ruins out on

the plains. War continues to rage back and forth across the plains and there

are ruins galore out there. Or if you have a taste of the sea, there are the

ship that sail to the west."

 

The winged humanoid laughed. "Pleasure and flesh is always fun good sir." He grins as he looks at the tiefling who has been flirting with everyone in the

room. "Ah, now ruins from this war, now there is something interesting,

especially since they were made by creatures from the planes, not the common folk found here."

 

Tanager looks at Ryan. "A trip to the local market eh? I did wish to

explore more of this strange world. Very well friend Ryan, I shall accompany

thee, as thou didst put it, to "seek work" for those of our fellows who wish

it."

 

The elf continues to watch the strange folk. He shakes his head and watches

the portal once more. "Things are on edge and it is quite odd for these folk

to be here," He thinks to himself.

 

Zerimon turns to the others for the first time speaking to them. "I will

accompany you as well, since this Tavern has no lodgings, I will need to

find lodgings for the night. May as well find out a bit more about our new

surroundings at the same time."

 

Turning back towards the half-elf, Rigizan adjusts his sword and says,

"Ready when you are." And he gets ready to depart.

 

"Hey, you," The winged stranger calls and gestures towards Rigizan. "Is

there room for one more? This tavern is boring and I'd been better off

staying on the other side of that portal!"

 

With a chuckle Rigizan nods. "Aye, you are more than welcome to join me.

From what the Barkeep says, I'm going to head over to Venya's clergy. Find

out some about those ruins and see what the arena has to offer for challenge

and coin."

 

The unnamed stranger laughed again. "The ruins will be better than that

arena. Arena's usually have too many rules and other crap, though it might

be fun to watch." He grins. "I doubt the fights will be like what we are

used too, it is the demons and angels I want to find and..." He licks his

lips as continues to grin, "Get to know!"

 

With a half a smile, Rigizan says, "I like your attitude my friend. Lets

see what we can find out about these ruins." Turning toward the rest of the

congregation, he says, "We're heading to the arena for some entertainment

and info, what say we meet tonight at the tavern later tonight to discuss

plans for the morn? From the sounds of it, the ruins seem to hold the most

interest amongst us. Find out what you can and we will come to a decision

later then." Turning back toward the door, he says, "Right then, lets be

off."

 

Ryan looked at Rigizan and said, "Okay, see you later and we can meet back

in this tavern later tonight."

 

As Tanager strides towards the door, Zerimon moves towards the door and the

others as well. Just before they get to the door the portal crackles closed

and making the scene in the other tavern disappear. As the magic closes they

catch one last glimpse of the figure that is watching the portal, and then

the scene is gone.

 

Tanager turned to look at the disappearing portal. "Hmmm....it appears I

shan't be going back to Sigil anytime soon." He stares at the portal for a

moment, then shrugs and smiles. "Oh well. For the last few weeks in Sigil I

was naught but a victim of ennui. Here however is a whole world for me to

explore. New songs waiting to be learned. I can feel Euterpe stirring my

mind already."

 

Zerimon takes one last look at the portal as if ensuring nothing else

stepped through.

 

 

Whistling a cheery tune, Tanager continues out the door with the others to

the market. Zerimon turned and continues with the group out of the tavern.

Ryan walks with the others to the door and leaves the tavern and heads to

the market place. Ansravar and Triel joins the group that is heading to the

market. As the portal closes Ivyian stands and follows the others out the

door. "Perhaps it would be a good thing to keep an eye on these new folk,"

he thinks to himself. Rigizan and the winged humanoid also sets out of the

tavern.

 

 

Chapter 3: The Market ? Searching for a job

 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Day/Month/Year: Day/Month unknown, Year is the 200th year of the War

Time: Afternoon

Location: Awinuz Village - Market

Weather: Sunny

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

As they walk Ryan says to Zerimon, "Well met, I'm Ryan. What's your name

and profession?"

 

"I am Zerimon of the Zerth'Ad'Lun Monastery in Limbo. I am but a simple

wanderer, seeking enlightenment, and self-fulfillment. Through my travels I

shall find the knowledge I seek and become a true Zerth Cenobite. It is good

to meet you, Ryan."

 

The main street is cobbled and there are many dirt streets and alleys that

branch off it. They see mostly humans that are wearing homespun brown and

grey clothing. Also there are others that are dressed in bright white chain,

blue tabards with white clothing, and silver maces hang from their belts.

 

Moving through the village they also see different shops, and most of the

smiths are pumping out arms and armor. Following the crowd they arrive in a

large market to the northwest, and up from the docks.

 

The market itself is mostly loose stalls, made of planks and boards. There

is also some permanent one story to three story buildings.

 

Ryan looks around and searches for written announcements with the words

"Adventures wanted..."

 

When Ryan comes to the middle of the market he notices a message post

hammered into the ground and there are fliers and pieces of paper nailed to

them. Many of them he can't read since they are written in the language of

this village and it isn't the common tongue.

 

Some are bounties that have been posted for thieves, bill breakers, and

other people who have committed crimes. Some are help looking for

information on the movement on troops and supplies about the war. Some are

asking for guards for the ships in port as well as caravan's heading up and

down the coast as well as to the east.

 

Others are requests for thrill seekers to help explore the ruins and bring

back any items that might be of use. Like books, armor, weapons, and what

ever else is found within. Lastly there are a few fliers asking for the help

and caring of the local plants and animals that are being displaced and the

clergy of Arandon are concerned.

 

As he walks up to the message board, Ivyian asks, "Do we know what we are

about? Or are we looking for something to bring us in coin?" After the elf

says this he looks at the four others that are with him.

 

Ryan said to Ivyian, "I'm looking for a job that brings money, maybe

artifacts, tension, and needs a lot of different skills. What is your name

and profession?"

 

The elf looked at the man, then to the board once more. "Ivyian Nightblade,

late of Shadowdale." He shrugged. "I find things, look for things and I like

the shadows a lot..."

 

Afterwards Ryan turned to the group and continued, "Shall we go to the one

who asks for help to explore the ruins and after that go to the clergy of

Arandon? I would like to know why they are concerned and maybe we can help

them."

 

Triel looked over at Ryan and says, "That sounds like a interesting

distraction. I too am eager to find out more first before jumping into

anything too deep."

 

A few minutes later Ryan asked Tanager, "Can you teach me bard spells? If

so, I can try to teach you a new one."

 

Tanager paused since he was caught off guard by the request. "Hmmm. I've

never taught my spells before but it sounds interesting! As to your plan, I

agree. Let us answer the flier that mentions exploring the ruins first."

 

"Looks like we are first going to look for the ones that need help for

exploring the ruins," says Ryan. "Okay, lets go." Ryan takes the flyer with

him and the address listed on the paper is "Mercy Keep."

 

Ryan looks at the flyer and then asks, "Tanager what kind of spells do

know? Triel what do you do for a living and where are you from?"

 

"I come from Sigil of course. As far as what do I do for a living... I

don't know if I do anything particular about living at all." She takes a

short pause to consider her next words carefully. "If your asking what I'm

good at then... I suppose I am a freebooter. Handy with a sword I suppose,

and a decent shot with this crossbow to boot."

 

Tanager paused and scratched his chin as he considered the question.

"Well...... I know a spell to detect magical auras, a spell to momentarily

cause someone to become confused or inactive, a spell that allows me to

levitate light objects, and lastly a spell that conjures up a small glowing

light." He raised his eyebrows and asked, "How about you, Ryan? Any

interesting spells?"

 

Ryan said, "I also know the first three. My other one is a minor trick

spell."

 

Ansravar took out his dagger and starts doing some tricks while waiting for

the others to decide where to go first. Ryan says to the others, "The

address on the flyer is Mercy Keep. Let's go there."

 

"Well, if that is the person who is going to be free with the coin? Let us

go see him? Don't you think we should find out where this keep is first? Let

's ask a few folks where this keep is located and maybe we will find some

background on it as well," The elf looks from one to the other waiting to

see if they agree.

 

Ryan looks around before remembering they came out of a tavern about a

half-hour ago. A few moments later he says to the others, "Do you all want a

drink? And maybe we can find out more?"

 

Triel nodded back at the elf. "Agreed," she says happily. Triel started to

look around for suitable people to ask. Her search concentrated on people

who are trying not to be seen. Asking common folk may seem good enough, but

to Triel's experience the best dark is often found from those in the

darkness. The chattering bone boxes of scallywags and cutthroats, and the

jink that affords them often results in the best dark.

 

Zerimon listened quietly to all the suggestions for ways to discover the

location of the keep. Finally he speaks up, "Perhaps it would be best to

simply ask one of the local militia? They are certain to know where this

keep is located."

 

Triel noticed a few human pickpockets carefully moving through the market

and cutting and palming coin purses. Off at an alley is another group of

five male humans who are standing in the shadows, watching people.

 

"All the suggestions of the others sound good," Ryan thought. Ryan looked

again at the flyer and studied it closer but it hasn't change since the last

time he read it. He also looked at the other side of the paper to find it

blank. Afterwards he said to the others, "I'll stay here in the meantime."

 

Triel, unknowingly to the rest of the group, puts a hand behind her back so

that only the silent strangers in the alley can see her hand movements as

she talks in theives' cant. She motions to them asking for a parley and then

she looks over at them to await a reply.

 

The leader in the front looked back at her for a moment and then returned

with, "Agreed."

 

At the same time, Ivy started to move into the crowd and his eyes swept the

area as he does. The folk in the alley would be watching them, probably for

the same reason he was here himself. As he enters the alley, he stopped near

the tallest human, who was standing in the front. Ivy placed that man

between Ivy and the folks in the shadows and the human scowled a little.

 

Triel nodded and walked over to a stall where she would have some privacy.

She watches the group in the alley as well, while intermingling the silent

hand movements of thieves with those who are in the alley, but without

letting her companions know as well.

 

Ansravar carefully watched Ivy and while Ivy talked with the stranger,

Ansravar looked around for anything strange. As he does he realized that

many of the people within the market are human but they have light pale

skin, blond or silver hair, bright blue or white eyes, and also some have

silver or white-feathered wings!

 

Ryan paid attention to the people close to Triel and the ones close to Ivy.

Especially since Ivy was about fifteen feet away and standing near an alley

where he could easily be overtaken if the humans decided to attack him.

 

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

"Well met. Would you know the way to the Mercy Keep?" Ivy said to the normal

looking human.

 

"Mercy Keep? Why would you want to go there? They usually put us on trial

there and then hang us if we are guilty. But if you really want to know," He

paused and stepped to the mouth of the alley and looked to the north. "It's

that shining white building with the six golden spires and towers. It is

also where Aradi's clergy live, as well as the government building where Her

Benign Lady lives and rules."

 

"Well then," the elf looks to the ally, then to the fellow who pointed the

way. "Do they normally post for help in the midway?" Ivy asks and motions

with his hand to the board.

 

"Sure why not? Many adventurers, mercenaries, and others pass through this

village and head up and down the coast. There isn't really a better place to

post news then in the middle of the market, and most know to stop there if

they want to learn rumors, gossip, jobs for hire, and the like, before

moving on."

 

Palming a silver piece from his belt pouch, Ivy nods his head towards the

other four folks in the alley. "Do your friends hold hard against

outlanders? Or are they looking for coin?"

 

The man glanced over his shoulder at the others. "No. We like outlanders and

we are always looking for more coin."

 

When the man turns at Ivy's nod, Ivy says with a bit of a jibe, "Look here

my friend." Ivy bends down pretending to pick the silver from the dust, "It

seems you lost a coin?"

 

When the man turned back around, Ivy placed the coin in the man's hand and

said, "Thank you for your information." Ivy's eyes looked into the man's

then to the four in the alley and when Ivy turned his gaze back to the

leader, the coin was gone. "Perhaps, I may need some friends who know this

place better. Mayhap I will need to look you up."

 

"Head to the Silver Chalice and ask for Elronor. Some one will contact me

once you do so."

 

 

***Chapter 4 ? Mercy Keep***

 

Ivy nods once more and then takes a step back before returning to Ryan and

the others with the brief bit of information he has gathered.

 

"Well done Ivy," said Ryan. "Lets go to that shining white building with

the six golden spires and towers."

 

Tanager smiles. "Mercy Keep is where they try and execute criminals eh?" He

chuckles. "The sentencing must be mercifully quick."

 

Ivy smiled slightly as he walked to the north and towards the Keep with

Ryan and the others. "Let us hope. None here have a price on their heads...

aye?"

 

Ivy turns to the others and shrugs as he walks. "I am no paladin nor am I a

common thug. But some folks who use overly swift justice, tend to look for

more justice to use." He points off in a direction, "In a town on the Sword

Coast North, is a carnival of sorts. They execute, torture really, folks who

have, er, broken some law." Ivy shakes his head, "From what I heard, one in

ten deserve death but the others are entertainment."

 

Tanager listened to what Ivyian says, then shrugs. "Unfair imprisonment and

execution? Sounds like normal Mercykiller activity to me."

 

"Then it would be wise to tread carefully in this place, lest ye end up on

the short end of a long rope, or worse," Zerimon says as he continued to

walk along with the others.

 

Triel followed the group from the rear. She continuously looked around

trying to take everything in. She looked back the way she came and then

forward to where she is headed. The others seem dependable enough to her

eyes. Perhaps she could trust them, perhaps they are not like her previous

companions. She wondered if she could let them in on the information she

learned in her conversation with the men in the dark alley. She decided to

keep the hand she was dealt secret, for now at least. She continued to

follow.

 

Ivy's eyes turn to the direction of the keep and he keeps his step. Soon a

huge stone castle rises before the party. Rising up from the castle is five

white marble towers that are capped with gold circular roofs that come to a

point. The guards that are stationed near the door are dressed in white

clothing with bright silver plate armor. Halberds are gripped in their

gauntlet-covered hands and their visors are down as well. People enter the

castle but the group sees numerous male and females dressed in dark grey

clothing and black tunics enter more then any others.

 

A dark bridge is lowered over the dark, rushing river that flows around the

front of the keep. The bridge is wide enough to drive four wagons across and

dark metal strips cross across it to hold it together.

 

As they stand there talking, one of the other companions who stepped out of

the portal that leads to Sigil comes jogging up. The group realizes it is

the humanoid with feathered wings, who said he was going to head to the

arena with another of their new companions. However, that second companion

is no where to be found.

 

The silver-specked eyes move over the castle as the group draws near. "Very

nice," Ivy says before frowning. "Too nice to need folk like us to do their

bidding. It could prove a costly ride indeed."

 

Tanager shrugged. "Why worry? The most they can do is hang us.

 

And the worst that they can do is set me back one rung." He muses, "I wonder

what I would come back as then?" He shrugged again and said, "Anyway,

hanging is a good deal better than death by the wyrm."

 

Ryan walked up to one of the guards and the guards eyed him as he did so.

"I have taken this paper from the post board in the market. My companions

and I are looking for work and adventure. Written on this paper is a request

for help to explore some ruins. Can you give me the name and point me the

way to the one who wrote the request? You have my thanks as well for the

information."

 

The covered guard looked at the paper their its helm and then in a feminine

voice replied, "Head into the castle, then take the corridor to the right.

Pass the four doors on the right, and it will be the fifth and last door on

the right. Warden Ciriel's office is located there and she can tell you what

she needs."

 

Ivy nods his head to the guards. "This does not seem too be a place of

horror. The weighted words must be painted with mistrust from those I talked

to." The elf's eyes reflect the truth that he believes and he turns to

search, count, and mark each guard, door, and ways to escape. There are six

guards at the front of this large entrance, and as far as he can see there

is just this one entrance to enter and escape from. Up above are small

windows, but they are not large enough to escape from, since this castle was

built for defense.

 

Ryan turns to the winged person and asks, "How was your trip?"

 

"Eh? Oh, boring. The fights are to staged for my taste. Though that fellow

who went with me seems to be held fast by the fights, he is still there as

far as I know." The humanoid paused and shrugged, "Did you guys find

anything more interesting in this place?"

 

Triel listened and observed the conversation with interest.

 

"We found a flyer at the market with a request for help to explore ruins.

The one who did the request is in this castle. If your are interested then

come with us."

 

"I will head to the ruins with you since it sounds quite interesting," the

winged stranger answered.

 

The silent cloaked companion stepped back from the bridge, turned, and was

soon lost in the crowd. Ryan headed into the castle, taking the corridor to

the right, pass the four doors on the right, and stopped at the fifth and

last door on the right. Ansravar preferred to stay quiet during the way to

the castle. Tanager also was quiet much of the way to the castle, his brow

furled, as if concentrating on something. Walking behind Ryan, Triel begins

to hum a tune.

 

She smiled to herself before turning, "Besides," she says, "What's the point

of an arena when there is real adventure to be had? I for one hope that

certain death and danger awaits us. Now there's nothing like that to keep us

on our toes."

 

Laughing the winged stranger gave Triel a wicked grin as he hears her

words. "To true lovely lady, though I couldn't seem to get it though the

thick skull of the person I left at the arena." Flipping his wings lightly

he finishes, "Death and danger, it will be fun!"

 

Ryan knocked on the door, listened, and waited. After Ryan knocked on the

door Triel leaned forward and put her ear up against the door. As Ryan

knocked on the door Ansravar stopped walking and he stayed in the front of

the door waiting for someone to open it.

 

The silvered eyes look to the guards, maids, couriers, pages, and others in

the hall. "M'lady? It would do us well, if you would refrain from eves

dropping while there are folk around to see us." Ivy smiled slightly as his

eyes look to the others. "We should at least pretend to be honest folk..."

 

A few moments later a deep female voice called out from within the room,

"Yes? Come in the door is unlocked!"

 

Ivy's head drops to his chest as he mutters, "Or? It could be too late and

those folk behind the door know we are here and wonder way we are listening

at the door...." His head raises as his lopsided smile fades once more.

 

As the group readied to enter the room Tanager looked up, "Ah, we have

arrived!"

 

When Ryan heard the words "Come in," he entered the room and said, "Hello

my name is Ryan and my companions and I are looking for Warden Ciriel." At

the same time he was talking, Ryan took a good look at the room to see it

was sparsely furnished with just a desk, a chair, a bookcase, and the blond

female that was sitting at the desk.

 

"I am she. Can I help you?" the silver and blue dressed female asked as she

looked up at his words.

 

Ivy followed close behind Ryan, stepping to the left and putting some space

between him and the door to allow the others to enter. Ivy's his eyes count

the folk in the room and study the speaker. "Well met," he says softly.

 

The blond figure glanced at Ivy and gave him a wide smile, "Well met to you

to good sir."

 

Triel walked in and stood in the room with her arms crossed. She too looked

around the sparse room. "Yeah," she says. "We came in response to your

call." She points to Ryan, "Seem's this could be your lucky day, we would

hear more details regarding this indenture you are tendering."

 

Again the female sitting behind the desk turned to Triel before nodding in

greeting and looking at the group through her bright emerald eyes.

 

Tanager followed the others into the room. With a smile he bowed to the

person in the room, "Greetings." Rising up he awaited her response.

 

"Greetings to you as well stranger. Now which flyer do you have there?

There are many scattered about the Village asking for help from adventurers,

mercenaries, and freebooters."

 

Ivy nudged Ryan forward, "Show her the flyer, good Ryan." Ivyian nodded to

the woman, "Our friend here has it, M'lady..."

 

Ryan gave the flyer to her and as she took it he said, "We referred to this

flyer my lady." As she read it over he waited for her to speak.

 

"Ah, yes I seek a group of companions to enter these ruins, find items that

might help with the war. Of course you can keep ten percent of any thing you

find in the ruins... Um also I'd need you to sign or make your mark on the

adventuring charter I'll give you, that allows you to come and go from the

village and will let the guards know you have my and my leader's backing. If

you agree to help us that is..."

 

Ryan said, "Can you be more specific on the items you are talking about and

is there a map of the ruins?"

 

If I may, M'lady, these ruins are where?" Ivy looks to the others, then to

Ryan before continuing, "I believe we are all here to take the up the

mission, but it would be good to know a few things as where the ruins are

and the thoughts good Ryan has just mentioned."

 

"Eh, a whole ten percent of what we find? Be still my beating heart and

what fixed reward can we look forward to beyond this ten percent. Namely how

much coin do we get for going there and returning. The ruins may have

nothing of value in helping you with this war yet they will no doubt have

things we can use on our end."

 

The female smiled. "A map? There are hundreds of such ruins out on the

plains around us. Keeps, castle, towers, caves, and who knows what else. No

I don't really have a map. I can supply one to maybe the closest five but

after that none of us knows what is out there. Which is why we are seeking

adventurers to enter them, clean them out, loot them, and then return. Ten

percent doesn't seem like much but if you find a hoard of old relics, coins,

artwork, gems, and who knows what else, it will make you rich. I can't give

you specifics because no one knows what is stored in the places, where we

and the ancestors of this town and Empire fought and died. Hells you could

also fix up one of them and use it as a base of operations if you so

desired. If you must have a fixed reward then it is this. You will not be

charged full price at the taverns, inns, and supply shops here in the

Village."

 

"Ah, a discount." The stranger shrugged. "A keep or three for ourselves

after we clean them out, interesting." He grinned as he looked around at the

group. "Ah, well with that I'm game to play fetch."

 

Ansravar looked at the others and said, "Count me in...."

 

Tanager looks at the others, "Ruin exploring? Hmmm... Could be interesting.

The pay's not great, but it's better than the tips I was getting for

performing back at that inn in Sigil. I'm in as well."

 

"That sounds about right then." Ivyian nodded to himself then looked to the

others. "We can claim one of those ruins for our own and by doing that, we

have the service of the guards, should we in turn be looted by another band

of adventure types." He stepped a bit forward. "What be the chances of some

healing given to us before we start out? I think it would be in the best

interests of us all, if we could mend ourselves after a battle."

 

Ryan said, "I can only talk for myself about the mentioned ten percent. I

can live with it when I can borrow some equipment before I go. So if you can

agree on these terms I will be your man."

 

"I too will accept. Perhaps begging your pardon, if you were able to throw

in a few healing draughts? Adventurers are no good to anyone when they are

dead." Ivyian smiled at the woman as she watched the group.

 

"Splendid. I might be able to gather some healing draughts as well. What

other supplies do you need? Also we have to take care of placing your mark

or name on a parchment that I have here, so we can make it official. Also if

you have a adventuring name for your company that would be needed as well."

 

Tanager muses. "We don't have a name for our group do we?" He raised a hand

and gestures grandly. "We need something heroic, something grand, something

uplifting, something that flows off the tongue, something that the common

people can easily remember. Suggestions anyone?"

 

Stepping up to the desk, Ivy takes a quill and writes his name in elven

script on the parchment the female slid under the pen. He then adds it in

common trade script. "In for a copper in for a gold aye?" He steps back

watching the others, "How about The Company of the Two Planes?"

 

Shrugging at the name the stranger said, "Whatever floats ye boat. I'm just

wanting to get at the goodies out on the plains. Where do I sign?"

 

"So lets see. I want to borrow the following equipment; bolas, whip, net,

long sword, repeating light crossbow, backpack, seventy feet of rope,

grappling hook, crowbar, spyglass, small steel mirror, paper, ink, inkpen,

two vials of perfume, and the map you mentioned before," said Ryan.

 

"I can supply you with every thing except the crossbow and spyglass. Both

are two expensive for our small village. Sign right here sir, if you don't

mind," she finishes as she glances at the winged stranger.

 

Ryan takes the paper where he has to sign and reads it slow and thorough.

He sees there is no hidden text or words t

[Greek Psycho]

***Chapter 5 ? Back to the Inn, The plan***

 

Ivyian returned to the tavern to await the supplies. Triel walked back

inside the tavern and took a look around paying particular note of the

portal, however it is closed for now. "Hmmm...", Tanager wonders as he

strolls to the inn, "I wonder if they'd like to hear some Ysgardian music."

 

Ivyian finds a nice spot near the hearth and watches the humans drink and

eat, while keeping an eye out for anyone who may seem too interested in

their actions but he doesn't notice any one giving then any undue attention.

The stranger of their party also joins Ivyian and sits down next to him. The

other bard of the party finds a place where he can play and he starts to

regal the tavern with songs.

 

As Ivy relaxes as bit, he turns to the stranger. "How did you come to fall

in with us? I do not remember you when the portal opened?" His hands rest

loosely and his manner is calm but he knows where his blades are, both

hidden and obvious.

 

Staring blankly at the man for several moments the stranger finally blinked

and laughed outright. "Perhaps you hit your head or just have a bad memory.

I was the first one though the blasted portal while you stood there looking

at it like a clueless who'd never seen one before!!" He shakes his head as

he flags down one of the barmaids and orders another tankard of that thick

black drink for himself. "I can understand how you would miss me since I

really don't stand out much do I?" Sarcasm fills his voice as he stretches

his jet black wings slightly.

 

Nodding slowly, "Perhaps I was more interested in the gate at the moment,"

Ivy chuckles. "I probably thought you to be someone's pet, perhaps even a

familiar. I do not see very many folk who bear animal features, save for

orcs and the like." Ivy shrugged, "Perhaps if you walked, or flew, in from

the street it may have caused more notice but the gate here it is not an

everyday happening..."

 

"Orcs? I've only heard of those creatures from barmy primes." He shrugs and

looks around the tavern to see the strange humanoids and humans within since

they all mostly have what he thinks of as upper planar blood. "Gates rare?

Yeah that's a laugh." He smirked to himself

as he eyed the clueless around him. "Ah, well I had expected more than a

clueless berk but such is life."

 

The elf chuckled to himself. "I am sure were your are from there may be

gates a plenty. Mayhap your owners even have one from your kennel to their

living space."

 

A moment later the maid returned with the strangers drink and after handing

it to him she moved off towards another table that waved her down. Grinning

and reaching down for his tankard of sludge he was drinking the stranger

accidently knocks it over and spills it all over the elf. "Oh my, sorry good

sir!" He smiled over at the elf, "This is exactly the reason I was kicked

out of my kennel, so clumsy." He pushes the bottle off the table and onto

his lap. "See this poor kennel bound boy never could handle his drinks." He

stands up from the table and looks down at the elf. "Now, if you'll excuse

me I tire of chatting with cannon fodder."

 

Hardly surprised by the creature's clumsy action, the elf just gathers the

bottle up and takes a swig from the remains. "Not at all, I have been in

many taverns with orcs and hobgoblins. You are only slightly lower then

they."

 

"Oh? I didn't know elves hung around with orcs and hobgoblins." He thinks

for a moment. "Ah that must have been when you were one of their slaves. You

know, I feel sorry for you being a light elf, it must be hard being the

lowest form of life and always having to look up to every other race you

meet. You people must have horrible neck problems."

 

Ivyian nods as the fellow gets up. "Watch yourself. You never know who is

an enemy, without the outlanders about."

 

Triel strode up to the bar and addressed the barkeeper. "Kind sir, I am

inquiring as to the selection, cost, and time for dinner. Also per chance do

you rent rooms?"

 

"Dinner will be a few hours um ma'am. Cost will be about five silver pieces

and it will consist of goat, corn, and potatoes. Rooms we do have as well."

 

Triel nods at the sounds of dinner. She grins to herself at the thought of

eating a goat. "Looks like we're sampling bariaur for dinner!" She laughs

out loud to her companions. "I'd prefer a single room, if one is available."

She spins around to face the room with a wicked look in her eye and a sexy

crooked smile. "Unless someone wishes to share the cost of a twin."

 

Tanager, who is regaling the patrons of the tavern with a merry melody,

halts his tune, all interest in the song suddenly lost. "I would be honored

to share a room with you my dear," he says grinning as he bows to Triel,

"but I'm not sure my heart could take the strain."

 

Turning his attention away from the fool next to him the stranger listened

to the female and her offer. "Toss in with a double with you?" he asked

while smiling over to her, with his own sly grin. "Now that's an interesting

idea."

 

Ivy's eyes turned to the woman who is offering herself up and he took a sip

from his wine, then looking at the winged fellow, "Perhaps she needs a guard

dog tonight? I am sure you would fit the bill...."

 

"Well then... Don't fight over me. I don't want to see your beautiful faces

bruised and battered. Tell you what. Perhaps I will decide on a companion

tonight by choosing the one who could compose a sonnet to me. The one I like

better can... share my room." Triel runs her tender hands through her silky

black hair. A sparkle in her eye betrays her playful nature and alluring

flirts.

 

With a slight turn back to the room, Ivy watched once more for those who may

be interested in the group other then those who might be gawking at the odd

folks who just arrived. The woman had just made things harder, more

attention shone on one of the group. "Ah well," he says softy, "perhaps the

ranks will thin a bit after this night."

 

Walking past the lovely lady as the stranger moves over to the bar. "A

short sonnet? Why I would love to, however that would prove the elf over

there wrong about all his statements and elves just hate to be wrong about

anything you know." He smiles and winks at her. "Besides, with his poor mood

and people attention span he could use the eyes and company of a fair lady.

To help him see things and to lift his spirits, since the poor noble is

around such riff raff as myself!" The stranger laughs at that statement as

he moves to rent his room for the night and hands the barkeep the five

silver pieces for the room and disappears up the stairs.

 

Ivyian turns his attention once more to the room, swigging from the bottle.

"The lady, no doubt has encountered creatures like that before. Mayhap

enjoyed it, so she was safe enough," the elf thought to himself. The elf

smiles slightly, "It is always the ones with the largest mouths that have

the smallest hearts." The elf figures the winged animal would be the first

to take flight. He chuckles at the pun. No help there for the party.

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Day/Month/Year: Day/Month unknown, Year is the 200th year of the War

Time: Late Afternoon

Location: Awinuz Village

Weather: Sunny

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Ryans entered the tavern and shortly after he got settled within the sounds of a cart pulling up outside can be heard. A moment later a male child entered the tavern, looked around, and then headed towards Ryans. "Your supplies are outside, sir."

 

Ivyian set the bottle down and it sounded like there was more liquid in it

then should have been. He stood to follow Ryan out to where the little

fellow had just motioned since he wanted to see what goods they managed to provide and also to check the power of the potions that they were given.

 

"Well met guys and of course lady Triel. Are you all coming to look outside

at the goods?" said Ryan.

 

Before Ryan walked outside he flipped a silver coin to the boy and said,

"Thanks".

 

Triel followed the others outside. She checks over the cart for it

contents. Once outside Ryans looked over the goods while also taking a good long look at the blond haired, bronze or pale skinned human looking people who live in this village. He also sees that every thing she said she could get is on the cart either stored in bags, sacks, chests, or containers. The elf takes a look at the healing potions and sees there are enough for each group member to have one each. He takes up one and says, "Well this is a start at least."

 

Triel walked over to Tanager and whispers, "I'd love to share a room with

you Sir Tanager. I'm sure with your skills you would have won the contest

anyway. Besides, I've got plenty of assets you might be interested in.

Stories that is..." She winks her sly wink again.

 

Tanager grins. "A bard of my caliber is always on the look out for a

good... story..."

 

Ryan takes all the goods he had asked for and one of the healing potions.

Ansravar took one of the healing potions and stored it in his backpack.

 

After a short break as the group went through the items Ansravar said, "I

am going inside the tavern to have a few drinks, anyone want to join me?"

 

Ryan returned to the tavern and sat down at the biggest table and asked.

The elf followed Ryan in and stood at the wall behind the fellow while still

watching the odd folk about the tavern, as well as the odd folks in the

newly formed party. Ansravar sits at the table with Ryan and orders a beer while waiting for the whole party to join. Ryan started to sing a song about how to make a flute and one of the tavern maids returned with the tankard of beer.

 

The winged stranger returned from upstairs and walked over to the table

where everyone is sitting. "I heard a cart pull up outside, then all your

voices out there. I take it our items have arrived from the people hiring

us?"

 

"You bet ya," Triel answers the winged stranger, "What's your name anyway?"

 

The stranger laughs and smiles over to Triel. "Why my name is Shibas, good lady and yours is Triel from what I've heard."

 

Triel joins her colleagues at the table. She swigs the last of her brew and

signals for another and then looks about at the entire group. "So," she

speaks, "Let's talk tactics. I for one am not very good at the whole

scouting, tracking thing so I'm happy to take up the rear." She sends a sly

wink towards Tanager. "I'm really good at the traps stuff though, and even picked a few locks in my time. As far as fighting goes, I prefer the

crossbow. Now lets get some stuff sorted out. Which one of you bloods is

best in the front ranks? Magic, what do we have? And finally when do we go?"

 

From the wall, his bow leaning against his hand, the elf nods, "I have some skills in the wild, I can also work locks. I tend to earn my keep by being in the front to find the traps. I have some skills at disarming them." He shrugs. "I can use a bow and sword, though I am better when I can find an advantage." Ivyian nods thanks to the maid who hands him a glass of wine and a second later the maid also gives Triel another drink as well.

 

Ryan said, "I am more all round, so not a specialist. But my biggest

interest is music and close after that gathering information. If we will

come into a fight I will be just behind the real fighters. I will try to

disable the opponent. For example, I will dazzle him with a spell, or I will

throw a net on him, or throw bolas around his feet. At the same time, if

necessary, somebody else can kill him."

 

Smiling and nodding over to Triel, Shibas says, "As for tactics, I'd think

from the sword I carry you can gather that I enjoy getting right into the

thick of things." He reaches up over his head and pats the handle of his

blade. "The potion and some rations are all I need for this trip."

 

Ansravar said, "I am good at hiding and infiltrating. I am also good with

the bow and small weapons like daggers and I can use a rope as well. I can also help Ivyian finding traps and disarming them.

 

Ryan unfolded the map and put it on the table so that everybody at the table can see it and they see the west coast of part of the continent. It also

extends to the north and south before the lines on the map fade away. Two other places where races have settled are marked on the map, one to north and one to the south and it looks like a road connects the three inhabited places. The village they are currently in, is the middle of the three.

 

To the west is the Aramoth Ocean, and on the south part of the map are two isles that are split in half by the ocean. To north part of the map is

another group of isles that looks like a foot print that has four toes.

Looking to the east is open plains filled with ruins and the closest is the

keep that he heard from the bard when he was alone with her. There is also a swamp in the southeast part of the map called Maenir's Swamp and a large forest to the northeast that is labeled Feinas Forest. Further east is a large mountain chain that is unlabeled and the group also sees two large

rivers, one of them passes through the forest and it is called Guirothor. It

meets up with another river that starts from the forest and flows to the

coast between this village and the village to the north and it is called

River Cirwen. The last river flows down from the mountains and into the

swamp, but this one isn't named on the map. All around the village, except to the west, are open plains as well.

 

Ryan pointed his finger at the east of the map and said, "Some time ago I

met someone. She said to me that in the northeast from this village is a

large keep with shattered towers and walls. It's about a half a day worth of travel. She said that there is something buried that the empire wanted to keep a secret. So maybe that is worth travelling to."

 

Tanager nods. "The keep sounds like an interesting place to start. I wonder what the buried secret is?" He smiles. "Oh we must go. The curiosity is killing me."

 

Ansravar examined the map carefully. After a while he pointed at Awinuz

Village with his index finger. "So. We are here. I think it will be better

to plan things carefully before moving on. It will be helpful also if

someone can give us exactly how far it is to those places that are around

the village. It will help us to make a better plan. Let's see! Which way

shall we head first? Shall we split? I can offer you extra help by heading

first with Ivyian and explore our way, if Ivyian agrees of course," he said

while looking the rest of the party one by one.

 

The elf's eyes scan the map as the others make suggestions to which way

they go. Ivy nodded at Ansravar and added, "Aye, that may be a sound idea, if we go on ahead looking for ambushes and the like. The worst that could happen is we become lost to you. But the main group will be intact. As for which way we go that keep sounds as good a place as any to start."

 

"The keep sounds as good as any," Triel answers. "If you deem scouting

necessary then I will have to agree for I know naught in the way of such

matters. How far will you scout ahead? And when shall we leave?"

 

"Well it depends. Ivyian and me can begin in thirty minutes to one hour

earlier than you and move ahead. But is necessary to plan a direction right now so it will be easier for us to find you in case of something

interesting. So, do we all agree Starting from the Keep? If yes, Ivy and me will head up there first to scout the way. Ivy it's necessary and safer if

you and me move in the shadows as we scout ahead. Are there any woods in the way to the Keep? Let's see..." Ansravar said looking at the party.

 

Ryan said, "At first I think its best to go as one party to one location

with scouts up ahead. And see how it goes. If it goes well we can always

split up in two groups if we want. For me it doesn't matter where we go, but

I suggest to go at first to the ruined keep because there could be something

according to my information."

 

"I agree, it may be best to have an hour head start. With us leaving

earlier any that wish to stop us may not take note of us and they might be

thinking we have left the fold. By the time the rest leave, we will already

be out there." Looking back down at the map, Ivyian continues, "The use of trees and the like would help us indeed. When we cannot find that we will have to rely on looking like a couple of out-of-work adventure types." He smiles, "Until we reach the keep. I feel there will be no shortage of

shadows there..."

 

"Good plan," said Ryan. "I think we can better rest before we go." Ryan

turned to Ansravar and Ivyian, "At what time do you want leave?" After that he asked the others, "Does anyone still want to look at the map if not I will put it in my backpack. Are there still rooms available he asked the

others?"

 

Ansravar looked Ryan and Ivyian, "So. Ivyian what do you think my friend? Shall we have a two hour head start? We can leave early in the morning."

 

"Aye, we can use the first fifteen minutes or so to walk through the

village, make it look as though we have taken off on our own. Once we get out of the village, we can make up time." As Kree looks over the table, "We will leave a path easy to follow. If ever we veer from our direction, I will leave an arrow on the ground pointing the way we went. If the arrow is broken we went to fight, so beware."

 

"Don't leave a path to easy to follow, else we might not be the only one to

find it and follow it. You are going to leave two hours in front of us? If

you do leave a broken arrow I doubt we will arrive in any time to assist you in your battle." Shibas shruged. "Though if that is how you want it then

that is fine by me."

 

"Excellent," speaks Triel, happy with the arrangements. She looks over to

Tanager. "Well, our room good sir..." her typical sly wink seals the

question with innuendo.

 

"So be it and good luck," said Ryan.

 

"Alright then. Lets go get some rest before it gets too late," Ansravar

said.

 

Ansravar nodded at the bartender for a room and after paying the three

silver pieces he also retires. Ryan asked the bartender for a room and

handed him the three silver pieces, and said good night to the others before heading up to his room after getting the key. Once inside he locks the door and the window and goes to bed. Turning to watch the people as they head up stairs, Shibas said, "Tired?" He turned to look out the windows, "The sun has quite some time to set yet! Granted this does look like a boring place but has anyone seen anything interesting in this place and we haven't really explored much of it."

 

 

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Day/Month/Year: Day/Month unknown, Year is the 200th year of the War

Time: Late Evening

Location: Awinuz Village

Weather: Dark

-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

 

The group retires to their rooms or places where they can rest and spend the next four to eight hours sleeping or mediating in reverie. Each member of the group wakes to darkness since they retired to their rooms in the middle of the afternoon. Moonlight filters in through the windows of the inn and the village is a lot quieter then it was during the afternoon.

 

Ryan leaves his rented room and returns to the lower common room where he looks around to see most of the patrons are gone and that the fire has been banked for the night. The common room is quiet and empty except for a few people who have fallen asleep from to much drink. He takes a seat at the table where Ivyian is sitting and waits for the others.

 

Ansravar arrives from upstairs and asks Ivyian, "When are we to depart?"

 

Ivyian smiles as he tightens his pack after putting a loaf of bread, wrapped in a bar towel in it. "I am ready now, my friend."

 

Shibas pushes open the tavern doors and his large sword that looks like a

large meat cleaver is held in one hand and it drips spots of red as he walks into the tavern. He takes a seat at the same table as his companions and pulls out a rag. "Good late evening to you. It seems your night was

uneventful." As he talks he takes his rag and starts wiping his blade clean

of whatever the red liquid and bits of flesh are.

 

"Good evening to you to," said Ryan. "Are you all right? It looks like you

had a blood party. Um... What happened?"

 

"We can only hope you did nothing to further hinder our cause," Ivyian nods at the clever. "I am sure we will have more then enough folk following as after talking to the folks in the alley yesterday."

 

He cleans the blade absently as he hears Ryan and Ivyian speak. "Me

alright? Yes, I am fine and I had a lovely afternoon and part of the evening actually. Nothing happened but I just woke up early and didn't expect you guys and gal to wake up for a while so I went out for a walk. Blood party?What is this? It sounds quite fun and interesting."

 

Ivyian nods again at Ansravar, "Let us be gone before the rest of the town

begins its day." His bow in his left hand, his right hand reaches around to

attach the false peace knot on his long sword.

 

Ansravar grabs his backpack and short bow. "We will meet later my friends,

hopefully. By the way remember that if you find a broken arrow that means we were attacked."

 

Ryan picks up pack of cards asks, "Any one want to play?"

 

"I'll pass but thanks. I wonder when the rest of our group will be waking

up?" He asks as he finishes cleaning his large blade. After stretching his

arms and yawning, Ryan starts playing solitaire.

 

 

 

 

Chapter 6 ? The group splits

 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Day/Month/Year: Day/Month unknown, Year is the 200th year of the War

Time: Late Evening

Location: Awinuz Village

Weather: Dark

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

Ivyian walks down the street with Ansravar. His bow clutched in his left

hand and his right hand swings easy, ready to cross over and grab the hilt

of his long sword, or a quick move to pull his dirk from its sheath.

 

His hood up, pack tight, he studies he street sides as the move from under

the hood to see most of the town is sleeping and quiet and they are really

the only ones out on the streets, except for the sound of the watch and

guards.

 

In a quiet voice he says, "Mark any of those we past that look out of place

or for that matter too well placed. The folk from the alley yesterday were

tipped off too easily. If there is a guild involved they will want to follow

and take easy pickens from tired adventure folk."

 

The two of them head north, passing the mostly dark buildings, before coming to the well guarded open gate that leads out into the northern plains. The guards watch the two advance and one of them, who is dressed in plate mail from head to toe, calls out, "HALT! Identify yourselves!"

 

The elf stops and looks at the guards. His eyes from beneath the hood watch the area around the guards as he speaks and he keeps his voice low as not to carry away from the guards. "We are scouts for a group that has excepted the task of heading out to find the darkness that seems to be lurking ahead. Our main group will be leaving shortly." He looks at the female commander of the watch, "You may if you wish to wake them, call upon the lady at the keep who signed us to this mission."

 

"Papers? You should have papers if you have been to the keep and have had words with some one within," the guard answers.

 

"Indeed, you are correct. Our names are listed on the charter of the group. Our leader, for all intent and purposes, is named Ryan. He holds the papers so they may pass through. Our task is to leave ahead and prepared the way, or a very least scout the way." Ivyian frowns and looks over his shoulder at the street before returning his eyes to the commander. "Some of our comrades lack tact and some use too much. In both cases there have been unwanted interest in the group's actions."

 

Ivyian sighs just a bit and his sigh is a cross between disgust and

discouragement. "Still we all have our jobs to do, aye?" He nods to the

commander. "We cannot return to the inn to get the papers, nor can the main body travel without it. If you must delay us, please send a runner now. I am sure the good lady at the keep will not mind." He shrugs once again, "And my friend and I seem to have little choice, but I will say this. Those who were contacted for information that led us to the keep may have friends with those we seek to fight. Every moment we are delayed, every moment our pretext of leaving, the group is weakened and it gives aid to those we were hired to fight."

 

"If you don't have the papers then you are not getting through this gate

until it opens at dawn. So either return to this inn you mentioned or supply

the papers needed to pass through. If you really have talked to some one in the castle then you should have brought the papers with you."

 

Ivyian growls with a shake of his head. "No wonder the darkness has the

best of you. You are more concerned papers then problems." The elf turns on his heel and begins to walk back to the inn.

 

"Ivyian, hold on," Ansravar whispered, "It can't be the only exit from the

village. Shall we do a quick check around? What say you?"

 

Ivyian stops and feels about his tunic and he pulls forth the piece of

paper he signed earlier. "Are these the papers?"

 

"That's half of them, aye. Now I just need your friends," the guard answers as she takes Ivyian's and reads it over before waiting.

 

Ansravar stares at Ivyian with a surprised look. "Oh! I can t believe this.

I should have my papers as well!" he said as he started searching his

backpack. "Here they are," he says as he pulls out the paper from his pack.

 

"Let me show them to the guard." He turned back to the guard as strange

elven words were coming out of his mouth, it looked like he was swearing at himself.

 

The guard looked over Ansravar's papers as well and then handed them back.

 

"Good all is order it seems," she answered before bellowing to allow the

gate to be partly opened to allow the two out.

 

He bows his head to the commander, "Twas my mistake, I thought you wished to see the charter not our, er, license." Ivyian nods to the gate, "May we go?"

 

"Yes, you can go since your papers are in order."

 

 

Chapter 7 ? Open Plains

 

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Day/Month/Year: Day/Month unknown, Year is the 200th year of the War

Time: Late Evening to Morning

Location: Awinuz Village to open plains

Weather: Dark to Light

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

 

After slipping through the gate, they hear it clang shut behind them.

Looking out on the night darken plains they see the road heading north and open plains lie before them. The sounds of the waves from the sea to the west can also be heard.

 

"Lets start off at a trot until we get a good bow shot away from the

village, then we can watch behind us, as well as before us. Any who try to

close on us as we trot will not be a friend," Ivyian remarks.

 

The night seems to press down on the two scouts as they head north into the plains. Luckily for the two elves they don't really need to light torches or

other light sources to see. As they walk in the clear and open plains. After

an hour of walking, they also see the horizon start to light as the Ilyas

rises on his fiery horse. As he moves across the sky spreading his light and battling with his wife, Lunalin, the darkness of the night and the moon is pushed back.

 

Finally, the two elves stop after two hours and look around the open

grasslands before them to see rock formations, as well as scrub and stunted trees that are spaced far apart.

 

As they stop, Ivy turns to look back at the fart town and stands still for

a moment to see if he can spy any movement but nothing follows them.

 

"Well then, my friend, it seems we can add to our lead now. We can lope

ahead and then we will slow and once we reach out lead, the hunt will start.

I feel that there will be prey on both sides of the bow... aye?" Ivyian says

and then grins darkly.

 

"So let it be my friend, lets get on with the job," Ansravar said and

continued walking.

 

"So, what do you think of those folk from the other planes?" Ivyian looks

over his shoulder as if he expects to see one or two. "Some seem likable,

though there seems to be some that I would fail to trust when the situation

comes to blades." He shakes his head, "I must say, unless I missed them, I

have never seen folk like them." As he talks he keeps his eyes open, moving his head at odd intervals in case they are being watched, but he sees nothing around them except open grasslands.

 

"Basically I trust no one," Ansravar replied while at the same time he also

looked around for anything strange, but he also didn't see any thing out of

the ordinary as the two scouts stood there resting after their two-hour

walk.

 

"I do not understand what is taking them this long. Some of those folk havewings." Ivyian's eyes narrow in anger. "Perhaps we should be off then. We will leave a mark even those off planes folk can follow and if we wait much longer, we may as well have left with them." Ivyian turns to his comrade to see his take on the matters before them.

 

"Okay Let's go then. I am sure they are smart enough to find us after they

find our mark. Come on," Ansravar replied while he was standing up to move ahead with Ivyian.

 

The elf draws a rune in the road with a stick. Simple yet easy to see to

allow their friends to know which way they passed. After he is finished, he

takes one last look back to see if there are any further movements, but he sees nothing. Ivyian then turns with a nod to his friend, "Off we go

then..."

 

The two scouts continue on and after an hour walk, Ansravar notices two

male beings that are about forty feet to the right. The two beings are at

least nine feet tall and their dark skin is pebbly and covered with warts.

Animal hides cover their bodies and their long dark hair is unkempt. One

carries a large club that looks like it was once part of a tree trunk, and

the other has a javelin.

 

It doesn't look like the two have noticed the scouts though. Ansravar stops

and hides in the thick grass as he stays as close to Ivyian as he can.

 

"Hey, look what we got here. There, on the right! They haven't noticed us

yet as far as I can tell so don t make any noises," Ansravar whispers to

Ivyian.

 

As his friend notes the two large creatures, he also finds cover since

Ansravar has already done so. As the two hide in the brush and grasses, the elf nocks an arrow while never taking his eyes off the creatures.

 

"Ogres? Trolls? Giant kin?" Ivyian whispers to his comrade. "Let us pass

and if the sight us and seem to want to attack we can hit and run. If the

fail to see us, we can continue on, though I do not like leaving live

enemies at our backs."

 

"Okay then. Move slowly and stay in the shadows, and be ready in case they attack," Ansravar said.

 

He started moving slowly while trying to stay as much silent as possible. As he passes by the two creatures he sees their weapons move down into the thick grass and then a scream from a dying animal, or being, fills the grasslands with pain and hurt.

 

Ansravar hears the scream and immediately catches his bow and turns to the

direction of the scream to see what's going on. The elf nods and waits a few

yards before he too begins to move slowly and silently as possible in the

wake of his comrade. When the scream erupts, Ivyian freezes and he readies

his bow as his eyes scan the direction of the creatures to see what, if any,

reaction they have to the sound, but it looks as if they caused the animal

or being to scream.

 

Watching the creatures with his ready bow, the elf holds his breath and

tries to discern what type of creatures they are but he isn't sure, however,

he does see his three new companions coming from the south, southwest.

 

Ivyian lets the breath out easy and whispers, "They hunt? What do they

hunt?"

 

His voice a whisper as his bow is drawn ever backwards with a slow pull.

"This is a choice to make. If we attack them, and they are mere hunters for

some tribe, we are the dark ones. Yet," his teeth grit in frustration, "If

they are dark folk hunting? I still cannot make out what they are moving

on."

 

Ivyian's voice is a whisper as he points to the path taken by the

creatures, "Let us move around the way they came, we can see the path, and

perhaps a better look at what they hunt. If it is an animal, it may be

better to let them go, if it is human or such, we may have to act!" As he

says those words, he also sees three human sized figures moving to his

right, out of the corner of his eye that are not the giants.

 

Stopping in his tracks and hissing softly to catch his comrade's attention

once more, Ivyian points to the three figures. "It may be what is left of

those who decided to take this journey but I cannot tell. Let us make across

the path so we will have the creatures bracketed and then we shall see if we

need to attack them, or simply let them go."

 

Ivyian turns and starts to move low and slow while trying to cross the path

the creatures had taken. When he gets past the beasties he sets up his bow,

and watches the beasts and the three figures. After a moment he sees two of

his companions start to advance towards the giants, but they then turn back

after looking at some thing.

 

 

**********************************************************************

 

"Shall we go again?" Ryan says to Triel and Shibas before he turns and

starts walking to the north, northeast. During his walk to the north by

northeast Ryan looks sharp for arrows. After an hour the group sees the

marking that Kree and Ansravar left to tell the group they headed on towards

the keep. Finally, after walking a bit the three members see the two scouts

are about forty feet in the distance.

 

Ryan sees that the scouting party have readied there bows so he stops

walking and looks sharp to where they are looking and he sees the two large

humanoids that continue to stab down at some thing on the ground. In the

meantime he whispers to Triel and Shibas, "Stop and draw your weapons." He

does the same by drawing his sword.

 

Ryan whispers to Shibas and Triel, "You see those two large humanoids,

stabbing down on something? Let's go around them. I go on the right, Triel

you go on the left and Shibas you go straight ahead. After this we go all to

the middle. In the meantime we must see what they are stabbing. If it is

necessary we will disarm the attackers. We won't do something if it is just

an animal."

 

Ryan puts his sword away and takes out his net and he looks at the ten feet

tall giants. He also watches the two scouts that are about fifty feet or so

to the north of his three companions, while the giant's are to the right of

him, Shibas, and Triel.

 

Grinning, Shibas draws his large meat cleaver like weapon and holds it

ready as he watches the giants. His gaze moves over all of the members of

the party that he can see and he keeps track of them. Ryan is in the front

and Shibas and Triel are spaced behind Ryan. Shibas waits for one of his

companions to move closer to the giants before he makes his move.

 

Ryan starts to walk to the right side of the giants. He points at Triel to

go left and at Shibas to go straight ahead towards the giants. The two

giants still don't notice the three newcomers and Ryan sees that there is a

large herd animal laying bleeding before the two ten foot tall hide covered

spear wielders.

 

As Ryan sees that they are spearing an animal he stops and moves quietly

back to the part of the plains where he started out from. He stays sharp

because he doesn't know what the giants will do if they see him or his

companions.

 

Sighing and shaking his head, Shibas stays back and keeps an eye on the

giants as well as his two companions, while wondering if the giants will see

them and attack if they do. The three of them also see one of the scouts

move ahead towards the giants a bit and Ryan returns to the group while

staying hidden in the grasses incase the giants look up from what they are

doing.

 

***********************************************************************

 

Seeing Ansravar and Ivyian, Ryan approaches them and says, "Did you have

trouble with those giants or did they just past your way? I have heard some

news about the keep we are going to and there is undead there. Did you hear

or see new things along the way?"

 

Ivyian shakes his head as he watches the giants. "Thus far they have not

bothered, or even seen us. They are intent on their prey, so we should

either slip past them, or perhaps wait until they move on. Fighting giants

when we have no cause, is a waste of time and effort." Ivyian then adds, "If

they prove to be evil, we can follow their trail and kill them while they

sleep."

 

"I can tell you this much, those giants sure aren't good giants." He looks

around at his companions as he states that, then up to the large giants that

are many feet away while they butcher the animal. "I'm game to fight them as

much as I am to slip past them, so what ever you all decide is fine with

me."

 

"Alright." Ivyian's eyes look to each of the others. "Evil or not, they are

just hunting. But if we wish to attack them, Ansrvar and I should slip

around and you three can take them from the other side. We cannot try to

fight both with them being together so it is best to divide them."

 

Before anyone else can say anything the elf holds up a finger. "And we must

realize...." he looks to each of them again. "If they are but hunters, it is

all well and good. But if they are scouts, or foragers then there maybe more

somewhere..."

 

"I see no reason to attack," says Ryan. "So what shall we do?"

 

Ivyian looks about trying to get their bearings and all he sees is plains

stretching out for miles upon miles. "We must move towards our objective,

but we must stay off their line of travel. If they are hungry enough, they

may want more food but if they are starving, they may think us thieves come

to take their food."

 

He looks at Ansravar, "Which route do you think will get us past them?"

 

"Straight north... Just stay covered in these grasses, and since we are

heading north to the ruins that works out..."

 

"Okay, lets go," says Ryan.

 

************************************************************************

 

Day/Month/Year: Day/Month unknown, Year is the 200th year of the War

Time: Morning heading towards early afternoon

Location: Open Plains

Weather: Temperate and clear

 

 

Ivyian begins to slip through the grasses, low and soft. He keeps an eye on

the direction of the giants and they continue to feed. He holds an arrow in

his left hand, clutching the bow. His right hand is kept free as he makes

his way through the grasses. Ryan falls behind the scouts as the five of

them set off.

 

After an hour of walking, the ruins of the keep fills their vision and it

steady grows closer as the group get closer. They stop walking every hundred

yards to look at the ruins. The tall keep looks to be leaning to the left

and blocks of stone from the wall that fell out onto the plain can be seen

on that side. The entrance looks to be intact, as does the right wall. The

two front towers also still stand and a single tower can be seen in the

middle of the back wall and if the group wants to get a better view they

have to move closer.

 

Ryan stays in the middle and looks sharp to the left and right to see

nothing, and he says again, "According to my information there could be

undead within."

 

Sighing and shaking his head, Shibas secures his mighty blade. Once done he

falls into line behind the group and continues towards the ruins and stops

when they stop.

 

"Before we venture closer, what do we have to fight against undead?" He

looks to his comrades. "Is there any here that have the favor of gods?"

Ivyian chuckles as the others look at him. "I like to think Tymora favors

me, but I am no cleric. If we have no holy powers with us then we will be

forced to fight with blades and light." Then he remembers that they are

probably not on Faerun and so he wonders if any of the Faerun gods even

touch this world.

 

"Undead inside you say?" Shibas grins lightly as he thinks about a few

things, before he continues to comment, "Well, blades are usually the best

way to dispatch a foe. Then again, against some undead blades aren't the

best, something blunt would be better. Either way, I look forward to it."

 

"I'm not a cleric and I have nothing special to fight undead, but I'm

interested enough to look into that keep. I have no plan except to just go

in and see what happens. Is that an option for you?" says Ryan.

 

Grinning, Shibas nods. "Now that is my kind of plan, let's stop chatting

about it then and move forward. We have a keep awaiting its new owners!"

 

"Aye so we move, no matter the sharpness of your blades, or the power you

have which to strike. Let us, ease our way in and I am more comfortable

having the upper hand then the stronger hand." Ivyian pats Ansravar's back

and nods forward. "We will scout the way in, follow slowly in case something

tries to flank us as we near the structure."

 

Ansravar nods at Ivyian and then starts walking towards the ruins. Ryan

takes his sword in hand and follows the scouts at a short distance and as he

walks he keeps alert.

 

Ivyian frowns as he looks up at the afternoon sky. "We are in a bad way. If

we move in the light, we are easy to see. If we move in the dark, the undead

will be about." Ivyian points to the west and continues, "You slip up that

side and I'll take the east. Every ten minutes or so signal me and I will

return the signal. If you fail to signal, or I fail to return it, then we

know something is amiss."

 

"Sounds good to me," Shibas answers while reaching back and pulling out his

blade. He gives it a few test swings, before sheathing it back over his

shoulder as he brings up the rear as everyone moves out.

 

Ivyian pats Ansravar's back and moves off to the east. As he moves, he

keeps low and he moves quickly and quietly while keeping his bow in his

hand.

 

The west wall of the keep has crumbled out onto the plain, but most of the

east wall is still intact. The group can look through the ruined stone wall

on the west and as they do they can see a courtyard that is filled with

rubble. The entrances to the three towers are still intact as well, and in

the back part of the wall are two other doors that lead into rooms that were

built along the back wall.

 

Broken and rusted weapons, armor, and supplies can be seen within the

courtyard or partly buried under the rubble. There are also bones from

animals that have died within and rotted, plus some bones that might be from

humans or humanoids or other sentient races.

 

Ryan sneaks over to Ivyian. In the meantime he looks around for signs to

know if there are any occupants within, but there is nothing that tells if

there are any occupants inside.

 

"Oh look bones. I wonder what killed all these things and if it is still

around? Perhaps it was those creatures we saw hunting earlier, they are

large enough that we might be considered game to them." Shibas looks around

and sees the bones are scattered around the courtyard and it looks as if

they have been there for a long time. "Shall we continue on?" Then he

realizes he is standing by himself, since Ryan left his side.

 

Ivyian whistles to Ansravar before turning to wave at the others. He kneels

behind the rubble and watches the courtyard to see that there are no paths

worn by anything that may be inside. Seeing Ryan next to him Ivyian

whispers, "Right then. Once we all are here, Ansravar and I will take the

closest opening. Once we get a few yards into the ruined castle we will

signal for you to follow. Once inside we can begin the quest in masse."

 

Ivyian points to the nearest opening in the wall. "I feel we should check

there first. If there are guards or something nesting in there, I would

rather take them out now, then have them at our back." He looks over at

Ryan, "What say you?"

 

"Sounds good to me. What kind of signal are you going to use if you are

inside?"

 

Ryan waits while keeping an eye on things and listening to the sounds of

the insects, animals, and other natural creatures that are around.

 

Ansravar looks at Ivyian and it seems that he is thinking about something.

"I can whistle like a bird. What say you Ivyian? Shall I whistle that as the

signal?"

 

"Aye, a whistle it is. Come, let us begin."

 

Shibas taps his foot in the grass and shifting his grip along the large

handle of the blade. He looks around again and realizes for the second time

that he stands alone, while his three companions are far to his left.

Looking over that way, Shibas stands alone still and sees Ivyian start to

move towards the tower.

 

Moving as quick and quiet as possible, the Ivyian darts towards the tower.

As he moves he watches the ground before him, now and again stopping to

study the doorway to see that it hangs by one hinge and is partly open. Once

he reaches the opening, he stops and stands with his back to the left side

of the door where he listens to see if there are any odd noises within. As

he stands there trying to listen, he doesn't hear anything that out of

place.

 

Ansravar follows Ivyian, moving by his side. As he moves he checks the

ground closely to see the bones, weapons, and signs of a battle fought here

long ago. Every once in a while he looks forward and examines the horizon.

He also tries to detect noises and as he does, he hears the sounds of

something clanking coming from within the tower. Seeing that Ivyian hasn't

reacted to the sound, he stops and whistles at the party. Ivian stops at the

sound of his companion's whistle and he turns to look at Ansravar while

waiting to see what his companion has to say. Ryan kneels where he stands,

and he stays alert and keeps focussing at his surroundings, especially on

the towers.

 

Ansravar checks everybody and he points slowly to his party to remain

silent. "Everyone hide and wait for my sign," he says as he sees Shibas move

forward and catch up to the group. Shibas follows behind his companions,

watching them as they move towards the tower.

Ansravar moves closer to the tower's door and tries to understand what was

that clanking sound he heard but he isn't sure what might be causing it. It

rolls up from deep within the tower.

 

He checks the door for traps but the half-ruined door doesn't seem to have

any. After checking the door, he turns back to face the party and says, "Do

any of you sense danger here?"

 

Looking up at the tower, Ansravar notices, about thirty feet up, some slots

in the stone that allow defenders to fire arrows down on invaders. The thin

but long arrow ports are wide enough to look through but they are not wide

enough to climb through.

 

Ivyian moves to the tower and presses up against the stone. The elf's eyes

begin to sweep the courtyard and the walls to see if anything is approaching

because of the noise but all is quiet and nothing is seen. "Be careful my

friends!" he whispers harshly after Ansravar points out the noise, "The

clanking could herald the changing of the guard."

 

Ansravar moves silently and whispers to Ivyian, "Can you help me to look

into those arrow ports?"

 

Ryan moves silent to the rest of the party and stands with his back to a

wall and whispers to Ansravar, "After you have done the things you said

before. Why shouldn't we just sneak through the door because its partly

open? Yes it hangs by one hinge, but one of us can hold it while the others

go through the door. So it probably wouldn't make that much noise."

 

Ivyian slowly nods as he looks to Ansravar. "Let's see what we can see

through the slits. If nothing is about to stop us, I will see if I can slip

through the hanging door to look about. If something is there I will open

the door wider, as it doesn't matter if anything hears the screeching it

might make. If I see nothing, we can take our time with the door, perhaps a

few of us lifting it to ease the noise?"

 

"I agree. If there is anyone there they'll find out about us sooner or

later and with the door open like that it is almost in invitation to use the

front door and visit who ever lives there," the tall dark winged creature

comments. "To much sneaking around outside and someone will surely notice us

at any rate, then we'll have the wall between us and them. Good for the

defenders but bad for us."

 

Using his rope and his climbing ability, Ansravar scales the tower and

looks into the first port to see a ruined room that looked to be a barracks.

Also the noise is not coming from up here. Climbing back down, he notices

for the second time that the front door is half off its hinges.

 

"Ivyian, I'll wait for you," says Ryan. "If you see something that attacks

or that you want to attack shout "contact" and we will come immediately."

 

As Ansravar sees the door its half open he seems to think for a while and

then he turns to the party and says, "We can use the door to enter the

tower. Iviyan can take the lead and the rest will follow. What you say

Ivyian? Do you agree? Is there any other suggestions?"

 

"We could do that." Ivyian looks at the door and nods. "Still. We have but

to run out should we be overwhelmed. I am ready."

 

Shibas laughs and shakes his head as he stands behind the others. Before

they can turn to look at him he slips around them and moves towards the

broken door. "Well, lets stop standing around and talking about it," the

creature growls in an annoyed tone as slips though the slightly opened door.

 

Ryan follows after Shibas and enters the door. With a shrug Ivyian

follows after the two but he keeps an eye on Ansravar as he nears the

door. If Ansravar appears in trouble, or finds something, Ivyian decides

he will go to help out.

 

Looking around in the sunlit room that is dark and murky they see an

open room that looked to be a meeting room. A large table that has two

of its legs broken off rests in the middle of the floor. Scraps of wood

that were once chairs also can be seen around the room. Rotted

tapestries and paints hang on and cover parts of the walls. To the left

is an open archway and to the right is a set of circular metal stairs

leading up and down.

 

"Well, this place looks lovely." Shibas he states as he looks around. He

sees the dust and debris that litters the place and as he looks for

footprints or other odd things he sees that there are mostly animal

prints in the dusty bone, metal, and stone covered floor. "Well, shall

we start by heading up? Then we can head down into the lower area.?

 

Ryan puts left hand to his left ear to hear better and he points his ear

into the room and listens to the sound of the rattling coming from below.

 

"It sounds like it is coming from below, but what ever is making the

noise, I can’t say. We will find out shortly, aye?" Ivyian motions with

his blade. "We would do well to get in there. Whatever is here may not

know we are here and we may be able to ambush them in their false safety."

 

Ansravar loads an arrow to his Short bow and he moves slowly as he

follows Ivyian. As the two of them look around, Ansravar looks around

for movement but nothing moves within except for one or two rats, and a

handful of bugs and insects.

 

"Good, I hope we do find out soon. With any luck they will mind the

company." Shibas grins as he makes that comment and he keeps his mighty

weapon in hand. "Otherwise we might end up leaving and letting them keep

the keep.?

 

"Aye, we best make our way in." Ivyian nods at the others. "Do you want

us up front or do you wish to do the honors?"

 

"Who ever goes first I don't mind. ? will follow the one who goes first.

If I run into somebody I will dazzle him. So you know what my first

action will be,? Ryan answered.

 

"Right then,? the elf said. He started to move forward quickly and

quietly. He put away his bow and drew his blade as he stalks towards the

entrance that lead below.

 

"Exactly." Shibas nodded as he strode towards the entrance as he

followed behind the elf. "Lets go greet whoever or whatever is making

the noise and let them know the new owners are here."

 

As the two started down the stairs, a flickering light filled the

courtyard behind them and spreads its light across the ruins. After a

second it formed into a puke brown and green light, that flickered into

an open portal. Standing on the other side of the portal was a very

ominous looking figure. From what could be seen through the flickering

lights, he stood a head taller than most fully-grown human men, and with

a width across the shoulders to match. He was muttering something to

himself, and he appeared to be writing on a piece of parchment. For a

moment, he paused to do... something with one of his hands. It looked

like he was shaking it, and there was a light clink-clink sound. Heaving

a sigh, the humanoid stepped through the portal, which disappeared

behind him.

 

"Key: Affirmative," the tiefling rumbled in a voice as deep and quaking

as the bowels of a volcano as he scribbled on the parchment with a huge

gray feather. With his other three-fingered, hoof-like hand, he tucked a

tiny ceramic bell into a pouch on his belt.

 

"Destination..." He looked around, a forked tongue flicking out from

between his lips. "Uncertain. Appears to be Prime Material. I suppose

it's best to investigate so I can report back with a full

documentation," he muttered, shaking his head as he started in towards

the ruins' main keep, or what looked like it might once have been that.

There was a clop-clop noise as he stepped on a few pieces of broken

granite, but it was hard to see anything distinct about his body due to

the huge black cape that he wore over his body, covering him from neck

to the ground.

 

That's when he noticed there were others there with him. The tall

humanoid looked up with a face covered in black fur; it looked human

other than that. Well, and the big, golden feline eyes.

 

"Oh. Greetings, travelers!" He flashed a strictly professional smile,

that little forked tongue flicking out across his teeth as he paused in

his writing, putting the parchment into the folds of his robes. Taking

the large crooked staff that he had been carrying in the crook of his

arm, he stuck the oversized gray feather with which he had been writing

into a ball of onyx on the end of it, with 5 similar feathers.

 

"Might you be able to inform me of our location?"

 

?Yes off course, my name is Ryan. We were just going into action. Are

you interested? If so then join us and we were going downstairs because

we heard something. So are you coming?? the green eyed and white

longhaired half-elf.

 

The elf that stood next to a winged being winced as Ryan greeted this,

person, without thought of what it was. "Pray tell us, traveler? Where

do you hail from?" The elf's hand clenched his long sword as he stood

there. His blue-silver flecked eyes went from the new fellow to what was

left of his comrades. He wore a forest green cape that covered a dark

blue shirt. His legs and feet were covered by black breeches and brown

doeskin boots. Soft leather armor completed his wardrobe. The elf's

stance was at once non-threatening but ready to react as he clutched his

bow in his left-hand.

 

After blinking those big golden eyes at the first being to speak, Rendil

turned his head towards the elf. That snake-like tongue slicked out from

between his lips once more, tasting the air, as he looked down and went

about stuffing his things back into his backpack and the various folds

of robes and pouches. When he was finished, he stood up straight,

stretching to his full six-and-a-half-foot height, and clacked the

bottom of his staff against the ground.

 

"Sigil. The Lady's Ward. Now, I would be most grateful if you or your

companions could tell me just where this is? I need it for my

documentation, you see."

 

The elf slowly shook his head. "The fabric that separates the planes

must be weakening. We had a hand full of folks from that place not a

tenday ago."

 

At these words, Rendil clucked his tongue; interesting, how he is able

to do that with his forked appendage, but he does manage to do it. His

hoof-like fingers twitch a little bit at the top of his staff, as if

aching to take up a feather again and start to write.

 

"Fascinating. Fascinating, I say. I must certainly report this to my

superiors upon my return! I am sure we could conduct an experiment on

the density of the cosmological tapestry here."

 

"These are the ruins of a keep. We took up a charter to scout it out and

perhaps turn a coin or two in the process." The elf jerked his head

towards the inner passage that led upwards and downwards. "We are about

to delve deeper and see what miscreants may live here."

His eyes darted past the stranger looking for the rest of the part but

he only saw the four who he was currently with. "We seem to have

misplaced some of our comrades."

 

The feline eyes of the new arrival look this way and that, as if he was

searching for these comrades as well. Eventually, he turns back to the

elf with a shrug of his broad shoulders. "I would not think it

improbable, considering the unique p

[Sabrathan]

Χαίρομαι πολύ που το ξέθαψα αυτό. Θα ακολουθήσει κριτική όταν το τελειώσω, αλλά ήδη μου αρέσει πολύ.